One of the best things about Marbella is not just the climate and scenic setting, but also the great variety of lifestyles they make possible. Set at the southern tip of Europe yet little more than two hours from the main capital cities, this area offers something to suit a wide variety of tastes and interests.

The Costa del Sol, with Marbella at its heart, is made up of a coastal plain that backs on to a series of mountain ranges. These form the entrance to the interior region called the Serranía de Ronda, but also the curtain that protects the coastal area from the harshness of winter and scorching summer temperatures experienced in some parts of inland Spain –creating the Costa del Sol’s microclimate in the process.

Together, seaside, coastal plain, hills and mountains form the setting for a wide range of possibilities and living environments, making this region exactly what you want it to be. For people who love nature, open spaces, spectacular views and the ability to step out of your front door and go for hikes or bike rides into nature, areas such as La Quinta and La Mairena are just the place, offering attractive villas, townhouses and also exclusive apartments in close proximity to shops, restaurants, schools and golf.

Those who wish for an even more authentic Andalusian country experience but are keen to have the diversions and services of the Costa del Sol close by can opt for an almost rural setting in Monte Mayor, while its exclusive country or hill club equivalent can be found in La Zagaleta, El Madroñal and Los Flamingos. If life at the top of the hill is not your thing, why not search for a stylish villa or apartment made for comfortable family life? Such an environment can be found in elegant residential areas such as Nueva Andalucía, Guadalmina, and Elviria, where luxurious homes on peaceful leafy streets lie ensconced between golf courses at a short distance from all manner of services.

Perhaps even more exclusive – and situated just a few minutes from Marbella town – are Los Monteros and Sierra Blanca, whose beautiful villas and superb, low-key apartment complexes are located by the beach and at the base of Marbella’s La Concha Mountain respectively. Old village charm can be found in Benahavis – a real white mountain village near San Pedro – and in stylised developments such as La Heredia and La Virginia. Here you will find a tempting choice of village-style townhouses dotted with apartments and villas.

If country club living, residential life and village charm are not your thing and you crave a little big city excitement, then the bright nightlife and shopping spots of Puerto Banús and Marbella town may just be the thing. Both offer primarily apartments and beachside penthouses, though at highly varied prices. Puerto Banús, with its glamorous reputation and lively scene, is a premium location, while the area extending from Marbella west along the famous Golden Mile towards Puerto Banús has among the most exclusive villas, seaside mansions and deluxe apartments in the area – many just a few steps away from the sea and the area’s glamorous beach clubs.

So whether it is family life, sport, nature, country living, glamour or excitement you are after, Marbella has just the environment to pursue it in.