The classic, luxury Kempinski Hotel Bahia, on The New Golden Mile, between Estepona and Marbella?s Puerto Banus has been given a new design edge, and a tempting culinary appeal, writes Andrew Forbes.

Classic luxury
Andalucía?s Kempinski was a luxury pioneer when it opened in 1999. It set the standard for 5-star style on a stretch of Andalusian coast east of the traditional seaside town of Estepona. The Melvin Villarroel architect-designed property, with 127 rooms and 17 suites; and spacious terraces and pools overlooking the Mediterranean, certainly put the area on the map for international guests. Yet for locals it wasn?t really a destination.
Spring 2018 and things are so different with the launch of the hotel?s ‘El Paseo del Mar’. The Kempinski Hotel Bahia reopened in February following a significant re-design which totally remodelled and reimagined the once classic lobby as part of its new ‘El Paseo del Mar?.
The new space follows the trend where hotels endeavour to make their public areas compelling for both guests and locals. The striking design is brave and bold. There are no half measures here.  It sets the scene for a completely new experience at the hotel, one that is designed not just for privileged guests, but also f or locals, from Estepona or Marbella, looking for a fun place to meet, relax, enjoy a cocktail or have a meal in a relaxed environment.
On-trend
This new El Paseo del Mar concept is designed to create a foodie hub in the hotel...