The festive season officially burst into dazzling life on the Costa del Sol on Thursday, November 27, as the magnificent Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavís Marbella Resort hosted its annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony.
The luxury resort, a jewel in the crown of European hospitality, welcomed approximately 200 guests (a blend of global voyagers, local socialites, and families) for an evening of warm cheer and opulent celebration.
The centrepiece of the event was the majestic Christmas tree, standing at an impressive 10 metres tall in the hotel’s central hall. The moment of illumination was led by the hotel’s new General Manager, Javier Friera. A veteran of luxury tourism with three decades in the sector, Mr. Friera addressed the elegantly dressed attendees with a heartfelt speech, expressing his gratitude and enthusiasm for the coming season in both Spanish and English, before switching on the glittering display. He wished everyone a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Credit: EWN
The atmosphere was nothing short of enchanting. Soulful live music provided a seasonal backdrop as guests mingled and indulged in an array of luxury canapés, ranging from fresh oysters to gourmet versions of pigs in blankets. An abundance of fine cava and wine flowed freely, complemented by freshly barbecued bites served from the terrace. The opening night successfully set the tone for what promises to be one of the most magnificent and artfully curated Christmas seasons on the European continent. Anantara Villa Padierna, already famed for its display of 1,200 works of art and its MICHELIN Key award, is ready to transform into a sparkling winter wonderland for the holidays.
A festive season of luxury and giving at Anantara Villa Padierna
Following the spectacular official opening, Anantara Villa Padierna has unveiled a comprehensive and splendid programme of events running from November 27, to January 7, 2026. The resort is positioning itself as the ultimate festive retreat, a mix of five-star indulgence with meaningful community engagement.
Festive calendar highlights
The resort’s unique combination of cultural experiences, gourmet dining, and family fun makes for an unforgettable holiday escape:
- Grand Advent Calendar: Running from December 1 to 24 in the Lobby, hotel guests can participate daily to receive a festive gift of children.
- Artisanal Workshops: Guests can tap into their creative side with a Christmas Sweets Workshop on Tuesday, December 23 (4pm to 6pm) with the master pastry chef, and a Pottery Workshop on Friday, December 26 (12pm to 2pm) led by master potters from Coin.
- Candlelight Concerts: The Linares Hall will host four unique Candlelight Concerts on December 12, 26, 27, and 28 at 7pm and 9pm, offering a magical evening of music.
- Santa’s Grand Arrival: The little ones will be delighted as Santa Claus makes his grand entrance with gifts on Wednesday, December 24 (7.30pm to 8pm) and again on Thursday, December 25 at 1pm in the Lobby.
- Meet the Donkeys: A special family-friendly event on Saturday, December 27 (12pm – 2pm) in the hotel gardens, where guests can meet the rescued donkeys from Donkey Dreamland Mijas shelter.
Gourmet indulgence at Villa Padierna
The culinary team has created exceptional experiences for the season:
- Christmas Afternoon Tea: Indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea experience at Eddy’s Bar daily from December 25 to January 7 (5pm – 7pm).
- Oysters & Champagne Experience: Also at Eddy’s Bar, guests can savour a selection of exquisite oysters paired with champagne, running daily from December 25 to January 7 (5pm – 7pm).
Wellness & exploration
Other than the feasts, the resort offers pathways to relaxation and regional discovery:
- Christmas Spa Treatment: The Anantara Spa is offering an 80-minute Elemis Expert Tech Facial, utilising six BIOTEC technologies for ultimate skin revitalisation and renewal.
- Local Excursions: Guests can sign up for visits to the charming Christmas Markets of Marbella and its surrounding towns, or take part in a Traditional Embroidery Workshop to explore the region’s age-old crafts.
Spreading holiday joy beyond the Palace
True to the spirit of the season, Anantara Villa Padierna is committed to supporting its local community. Through its Dollars for Deeds programme, the resort proudly supports the Fundatul Foundation, aiding young people with disabilities in finding work. Furthermore, they collaborate with the Convent of the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus in Ronda by offering traditional sweets that support the less fortunate, and their partnership with Donkey Dreamland provides a safe haven for rescued animals, embodying the true spirit of giving this Christmas.
For reservations at the splendid Anantara Villa Padierna, visit www.anantara.com, or call (+34) 952 889 150.
