Dan Wakeling, Javier Rodríguez & Ángeles Muñoz in New York
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella
In a landmark announcement made in New York’s iconic Peacock Alley, Higuerón Developments has unveiled plans to bring Hilton’s most prestigious brand, Waldorf Astoria, to Spain for the first time. The €220 million project will transform the historic Marbella Golf Country Club into the Higuerón Marbella Golf Resort, an ultra-luxury ecosystem spanning one million square metres, with the resort slated to open in 2029.
The presentation, attended by Hilton’s Vice President of Luxury for EMEA Dan Wakeling, Marbella Mayor Ángeles Muñoz, and Higuerón Developments CEO Javier Rodríguez, presented the partnership’s ambition to redefine luxury on the Costa del Sol.
One of most luxurious names in hotels
The agreement was signed on November 5 between Hilton CEO Chris Nassetta and Rodríguez. Nassetta stressed the brand’s global prestige: “Waldorf Astoria has long been synonymous with luxury in the world’s most coveted destinations. We are delighted to debut the brand in Spain, making another giant step in expanding Hilton’s luxury portfolio, which includes over 550 hotels worldwide.”
Rodríguez echoed this vision, saying that the resort “aspires to become a global benchmark in ultra-luxury vacations,” rooted in values of humanism, authenticity, innovation, and sustainability, principles guiding Higuerón’s 30 plus years of experience.
Waldorf Astoria features
The Waldorf Astoria Marbella will feature 120 rooms and suites, plus 120 branded residences offering private home privacy with full hotel services, all managed by the brand. Guests will enjoy stunning Mediterranean views, just five kilometres from Marbella’s centre and 30 minutes from Malaga Airport.
Architectural excellence in the project is key: Three Pritzker Prize-winning architects are competing to shape the design, while the original 18-hole golf course – designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr in 1994 – will be reimagined by his son, Robert Trent Jones Jr, with a focus on sustainability.
Other than accommodation, the resort promises bespoke experiences, including the signature Peacock Alley lobby bar and a new country club with a 750-square-metre spa, indoor/outdoor pools, a gym, and wellness areas. Gourmet dining, outdoor spaces harmonising with nature, and personalised services like private chefs and 24/7 concierge will cater to the most demanding of guests.