Ikos Andalusia Crowned Europe's Premier All-Inclusive Resort on Spain's New Golden Mile
Europe's finest all-inclusive resort has been officially named, and it's located on the celebrated New Golden Mile of Spain's Costa del Sol. According to the prestigious travel publication Time Out, Ikos Andalusia in the resort town of Estepona has secured the top position as the continent's best all-inclusive destination. This recognition comes as Marbella, the neighboring coastal city, experiences a remarkable surge in popularity, with bookings skyrocketing by 159% in 2026, making it one of the year's most trending travel spots, second only to the historic Golden City of Salamanca, as reported by the travel platform Omio.
A Legacy of Excellence and Unmatched Amenities
Ikos Andalusia's victory is hardly surprising, given its impressive track record of accolades. The resort previously earned the title of best family resort in the world at the 2023 Tripadvisor Travellers Choice awards. Furthermore, the Ikos hotel chain has consistently dominated the all-inclusive category, winning best all-inclusive honors for four consecutive years. This latest achievement solidifies its status as a leader in luxury hospitality.
Nestled between majestic mountains and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, the resort spans 21 acres and features 425 bedrooms, each offering breathtaking views. Conveniently located less than an hour from Malaga Airport, it provides an accessible yet secluded escape. Guests are treated to an extraordinary culinary experience with a choice of nine restaurants, serving Greek, Italian, Asian, French, and Mediterranean cuisines. These dining options are complemented by an extensive collection of 100 premium wines.
The resort boasts eight bars, perfect for enjoying stunning sunset vistas with a refreshing drink. For relaxation and recreation, there are nine indoor and outdoor swimming pools, along with a private, serviced beach for soaking up the sun. Beyond lounging, Ikos Andalusia offers a wide array of complimentary activities, including tennis, basketball, beach volleyball, table tennis, and five-a-side football. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at the Los Naranjos Golf Club, with additional rounds available at an extra cost.
Water sports such as canoeing, paddleboarding, and pedalos are readily available, while land-based activities include Pilates, yoga, spinning, zumba, and aqua aerobics. To explore the picturesque local area, guests receive bike rentals for the Golden Mile Experience, a five-mile coastal journey to the charming town of Estepona. Evening entertainment features parties and live music, and families are well-catered for with dedicated kids' and teens' clubs.
Pricing and Accessibility Details
Starting prices for this all-inclusive luxury are relatively accessible, with double rooms available from £383.31 per night. Upgrading to a double room with a pool view increases the rate to at least £442.54 per night. For families, a room accommodating four starts at £853 per night, averaging approximately £210 per person. A five-night stay for a family would therefore begin at £4,265, excluding any additional extras.
Travel to the resort can be economical, with flights from London Gatwick to Malaga Airport available from as low as £26.99 one-way with WizzAir, even during peak months like July. The hotel is fully wheelchair accessible, with adapted rooms ensuring inclusivity for all guests. Check-in is at 3 PM, and check-out at 11 AM, with the standout feature being the Michelin-starred chef menus. This resort is ideal for families and couples seeking a beach holiday but may not suit travelers who prefer dining at local restaurants.
