Looking ahead to the 2026–2027 seasons, the brand presents new itineraries that broaden this global vision of travel, inviting guests to discover the world from the sea with a more unhurried, elegant and mindful perspective:
From the Eastern and Western Mediterranean to Northern Europe, Asia, Alaska, or special itineraries such as Formula 1 in Monaco, each journey combines iconic destinations with less-travelled calls and extended time in port.
GENERAL BRAND INFORMATION: www.explorajourneys.com
• Explora Journeys, a luxury hotel at sea
• Relaxed, contemporary European luxury
• Ocean State of Mind
• Spacious areas and a modern, welcoming design
• Created to invite relaxation, enjoyment and contemplation
• Ocean Wellness
• Gastronomy of excellence Global itineraries
TRAVEL IDEA:
A voyage of timeless charms and unspoilt landscapes EXPLORA III- Vancouver-Vancouver | 13-24 August 2027
Cast off from bustling Vancouver, a dynamic metropolis framed by mountains and sea, to begin a captivating journey. Venture into Alaska’s untamed terrain in Ward Cove, Sitka and Hubbard, where majestic landscapes and wild wonders await. Be moved by the beauty of Seward and fall under the spell of Skagway’s historic charm. In Juneau, admire the glaciers and marine life as you prepare to explore nature in its purest state in Wrangell. To conclude, return to Vancouver’s cosmopolitan jewel, a place brimming with urban sophistication, seasoned with a touch of natural splendour.
“A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP.”
“UN VIAJE DE MIL MILLAS EMPIEZA CON UN SOLO PASO”
Lao Tsé
As Editor, I am proud to share one of the most significant pieces of news for our magazine and for the brands that place their trust in us.
As a major new development for this year 2026, we have expanded our official distribution to Madrid, adding to our established presence on the Costa del Sol. This step is not merely geographical growth, but the natural evolution of a publication that was founded with a vocation for excellence and as a vehicle of social and professional influence across each of our diverse sections.
This expansion strengthens the natural synergy between Marbella and Madrid—two strategic enclaves that share the dynamism brought by highlevel international tourism, cultural sophistication and luxury. A decisive step that allows us to build new bridges, connect projects with a discerning audience, and continue driving the reach, visibility and prestige of your brand. For any company seeking visibility between the Costa del Sol and Madrid, advertising in ELM is the key. This union will further strengthen the ties between these two cities.
In this edition, our cover features one of the most chameleonic actors on the national and international scene, Jordi Mollá, whom I interview on the occasion of his forthcoming exhibition of colourful artworks in Marbella, in collaboration with USC Gallery. We will delight in the beauty of Naomi Watts. We will be inspired by Eva Molleja and Guimar Alfaro, two outstanding professional women. We present the latest cultural news and trends from Madrid. Gastronomic highlights in the most select restaurants in Marbella and Madrid. We travel to two of Biarritz’s most exclusive hotels; we propose an exceptional luxury experience aboard an Explora Journeys cruise with Alcamtravels; the most exclusive properties in Marbella and Sotogrande; the most spectacular jewellery; the best ideas for decorating your home; and we introduce a talented painter of just 13 years of age, Rafa B.
Como editora, me llena de orgullo compartir una de las noticias más significativas para nuestra revista y para las marcas que confían en nosotros. Como gran novedad, este nuevo año 2026, hemos expandido nuestra distribución oficial a Madrid, sumándose a nuestra presencia habitual en la Costa del Sol. Este paso no es solo un crecimiento geográfico, sino una evolución natural de una publicación que nació con vocación de excelencia y como medio de influencia social y profesional en cada una de nuestras diversas secciones.
Esta ampliación refuerza la natural sinergia entre Marbella y Madrid, dos enclaves estratégicos que comparten el dinamismo que ofrecen el turismo internacional de alto nivel cultural y el lujo. Un paso decisivo que nos permite tender nuevos puentes, conectar proyectos con un público selecto y seguir impulsando el alcance, la visibilidad y el prestigio de su marca. Para cualquier empresa que quiera conseguir una proyección entre la Costa del Sol y Madrid, publicitarse en ELM es la clave. Esta unión reforzará los lazos entre estas dos ciudades.
The ideals of the Legal Future are presented at the newly refurbished Hotel Don Carlos, with Eduardo Inda. All this and much more…
Kind regards,
En esta edición contamos en portada con uno de los actores más camaleónicos del panorama nacional e internacional, Jordi Mollá, que en esta ocasión entrevisto con motivo de su próxima exhibición de sus coloridas obras de arte en Marbella, de la mano de USC Gallery. Nos deleitaremos con la belleza de Naomi Watts. Nos motivaremos con Eva Molleja y Guimar Alfaro, dos grandes mujeres profesionales. Presentamos las últimas novedades y tendencias culturales de Madrid. Apuestas gastronómicas en los restaurantes más selectos de Marbella y Madrid. Viajamos a dos de los hoteles más exclusivos de Biarritz, os proponemos una gran experiencia de lujo en uno de los cruceros de Explora Journeys con Alcamtravels, las propiedades más exclusivas de Marbella y Sotogrande, las joyas más espectaculares, las mejores ideas para decorar tu casa y te presentamos un talentoso pintor de tan solo 13 años, Rafa B. Los ideales del Futuro Jurídico, se presentan en el renovado Hotel Don Carlos de la mano de Eduardo Inda. Todo esto y mucho más...
Saludos,
Pavón
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A LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR
Welcome Madrid
In these pages, every story, every article, every image has been carefully selected to offer our readers a truly distinctive experience. From the most avant-garde art to the latest trends in Marbella and Madrid, through the hidden gems of luxury tourism and conversations with the brightest, most inspiring minds, our mission is clear: to serve as the compass for those who understand that exclusivity is not a superficial luxury, but a way of life. We believe it is not all about seriousness. We also celebrate the art of enjoying life: secret journeys to remote places, gastronomic experiences that awaken every sense, and moments that connect us with the sublime. Each of those moments deserves to be lived with the certainty that life, however short it may be, should be experienced to the fullest.
I invite you, dear readers, to immerse yourselves in the pages of this issue, confident that we are here to offer you only the very best. Because, in the end, living an exclusive life is not merely a matter of material luxury, but of creating unforgettable moments that, once lived, are transformed into something even more valuable: memories.
Thank you for joining us once again. Enjoy this journey towards the extraordinary.
With appreciation,
Welcome Madrid
En nuestras páginas, cada historia, cada artículo, cada imagen, ha sido cuidadosamente seleccionado para brindar a nuestros lectores una experiencia única. Desde el arte más vanguardista hasta las nuevas tendencias de Marbella y Madrid, pasando por las joyas ocultas del turismo de lujo y las conversaciones con las mentes más brillantes, más inspiradoras. Nuestra misión es clara: ser la brújula para quienes entienden que la exclusividad no es un lujo superficial, sino una forma de vida.
Creemos que todo no es seriedad. También celebramos el arte de disfrutar de la vida: los viajes secretos a lugares remotos, las experiencias gastronómicas que despiertan todos los sentidos, y los momentos que nos conectan con lo sublime. Cada uno de esos momentos merece ser vivido con la certeza de que la vida, por más corta que sea, debe ser experimentada al máximo.
Os invito, queridos lectores, a sumergiros en las páginas de este número con la certeza de que estamos aquí para ofrecerles solo lo mejor. Porque, al final, vivir una vida exclusiva no es solo una cuestión de lujo material, sino de crear momentos inolvidables que, al ser vividos, se transforman en algo aún más valioso: recuerdos.
Gracias por acompañarnos una vez más. Que disfruten de este viaje hacia lo extraordinario.
Con aprecio,
Rafael Barrio
JORDI MOLLÀ
Unfiltered Interview
NAOMI WATTS
The Emotion That Envelops Everything DE TROPEN
Premium Outdoor Furniture
EXCLUSIVE FASHION
Zimmermann’s Spring/Summer 2026 56
ALCAM TRAVELS
Presents Explora Journeys
ROBERTO COIN
Domino Collection
GUIOMAR ALFARO
“The Luxury of Being Yourself “
EXCLUSIVE ARCHITECTURE
Renzo Piano
ANTONIA SAUTTER
Il Ballo del Doge celebrates love, Venice
EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES in Biarritz
Hôtel du Palais/Brindos, Lac & Château
ANANTARA VILLA PADIERNA
Luxury Experience at Anantara Spa
EXCLUSIVE COCKTAIL
Amú Martini
CHEF BJÖRN
SANTIAGO DE LA CRUZ
New year and new tax modifications
ENGEL & VÖLKERS
Where Longevity Meets Luxury Living
SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Villa Aquarius in Sotogrande
INTERIORLAB
From Marbella to Dubai
MADRID SPECIAL
Latest trends in Madrid
MARBELLA DESIGN & ART
8th Edition
USC GALLERY ART EXHIBITION
Jordi Mollá & Rafa B.
THE CASA DE ALBA FOUNDATION
Cayetana, Grande de España
A CIELO ABIERTO
Marbella Welcomes a New Benchmark
EICHHOLTZ
Spring 2026 Collection
OCABANA
Where everything begins to happen
IVÁN BALLESTEROS
From Forgiveness to Demandiveness
SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY
Eva Molleja: The power of the mind
THE LEGAL FUTURE
Is being shaped in Marbella
PRINCESS CAROLINE MURAT
The Gstaad Festival
EXCLUSIVE SOCIETY
José Luis López Fernández “El turronero”
OLIVIA WICKERTS
“Designing with intention”
MIUC MARBELLA
Returning to university
ELIZABETH FERNÁNDEZ
A creative life
EXCLUSIVE LIFE MAGAZINE
CEO & MANAGING DIRECTOR
Rafael Barrio rafael@exclusivelifemagazine.com
CEO & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ana Pavón ana@exclusivelifemagazine.com
Katya Manaenko, Juan Carlos Domínguez Gala Regnaut & Truyol Digital
HAIRDRESSING
David Hairstylist Sassoon and Miguel Codina & Luis Suárez estilistas
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Eva del Amo, Maribel Martínez, Santiago de la Cruz, Amparo de la Gama, Mónica Iglesias, Eva Molleja, Iván Ballesteros, Sheila Hernández, Fernan González, María del Carmen García, Jon M. Rhode, Carlota García-Ruiz, Paz Romanillos and Ana Pavón
SPECIAL THANKS
Jordí Mollá, Alejandro Zaia, Guiomar Alfaro, Fundación Casa de Alba, Roberto Coin, Kiros Jewels, Ayuntamiento Rincón de la Victoria, Princesa Caroline Murat, Antonia Sautter, Miuc (Marbella), Olivia O. Wickerts and Elizabeth Fernández
PHOTO COVER
Jorge Pintado & Lights: Isra Lozano
DEPOSITO LEGAL MA 66-2026
PRINTER Solprint
While every effort has been made to ensure that the contents of this magazine are correct, Exclusive Life cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information published, and assumes no legal liability or responsibility to any party for the quality, legality or usefulness of any information, product or service represented within the magazine. No part of this publication, including texts, photographs, illustrations or other graphics, may be copied or reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of Exclusive Life Magazine.
MOLLÀ Interview with
By Ana Pavón
PHOTO: PAU PALACIOS
“If God gives you a gift, not fulfilling it is a sin. It’s an offering from God.
Yes, yes, of course I consider myself transcendent. I try to live with intensity and truth.”
Everything great and valuable in the human being is born of selfdenial. Has it been hard for you to achieve international recognition across all your facets? What has been easier?
Gaining recognition was never the initial goal, even if it has been the result of constant dedication. It’s almost the opposite of what happens today, when people have everything super easy. In my case, I feel very fortunate to have achieved so much through effort. It’s unimaginable when you’re a child born on the outskirts of Barcelona. But, still, somewhere in my head, from a very young age, I knew I was going to devote myself to all this because, when I was around 15 or so, I was taking photos, making VHS video edits with my brother. Everything was very innate in us. We were restless, creative kids who, instead of being out and about at the weekend, didn’t leave the house and worked on shooting little things on Super 8; we made collages; we started playing instruments like the Spanish guitar; and with two drumsticks my parents bought me—because we lived in a small flat and couldn’t afford to make noise with a real drum kit—I’d play on Dixán detergent tubs as if they were drums… I fulfilled my dream and bought my own drum kit during the pandemic, in Miami. I call it “THE BLONDE” because it’s white and gold.
That eagerness I have to learn—I hope I never lose it. The easiest thing, if anything has been easy, has been to keep creating. What costs the most is having real commitment and real discipline to do something for many years, and being consistent in your goals. “Commitment”—the commitment—is what truly matters; it’s the iron arm. The motto “Stick to your trade” strikes me as a bit stubborn and outdated. It’s completely demodé. We can do more than three things at once, and do them well, as long as you have the inspiration and the commitment to do so.
Where does that perseverance to manifest your full artistic potential come from? Do you consider yourself a transcendental man?
It’s a responsibility. If God gives you a gift, not fulfilling it is a sin. It’s an offering from God. Yes, yes, of course I consider myself transcendent. I try to live with intensity and truth. Perseverance comes from instinct, almost from a hunger for expression.
What does Art mean to you today? Has that concept changed over time?
Art has matured with me: it’s a necessity, it’s a refuge. We are living through a time of uncertainty with A.I.; everything is still not very clear in the realms of art, cinema, writing and music… So I believe the solution— and this is not the first time it has happened; it will have happened over the centuries—is to look at what art has been in the last 100 years and renew that. For me, the future of art is to look a little backwards, to stay where you are, and then have a vision of the future. You have to look and keep classical parameters in mind; in cinema too it’s necessary to keep those references present. I love classic cinema.
It’s a very exciting moment we are living through, with the speed of A.I. advances in every artistic discipline, but we must not lose sight of the classical side.
If your painted work could speak, what would it say about you?
I think it would express itself in one word: beauty. I like to paint positive, colourful, joyful things that convey beauty and harmony. I seek beauty in every brushstroke.
The market has turned Art into a product and the artist into a brand. Where do you think authenticity sits amid all that noise?
There’s no doubt that a work of art represents a brand. I mean, you can go to the Thyssen museum and know a work is a Picasso without
“I think it would express itself in one word: beauty. I like to paint positive, colourful, joyful things that convey beauty and harmony. I seek beauty in every brushstroke.”
seeing the signature—that’s already a brand. For your painting to be a brand is extraordinary: to be recognisable without needing to see the signature… Picasso, Miró, Dalí, Sorolla, Velázquez, Goya—they’re superbrands. That is already transcendental…
What does luxury mean to you today?
For me, having time is a great luxury. Because there’s time enough to stop a ship; it’s people who don’t want to have it, because it frightens them. I think that, in reality, they don’t want to have it either, and that’s why we sometimes look for excuses—not to face things. That’s why motivation has to be so strong, impossible to get around. If you have it, you’ll definitely win back that time. I, for example, started to… write a screenplay on 1 January at 3 in the afternoon, and today it’s the 12th, and I think I’ve done 50 pages; and now I’ve made time to do the interview with you. To learn how to write a script, you need “elbow grease”, and that takes time.
The market has turned Art into a product and the artist into a brand. Where do you think authenticity sits amid all that noise?
There’s no doubt that a work of art represents a brand. I mean, you can go to the Thyssen museum and know a work is a Picasso without seeing the signature—that’s already a brand. For your painting to be a brand is extraordinary: to be recognisable without needing to see the signature… Picasso, Miró, Dalí, Sorolla, Velázquez, Goya—they’re superbrands. That is already transcendental…
What does luxury mean to you today?
For me, having time is a great luxury. Because there’s time enough to stop a ship; it’s people who don’t want to have it, because it frightens them. I think that, in reality, they don’t want to have it either, and that’s why we sometimes look for excuses—not to face things. That’s why motivation has to be so strong, impossible to get around. If you have it, you’ll definitely win back that time. I, for example, started to… write a screenplay on 1 January at 3 in the afternoon, and today it’s the 12th, and I think I’ve done 50 pages; and now I’ve made time to do the interview with you. To learn how to write a script, you need “elbow grease”, and that takes time.
To what extent do you think ego, individualism and prejudice have affected the authenticity of today’s Art?
A person who goes through life with prejudices is a person living only halfway. For me, everything that exists—everything in art, works regardless of the artistic period or the style they belong to (Fauvism,
“For me, the creed—or my “approach to success”— is to do things with care and love, because if you do them that way, you achieve success. There are many ways to fry an egg or make a Spanish omelette, a paella. Everything that’s done with love shows…”
Cubism, Expressionism, Realism, Contemporary Art…)—for me, that work has value; it deserves respect. So: zero prejudice. On the contrary, it has my total admiration.
Now we live in the era of constant exposure, where everything is measured in likes. There is more concern for impact than for depth. Ego is a bad travelling companion… You have to be authentic. I’m intuitive. The world needs a touch of naivety and gentleness… I have a thousand new ideas in my head.
The great masters of the past used to collaborate with one another: they shared studios, and corrected each other’s work. Do you think that, in contemporary art—unlike other eras—that fraternal connection between artists has been lost?
I’m open to others as an artist; I have no problem at all. This summer I collaborated recently with Picasso’s second grandson, Jacob Vilató, in an exhibition of 12 paintings. I do it with no ulterior motive whatsoever. There are some artists who are indeed more selfish and don’t want to share their techniques, but that’s not my case. Today there’s more competition than complicity. That creative brotherhood that used to enrich things has been lost. But some of us still believe in dialogue, in mutual inspiration. Sometimes, true art is born from a conversation.
You began your film career at 21 and have achieved international recognition and major roles with the best directors and internationally renowned actors. Do you consider yourself a simple and approachable man?
Yes—simple, above all. My friends, those who truly know me, can attest to that. Approachable, a little less so, because if I were, I wouldn’t be able to work. Like Miguel Bosé—a great friend to whom I dedicated a song—I don’t have a very active social life. Socialising has always tired me, even when I was sixteen. I’ve always been the first to go home.
What does success mean to you? Has that concept changed over time? What keeps your feet on the ground after so many triumphs?
For me, the creed—or my “approach to success”—is to do things with care and love, because if you do them that way, you achieve success. There are many ways to fry an egg or make a Spanish omelette, a paella.
Everything that’s done with love shows… The concept of success and creativity is doing things with love. What keeps my feet on the ground are the values and the education my family passed on to me. It’s obvious—my father and my mother, may they rest in peace. That depends on what has happened to you in life, Ana. From a very young age, we were very aware of the likelihood that my mum might die; so the concept of death was always very close. A great friend of mine also died when I was 17, from a brain tumour. That is what keeps me here: my feet on the ground, and my heart and mind in the stratosphere. A great success is waking up in the morning and nothing hurts; being able to enjoy life, health, and living.
You’ve been painting since you were 27. What has your artistic evolution been like, and how would you define your works in the context of the exhibition you’re planning to hold soon in Marbella?
What inspires you about our city?
In Marbella I will exhibit three very large, colourful paintings with floral motifs, through USC Gallery with Ursula Salvador, for Art Design Marbella. These works, which I think people will like, are very vital. Marbella has a particular light that always inspires me. I have already exhibited there on four occasions, and I have several clients who appreciate my art.
Being who you are… words are unnecessary. Do you believe an artist is born or made?
An artist is born with a different sensitivity and is made through discipline. Art demands a lifelong commitment.
Who are your favourite painters? Have you drawn inspiration from any of their works?
There are so many painters I like: Goya, Picasso, Dalí, Tàpies, Barceló, Lucian Freud, Francis Bacon, Basquiat, Julian Schnaebel… I don’t copy, but I dialogue with them from the canvas.
What are your favourite books?
Zen in the Art of Archery. America, by Kafka. To Have or to Be? The Little Prince...
What have your upcoming projects been?
I’m currently working on my own screenplay. I recently did the film Back on Track, The Life List, Hunting Season with Mel Gibson, the series Mobland by Guy Ritchie; I made a film with Olmo Schnabel; and in London I start filming this year a new movie with Nicolage Cage, and soon “Leones en Invierno”, a film in Spain with Albert Pintó…
Those who were seen dancing were considered insane by those who could not hear the music” (Friedrich Nietzsche).
In art history, we see cases as extreme as Vincent van Gogh, who barely sold a work in his lifetime, versus figures like Picasso, who enjoyed overwhelming commercial success. Do you think artistic judgement lies more in the hands of the market or of time? What role do prejudice, the interests of contemporary criticism and the dynamics of cultural power play in this difference in destiny?
Artistic judgement lies in the hands of both: the market and time. Van Gogh was not understood because the world did not yet have the language to name him. Picasso knew how to speak all the languages of his era. But true Art survives all of that. History puts each person in their place… Sooner or later.
Is posterity fairer than the present? Posterity is sometimes very speculative.
Thank you very much; see you in March in Marbella.
JORDI MOLLÀ
Widely recognized as one of Spain’s most versatile and celebrated actors, Mollà has built an extraordinary international career spanning nearly seventy films, numerous television productions, and collaborations with some of the most renowned directors and actors in the world. His performances have earned him five Goya Award nominations and a reputation for intensity, depth, and creative range. Alongside his acting career, he has developed a prolific body of work as a filmmaker, writer, and author, further establishing his multidisciplinary creative identity.
As a visual artist, Mollà is a self-taught painter whose work reflects the same emotional force and expressive freedom found in his performances. His paintings move fluidly between abstraction, pop art, graffiti, and hyperrealism, attracting an international collector base and being exhibited in close to one hundred venues worldwide. Constantly evolving with contemporary paradigms, he has expanded into NFTs, artificial intelligence, publishing, and music, embodying a truly transdisciplinary approach that defines him as one of the most dynamic creative figures of his generation.
The gallerist Ursula Salvador brings Jordi Mollà back to Art Design Marbella, reaffirming a long-standing creative relationship that began with his participation in the fair’s inaugural edition. Their collaboration has evolved through multiple joint projects and exhibitions in key international art hubs such as Miami, Madrid, and Tbilisi, strengthening Mollà’s presence within the contemporary art circuit curated by Salvador and positioning Marbella as a meeting point for global artistic dialogue.
“In Marbella I will exhibit three very large, colourful paintings with floral motifs, through USC Gallery with Ursula Salvador, for Art Design Marbella. These works, which I think people will like, are very vital. Marbella has a particular light that always inspires me”
Todo lo grande y valioso del ser humano es hijo de la abnegación. ¿Te ha costado mucho conseguir el reconocimiento internacional en todas sus facetas? ¿Qué ha sido más fácil?
Conseguir reconocimiento nunca fue el objetivo inicial, aunque sí el resultado de una entrega constante. Es un poco al contrario de lo que de lo que pasa hoy , que la gente lo tiene todo súper fácil. En mi caso, me siento muy afortunado de haber conseguido tantas cosas gracias al esfuerzo. Es inimaginable cuando eres un niño nacido en la periferia de Barcelona. Pero bueno, aun así, en algún lugar de mi cabeza desde muy joven, yo sabía que me iba a dedicar a todo esto porque rondando los 15 años o algo así , hacía fotos , montajes con vídeos de VHS con mi hermano. Todo era muy innato en nosotros, éramos niños inquietos, creativos, que en vez de estar el fin de semana por ahí, no salíamos de casa y trabajábamos rodando cositas en super ocho, hacíamos collages, empezamos a tocar instrumentos como la guitarra española y con dos palos de batería que me compraron mis padres , porque vivíamos en un pisito y no nos podíamos permitir hacer ruido con una batería, pues tocaba con los tambores de dixán a modo de batería …Cumplí mi sueño y me compré mi propia batería en la pandemia , en Miami, la llamo la “RUBIA” porque es blanca y dorada. Ese afán que yo tengo por aprender, espero no perderlo nunca. Lo más fácil, si algo lo ha sido, ha sido seguir creando. Lo que más cuesta es tener el compromiso real y la disciplina real de hacer algo durante muchos años y si eres constante en tus objetivos. El “commitment” el compromiso es lo verdaderamente importante, es el brazo de hierro.
El lema de Zapatero a tus zapatos me parece un poco terco y desfasado. Está completamente demodé. Podemos hacer más de tres cosas a la vez y bien, siempre que tengas la inspiración y el compromiso para hacerlo.
¿De dónde te viene esa perseverancia por manifestar todo tu potencial artístico?. ¿Te consideras un hombre trascendental?
Es que es una responsabilidad. Si Dios te da un don, no cumplirlo es un pecado. Es una ofrenda de Dios. Si, sí, claro que me considero transcendental. Intento vivir con intensidad y verdad. La perseverancia viene del instinto, casi del hambre de expresión.
¿Qué significa para ti el Arte hoy en día? ¿Ha cambiado ese concepto con el tiempo?
El arte ha madurado conmigo, es una necesidad , es refugio. Estamos en unos momentos de incertidumbre con la I.A, aún no está todo muy claro en el ámbito del arte, del cine, de la escritura y la música… Entonces yo creo que la solución y no es la primera vez que pasa esto, habrá pasado a lo largo de los siglos…. La solución está en mirar lo que ha sido el arte en los últimos 100 años y renovar eso. Para mí, el futuro del arte, es mirar un poco para atrás, para quedarte donde estás y entonces tener una visión de futuro. Hay que mirar y tener presente los parámetros clásicos, también en el cine es necesario tener presente esas referencias. A mí me encanta el cine clásico.
Es un momento muy excitante, el que estamos viviendo de rapidez con los avances de la I.A. en todas las ramas artísticas, pero el lado clásico no hay que perderlo de vista.
Jordi, si tu obra pictórica pudiera hablar, ¿qué diría de ti?
Creo que se expresaría en una palabra, belleza. Me gusta pintar cosas positivas, coloridas, alegres, que transmitan belleza y armonía. Busco la belleza en cada trazo.
El mercado ha convertido el Arte en producto y al artista en marca.
¿Dónde crees que queda la autenticidad en medio de ese ruido?
No cabe duda que una obra de arte representa una marca, o sea que
te vayas al museo del Thyssen y sepas que una obra es un Picasso sin ver la Firma , es ya una Marca. Qué tu pintura sea una marca es impresionante, que sea reconocible sin necesidad de que vean la firma… Picasso, Miró, Dalí, Sorolla, Velazquez, Goya, son super brands. Eso es ya transcendental…
¿Qué significa el lujo para ti hoy en día?
Para mi tener tiempo es un gran lujo. Porque tiempo hay para parar un barco , es la gente que no quiere tenerlo, porque les da miedo. Yo pienso que en realidad tampoco lo quieren tener y es por eso que buscamos excusas a veces, para no enfrentarnos a las cosas. Por eso la motivación tiene que ser tan fuerte, imposible de sortear. Si la tienes, seguro que ganas ese tiempo. Yo, por ejemplo, empecé a escribir un guión el 1 de enero a las 3 de la tarde y hoy estamos al día 12 y creo que llevo 50 páginas y ahora he sacado tiempo para hacer la entrevista contigo. Para aprender un guión, se necesita “codos” y esto lleva tiempo.
¿Hasta qué punto crees que el ego, el individualismo y los prejuicios han afectado a la autenticidad del Arte actual?
Una persona que va con prejuicios por la vida es una persona que está viviendo a medias. Para mí, todo lo que existe , todo el arte, las obras independientemente de la etapa artística y estilo de la obra a la que pertenezca ( fauvismo, cubismo, expresionismo, realismo, arte contemporáneo… ), para mi esa obra tiene un valor, tiene un respeto, así que prejuicio cero, al contrario, para mi tiene mi total admiración. Ahora vivimos en la era de exposición constante, donde todo se mide en likes. Hay más preocupación por el impacto que por la profundidad. El ego es un mal compañero de viaje…Hay que ser auténtico, soy intuitivo. El mundo necesita un punto de naif y de gentileza… Tengo mil ideas nuevas en la cabeza .
Los grandes maestros del pasado solían colaborar entre sí, compartían talleres, corregían mutuamente sus obras. ¿Crees que, en el arte contemporáneo, a diferencia de otras épocas se ha perdido esa conexión fraternal entre los artistas?
Yo estoy abierto a los demás como artista, no tengo ningún tipo de problema. Este verano, colaboré con el nieto segundo de Picasso , Jacob Vilató, en una exposición de 12 cuadros, recientemente. Lo hago sin ningún tipo de interés.
Hay algunos artistas, que son efectivamente más egoístas, y no quieren compartir sus técnicas, pero no es mi caso. Hoy hay más competencia que complicidad. Se ha perdido esa hermandad creativa que enriquecía. Pero algunos seguimos creyendo en el dialogo, en la inspiración mutua. A veces, el verdadero arte nace de una conversación.
Empezaste a los 21 años tu carrera cinematográfica y has logrado un reconocimiento internacional y grandes papeles con los mejores directores y actores de renombre internacional . ¿Te consideras un hombre sencillo y accesible?
Si, sencillo sobre todo. Mis amigos, los que me conocen de verdad, lo saben. Accesible un poco menos, porque si fuera accesible, no podría trabajar. Al igual que Miguel Bosé, un gran amigo al que le dediqué una canción (Bosé) , no tengo una gran vida social. A parte socializar me cansa bastante, ya desde jovencito con 16 años, me cuesta. Siempre he sido el primero en irme a casa.
¿Qué significa para ti el éxito? ¿ha cambiado ese concepto con el tiempo? ¿Qué te hace tener los pies en el suelo después de cosechar tantos triunfos?
Para mi el credo o mi “approach del éxito” es hacer las cosas con cariño y amor, porque si lo haces así, se logra el éxito. Hay muchas maneras de hacer un huevo frito o una tortilla de patatas, una paella. Todo lo que se hace con amor, se nota… El concepto del éxito y la creatividad es hacer las cosas con amor.
Lo que me hace tener los pies en el suelo, son los valores y la educación que me han transmitido en la familia. Es obvio, mi padre y mi madre, que en paz descansen. Eso depende de lo que te ha pasado en la vida, Ana. Desde muy jovencito, teníamos muy presente la probabilidad de que mi mamá se muriera, entonces el concepto de la muerte siempre estuvo muy cerca. También se me murió un gran amigo mío con 17 años de un tumor cerebral. Esto es lo que me hace estar aquí, con los pies en el suelo y el corazón y cerebro en la estratosfera. Un gran éxito es levantarte por la mañana y que no te duela nada, poder disfrutar de la vida, la salud y vivir.
Llevas pintando desde los 27 años. ¿Cómo ha sido tu evolución artística y cómo definirías tus obras en el contexto de la exposición que tienes prevista hacer próximamente en Marbella? ¿Qué te inspira nuestra ciudad?
En Marbella expondré tres cuadros muy grandes y coloridos con motivos florales a través de USC Gallery con Ursula Salvador, para Art Design Marbella. Estas obras que creo que van a gustar, son muy vitales. Marbella tiene una luz particular que me inspira siempre. Ya he expuesto en 4 ocasiones allí y tengo varios clientes que aprecian mi arte.
Siendo quién eres… sobran las palabras ¿crees que un artista nace o se hace?
Un artista nace con una sensibilidad diferente y se hace con la disciplina, el arte exige compromiso vital.
“Es que es una responsabilidad. Si Dios te da un don, no cumplirlo es un pecado. Es una ofrenda de Dios. Si, sí, claro que me considero transcendental. Intento vivir con intensidad y verdad. La perseverancia viene del instinto, casi del hambre de expresión.”
¿Quiénes son tus pintores favoritos? ¿Te has inspirado en alguna de sus obras?
Hay tantos pintores que me gustan : Goya, Picasso, Dalí, Tapies, Barceló, Lucien Freud, Francis Bacon, Basquiat, Julián Schnaebel…. No copio, pero dialogo con ellos desde el lienzo.
¿Cuáles son tus libros favoritos?
Zen en el arte del Tiro al Arco, América de Kafka, Tener o Ser, El Principito...
¿Cuáles han sido tus próximos proyectos ?
Actualmente estoy haciendo mi propio guión. Recientemente hice la película Back on Track , The life List , Hunting season con Mel Gibson, la serie Mobland de Guy Ritchie, hice una película con Olmo Schnabel y en Londres empiezo este año a rodar una nueva película con Nicolage Cage y en breve “ Leones en Invierno” una película en España con Albert Pintó…
“Aquellos que eran vistos bailando, eran considerados locos por quienes no podían escuchar la música» (Friedrich Nietzsche).
En la historia del arte, vemos casos tan extremos como el de Vincent van Gogh, quien apenas vendió una obra en vida, frente a figuras como Picasso, que gozaron de un éxito comercial abrumador. ¿Crees que el juicio artístico está más en manos del mercado o del tiempo? ¿Qué papel juegan los prejuicios, los intereses de la crítica contemporánea y las dinámicas del poder cultural en esta diferencia de destino?
En el juicio artístico está en manos de ambos, del mercado y del tiempo. Van Gogh no fue comprendido porque el mundo aún no tenía el lenguaje para nombrarlo. Picasso supo hablar todos los idiomas de su época. Pero el Arte verdadero sobrevive a todo eso. La historia pone a cada uno en su sitio… Tarde o temprano.
¿Es la posterioridad más justa que el presente?
La posterioridad a veces es muy especuladora.
Muchas gracias, nos vemos en marzo en Marbella.
NAOMI WATTS
THE EMOTION THAT ENVELOPS EVERYTHING LA EMOCIÓN QUE LO ENVUELVE TODO
The admiration many people feel for actress Naomi Watts stems from her remarkable performances on the big screen. But beyond box office hits lies a story of perseverance—one that has secured her place among Hollywood’s most accomplished actresses.
La admiración que muchas personas sienten por la actriz Naomi Watts se debe a sus magníficas interpretaciones en la gran pantalla. Su historia, más allá de películas de éxito, esconde una trayectoria de perseverancia que le ha hecho situarse entre las actrices más consolidadas de Hollywood.
BY EVA DEL AMO
“In
Mulholland Drive. Watts’s performance left audiences and critics stunned, announcing the arrival of a rare talent with an instinctive style of acting”
Born in Shoreham, England, in 1968, into a family of artists, Watts seemed destined for creativity. Her father worked as a road manager for Pink Floyd, while her mother designed costumes. After the early death of her father, her mother relocated the family to Australia. That sense of uprooting, experienced at the fragile age of 14, would shape Watts’s personality—blending strength with vulnerability, qualities she has since infused into her most memorable roles.
A CAREER BUILT ON PERSEVERANCE
In Australia, Watts discovered her calling. She first appeared in commercials, later moving into television roles before transitioning into film through small parts.
Her life changed dramatically in 2001 when David Lynch cast her in Mulholland Drive. Watts’s performance left audiences and critics stunned, announcing the arrival of a rare talent with an instinctive style of acting. From that moment, Hollywood opened its doors, and Watts seized her opportunity.
In 2002, she dazzled once again with The Ring, a boxoffice sensation that solidified her as a star. A year later, she earned her first Academy Award nomination for her raw and heart-wrenching role in 21 Grams, proving her extraordinary emotional range. By then, she was already known for her uncanny ability to deliver performances that resonate deeply, reaching far beyond the screen.
In 2005, she took on the colossal challenge of King Kong, followed years later by one of her most acclaimed roles in J.A. Bayona’s The Impossible (2012). Playing a mother caught in the devastating 2004 tsunami, Watts delivered a performance of staggering intensity and empathy, earning her second Oscar nomination and cementing her reputation as an actress who can profoundly move audiences.
A VOICE BEYOND THE SCREEN
Outside her acting career, Watts has become a committed advocate for causes close to her heart. One of her most applauded initiatives is her book Dare I Say It, in which she shares her experience with premature menopause. Alongside this, she launched the beauty brand Stripes, giving visibility to a life stage too often silenced in public discourse.
A practitioner of Buddhism and meditation, Watts also lends her support to multiple charitable initiatives, including donations of wigs for women undergoing cancer treatment.
A LEGACY IN MOTION
Today, Naomi Watts continues her career with the quiet confidence of someone who has earned her place in cinema history. Her journey has been defined by intelligence, determination, and resilience—qualities that have forged a powerful bond with audiences eager to see what she does next.
Behind every role lies an actress who doesn’t merely perform but inhabits her characters fully, holding up a mirror that allows viewers to confront their own emotions. And in the darkness of a movie theater, that experience is more than an achievement—it’s a gift.
La actriz nació en Shoreham (Reino Unido) en 1968, en el seno de una familia de artistas. Su padre era road manager de Pink Floyd, y su madre diseñadora de vestuario. Tras la temprana muerte de su progenitor, su madre decidió trasladarse a Australia. Esa sensación de desarraigo en la actriz, que solo contaba con 14 años, marcó su personalidad, otorgándole una mezcla de fortaleza y fragilidad que ha sabido imprimir a los personajes que interpreta.
TRAYECTORIA DE ÉXITO
En Australia Watts descubrió su vocación, dedicándose primero a la publicidad y después a la interpretación, orientado su carrera hacia el mundo televisivo para pasar posteriormente a la industria cinematográfica a través de pequeños papeles. Su futuro cambió de forma repentina en el año 2001, cuando David Lynch la eligió para protagonizar Mulholland Drive. Su interpretación dejó sin palabras al público y a la crítica, confirmando que había nacido una actriz distinta al resto, con una forma de actuar completamente innata. Tras este papel, Hollywood le abrió sus puertas y Watts aprovechó su oportunidad.
En 2002 la actriz volvió a deslumbrar al mundo con The Ring, un éxito de taquilla que la situó como una gran estrella, tal y como se constató un año más tarde, cuando recibió su primera nominación al Oscar gracias a un papel desgarrador en 21 grams, con el que la industria confirmó que podía hacer cualquier registro. Por aquel entonces la actriz ya era conocida por su increíble capacidad a la hora de interpretar sus papeles con una fuerza emocional que traspasaba la pantalla.
En 2005 interpretó King Kong, una gran superproducción que dio paso en 2012 a uno de sus grandes éxitos, la película The Impossible, dirigirá por J.A. Bayona, donde interpretaba a una madre atrapada con su familia en el tsunami de 2004 que tuvo lugar en el sudeste asiático. Su actuación, intensa y profundamente conmovedora, le valió su segunda nominación al Oscar y fue la confirmación que de que Naomi Watts tenía una gran capacidad para emocionar al espectador.
EL COMPROMISO DE LA ACTRIZ
Paralelamente a su carrera, en su vida personal, Watts ha demostrado ser una persona comprometida con diferentes causas. Una de las más aplaudidas ha sido la publicación de Dare I say it, un libro en el que relata su experiencia con la menopausia precoz, y que ha combinado con la creación de la marca de belleza Stripes, dando visibilidad a una etapa en la vida de la mujer que suele ocultarse en la esfera pública. Watts es practicante del budismo y defensora de la meditación. Además, apoya habitualmente a diferentes causas benéficas, como la donación de pelucas para mujeres en tratamiento de cáncer. Actualmente Naomi Watts prosigue su carrera con la serenidad de quien se ha ganado un puesto en la historia del cine. Su trayectoria se ha consolidado a base de inteligencia, esfuerzo, tesón y convicción. Una combinación de cualidades que le ha hecho conectar con un público que espera ansioso sus siguientes pasos profesionales. Tras cada interpretación se encuentra el talento de una actriz que no solo se limita a interpretar un papel, sino que habita cada personaje, poniendo delante de cada espectador un espejo que le permite explorar sus propios sentimientos. Y eso, en la oscuridad de un cine, más que un logro es un regalo.
“Su trayectoria se ha consolidado a base de inteligencia, esfuerzo, tesón y convicción.”
DE TROPEN
THE LUXURY SHOWROOM IN VÉLEZ-MÁLAGA FOR PREMIUM OUTDOOR FURNITURE AND GARDEN ACCESSORIES
EL SHOWROOM DE LUJO EN VÉLEZ-MÁLAGA PARA MUEBLES DE EXTERIOR PREMIUM Y ACCESORIOS DE JARDÍN
In the heart of sun-drenched Vélez-Málaga lies an unparalleled destination for those seeking luxury garden furniture and exclusive outdoor accessories. De Tropen (www.detropen.es) boasts an impressive 13,000 m² showroom, showcasing the most prestigious brands in the world of outdoor living and garden design. This industry pioneer distinguishes itself not only through its breadth of collections but also through its dedication to quality and customer-focused service.
“It was Dua’s father, the former lead singer of a rock
“Whether you’re looking to furnish your garden, patio, or roof terrace, at De Tropen you’ll find everything you need to transform your outdoor space into a luxurious retreat.”
What makes De Tropen so unique is the enormous variety of premium garden furniture in the showroom. From comfortable lounge sets to stylish garden tables and luxurious sunbeds, the selection offers something for everyone. De Tropen is also proud of its partnerships with the best brands in the industry, such as 4 Seasons Outdoor, Vondom Hartman, Kind, Pebl and Talenti, known for their innovation and craftsmanship. These brands represent not only visual aesthetics but also sustainability, comfort, and the highest quality standards.
AVAILABLE DIRECTLY FROM STOCK
What further sets De Tropen apart from other suppliers is their promised speed of delivery. Everything in their showroom is available directly from stock, meaning customers can quickly receive and install their favorite pieces without long waits. This fast service level is essential for busy customers who want to quickly transform their outdoor space without compromising on quality or style.
Whether you’re looking to furnish your garden, patio, or roof terrace, at De Tropen you’ll find everything you need to transform your outdoor space into a luxurious retreat. From exclusive outdoor kitchens and garden decorations to bioclimatic pergolas and parasols, the large showroom boasts a complete collection that meets the highest standards of design and functionality.
EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE AND ADVICE
Besides the wide selection and luxury products, De Tropen offers customer service that truly makes a difference. The experienced and expert team provides tailored advice to create the perfect outdoor space, taking into account the wishes and requirements of each customer. This personalized advice, combined with the unique product selection, ensures an unparalleled experience when designing your outdoor space.
CONCLUSION
De Tropen in Vélez-Málaga is undoubtedly the ultimate destination for anyone looking to upgrade their outdoor space with exclusive, durable, and luxurious garden furniture. The company not only offers the best brands, but also excellent customer service and fast delivery. While others offer compelling offerings, De Tropen has proven to be the true experts in providing high-quality outdoor products that elevate their customers’ lifestyles. Visit De Tropen and discover the difference for yourself.
En el corazón de la soleada Vélez-Málaga se encuentra un destino inigualable para quienes buscan muebles de jardín de lujo y accesorios de exterior exclusivos. De Tropen (www.detropen.es) cuenta con un impresionante showroom de 13.000 m², que exhibe las marcas más prestigiosas del mundo del mobiliario exterior y el diseño de jardines. Este pionero del sector se distingue no solo por la amplitud de sus colecciones, sino también por su dedicación a la calidad y al servicio enfocado en el cliente.
Lo que hace a De Tropen tan único es la enorme variedad de muebles de jardín premium en su showroom. Desde cómodos conjuntos lounge hasta elegantes mesas de jardín y lujosas tumbonas, la selección ofrece algo para todos los gustos. De Tropen también se enorgullece de sus colaboraciones con las mejores marcas del sector, como 4 Seasons Outdoor, Vondom, Hartman, Kind, Pebl y Talenti, reconocidas por su innovación y artesanía. Estas marcas representan no solo estética visual, sino también sostenibilidad, confort y los más altos estándares de calidad.
DISPONIBLES DIRECTAMENTE DESDE STOCK
Otro factor que diferencia a De Tropen de otros proveedores es su prometida rapidez de entrega. Todo lo que se encuentra en su showroom está disponible directamente desde stock, lo que permite a los clientes recibir e instalar sus piezas favoritas rápidamente, sin largas esperas. Este nivel de servicio rápido es esencial para clientes ocupados que desean transformar su espacio exterior sin comprometer la calidad ni el estilo. Ya sea que busques amueblar tu jardín, patio o terraza en la azotea, en De Tropen encontrarás todo lo necesario para convertir tu espacio exterior en un retiro de lujo. Desde cocinas exteriores exclusivas y decoraciones de jardín hasta pérgolas bioclimáticas y sombrillas, el amplio showroom ofrece una colección completa que cumple con los más altos estándares de diseño y funcionalidad.
EXCELENTE SERVICIO Y ASESORAMIENTO AL CLIENTE
Además de la amplia selección y los productos de lujo, De Tropen ofrece un servicio al cliente que realmente marca la diferencia. El equipo experimentado y especializado proporciona asesoramiento personalizado para crear el espacio exterior perfecto, teniendo en cuenta los deseos y necesidades de cada cliente. Este asesoramiento individualizado, combinado con la selección única de productos, garantiza una experiencia inigualable al diseñar tu espacio exterior.
CONCLUSIÓN
De Tropen en Vélez-Málaga es, sin duda, el destino definitivo para quienes desean mejorar su espacio exterior con muebles de jardín exclusivos, duraderos y lujosos. La empresa no solo ofrece las mejores marcas, sino también un excelente servicio al cliente y entrega rápida. Mientras otros ofrecen opciones atractivas, De Tropen ha demostrado ser el verdadero experto en proporcionar productos de exterior de alta calidad que elevan el estilo de vida de sus clientes. Visita De Tropen y descubre la diferencia por ti mismo.
ETHEREAL SILHOUETTES LIGHT UP THE PARIS RUNWAY FOR SPRING/SUMMER 2026
Flowing fabrics, romantic prints, and sun-washed hues defined Zimmermann’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection, unveiled during Paris Fashion Week. The runway captured a modern vision of femininity—effortless, poetic, and unmistakably refined—set against the timeless elegance of Paris.
“Zimmermann’s Spring/Summer 2026 runway felt like a soft dream in motion— where romance, craftsmanship, and modern femininity met under the Parisian light.”
EXPLORA III
An Unforgettable Experience
At ALCAM TRAVELS , we present Explora Journeys as a new way of travelling by sea, where the ship itself becomes the destination. This concept is designed for experienced travellers who seek time, space and depth, and who view travel as an experience of wellbeing, personal discovery and constant inspiration.
TEXT: BY OSCAR LÓPEZ ALAGARDA
A VARIETY OF ITINERARIES:
A GLOBAL VIEW OF TRAVEL
Looking ahead to the 2026–2027 seasons, the brand presents new itineraries that broaden this global vision of travel, inviting guests to discover the world from the sea with a more unhurried, elegant and mindful perspective: from the Eastern and Western Mediterranean to Northern Europe, Asia, Alaska, or special itineraries such as Formula 1 in Monaco, each journey combines iconic destinations with lesstravelled calls and extended time in port.Special mention goes to the NEW SHIP EXPLORA III, the newest vessel in the fleet, which will set sail for the first time on 3 August from Barcelona, reinforcing the brand’s positioning and expanding its capacity to offer even more sophisticated and personalised experiences (Northern Europe, Alaska, Asia, among others).
ALASKA: Within this range of routes, we would like to place a special focus on Alaska, a region that is still little explored from the perspective of the luxury traveller, yet of enormous cultural, historical and scenic richness. We would value the publication’s vision and editorial judgement, especially in the digital sphere, to understand which angles, narratives and formats work best with your audience: from cultural exploration and contemporary luxury, to wellbeing, the spirituality of travel, or the contrast between tradition and modernity.
TRAVEL IDEA
A voyage of timeless charms and unspoilt landscapes.
EXPLORA III- Vancouver-Vancouver | 13-24 August 2027
Cast off from bustling Vancouver, a dynamic metropolis framed by mountains and sea, to begin a captivating journey. Venture into Alaska’s untamed terrain in Ward Cove, Sitka and Hubbard, where majestic landscapes and wild wonders await. Be moved by the beauty of Seward and fall under the spell of Skagway’s historic charm. In Juneau, admire the glaciers and marine life as you prepare to explore nature in its purest state in Wrangell. To conclude, return to Vancouver’s cosmopolitan jewel, a place brimming with urban sophistication, seasoned with a touch of natural splendour.
GENERAL BRAND INFORMATION
www.explorajourneys.com
∙ Explora Journeys, a luxury hotel at sea: all the advantages of a highend hotel with the sense of disconnection and the inspiration the ocean provides, enhanced by the richness of multiple destinations.
∙ Relaxed, contemporary European luxury, designed to feel like home. Concept: “Home at Sea”.
∙ Ocean State of Mind: the essence of Explora Journeys. An invitation to experience the sea not only as a place, but as a way of feeling and being. Harmony between body and mind, inspiration through extraordinary destinations and authentic moments that transform the way we travel.
∙ Spacious areas and a modern, welcoming design, created to invite relaxation, enjoyment and contemplation.
∙ Ocean Wellness: close to 1,000 m² dedicated to holistic wellbeing, with Spa, Beauty, Wellness and Fitness areas, designed to renew energy, improve rest, encourage relaxation and strengthen the mind-body connection.
∙ Gastronomy of excellence: 9 culinary experiences with menus that evolve according to the region, prioritizing local produce and sustainability. Includes Chef’s Kitchen, an immersive experience to discover the story and the ingredients behind each dish.
∙ Global itineraries: Eastern and Western Mediterranean, Formula 1 in Monaco, Northern Europe, Asia, Alaska and the Arabian Peninsula/Red Sea.
AT
ALCAM TRAVELS, WE DO NOT SEE OURSELVES SIMPLY AS A TRAVEL AGENCY; WE ARE YOUR PERSONAL ADVISERS IN THE ART OF EXPLORATION
At Alcam Travels, we do not see ourselves simply as a travel agency; we are your personal advisers in the art of exploration. We define ourselves as a boutique agency, and we wear that label with pride. For us, travel is not about collecting destinations, but about immersing oneself in a transformative, deeply personal experience. That is why, when we speak about Explora Journeys, we do not do so from a catalogue, but from first-hand experience. We are a boutique agency made up of travellers, and it was precisely through living the experience that we became genuine fans of the brand. Explora Journeys embodies our understanding of travel: relaxed luxury, unhurried time, generous spaces, exceptional gastronomy, and service that is deeply human and instinctively anticipatory. From the intimate design of its ships, with an outstanding crew-to-guest ratio, to its relaxation areas created for contemplating the horizon, every detail is designed to help you reconnect—with yourself and with the ocean. Having experienced it ourselves allows us to recommend it with absolute conviction and to support our clients with genuine knowledge, transforming every voyage into a truly memorable experience.
In fact, our own travel designers, Sonia and Rosa, had the privilege of being on board in September and can personally attest that this is an incomparable cruise line—testimony that fully underpins our recommendation.
For me, the true magic of Explora Journeys lies in its ability to orchestrate a singular experiential journey. It is not a simple transfer from one port to another, but an awakening of the senses that begins the moment you step on board. Attention to detail is the rule, not the exception.
One of the pillars of this experience is, without question, its refined gourmet cuisine. I have had the pleasure of enjoying menus that are true works of culinary art, where each dish tells a story—crafted with the finest ingredients and blending avant-garde techniques with authentic flavours from around the world. It is gastronomy designed for the most discerning palate, elevating every meal into a memorable moment.
And then there is the design and sense of intimacy. This is where the brand sets an insurmountable distance between itself and the
rest of the industry. Explora Journeys’ ships have been conceived for a maximum of fewer than 900 passengers, yet they are supported by a crew of almost 700. This ratio is, quite simply, the defining hallmark of exclusivity—enabling you to enjoy service that is intuitive, discreet, and anticipatory.
I must also highlight the exceptional quality of its relaxation areas. I have spent unforgettable moments on its decks, and I can say with certainty that the positioning of its pools is designed to offer unique perspectives of both the horizon and the destination. These spaces make time on board truly incomparable, creating an oasis of peace and luxury that I have simply not found on other ships. The personification of this luxury service is the in-suite butler. This is a detail that speaks volumes about the brand’s exclusivity. Having someone at my disposal dedicated to managing my every wish transforms the routine of travel into a constant indulgence. It allows me to free my mind and focus solely on enjoying the horizon, knowing that every need is met with the utmost professionalism.
Explora Journeys is, in essence, a product designed for those seeking something beyond the ordinary—something intrinsically exclusive. It is a floating sanctuary that offers the space, time and privacy required to reconnect with oneself and with the ocean.
At Alcam Travels, we have made this luxury experience our speciality. My team and I are here to guide you through the options, personalise your journey down to the finest detail, and ensure that your voyage with Explora Journeys is not merely a trip, but the adventure you have always dreamed of. Trust my knowledge and Alcam Travels’ commitment: your dream journey begins with our expert recommendation.
ALCAM TRAVELS
Alcam Travels Marbella. Centro comercial Guadalmina II, local Bajo 15. Guadalmina Alta San Pedro de Alcántara 29670. Marbella. Tel. +34 636 846 558 / alcamtravels.com
Patricia González
Oscar López Alagarda
ROBERTO COIN Domino Collection
The inspiration for this very precious collection comes from far, far away. The game of dominoes was born in China in 1100. It was brought to Europe by Italians only 500 years later, and it then spread to the entire world, becoming a traditional source of entertainment.
Actress Dakota Johnson, the new global brand ambassador for Italian jewelry house Roberto Coin
The jewels in the Domino collection are made of rows of identical elements that are repeated along the entire surface, just as in the elements of the Chinese game. The gold is treated like a precious stone and each element of the jewels is worked like a miniature artistic sculpture. The black and white diamonds that light up the entire collection give it a sense of depth. The result is a dazzling, pure light that will attract your gaze as well as an exotic, sexy sense of depth that will hold it.
DOMINO COLLECTION
Earjacket earrings in rose gold with white diamonds
DOMINO COLLECTION
Rings in rose gold with mirrored metal and white diamond pavé
LOVE IN VERONA COLLECTION
Rose gold bangle and ring with spotted diamonds
DOMINO COLLECTION
Rose gold earrings with diamonds
DOMINO COLLECTION
gold pendant with diamond pavé
DOMINO COLLECTION
Bangles in rose gold with mirrored metal and white diamond pavé
Rose
DOMINO COLLECTION
Rings in white gold with white diamonds
DOMINO COLLECTION
Earrings and pendant in white gold with white diamonds
The domino effect is a small movement that’s capable of triggering exponential energy. With this collection Roberto Coin reaches the same domino effect through a new approach to manufacturing , initiating a revolution in the world of gold. With Domino Roberto Coin has also celebrated the ancient know-how of Italian master goldsmiths in creating a design that’s essential but that’s capable of infinitely multiplying the splendor of his jewels. A design that triggers the most precious domino effect we could have ever expected.
DURAN JOYEROS
Goya, 19. 28001. Madrid
DURAN JOYEROS multi-brand boutique
El Corte Inglés C.C. Marbella. Ramón Areces, s/n Nueva Andalucía. 29660. Marbella
DOMINO COLLECTION
Bangle with clasp in white gold with white diamonds
DOMINO COLLECTION
Necklace in rose gold with black and white diamonds
DOMINO COLLECTION
Bangles in rose gold with black and white diamonds
DOMINO COLLECTION
Rings in rose gold with black and white diamonds
CEO: ISABEL SANTOS CÓRDOBA Specialists in Aesthetic and Skincare expert
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GUIOMAR ALFARO
THE LUXURY of Being Yourself
Some books are not born to explain, but to accompany. Books that do not seek to teach a path, but to remind you that yours is still there. The Luxury of Being Yourself is one of them.
Hay libros que no nacen para explicar, sino para acompañar. Libros que no pretenden enseñar un camino, sino recordarte que el tuyo sigue ahí. El lujo de ser tú misma es uno de ellos
PHOTO: BY GALA REGNAULT/BOOK PHOTO: TRUYOL DIGITAL
I believe deeply that luxury is not built on the surface, but from the essence — from the coherence between what a brand is, what it conveys and how it makes people feel.
In a world that insists on speeding up, correcting, disguising the passage of time, this book proposes something radically different: to inhabit oneself — unhurriedly, without guilt, and without asking permission.
This is not a book about fashion, although fashion is present. It is not a book about age, although age runs through it. It is a book about the woman who remains when the lights go out, when roles dissolve, and when life demands truth.
GUIOMAR ALFARO
RETURNING WITHOUT GOING BACK
Guiomar Alfaro has lived many lives in one: international model, mother, teacher, a woman who knew how to pause… and a woman who knew how to return.Her story dismantles a narrative that still lingers — the idea that certain stages close forever. Guiomar shows that returning is not about going backwards, but about coming back with greater awareness, greater embodiment, and greater soul.
In these pages, Guiomar does not present herself as an ideal, but as an honest mirror. She speaks of motherhood as a choice, of pause as transformation, of anxiety, of the fear of ageing, and of the beauty that emerges when we stop fighting time.
Her message is clear and profoundly liberating: age does not diminish — it multiplies.
SHEILA HERNÁNDEZ
GIVING WORDS TO WHAT MANY WOMEN FEEL
The Architect of Luxury accompanies this story through writing, listening and a finely attuned gaze. Her contribution does not seek to direct, but to translate into words what many women feel yet cannot always name.
Through an intimate, carefully crafted narrative, Sheila shapes a book that does not judge, impose or promise formulas. What it offers is far
Sheila Hernandez
more valuable: presence, depth and truth. Together, Guiomar and Sheila build a narrative where sisterhood is not a concept but a practice; where luxury ceases to be external and becomes something quiet and essential — living in coherence with oneself.
WHO THIS BOOK IS FOR
For women who:
• Feel they have changed and are unsure whether that is acceptable
• Sense that true luxury no longer lies in proving anything
• Wonder whether they can still allow themselves to feel inspired again
• Seek real references, not unattainable ideals
And also for those who understand that mature beauty is not corrected — it is celebrated.
Reading The Luxury of Being Yourself is an act of pause. It is looking at oneself without judgement. It is recognising oneself in another woman… and returning to oneself.
Because true luxury — today — is not appearing. It is inhabiting yourself.
LISTENING AS A POINT OF DEPARTURE
As The Architect of Luxury, my work always begins with listening. Listening to the story, the origin and the truth that lives within each project. I believe deeply that luxury is not built on the surface, but from the essence — from the coherence between what a brand is, what it conveys and how it makes people feel. That is why my gaze rests on invisible narrative: the kind that is not always seen, but is unmistakably felt. I accompany companies — and particularly hotels — in reconnecting with their deepest identity. In organising their story, giving it meaning, and elevating their proposition through authenticity, creating experiences that do not seek to impress, but to endure.
When a brand truly understands itself, luxury ceases to be an external gesture and becomes an intimate, honest and aligned experience. That is where true luxury is born: in the harmony between story, emotion and experience.
My role is not to transform from the outside, but to reveal what was already there, and to accompany that process of elevation with respect, sensitivity and vision.
WHEN A STORY FINDS ITS VOICE
Not all stories are ready to be told immediately. Some require time, silence and, above all, the right voice. For years, Guiomar Alfaro was encouraged to write about the last five years of her life — an intense, transformative and deeply intimate period. Yet she knew that this story could not be entrusted to just anyone. She chose to wait.
The meeting point came unexpectedly. Through an article published on LinkedIn, Guiomar discovered the narrative voice of Sheila Hernández, known as The Architect of Luxury. A text that spoke of luxury through emotion, coherence and truth — far removed from surface aesthetics. That way of writing — capable of moving without exaggeration — proved decisive.
The first contact was simple and direct. From there, a long and meticulous process began: months of conversation, deep listening and shared writing. A handcrafted endeavour, accompanied by designer Igone Aberasturi and enriched by the prologue written by Lluís Illescas.
This project would not have been possible without the sensitive eye of Carlos Teixeira, author of the photographs and generously responsible for providing the cover image — a contribution that lends the book a visual dimension profoundly aligned with its spirit.
Dress by
Kristina
Kharlashkina
Nor without Gala Regnault, whose constant presence, unconditional support and quiet accompaniment have been an essential part of this shared journey.
The result was released in October: The Luxury of Being Yourself. A book conceived not as just another editorial product, but as a work created with the same respect and dedication reserved for what truly matters.
Because when a story finds its voice — and a team that sustains it — the narrative ceases to be merely words and becomes legacy.
The Luxury of Being Yourself does not end with its final page. It is an invitation to look inward, to prioritise oneself, and to dare to build from truth.
Those who wish to delve deeper can discover the book and learn more about the project on our website — a space where reflection becomes action and inspiration turns into genuine accompaniment.
From there, our work with women entrepreneurs and business leaders also takes shape — women who sense that their brand is asking for more: coherence, depth and a narrative aligned with who they are today. We accompany processes of reinvention and brand elevation, drawing on knowledge acquired at leading Swiss institutions and integrating strategy, sensitivity and a deep understanding of contemporary luxury.
We do not understand luxury as privilege, but as a way of doing things with meaning — as the capacity of any sector, whether hospitality, creative, corporate or artisanal, to convey unforgettable experiences when it connects with its own story.
Everything we do is born from the heart. From the honest desire to create a more beautiful, more human and more conscious world.
A world where brands are not only seen, but felt. And where every project can become an experience that truly endures.
www.ellujodesertumisma.com
RENZO PIANO
THE ARCHITECT BEYOND LABELS
BY EVA DEL AMO
“Innovation is not an aesthetic gesture, but a commitment to place and to people.”
Renzo Piano was born in Genoa in 1937 into a family of builders shaped by the hardships of the postwar years—an experience that led him to understand architecture not merely as a profession, but as a powerful tool for restoring human dignity. In 1959, he enrolled at the Polytechnic University of Milan, graduating five years later. Alongside his studies, Piano worked in the family business, which allowed him to experiment firsthand with unconventional materials such as plastic.
INFLUENCES THAT SHAPED A VISION
Piano’s career has been deeply marked by great mentors. He has always admired Jean Prouvé, the French designer who conceived of architecture as something flexible, open, and experimental. In London, he came into contact with Archigram, the avant-garde group that championed mobile and adaptable cities. All of this reinforced an idea that would accompany him throughout his life: architecture must be a field of experimentation, never a closed formula. The chance to put this theory into practice came in 1971, when, together with Richard Rogers, he won the competition to design the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris. When it opened in 1977, the building was destined to revolutionize the concept of a museum. For the first time, pipes, ducts, and escalators were displayed openly, celebrated as integral elements of the architectural language.
Public opinion was divided. To some, the museum looked like a refinery planted in the heart of Paris, while to many others it stood as a symbol of modernity. In any case, the project placed Renzo Piano firmly on the international stage, with a clear message: architecture is a living art.
BEYOND A PERSONAL TRADEMARK
Since the Pompidou, Piano’s name has been linked to innovation, though he has always resisted the idea of being confined by a label. He used to say that when style becomes a personal brand, it also becomes a cage. For this reason, he has always sought to tie each project to its location and to the people it serves.
Together with engineer Peter Rice, with whom he collaborated until Rice’s death in 1993, Piano created projects in which bold technical solutions were underpinned by the sensitivity of a true architect. From this partnership emerged such landmarks as the Menil Collection in Houston, a museum bathed in filtered natural light thanks to an ingenious system of concrete louvers. Equally celebrated was Kansai International Airport in Japan, one of his most complex works. Built on an artificial island, it was engineered to withstand typhoons and earthquakes. Its undulating roof was far more than an aesthetic flourish—it was a functional, structural response to the region’s challenges.
Behind every project, large or small, human dignity is always at the core.”
Another emblem of his genius is the Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Center in New Caledonia, where tradition and modernity coexist in structures that recall Melanesian huts, open to wind and sea.
In Europe, Piano has left his mark with the Fondation Beyeler in Switzerland and Potsdamer Platz in Berlin, while in London he designed The Shard, a glass skyscraper that pierces the sky and reshapes the city’s skyline.
In New York, some of his most acclaimed projects include the New York Times Building and the Whitney Museum, both designed with equal attention to habitability and function.
THE GENOESE ARCHITECT
In 1998, Renzo Piano received the Pritzker Prize, cementing his place in the pantheon of contemporary architecture. Yet he has always described himself modestly as “a simple builder.”
Despite working across five continents, Piano never forgot his roots. In 2018, when the Morandi Bridge in Genoa collapsed tragically, claiming dozens of lives, he donated the design for a new viaduct. The San Giorgio Bridge, inaugurated in 2020, became his way of reconciling with his birthplace. Sober and elegant, it resembles a ship gliding silently over the city. In his personal life, Piano has remained discreet. Years ago, he established his studio in Vesima, near Genoa, in a space open to the sea—more akin to an artisan’s workshop than to the office of an elite architect.
Now in his eighties, surrounded by young professionals, models, and sketches, Renzo Piano continues to work with undiminished passion. His collaborators describe him as serene, humble, and even somewhat shy, yet unwavering in his conviction that architecture is not spectacle, but service.
ANTONIA SAUTTER
MoreAmore Il Ballo del Doge celebrates love
TEXT: BY MARIBEL MARTÍNEZ
Antonia Sautter
The title and theme of the upcoming edition of Il Ballo del Doge— the most exclusive and sumptuous event of the Venice Carnival— is MoreAmore.
Il Ballo del Doge will take place on Saturday, 14 February in Venice, evocatively coinciding with Valentine’s Day, the lovers’ celebration.
MoreAmore is the title chosen by Antonia Sautter, creator and artistic director of Il Ballo del Doge, for the 33rd edition of the iconic Carnival gala which, since 1992, has captivated international audiences with a spectacular vision of Venetian tradition.
Each year, Antonia Sautter explores one facet of Venice—her hometown and an inexhaustible source of inspiration—through visionary settings, striking artistic performances and refined banquets celebrating the flavours of the lagoon, creating an immersive and memorable experience.
For the 2026 edition, Valentine’s Day becomes the narrative axis of the show: MoreAmore is a theatrical, joyful, fairy-tale hymn to love, expressed in all its forms and colours. From Shakespearean influences to more universal, contemporary vibes, the gala will traverse the eras, languages and styles that define Antonia Sautter’s artistic signature.
“My work is born from an ongoing dialogue with Venice. This year, however, the calendar seemed to suggest something more: the most important Saturday of Carnival coincides with the day dedicated to Love—Valentine’s Day. It was only natural to embrace this sign and transform it into a hymn to the most universal force we possess: love. MoreAmore is an invitation to celebrate love in all its forms, especially at a historical moment that calls for more empathy, more beauty, more humanity,” says Antonia Sautter.
Antonia Sautter and Elisabetta Franchi
“MoreAmore is an invitation to celebrate love in all its forms, especially at a historical moment that calls for more empathy, more beauty, more humanity.” Antonia Sautter.
Antonia Sautter, Emmanuel Filiberto de Saboya and Adriana Abascal
Antonia Sautter, Zucchero and Francesca Mozer
Antonia Sautter, Emmanuel Filiberto de Saboya, Adriana Abascal, Zucchero and Francesca Mozer
The evening will once again be held at the monumental Scuola Grande della Misericordia, in the Cannaregio district, which will open its doors to Il Ballo del Doge guests at 8:30 pm on Saturday, 14 February 2026 for a night of pure Venetian magic. More than 100 artists and performers will bring a oneof-a-kind show to life, wearing original creations by the Atelier Antonia Sautter.
The 2026 edition will also highlight love for Venice—a fragile and extraordinary city that deserves to be explored more deeply and respected with greater awareness. The experiential journey designed for MoreAmore guests moves through the city’s most emblematic locations: from costume fittings at the Temporary Atelier in St Mark’s Square, to discovering the Dorsoduro district—where the atelier’s printing and textile tailoring studio has recently relocated to a new venue—before reaching Cannaregio, the authentic heart of Venice at its most vibrant and original.
All locations, preparations and behind-the-scenes moments of MoreAmore will be shared on the profile.
Instagram @ilballodeldoge
Tickets available on: https://ilballodeldoge.com/
Agatha Ruiz de la Prada
Exclusive experiences in Biarritz
TEXT: BY MARIBEL MARTÍNEZ
HÔTEL DU PALAIS BIARRITZ
The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
AN ICON OF GLAMOUR AND HOSPITALITY ON THE FRENCH BASQUE COAST
A BRIEF HISTORY: FROM VILLA EUGÉNIE TO HÔTEL DU PALAIS IN BIARRITZ
This five-star hotel, which today stands majestically on the French coast as one of Southern Europe’s most glamorous addresses, was once the summer residence of Empress Eugénie de Montijo and Napoleon III during the Second French Empire. The nephew of Napoléon Bonaparte, Napoleon III served first as President of the Republic and later as Emperor of France. His wife, Eugénie de Montijo, of Spanish origin, was the daughter of a grandee of Spain. Born in Granada, she often spent her holidays in Biarritz. In 1854, following a visit to the French Basque coast, the imperial couple decided to make Biarritz their summer retreat and built a villa, “Villa Eugénie”, in honour of its owner.
A HOTEL BUILT IN TRIBUTE TO EMPRESS EUGÉNIE DE MONTIJO
At the time, Biarritz became the gathering place for Europe’s crowned heads and the international financial and social elite, including the Dukes of Windsor, Isabel de España, Léopold II of Belgium, the King of Württemberg, and even Edward VII, all drawn by sea bathing, sumptuous balls, fireworks and picnics. In 1882, Villa Eugénie was sold
and converted into a Hôtel-Casino, before becoming the Hôtel du Palais ten years later. In 1903, a fire broke out in the attic and almost completely destroyed it. In September of that same year, a casino-owning company purchased the ruins and rebuilt a hotel in an E-shaped design as a tribute to Empress Eugénie.
A RESIDENCE FOR NOBLES, ARISTOCRATS AND ILLUSTRIOUS FIGURES
The hotel placed Biarritz firmly on the international map, becoming the preferred address for European aristocracy and even Russian exiles living in France, as well as the ideal venue for hosting lavish, majestic celebrations. It was also chosen as a summer residence by celebrated names in history such as Coco Chanel, Víctor Hugo, Ernest Hemingway, Frank Sinatra, Gary Cooper and Barbra Streisand, alongside royalty, celebrities and politicians. It is the only French Palace on the Atlantic coast.
In the years that followed, the property underwent numerous renovations, including work carried out from autumn 2018 by the French interior design studio Atelier COS and Isabelle Joly, an architect specialising in historic buildings. Even so, Du Palais has always preserved
The hotel’s culinary offering is overseen by Executive Chef Christophe Scheller, a Parisian chef with a distinguished heritage in France.
its essence and its furnishings, which today form part of the hotel’s living history. It offers 86 rooms and 56 Suites, as well as the Royal Suite, measuring 102 square metres. The room dedicated to Empress Elisabeth of Austria, Isabel de Baviera, and Franz Joseph is among the hotel’s most spectacular, with historic details that have endured through time.
The Imperial Salon spans 300 square metres and is complemented by the Jardin d’Hiver of Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie de Montijo, as well as a ballroom adorned with paintings by Paul Gervais. Two centuries on, the hotel continues this festive and romantic tradition.
A GASTRONOMIC EXPERIENCE WITH ATLANTIC OCEAN VIEWS: LA ROTONDE, ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL RESTAURANTS
The hotel’s culinary offering is overseen by Executive Chef Christophe Scheller, a Parisian chef with a distinguished heritage in France. He began his career at the Hôtel Royal Monceau in Paris and, a few years later, became Sous-Chef at the restaurant Arôme. He also worked with Thiery Marx on the opening of the Mandarín Oriental in Paris. In 2013, Scheller joined Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme de la Paix. He won the Good Taste Series, an international gastronomy competition held at the Hyatt Hotel, and has led teams of more than 50 people at Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile.
La Rotonda is considered one of the most beautiful restaurants in the world, with sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean. Its cuisine features gourmet delicacies and pairs classic French gastronomic tradition with regional produce, meat and fish, alongside an exceptionally refined pastry offering by Chef Aleksandre Olivier.
Beneath its majestic chandeliers, Chef Christophe Scheller reinterprets classic dishes with audacity and precision. The exceptional wine cellar holds more than 1,000 selections, ensuring a unique and sophisticated experience. Le Bar Napoléon III, located in the former imperial office, is an experience in itself: blue-toned walls, gilded mouldings and a crystal chandelier create an intimate, welcoming ambience.
HÔTEL DU PALAIS BIARRITZ
1 Avenue de l’Impératrice, 64200 Biarritz, France
BRINDOS, Lac & Château…
BETWEEN TRADITION AND MODERNITY
A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE THAT TRANSPORTS US TO ANOTHER ERA
Brindos, Lac & Château***** is a luxury boutique hotel located in the town of Anglet, on the French Basque coast, just a few kilometres from the centre of Biarritz. It enjoys an exceptional and emblematic setting within the region. The château has been meticulously restored, respecting its heritage character thanks to the extraordinary craftsmanship of local artisans. Brindos pays tribute to Basque history, gastronomy and lifestyle. Its décor has been renewed while preserving the original essence. The property features 29 rooms, 10 floating lodges, three dining venues and a spa.
A PLACE STEEPED IN GLAMOUR AND TRADITION
Brindos is one of the oldest residences in Labourd. In the 1930s, Sir Reginald Wright, a passionate admirer of the Basque Country, acquired Brindos and transformed it into a hub of constant celebrations, where elegance strolled across sunlit terraces dressed in Chanel, while the lake became the stage for all kinds of indulgences. At dusk, guests would glide across its waters, admiring the château from their boats. Since 2000, owner Serge Blanco has sought to preserve the historical
legacy of this mythical place while infusing it with modernity, elegance and comfort. This former international rugby player for Olympique de Biarritz is to thank for the château’s masterful renovation. Set amid lush greenery and surrounded by forests, facing a lake in which one can lose oneself, and boasting Moorish-inspired architecture, Brindos, Lac & Château is a haven of tranquillity in an authentic, iconic and understated setting. Twenty years later, it has been brought back to life.
ELEGANT AND UNEXPECTED: OUR INVITING ROOMS
Brindos, Lac & Château has restored this magical location to its former splendour. Every material, piece of furniture and accessory has been chosen to tell a story. The design draws inspiration from the vastness and purity of water, as well as from Spanish Renaissance woodwork and antique furnishings.
The 29 rooms and their bathrooms have been entirely and meticulously renovated. As throughout the rest of the château, the original furniture (armchairs, sofas, woodwork) has been preserved— often restored—and enhanced with bold contemporary elements. Many of these pieces were sourced across France, some even before the renovation work began.
A LAKESIDE EXPERIENCE: STAYING IN ONE OF THE FLOATING LODGES
The lake takes centre stage with the installation of 10 floating lodges—independent rooms set on the water, accessible only by small electric boats. An incomparable experience on one of the largest private lakes in France, these sustainable spaces offer energy autonomy and all modern comforts. The colour palette echoes the surrounding nature: green, terracotta and white.
A WARM AND GENEROUS CULINARY OFFERING
A cuisine committed to local products and traditions—considered a heritage to be preserved and passed on—is a guiding principle across all the dining spaces at Brindos, Lac & Château.
The panoramic restaurant, with its 180° views over the lake and its welcoming atmosphere, offers a culinary immersion in the purest Basque tradition, subtly infused with creativity.
The menu features generous, must-try dishes: hand-carved Ibérico acorn-fed ham, terrines and pâtés en croûte… A fresh, seasonal cuisine that invites guests on a journey through a thousand flavours. Products are carefully selected from both France and Spain. The dessert menu showcases modernised classics: chocolate and citrus cake, various Basque cakes, seasonal fruit tart, mille-feuille, Paris-Bayonne cake… all served by the slice and designed for sharing. The signature dessert is the rum baba, served with a choice of filling and liqueur.
Throughout the day, gastronomy continues to be available on the lake pontoon, in the lounge, the bar or by the pool—making Brindos a must-visit destination in the Basque Country, whether for a celebration or a moment of intimacy.
Guests can explore the refined wine and spirits list of the Grand Salon, carefully curated by the sommelier, while enjoying a moment of relaxation by the fire and taking in the views through the picture windows, or discreetly from one of the balconies overlooking the central corridor—the art of seeing without being seen.
Le Salon also offers a tapas bar with a creative, playful and exotic cuisine inspired by reimagined regional classics: assorted dips to share with focaccia, corn hummus with yellow curry, platters of Ibérico
charcuterie and Basque cheeses, baby squid and vegetables in tempura, Galician-style octopus, patatas bravas… Next comes Le Bar: a true Scottish-style bar with a contemporary touch, retaining all its original charm and offering an authentic cocktail menu in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Finally, La Piscine, facing the lake, focuses on healthy cuisine, including vegan and gluten-free options: gourmet salads, tartares and ceviches, vegetable mini-pizzas, local cheeses, Italian ice creams, freshly pressed vitamin-rich juices…
THE CHOCOLATE ATELIER
Here, chocolate is celebrated in all its forms and becomes a true spectacle, as it is prepared in front of the guests. At La Chocolaterie, guests can enjoy breakfast or brunch, and its doors are open year-round to both house guests and visitors.
The menu for sweet-toothed gourmets features locally sourced, artisanmade products: pastries, cakes, chocolate-dipped, biscuits, cookies, cold cuts, dairy products, smoked fish… At tea or coffee time, the famous frothy hot chocolate is an absolute must.
WELLNESS AREAS FOR A MAGICAL INTERLUDE
A spa and wellness space, designed in water-green and gold tones, now occupies what was once the seminar area inside the château. It also houses four private pools and a hammam with its own private double cabin. Most distinctive of all, however, is that the spa extends onto the lake itself, with two floating treatment cabins offering exclusive therapies in complete privacy, surrounded by nature and water.
At Brindos, Lac & Château, everything is designed for solo travellers, couples or families, with a wide range of bookable activities: guided meditation sessions, yoga classes for all tastes and levels, fitness walks around the lake, dance courses, or activities for parents and children, among others. A personal trainer can also be requested—in the room, in the studio, outdoors or even on the lake.
Brindos, Lac & Château
1 Allée du Château, 65600 Anglet www.brindos-cotebasque.com
ANANTARA VILLA PADIERNA
EXPANDS ITS RANGE OF TREATMENTS INSPIRED BY EASTERN WELLNESS AT ANANTARA SPA
“Designed to renew energy in autumn and promote self-care during winter, two new spa journeys promise to restore the body and relieve tension.”
Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavís Marbella Resort, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, has invited its guests to nourish body and soul during the more introspective months of the year with a wide range of spa experiences inspired by ancient Eastern wellness rituals. The new treatments offer a comforting way to restore the body and relax the mind, preparing for spring 2026. Tailored rituals for the season of reflection
Set within landscaped gardens and home to Roman baths, a hammam and a water circuit, the resort’s sprawling Anantara Spa delivers world-class wellness where luxury and the grace of Thai hospitality converge.
For those new to the Anantara Spa experience, Anantara Signature Journey offers a sublime introduction. A true expression of hospitality, the 80-minute ritual is inspired by the Thai philosophy of Nam Jai—a spirit of generous giving—and begins with a delicate foot ceremony infused with the exquisite aromas of frangipani and hibiscus to release accumulated tension. A fully personalised massage follows, featuring harmonious oil pairings such as monoi and coconut, rosemary and pine or orange and fennel, chosen to nourish the skin, soothe the body and calm the senses. The experience concludes with a revitalising express
facial, restoring the skin’s natural radiance and essential hydration.
Introduced ahead of the season of whirlwind social celebrations, the Detox Journey is a complete physical and energetic reset in a 125-minute package. Guests begin with a powerful underwater massage in a whirlpool bath, where pressurised jets activate circulation, reduce cellulite, improve flexibility and relax the muscles. The experience continues with a Piroche cupping massage—a modern interpretation of ancient Eastern healing, performed with dynamic, gliding movements to reduce inflammation and support the body’s natural detoxification. The result is a profound sense of release, renewal and well-being.
High-tech radiance: Elemis facials and wellness on-demand
As colder months set in, Anantara Villa Padierna has also unveiled a new generation of tech facials from British brand Elemis—each one tailored to protect the complexion while addressing the skin’s seasonal needs with precision. The 50-minute Lift + Rejuvenate Facial deeply hydrates, firms and tones through a combination of advanced anti-ageing formulas and specialist techniques—leaving skin smoother, more radiant and visibly revitalised. Meanwhile, the 50-minute Smooth + Polish
Facial uses exclusive tri-enzyme technology to gently exfoliate the skin and minimise pores, revealing a visibly smoother, more even and radiant complexion. For those seeking deeper transformation, the 80-minute Sculpt + Firm Facial is Anantara Spa’s most advanced facial treatment, harnessing six powerful BIOTEC technologies—cryotherapy, microcurrent, ultrasound, oxygen infusion, LED light and galvanotherapy—to revitalise, strengthen and redefine facial contours.
To further enhance its offering for wellnessseekers, the resort now features a carefully curated selection of personalised workout videos, produced exclusively for the Anantara brand by Technogym.
Designed to suit different levels and goals, these self-guided sessions offer mobility, strengthening and low-impact exercises, all without leaving the serene hotel setting, surrounded by lush nature and three championship golf courses.
Prices for wellness rituals start at €230 per person. Elemis facials range from €200 to €250 per person. For more information about Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Resort, please visit https://www.anantara.com/en/villapadierna-marbella.
“Complementing these treatments are new Elemis facials and personalised workout videos for self-guided wellness, co-created with Technogym’s experts.”
Discover the Riviera Spirit in Marbella
Ctra. A7 Km 1034. Avenida José Ribera 87 (Urb. Real de Zaragoza) 29604 Marbella (Málaga)
BJÖRN FRANTZÉN’S
GLOBAL DINING VISION ON THE COSTA DEL SOL
A New Reference Point for Marbella Dining
Over the past year, Brasserie Astoria in Nueva Andalucía has become one of Marbella’s most talked about dining destinations. For locals, it is a place to celebrate, entertain, and return to. For visitors, it is now a must visit address on any Marbella itinerary. Behind it stands Björn Frantzén, one of the most influential chefs in modern global gastronomy.
THE CHEF BEHIND THE GLOBAL SUCCESS
Frantzén is not simply another Michelin starred chef lending his name to a restaurant abroad. He is the only chef in the world currently associated with three different restaurants holding three Michelin stars at the same time, through his Frantzén Group. His flagship Frantzén in Stockholm became Sweden’s first three Michelin star restaurant and remains a benchmark for Nordic fine dining. His Singapore restaurant Zén achieved the same distinction, becoming one of Asia’s most respected culinary destinations. In Dubai, FZN by Björn Frantzén completed the rare trilogy, placing Frantzén in a league of his own.
What makes Frantzén’s success remarkable is not just the awards, but the consistency. Operating restaurants across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, his group maintains the same demanding standards of quality, creativity, and service. That discipline now flows into Marbella through Brasserie Astoria, translated into a more relaxed and social dining format.
Björn Frantzén’s connection to Marbella is not accidental.
Through conversations with Eric Ebbing, local entrepreneur and CEO of Homerun Brokers, the idea of bringing Brasserie Astoria to the Costa del Sol began to take shape. Frantzén had already spent many years visiting Marbella on holiday and developing a deep appreciation for its lifestyle, international energy, and evolving culinary scene. Marbella quickly stood out as the natural choice, combining Frantzén’s global standards with the city’s unique mix of luxury, sunshine, and social dining culture.
AN INTERNATIONAL BRASSERIE DESIGNED FOR MARBELLA
Astoria is not a formal tasting menu restaurant. It is an international brasserie built for repeat visits. The concept began in Stockholm and later expanded to Singapore, always shaped by the energy of its city while keeping its distinctive identity.
In Marbella, it fits naturally into the lifestyle of long lunches, elegant dinners, and spontaneous evenings out.
The interior sets the mood from the moment you arrive. Inspired by classic European dining halls, the space feels grand yet welcoming. High ceilings, warm lighting, and a lively atmosphere create a sense that something is always happening, whether it is an intimate dinner, a business meeting, or a late night celebration.
“Frantzén is the only chef in the world currently associated with three different restaurants holding three Michelin stars at the same time, through his Frantzén Group”
“A
year into its life in Nueva Andalucía, Brasserie Astoria has proven that it is not a passing trend or a celebrity backed novelty. It is a serious restaurant, built on Björn Frantzén’s extraordinary track record and adapted perfectly to Marbella’s rhythm.”
FOOD AND DRINKS THAT BALANCE COMFORT AND PRECISION
The kitchen focuses on refined classics executed with Frantzén level technique. Dishes are familiar yet elevated, built around premium meats, seafood, and seasonal ingredients. The menu is designed to be satisfying rather than showy, letting quality and flavour speak for themselves.
Astoria is also known for its cocktails. Fresh, seasonal ingredients and a rare subtleness of flavour define the menu, something not many cocktail programs truly achieve. Behind the bar are true cocktail experts who combine technical precision with personality, adding another layer to the experience. The bar is always open for walk ins, making Astoria just as appealing for a spontaneous drink as it is for a full dinner.
SERVICE THAT KEEPS PEOPLE COMING BACK
Service plays an equally important role. Astoria combines high end professionalism with genuine warmth. Staff are attentive, confident, and knowledgeable without ever feeling stiff, creating an atmosphere that invites guests to relax and stay.
Marbella has always been associated with luxury, but its audience has become far more discerning. Residents and international visitors now expect experiences that can stand beside the best in London, Paris, or Dubai. Brasserie Astoria delivers that level of quality and consistency, raising the bar for the entire dining scene.
For locals, Astoria offers a reliable place to return to for everything from casual drinks to important celebrations. For tourists, it provides a dining experience that reflects Marbella’s glamour while offering the substance of a world class kitchen and bar.
A RESTAURANT BUILT TO LAST
A year into its life in Nueva Andalucía, Brasserie Astoria has proven that it is not a passing trend or a celebrity backed novelty. It is a serious restaurant, built on Björn Frantzén’s extraordinary track record and adapted perfectly to Marbella’s rhythm.
Whether you live on the Costa del Sol or are here for a week of sun, shopping, and beach clubs, Brasserie Astoria is one of those places that captures exactly why Marbella continues to attract the world’s most discerning crowd.
Address: Av. del Prado, 3, Nueva Andalucía, 29660 Marbella.
Phone: +34 606 28 33 10
Website: www.brasserieastoria.es
Instagram: @brasserieastoria
Amù Martini
INGREDIENTS : • 45 ml Red Velvet infused Belvedere Vodka • 10 ml Lillet Rosé • 5 ml Málaga Virgen • 10 ml Vanilla cordial • Meringue
THE STORY BEHIND THE COCKTAIL
AMÙ MARTINI is born as the sun begins to set over Marbella and the sky is brushed with soft shades of pink. It captures that precise moment when time stands still, the light turns warm, and everything invites you to enjoy life without haste. The smoothness of Red Velvet infused Belvedere Vodka envelops the palate with a silky and elegant texture, reflecting the sophisticated character of Amù.
The vanilla adds warmth and depth, while the Málaga Virgen establishes a direct link tothe land, tradition, and Mediterranean heritage. Lillet Rosé introduces freshness and delicate floral notes that evoke golden afternoons by the sea.
Crowned with a light and ethereal meringue, AMÙ MARTINI pays tribute to haute cuisine and the meticulous attention to detail that defines the Amù experience.
Each sip invites you to savor Marbella through a lens of calm, hedonism, and elegance, allowing pleasure to express itself in a subtle and memorable way.
NEW YEAR AND NEW
TAX MODIFICATIONS
BY SANTIAGO DE LA CRUZ
Foto de Hutomo Abrianto en Unsplash
As every year, even in the absence of a General Budget Law — which was traditionally the instrument through which last-minute regulatory changes were introduced — the month of January begins with tax amendments and new obligations.
Law 8/2025 on the Budget of the Autonomous Community of Andalusia, published on 22 December, has introduced several tax changes of which we should be aware.
Regarding Property Transfer Tax, one of the most significant regional incentives for real estate investment has been limited. With effect from 1 January 2026, the reduced rate of 2% applicable to the acquisition of residential properties by real estate professionals for resale (whether individuals or legal entities carrying out a real estate business activity to which the Rules for the Adaptation of the General Accounting Plan to Real Estate Companies apply) is maintained. However, while the requirements that the purchaser must record the property as a current asset and transfer it within a certain period remain in force, two new limitations have been introduced. Firstly, an economic limit is established, whereby the value of the property and its annexes may not exceed €500,000. Secondly, a temporal limitation is imposed, as the period allowed for the resale of the property is reduced from five years to two years.
In relation to Inheritance and Gift Tax (ISD), efforts have been made to simplify the formal requirements of the 99% tax relief applicable to inter vivos acquisitions (donations) made by taxpayers included in Groups I and II of Article 20.2.a) of Law 29/1987, of 18 December, on Inheritance and Gift Tax. (Group I includes descendants and adoptees under the age of twenty-one, while Group II comprises descendants and adoptees aged of twenty-one or over, spouses, ascendants and adoptive parents).
Continuing with Gift Tax, it is established that a public deed will only be required for donations where the taxable base exceeds €5,000. In the case of monetary donations with deferred payments, formalisation in a single public deed is permitted. The requirement of simultaneous delivery will be deemed to be fulfilled provided that the first payment is made at the time of signing or within a maximum period of one month thereafter.
At a national level, rather than a regional one, the implementation of the new Verifactu system has been postponed. This system applies to those carrying out economic activities subject to Personal Income Tax or Corporation Tax, which will become mandatory on 1 January 2027 for Corporate Income taxpayers and from 1 July 2027 for other companies and self-employed individuals. The system aims to promote the digitisation and automation of tax processes, although it also clearly serves as an additional tool for combating tax fraud.
Furthermore, Royal Decree 253/2025 introduces new national-level tax information obligations that will affect companies, self-employed individuals and financial institutions from 1 January 2026. These changes have received significant media attention, particularly due to the increased control and restrictions on the use of Bizum.
Specifically, in relation to entrepreneurs and professionals established in Spain who adhere to card collection management systems, the obligation for entities to provide information is reformulated “in order to include any type of card, as well as the
collection systems associated with a mobile phone number”, as is the case of Bizum. In addition, the frequency with which entities must report information on the accounts and payment collection systems used by entrepreneurs and professionals has changed from an annual to a monthly basis.
The previous €3,000 threshold applicable to these collections has been removed. However, in regard to bank accounts, economic information must only be provided in the declaration corresponding to the last monthly period of each year.
Finally, a new annual reporting obligation has been introduced in respect of transactions carried out with all types of cards. This obligation refers to the annual total of subscriptions, charges, top-ups and cash withdrawals and expenditure operations in establishments, excluding those cards whose amounts of charges and subscriptions in the year have not exceeded 25,000 euros.
Although not approved at the end of the year, further changes to Corporate Income Tax applicable to the 2025-2026 period have already been introduced previously and will benefit SMEs, microenterprises and startups this year.
Starting with the latter, newly created companies will have a reduced rate of 15% during the first two years with a positive tax base as a measure to encourage entrepreneurial activity.
For so-called small entities, the final rate will be set at 20%, but a transitional regime is established so that the tax rate will be 24% for tax periods beginning within 2025; for tax periods beginning within 2026 the rate will be 23%; for tax periods beginning within 2027, 22% and for tax periods beginning within 2028 21%
For Micro-enterprises (INCN of the immediately preceding tax period less than 1 million euros) the rate will be 17% between 0 and 50,000 euros and 20% for the rest of the taxable base. A transitional regime is also imposed for periods beginning in 2025 (for the part of the taxable base between 0 and 50,000 euros, the rate will be 21; for the remaining part of the taxable base will be taxed at the rate of 22%) and for tax periods beginning within 2026 (for the part of the taxable base between 0 and 50,000 euros, the rate will be 19% and for the remaining part of the taxable base, the rate will rise to 21%.
Thus, although this is a simple, illustrative and non-exhaustive summary, I hope it helps to clarify the current situation and prepares us for the changes yet to come.
Camino de Camoján, 7. Edificio Camoján, Oficina 18. 29602 Marbella
Tel.: (+34) 952 77 37 00 | Fax: (+34) 952 826 443
WHERE LONGEVITY
Meets Luxury Living
HOW WELLNESS IS RESHAPING LIFESTYLE AND MODERN REFINEMENT IN MARBELLA
TEXT BY: ENGELS & VÖLKERS
The global conversation around wellness has evolved beyond fleeting fitness trends into something far more enduring: longevity. This pursuit of sustained vitality is reshaping luxury markets worldwide, and nowhere is this transformation more visible than in Marbella, where the Costa del Sol’s privileged climate converges with a sophisticated infrastructure designed for those seeking to live healthier, to live longer.
“Today, buyers favour considerably smaller homes with intelligent energy systems and integrated technology. Those lower levels are now dedicated to indoor pools, gyms, and spa facilities. The contrast could not be cleare.”
Smadar Kahana, Managing Director of Engel & Völkers Marbella
Fantastic infinity pool at Azurean Marbella
“Engel & Völkers Marbella has
witnessed this appetite directly, receiving significant enquiries from their offices in the world’s most prestigious markets such as New York, Miami, Nice, Dubai or Kitzbühel, clients already familiar with the branded residence concept seeking similar propositions along the Mediterranean”
Two decades ago, prestige announced itself through expansive square footage and ostentatious finishes. Today, authentic refinement manifests through integrated spa facilities, comprehensive wellness amenities, and minimalist, organic aesthetics that support mental clarity alongside physical health. The pandemic merely accelerated what was already emerging: a fundamental reassessment of what truly defines the good life.
Smadar Kahana, Managing Director of Engel & Völkers Marbella, has observed this evolution first-hand over more than 23 years of experience and across six offices on the Costa del Sol.
“When I first established Engel & Völkers in the Marbella market, international clients, particularly in the upper segment, were looking for vast estates on plots of three to four thousand square metres,” she explains. “Basements were designed for
entertainment: private clubs, bars, spaces for hosting. Today, buyers favour considerably smaller homes with intelligent energy systems and integrated technology. Those lower levels are now dedicated to indoor pools, gyms, and spa facilities. The contrast could not be clearer.”
So what is driving this shift? The answer lies in Marbella’s increasingly complete wellness ecosystem. Pilates and health studios have multiplied along the Golden Mile, their reformers filled each morning by devotees of controlled movement. Clean-eating venues have replaced nightclubs as social hubs, while internationally renowned culinary institutions—Gaia, Cipriani, Coya, Nobu, BiBo and La Petite Maison—have secured prime positions, recognising Marbella as a destination for discerning palates seeking both pleasure and nourishment.
The residential market reflects this recalibration with striking clarity. All new-build developments now integrate wellness
infrastructure—spa facilities, indoor pools, fully equipped gymnasiums, saunas—amenities that have transitioned from luxury additions to non-negotiable requirements. Engel & Völkers Marbella confirms of receiving enquiries where such facilities feature among clients’ essential criteria, alongside bedroom count and location. The aesthetic has evolved accordingly: simpler, organic design languages that promote mental clarity rather than ostentatious displays that exhaust it.
Another strong tendency reported by Engel & Völkers is the growing demand for branded residences. Having achieved remarkable success in Dubai and Miami, markets where Engel & Völkers maintains significant presence, this typology has discovered fertile ground in Marbella. These developments typically follow two distinct models. First, projects conceived under the aegis of luxury fashion houses and lifestyle marques—Armani, Lamborghini, Missoni, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Karl Lagerfeld—where the brand’s aesthetic DNA permeates every aspect of design, architecture and lifestyle offering.
Second, hospitality-led ventures where established hotel groups extend their legendary service philosophy into residential living, offering residents a genuinely hasslefree existence where every detail, from maintenance, daily operations to concierge services, is seamlessly managed.
The extraordinary fitness centre at Epic Marbella
The immaculate spa area of Villa Bellagio, Sierra Blanca
Private sauna and hammam room at Villa Bellagio
Azurean by Destination by Hyatt, Marbella’s sole hospitalitybranded residence carries the weight and credibility of the Hyatt name, a group synonymous with impeccable standards across global luxury destinations. This pedigree offers residents not merely facilities but an entire ecosystem of service, access to Hyatt’s worldwide portfolio, and the assurance of longestablished operational excellence.
Engel & Völkers Marbella has witnessed this appetite directly, receiving significant enquiries from their offices in the world’s most prestigious markets such as New York, Miami, Nice, Dubai or Kitzbühel, clients already familiar with the branded residence concept seeking similar propositions along the Mediterranean. With a presence in over 30 countries, Engel & Völkers operates at the intersection of international demand and local expertise, offering market intelligence and cross-border connectivity that independent agencies cannot replicate.
The longevity narrative, however, extends beyond wellness amenities into environmental responsibility. Marbella is home to Villa Ayantam, the second residential property in Europe to achieve BREEAM Excellent certification—a rigorous, independent benchmark assessing energy efficiency, water
conservation, material sustainability and ecological impact. This newly completed residence, situated within the exclusive gated community of Cascada de Camoján, represents a landmark achievement in sustainable luxury living. Villa Ayantam offers the most progressive healthy living concept available today, proving that environmental responsibility and uncompromising luxury and quality not only coexist but enhance one another.
Marbella has not reinvented itself; it has evolved alongside its residents, recognising that modern luxury is defined by living exceptionally well for as long as possible, with minimal environmental impact. Ostentation has given way to optimisation—of health, of time, of impact. In this refined landscape, those who master both global perspective and local nuance, such as Engel & Völkers with their extensive international expertise in this calibre of residences, emerge as indispensable guides to a more considered, elevated way of living.
Wellness area at Villa Allure, Cascada de Camoján
“Marbella has not reinvented itself; it has evolved alongside its residents, recognising that modern luxury is defined by living exceptionally well for as long as possible, with minimal environmental impact.”
Spa and gym facilities at the gated community of Palo Alto
Villa Ayantam, exclusively now for sale with Engel & Völkers Marbella
Sotogrande
The quiet luxury beyond Marbella
Sotogrande has emerged as a natural complement to Marbella, attracting discerning individuals who value privacy, space, and authenticity. Defined by low-density planning, protected landscapes, and an international yet understated community, it centres on an esteemed international school, world-class golf, sailing, and polo.
Home to some of Europe’s finest championship courses, the area has hosted the Ryder Cup and regularly welcomes LIV Golf, reinforcing its global sporting stature. Valderrama remains an iconic venue of international acclaim, while the newly developed La Reserva elevates the lifestyle offering with a private beach experience, exceptional racket facilities and the prestigious Ayala Polo Club, a centrepiece of elite equestrian competition.
A RISING BENCHMARK IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE
Sotogrande’s luxury property market continues to record sustained growth, with average sale prices rising year-on-year and top-tier transactions surpassing previous records. In 2025, a single sale established a new benchmark for Spanish luxury real estate, further
affirming Sotogrande’s position among the world’s most coveted addresses. Strong demand for premier developments, coupled with constrained supply, suggests momentum is likely to continue, attracting further ultra-high-net-worth investment and supporting ongoing price appreciation.
A LEGACY ASSET DESIGNED TO ENDURE FOR GENERATIONS
Introducing Villa Aquarius, a truly exceptional residence and the largest home within the exclusive four-villa enclave of El Mirador, La Reserva de Sotogrande. Presented for the first time ever, this is a oneof-one legacy asset designed to endure for generations.
Set on a commanding 9,558 m² plot, the villa offers complete privacy and sweeping Mediterranean vistas, alongside the rolling fairways of the golf course. A tree-lined driveway leads to a striking arrival where light, scale, and perspective create an unforgettable first impression. Meticulously landscaped gardens with water features and mature planting enhance the sense of serenity, while independent hospitality spaces and private pathways provide exceptional flexibility and flow.
Designed with sustainability at its core, Villa Aquarius blends contemporary, human-centred living with comfort, wellbeing, and harmony with its natural surroundings.
The residence comprises 7 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, and 1,917 m² of built area, accommodating 14 guests. The property includes an extensive list of amenities: gym, spa and wellness suite, private cinema, three swimming pools, sauna and steam room, expansive terraces, advanced security, golf simulator, and a dedicated home office.
Villa Aquarius is represented exclusively by Spain Sotheby’s International Realty.
CONNECTING MARBELLA & SOTOGRANDE TO THE WORLD
Spain Sotheby’s International Realty draws upon its global network to connect Marbella and Sotogrande with leading international wealth centres, offering discerning buyers privileged access to the region’s most exceptional properties.
“Sotheby’s is an iconic brand, deeply embedded within the UHNWI and HNWI community. We provide trusted real estate advisory services, combining local insight with unrivalled global reach,” comments Ugo Bagration, Regional Director, Andalucía East.
With a presence in more than 85 countries. 1100 offices and a network exceeding 26,200 sales associates, the firm aims to set the benchmark for luxury real estate representation in Spain.
Spain Sotheby´s International Realty
Av. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso de Hohenlohe, 1. 29602, Marbella.
T. 951.12.70.31 / marbella@spain-sothebysrealty.com
EUROPEAN RECOGNITION
Homerun Brokers Wins Best Real Estate Agency at the European Property Awards 2025-2026
Homerun Brokers has been awarded Best Real Estate Agency in Spain and Europe as well as Best Property Marketing Agency in Europe, and Best Real Estate Agency Website in Spain, not only marking a defining moment for the company, but also for Marbella and Costa del Sol.
The European Property Awards, held at the Marriott Grosvenor Square Hotel in London, are among the most prestigious distinctions in the real estate, architecture, and design industries. As part of the internationally recognised International Property Awards, they celebrate excellence across the property sector, from development and interior design to brokerage, marketing, and digital innovation.
Entries come from over 45 countries across Europe and are assessed by an independent panel of more than 80 industry experts, who evaluate projects and companies based on innovation, quality, service, design, and marketing performance.
The awards stand as a recognised benchmark for excellence and credibility within the industry, highlighting companies that consistently raise the bar and redefine standards in their field. They reflect a commitment to quality, professionalism, and long-term vision in an increasingly competitive real estate landscape.
These accolades recognise not only business success, but also creativity, innovation, and integrity, values that form the foundation of Homerun Brokers and guide every aspect of its work. Together, they represent a defining milestone in the company’s evolution, marking its journey from a boutique agency in Marbella to one of Europe’s most forward-thinking names in luxury real estate.
Founded in 2020, Homerun Brokers has evolved from a boutique agency on Marbella’s Golden Mile into a multi-office real estate firm with flagship presences in Marbella, Palma de Mallorca, Málaga, and Sotogrande. Over the past year alone, the company has recorded a 50 percent increase in sales and expanded its team to more than 40 professionals, reflecting a period of sustained growth within Spain’s prime residential markets.
This evolution has been guided by a clear vision led by founder and CEO Eric Ebbing, grounded in creativity, excellence, and integrity. Rather than following conventional real estate models, Homerun Brokers has positioned itself at the intersection of consultancy, branding, and lifestyle, redefining how luxury properties are presented, marketed, and experienced. Being recognised as Best Real Estate Agency in both Spain and Europe marks a significant milestone for the firm and reflects the collective dedication, vision, and passion of its team.
The award for Best Property Marketing Agency in Europe further highlights Homerun Brokers’ distinctive approach to communication and storytelling. Led by Jennifer Rocamora and Tessa Arts, the marketing strategy combines contemporary aesthetics, cinematic narratives, and digital precision. From the Parisianinspired open house at Villa Étoile to the collaboration with Homies Marbella at Villa Kibou, and the summer campaign inspired by Slim Aarons, the agency has produced more than 100 bespoke campaigns in a single year, each tailored to the identity of the property and its audience.
In the same spirit of innovation, the agency was also recognised for Best Real Estate Agency Website in Spain, celebrating the complete redesign of homerunbrokers.com. Conceived as a fluid, conversionoriented digital ecosystem, the platform integrates advanced SEO, mobile-optimised navigation, area guides, market insights, and audiovisual content that authentically reflects the Marbella lifestyle
This award reflects the dedication, vision and passion of our team; it is an incentive to continue redefining the real estate experience in Spain,”
-Eric Ebbing CEO of Homerun Brokers
Homes That Define the Marbella Lifestyle
V illa La Toca | El Herrojo, Benahavís
V illa Skyfall
El Herrojo Alto, La Quinta
5 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 1.378 M2 PLOT €5.750.000
V
5 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 1.016 M2 PLOT €5.495.000
V illa Eros | Los Arqueros, Benahavis
illa Fortuna| Los Arqueros, Benahavís
LA QUINTA
INTERIOR DESIGNED CONTEMPORARY LUXURY VILLA
WITH COMMANDING SEA & GOLF VIEWS - KEY READY
Exquisite Contemporary Five-Bedroom Villa with Panoramic Platform
Setting in the heart of La Quinta, Benahavís. Surrounded by toptier golf courses and just minutes from Puerto Banús, Marbella, and pristine beaches, this home delivers the ultimate Costa del Sol lifestyle. Perched majestically overlooking La Quinta golf towards the Mediterranean, this recently redecorated five-bedroom villa epitomises contemporary luxury living. Designed with attention to detail, the residence seamlessly blends sophisticated indoor spaces with expansive, lavish terraces, creating a harmonious flow between interior comfort and outdoor splendour. The open-plan living areas are bathed in natural light, accentuated by floor-to-ceiling windows that frame breathtaking views and invite the outdoors in. A library or study to work from home in, and a gourmet kitchen. Spacious bedrooms is a private sanctuary, featuring luxurious en-suite bathrooms and direct access to sun-drenched terraces. Outside, the villa’s terraces are designed for both relaxation and entertainment, with stylish lounge areas, al fresco dining spaces, and a spectacular infinity pool.
Beds: 5 Baths: 5
Built: 642 M2
Terraces: 227 M2
Plot: 1.720 M2
Price: 4.950.000 €
Contact with ANA PAVÓN + 34 644 542 081
English / Spanish
EXCLUSIVE MADRID
Photo: Ömer KarakusUnsplash
Exclusive Life Magazine touches down in Madrid this March — a city that has borne witness to pivotal historical and cultural milestones over the centuries. From its consolidation as a medieval town to its designation as Spain’s permanent capital under Philip II in 1561, Madrid swiftly evolved into a political and cultural powerhouse. Landmark sites such as Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace have undergone profound transformations through the ages, from the Bourbon Enlightenment to the contemporary era, as the enduring seat of the Court.
This year, Madrid hosts the “masterful” exhibition Des-caradas Mujeres históricas vistas con los ojos de hoy (“Unmasked: Historical Women Seen Through Today’s Eyes”), which reasserts the legacy of ten distinguished Spanish women. On view at the Villanueva Pavilion (Cátedra Cavanilles) of the Royal Botanic Garden–CSIC, the project is the work of hyperrealist painter C. S. Leyva, who highlights the extraordinary — and not always fully acknowledged — role played by ten illustrious Spanish women throughout history. The exhibition stands as a contemporary tribute to their political, social and intellectual achievements, creating a dialogue between past and present through faces, expressions and gaze.
Isabella I of Castile, Catherine of Aragon, Joanna of Castile, Inês de Castro, Beatriz Galindo, Beatriz de Bobadilla, the Princess of Éboli, the menina Infanta Maria Theresa of Austria, Mariana Pineda and the Duchess of Alba are the eminent figures Leyva reimagines as they might appear today. The works are the result of exhaustive research and the use of real-life models, with Leyva’s palette adding a subtle psychological dimension. The exhibition is curated by Juan Antonio Ramírez, with texts by Luis Fernández Cifuentes, and coordination and design by Natalia Dolz.
Exclusive Life Magazine is proud to help amplify this cultural initiative — one that champions the role of women and supports the dissemination of a project bringing together renowned female figures from Spanish history. Its principal aim is to connect our international clientele within the luxury sphere who, from the Costa del Sol and Marbella, travel to the capital to enjoy the experiences this cosmopolitan city so effortlessly offers.
La revista Exclusive Life Magazine aterriza en Madrid este mes de marzo, una ciudad testigo de importantes acontecimientos históricos y culturales a lo largo de los siglos que se consolida como villa medieval y como la capital permanente de España bajo Felipe II en 1561 . La ciudad se transforma en muy poco tiempo en un centro político y cultural con monumentos históricos como la Plaza Mayor y el Palacio Real experimentando grandes cambios a través de los siglos, desde la Ilustración borbónica hasta la era contemporánea, como sede de la Corte.
Madrid acoge este año a la “magistral” exposición ‘Des-caradas. Mujeres históricas vistas con los ojos de hoy’ que revindica el papel de diez españolas ilustres . Se exhibe en el Pabellón Villanueva (Cátedra Cavanilles) del Real Jardín Botánico–CSIC. Se trata de un proyecto de la pintora hiperrealista C.S. Leyva que reivindica el papel extraordinario, y no siempre reconocido, de diez mujeres españolas ilustres a lo largo de la historia. La muestra es un homenaje contemporáneo a sus logros políticos, sociales e intelectuales, planteando un diálogo entre pasado y presente, a través de los rostros y las miradas.
Isabel la Católica, Catalina de Aragón, Juana de Castilla, Inés de Castro, Beatriz Galindo, Beatriz de Bobadilla, la princesa de Éboli, la menina infanta María Teresa de Austria, Mariana Pineda y la duquesa de Alba son las damas ilustres que la artista recrea con el aspecto que tendrían hoy, tras un exhaustivo trabajo de investigación y utilizando modelos reales a las que la paleta de C.S. Leyva añade un toque de psicología. La exposición, comisariada por Juan Antonio Ramírez, con textos de Luis Fernández Cifuentes, y coordinación y diseño de Natalia Dolz.
Exclusive Life Magazine quiere sumarse a difundir esta iniciativa cultural donde se reivindica el papel de la mujer y apoyar la difusión de este proyecto que reúne a mujeres conocidas ilustres de la historia. El principal objetivo es el de conectar a nuestros clientes internacionales vinculados al mundo del lujo que desde la costa del Sol y Marbella se desplazan a la capital para disfrutar de las experiencias que esta ciudad cosmopolita les ofrece.
Isabel la Católica por Covadonga Leyva
JW MARRIOTT MADRID
A VERY SPECIAL STAY, BETWEEN ART, AROMAS AND SELF-CARE
TEXT
BY: JON M. RHODE/PHOTO: COURTESY OF JW MARRIOTT MADRID
In the heart of the capital, JW Marriott offers a hotel designed for enjoyment and rest — and for experiencing Madrid through its essences.
The triangle formed by Calle de Alcalá, Calle de Sevilla and Plaza de Canalejas has become one of Madrid’s most distinguished areas. This single block is home to the exclusive Galería Canalejas, the Four Seasons Hotel and JW Marriott Madrid — the brand’s first opening in Spain and, with it, the 115th property worldwide.
JW Marriott Madrid is far more than a luxury hotel; it is a living testament to Madrid’s history and architecture, bringing past and present together within a single space. Housed in two emblematic buildings built in 1886 by architect Joaquín Kramer, the hotel preserves the essence of an era that still pulses in every corner.
RESPECT FOR THE HISTORICAL PAST
Like the neighbouring buildings, this new “temple of rest” has retained its original structure and certain historic elements, such as the 19th-century wrought-iron columns found throughout the hotel, which speak to its story — as do other details from the time it housed the iconic Álvarez Gómez perfumery, with which it shares an important project. In keeping with other hotels under the same insignia, it is inspired by the principles of mindfulness: a refuge designed to help guests feel whole — present in mind, nourished in body and revitalised in spirit — through programmes and initiatives that encourage them to connect and experience each moment to the fullest.
Accordingly, fragrance is ever-present at this JW Marriott in Madrid: from the scent boxes in the lobby, offered as a distraction while checking in (where two Miró paintings can
also be admired), to Alqvimia products used in spa treatments and those from the Aromatherapy brand.
In addition, the hotel has collaborated with the Academia del Perfume to pay tribute to the city and its aromas. Together, they have created a holistic wellness experience centred on stimulating the senses and discovering more about the destination through scent. That is why every guest is welcomed on arrival with an original violet cocktail (with or without alcohol) and may choose one of five “aromas of Madrid” to perfume their wardrobe. What is more, the bedside tables in each of the 139 rooms (12 of them suites) feature storybooks for bedtime reading.
DESIGNED FOR ENJOYMENT
The new JW Marriott Madrid is conceived as a place to unwind and recharge after making the most of the city. Key to this is its central location, its warm interiors by Rockwell Group, and the soothing music that accompanies the common areas — most of which (with the exception of the restaurant and the lobby) are reserved exclusively for guests. Among these spaces is a small spa with two treatment beds, a charming pool and a discreet interior courtyard where aromatic herbs are grown behind the restaurant — another of the hotel’s defining highlights. And behind the hotel’s gastronomic offering is the acclaimed chef Mario Sandoval, responsible for the concepts of the Qú restaurant and the cocktail bar, both inspired by local cuisine. Served on plates inspired by the beauty of perfume bottles, each creation is intended as an experience — with a nod to the aromas and essence of Madrid.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 6.30–23.00. Saturday and Sunday, 7.00–23.00. Reservations are essential. Price: more than €60 per person restaurantequ.com/es/
At Galería Canalejas — widely regarded as a European benchmark — you will discover the epitome of elegance through a carefully curated selection of fashion, accessories and beauty offerings, perfect for celebrating love.
GALERÍA CANALEJAS
THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR DREAM SHOPPING
In the boutiques tucked behind the historic walls of this magnificent building in the heart of Madrid, you can find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift.
Among the most recent openings at Galería Canalejas is Sophie D’Agon, the French jewellery house committed to handcrafted pieces in recycled 18-carat gold and precious gemstones, emeralds, rubies and sapphires, in distinctive hues.
Highlights include the refined collections of Hermès, Giorgio Armani, Stefano Ricci, Valentino, Dior, Zegna, Saint Laurent, Giorgio Armani, Tom Ford, Louis Vuitton and MR AB; accessories by Jimmy Choo and Tumi; and
the exceptional jewellery and watches of Cartier, Damiani, Panerai, Rolex and Omega.
In the beauty sphere, the Beauty Gallery by Isoleé houses an exquisite selection of niche fragrances and premium cosmetics — an essential stop.
Discover these exclusive creations and let the magic of fashion, beauty, fine watchmaking and jewellery envelop you on a stroll that becomes the ideal plan in the capital.
And because it cannot all be shopping, Galería Canalejas Café invites you to pause for a delicious afternoon treat with family or friends, or a cocktail created for the occasion.
Canalejas: Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 11.00–21.00. Sunday, 12.00–20.00. Address: Plaza de Canalejas, 1, Madrid. How to get there: 1. By car: via Calle de Alcalá, 17 and Alcalá, 20. 2. Direct access to Galería Canalejas, the Galería Canalejas Food Hall and the Four Seasons Hotel Madrid. 3. On foot: entrances at Carrera de San Jerónimo, 7; Calle de Alcalá, 8; and Calle de Sevilla, 3. 4. Parking: Centro Canalejas Parking, 24 hours. Enjoy 2 hours of free parking at Centro Canalejas Parking, Monday to Sun.
Galería
THE BEST MUSICALS TO SEE IN MADRID
Gran Vía and other theatres across the capital offer an unrivalled journey through the world of musical theatre. Below, we review the musicals you can enjoy now — or in the coming months — in Madrid.
TEXT BY: CARLOTA GARCÍA-RUIZ/PHOTO: COURTESY OF EACH OF THE PRODUCTIONS
Season after season, Madrid’s leading theatres refresh their billboards with new musical titles. From Gran Vía — our very own “Spanish Broadway” — the musicaltheatre fever has steadily spread beyond its traditional heartland to other parts of the city.
Among the productions, the classic The Lion King remains unmissable, joined by revivals such as Les Misérables, recent hits and major new openings such as Oliver Twist, the Musical and Wicked. Here is a strong selection to help you choose and book your tickets. Curtain up!
LES MISÉRABLES.
TEATRO APOLO. UNTIL 8/03/2026
It is hard to dispute a production that, since its Paris premiere in 1980, has drawn 56 million spectators worldwide. By now, no one questions that Les Misérables is a universal phenomenon — a 20th-century classic.
Victor Hugo’s story needs little introduction: Jean Valjean is
sentenced to five years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread, a punishment that ultimately becomes nineteen years behind bars. When he is released, Valjean has turned suspicious and hardened — until he crosses paths with figures such as Bishop Myriel, who helps him understand that if he can leave resentment behind, he may still have a chance to change his fate. Valjean begins to rebuild his life, yet wanting to be better is not enough: a small mistake will cause Inspector Javert to pursue him for years. The work depicts the bleak reality of the poorest strata of mid-19th-century Paris, portraying an era marked by revolts and social change.
THE LION KING.
TEATRO LOPE DE VEGA. UNTIL 29/03/2026
After more than ten years on the bill, it can be said to be the Gran Vía musical par excellence. Disney’s story, rich in moral and family values, forms part of many people’s childhoods. Add to that a spectacular, vividly colourful staging, the irresistible songs everyone knows by heart, and striking visual effects — and you have the perfect musical.
OLIVER TWIST, THE MUSICAL.
TEATRO LA LATINA. UNTIL 29/03/2026
For the first time in Spain, audiences can see Oliver Twist, the Musical, an adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic, brought to the stage by the same creative team behind the hit musical The Choir Boys. The novel tells the story of Oliver Twist, an orphan in 19th-century London — a tale of hope and resilience that has inspired countless adaptations for film, theatre and television.
CINDERELLA, THE MUSICAL.
TEATRO OCASO COLISEUM. UNTIL 31/03/2026
Cinderella, the Musical runs at Teatro Coliseum until March 2026. Inspired by the classic folk tale, it offers a contemporary adaptation that updates the story with a more humorous tone. Directed by Federico Bellone, the production features large-scale sets and new songs composed for the Spanish version. It is recommended for all audiences.
WICKED.
NUEVO TEATRO ALCALÁ. 12/04/2026
Wicked opens at Nuevo Teatro Alcalá, with performances scheduled until February 2026. The musical, composed by Stephen Schwartz and based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, tells the origin story of the witches of Oz.
First staged on Broadway in 2003, it is one of the genre’s greatest successes, with more than 7,000 performances. In the Spanish production, Cristina Picos plays Elphaba and Cristina Llorente takes the role of Glinda.
CHAVELA, THE LAST SHAMAN.
TEATRO MARQUINA. 12/03/2026 TO 29/03/2026
Chavela, the Last Shaman is a production dedicated to Chavela Vargas, written and directed by Carolina Román, at Madrid’s Teatro Marquina. Its second season begins on 12 March 2026. After the success of the first season — with Luisa Gavasa, Rozalén and Nita leading the cast — Chavela returns in 2026 with Luisa Gavasa and the addition of María Peláe.
Ramón Freixa Atelier.
RAMÓN FREIXA
SHINES ONCE AGAIN WITH TWO MICHELIN STARS FOR HIS RESTAURANT RAMÓN FREIXA ATELIER
TEXT BY: PAZ ROMANILLOS /PHOTO: COURTESY OF RAMÓN FREIXA ATELIER
Ramón Freixa Atelier, which opened just five months ago on Madrid’s Golden Mile, is strengthening its place on Spain’s culinary scene thanks to this recognition from the Guide Rouge.
Ramón Freixa ha obtenido dos estrellas Michelin en la Gala 2026, celebrada en noviembre en Málaga, para su nuevo proyecto, Ramón Freixa Atelier, ubicado en el corazón de la Milla de Oro madrileña.
En 2025, Freixa ha dado un nuevo paso en su carrera con el lanzamiento de su proyecto más personal: la apertura de dos restaurantes –Atelier y Tradición– en el corazón de Madrid, donde sigue apostando por una cocina que combina raíces, creatividad y emoción.
Ramón Freixa Tradición, por su parte, es el otro gran proyecto del chef, con una cocina que homenajea el producto y las raíces. Tradición comparte espacio con Atelier, ambos situados en la calle de Velázquez, 24, en un local de 600 metros en pleno barrio de Salamanca de Madrid, siendo cada restaurante completamente independiente, con cocinas, propuestas y equipos diferenciados. Inaugurado hace apenas cinco meses, Atelier representa el proyecto más íntimo y personal del chef: “Atelier no nace de una idea, nace de un sueño. Es cocinar con libertad y crear sin límites. Es mi manera de seguir avanzando, sin olvidar por qué empecé: cocinar para hacer feliz y ser feliz cocinando.”
El restaurante abría el pasado mes de julio, tras el cese de 15 años de colaboración en el Hotel Único de Madrid, donde su restaurante Ramón Freixa contaba con dos estrellas Michelin. El chef explica que dejar atrás ese proyecto fue una evolución natural, y que sintió la ilusión de emprender de nuevo y crear desde cero un espacio que reflejara quién es hoy. En este camino, su marido, David del Castillo, fue una pieza fundamental, participando en el diseño de cada detalle del nuevo proyecto.
PRODUCTO, TÉCNICA Y EMOCIÓN
Atelier se presenta en un espacio frente a una cocina abierta, lo que permite al comensal observar de cerca un proceso gastronómico que encarna su filosofía: producto, técnica y emoción. Sobre esta base se construye la experiencia, articulada en dos menús degustación —Origen y Origen Vegetalia—, este último íntegramente vegano. En ellos, la cocina de Freixa se expresa en su versión más íntima, apostando por una vanguardia que nace de la tradición, porque, como él mismo afirma, “sin tradición, no hay vanguardia”. Cuenta con un horario exclusivo de miércoles a sábado por las noches y está conformado por un equipo de 12 personas, entre cocina y sala, para ofrecer ofrece una experiencia gastronómica profunda e íntima. Atelier ha obtenido dos estrellas de entre las cinco entregadas en España en esta edición.
FREIXA Y LA COCINA
El chef catalán Ramón Freixa se ha consolidado, a lo largo de su trayectoria, como uno de los grandes referentes de la gastronomía de vanguardia, tanto nacional como internacional. Su carrera está avalada por numerosos reconocimientos y galardones, además de una amplia labor como formador y asesor culinario en distintos puntos del mundo. Su cocina se articula en torno a tres pilares fundamentales: producto, técnica y sentimiento. Desde las elaboraciones más sencillas hasta las más complejas, el producto es siempre el punto de partida. Freixa trabaja desde la tradición, pero no deja de experimentar para crear platos que sorprendan, emocionen y, ante todo, que gusten. Para él, cocinar es una forma de hacer feliz a la gente.
THE LIBRARY WINE BOUTIQUE
AN EXCLUSIVE CLUB FOR WINE LOVERS
TEXT BY: JON M. RHODE/PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE LIBRARY WINE BOUTIQUE
In Madrid’s Salamanca district, The Library Wine Boutique brings together a wine boutique, a gastronomic bar and a private members’ club, offering an extensive selection of wines and high-quality cuisine in an elegant setting.
In Madrid’s “golden mile”, Grupo Paraguas presents The Library Wine Boutique — a venue that invites guests to explore a new way of experiencing wine culture and fine dining, through the fusion of three concepts: boutique, gastronomic bar and private club.
The space is arranged over two floors, styled in contemporary classicism. Wood converses with white, black and matte-gold marble flooring, while the monumental scale of the furnishings creates a sense of grandeur without tipping into ostentation.
On the main floor, gastronomic elegance meets oenological finesse. The Bar, positioned at the entrance, has been conceived as a social space devoted to enjoying wine alongside a curated selection of delicacies — including ibéricos, premium Spanish conservas, artisan cheeses and internationally renowned foie gras.
The sommeliers have created a by-the-glass list with nearly 80 references, while those who prefer to uncork a bottle can choose from more than 3,000.
In the wine Boutique, a standout selection from the world’s most prestigious wineries is guided by experts who elevate the wine-buying experience to the level of luxury retail.
A WORLD TOUR IN WINE LABELS
Internationally, the range spans the great names of French wine (Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne, and more) as well as acclaimed estates from Tuscany, Piedmont and Napa Valley, alongside regions of the so-called “New World” such as Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. This global collection is harmoniously balanced by an ambitious Spanish offering: a carefully curated selection of leading wineries and vintages from historic regions
“The Library Wine Boutique, in Madrid’s golden mile, combines a boutique, a gastronomic bar and a private club, offering a unique wine and dining experience.”
such as Rioja and Ribera del Duero, complemented by references from lesser-known areas including Jerez, Mallorca and Tenerife.
Guests at The Library also have access to personalised advice from the sommelier team, tailored to individual taste — whether choosing a bottle to take away or to enjoy on site.
A FOODIE DESTINATION
In the Restaurant, guests can enjoy a fixed tasting menu with a carefully devised pairing, featuring a selection of dishes distinguished by creativity and quality.
Meanwhile, at the ‘Cuisine’ tables — an exclusive corner close to the kitchen — an atypical menu will be offered, with wine taking centre stage. The Library also organises exclusive tastings and events, designed to immerse guests in a world of flavour, where wine and gastronomy come together to deliver incomparable sensory experiences.
A PRIVATE, EXCLUSIVE CLUB
The venue also reserves for a select few a private space to store, taste and savour exceptional wines. Aesthetically inspired by English-style private clubs, The Library Wine Society is a small and highly exclusive circle of wine friends, with fewer than one hundred members, including collectors, investors and passionate wine enthusiasts. “Access is by invitation only — either directly through The Library or via a member of this Wine Society. Members have an exclusive area of their own, and events and distinctive experiences are
organised around the world of wine. At the moment, no new memberships are available; we have a waiting list,” explain representatives from Grupo Paraguas.
This private wine cellar, created by the Lázaro Rosa-Violán studio, is a striking space in which sculptural shelving and display units add an artistic yet functional touch.
Since opening just over a year ago, Grupo Paraguas has uncorked more than 350,000 bottles of wine a year — around 120 bottles per restaurant per day — and has made almost 10,000 wine references available to the public over the past year, 50% of which are Spanish. As a new development this year, the restaurant group has reaffirmed its commitment to wine with the creation of the Instituto Español del Vino (IEV) — Spanish Wine Institute (SWI) — alongside the Instituto para el Desarrollo de la Gastronomía y el Turismo (Idegat), and plans to launch the first edition of the Master’s in Advanced Sommelier Studies in September 2026.
Opening hours: The Boutique: Monday to Sunday, 10.00–20.30. The Bar: Sunday to Thursday, 13.00–02.00; Friday and Saturday, 13.00–02.30 thelibraryboutique.com
La reina Isabel de Farnesio’, Louis-Michel van Loo. Museo del Prado
Verbena, 1927’, Maruja Mallo. Óleo sobre cartón, 75x 118 cm. Colección María Escribano. Museo Reina Sofíao
La sagrada Familia del Pajarito’. Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. Museo del Prado
LIGHTSCAPE
THE EXHIBITION TRAIL THAT TURNS MADRID’S PASEO DEL PRADO INTO A STORY
TEXT BY Mª DEL CARMEN GARCÍA
Within the Lightscape, exhibitions at the Prado, the Thyssen, the Reina Sofía and the Banco de España transform Madrid’s Paseo del Prado into a cultural route that links past, present and future through sharply differing perspectives.
To walk the Paseo del Prado today is also to follow a sequence of exhibitions in conversation with one another.
The so-called Lightscape — the axis that connects museums, scientific institutions and green spaces — is defined not only by its urban layout, but by the cultural narratives generated by its leading centres. The Prado, the Thyssen, the Reina Sofía and, on the immediate edges of the boulevard, the Banco de España, are offering in these first months of 2026 a programme that allows the past, the present and the future to be read through distinct artistic lenses.
At the Museo del Prado, El Prado en femenino III. Queen Elisabeth Farnese (1692–1766) focuses on a pivotal figure for understanding the origins of a substantial part of the royal collections. Through artworks, documents and contextual material, the exhibition not only restores a historical protagonist to view, but also examines how artistic taste was shaped — and how the heritage that now defines the museum was formed. The proposal reinforces the Prado’s status as a foundational institution: the place where the nation’s artistic memory is anchored.
Alongside this major exhibition, other temporary shows — such as the one devoted to Mengs — serve as stations on the route, reminding us that a cultural landscape is built in layers: through revisions, nuances and fresh readings.
The Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza joins the itinerary with Half the World: Women in Indigenous Mexico, a proposal that shifts the focus towards other geographies and other ways of understanding culture. Through historic objects, artworks and ethnographic material, the exhibition brings into view the central role of women in Mexico’s Indigenous societies, both in symbolic terms and within social and ritual life. In the context of the Lightscape, it introduces a decentring perspective, underscoring that the history of art and culture
is neither solely European nor exclusively male — and that museums can also broaden narratives from viewpoints traditionally pushed to the margins.
A short walk away, the Museo Reina Sofía completes the route with exhibitions that connect art and lived experience. Shows such as Maruja Mallo: Mask and Compass, Juan Uslé: That Ship on the Mountain and Oliver Laxe: Dance Like No One Is Watching propose reflections on identity, memory, perception and movement. In this stretch of the Lightscape, art is presented less as an answer than as a question — a way of activating the present and addressing the viewer directly.
An especially evocative addition to this dialogue is the Banco de España’s exhibition Allegories of the Future, centred on the building’s historic stained glass and the designs from which it sprang. The show reveals a little-known heritage — normally unseen by the public — in which symbolic language is paramount: allegorical figures and references to work, progress, stability and time shape an iconography conceived to represent the future of the nation and of the institution. Beyond their artistic value, the full-scale cartoons, sketches and stained-glass panels show how, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, art was placed at the service of an economic and moral narrative. Within the Lightscape, the exhibition widens the usual museum lens, integrating architecture, decorative arts and symbolic thinking, and reminding us that the cultural landscape of the Paseo del Prado is also constructed through institutional spaces beyond the museum walls.
Taken together, these current exhibitions turn the Lightscape into more than a monumental itinerary. It is a space where inheritance, modernity and anticipation coexist; a place where Madrid looks at itself through art to consider where it comes from — and where it is heading.
UNIQUE GASTRONOMIC AND CULTURAL PROPOSITION IN MADRID’S SALAMANCA DISTRICT
ABYA
TEXT: BY MARIBEL MARTÍNEZEZ
Abya es sin duda una de las propuestas gastronómicas y culturales más exclusivas en la actualidad. Este espacio de restauración y cultura surge en Madrid de la mano del empresario mexicano Manuel González y se encuentra ubicado en un multi espacio en un palacete estilo afrancesado en la milla de oro en la Calle Ortega y Gasset .Se trata de un edificio emblemático con historia de 1000 metros donde se ha realizado una inversión de 50 millones de euros. El restaurante, un multi espacio se divide en tres plantas, la primera cuenta con una oferta de gastronomía más informal y con música y un disc-jockeys ; la segunda es donde se encuentra la propuesta más formal del chef ejecutivo Oscar Castellanos al frente de este proyecto gastronómico, una apuesta innovadora que nace con la intención de crear un espacio cultural y gastronómico que dialogue con la ciudad, un sueño único hecho realidad. La decoración de sus estancias con obras de arte es sin duda un elemento diferenciador que hace que Abya sea un lugar único.
La gastronomía cuenta con una carta internacional con guiños de México y con una bodega con referencia de vinos nacionales e Internacionales. Gracias a la diversidad de ambientes y espacio se pueden crear experiencias gastronómicas diferentes; un concepto novedoso en Madrid.
C. de José Ortega y Gasset, 32, Salamanca, 28006 Madrid
Abya is, without doubt, one of today’s most exclusive gastronomic and cultural propositions. This dining and cultural destination has arrived in Madrid under the leadership of Mexican entrepreneur Manuel González and is housed in a multi-space venue within a French-style mansion on the Golden Mile, on Calle José Ortega y Gasset. An emblematic building with a history, it spans 1,000 square metres and has been the subject of a €50 million investment.
The restaurant—conceived as a multi-space concept—unfolds across three floors. The first offers a more informal dining experience accompanied by music and a disc jockey; the second is home to the more formal proposal led by executive chef Oscar Castellanos, at the helm of this gastronomic project—an innovative venture conceived with the intention of creating a cultural and culinary space in dialogue with the city: a unique dream made reality. The décor throughout, featuring works of art, is undoubtedly a defining element and one that makes Abya truly singular.
The gastronomic offering presents an international menu with nods to Mexico, alongside a wine cellar featuring a selection of national and international references.
Thanks to its variety of atmospheres and spaces, Abya enables the creation of distinct dining experiences—an entirely new concept in Madrid.
C. de José Ortega y Gasset, 32, Salamanca, 28006 Madrid
In the heart of Madrid, directly opposite the majestic Puerta de Alcalá, Casa Faraona emerges as a revolutionary hospitality concept that redefines the meaning of a Luxury Residence. With the spirit of a grand five-star hotel yet the exclusivity of a private residence, Casa Faraona offers a fully tailor-made experience for its most discerning guests. This exceptional project has been conceived to elevate the values of Spanish culture at their highest expression, fusing design, art and tradition with the utmost sophistication. With just eight distinctive suites, each has been created as a masterpiece of interior design in collaboration with the renowned Parisian studio Jouin Manku, offering spaces ranging from 40 to nearly 400 square metres—some with private terraces and incomparable views over the Puerta de Alcalá or the cat rooftops of old Madrid.
Casa Faraona is also the only luxury residence in the world to incorporate a flamenco tablao as part of its offering: an exclusive experience at Flamenco de Leones, where the art and passion of the purest flamenco meet haute cuisine and Spanish culture at its most elevated.
Each suite has been designed to deliver an unprecedented wellbeing experience, with extraordinary details such as infrared saunas with salt walls, record players, elegant typewriters and specialist beds for deep rest—creating an atmosphere that envelops the guest in a sense of absolute luxury.
More than accommodation, Casa Faraona is a destination in its own right—an invitation to discover Madrid through a lens of exclusivity, elegance and limitless sophistication.
Enjoy Limitless MADRID at CASA FARAONA
COURTESIES INCLUDED: WELCOME AMENITIES
BREAKFAST AT THE TRADITIONAL SPANISH TAVERN PATIO DE LEONES
SHOW WITH PREFERENTIAL SEATING AT FLAMENCO DE LEONES
by Mario Sandoval
COQUE CELEBRA LA ESTACIÓN MÁS PROFUNDA DEL AÑO
QUE LO CONSOLIDA COMO GUARDIÁN DEL SABOR DE MADRID A TRAVÉS DE LA CAZA, LAS SETAS Y LA MEMORIA CULINARIA.
El restaurante Coque con Mario Sandoval al frente de esta exclusiva propuesta gastronómica, 2 estrellas Michelin, 3 M en la Guía Metrópoli y 3 Soles Repsol se encuentra ubicado en el corazón de Madrid en la calle Fortuny 12 en un espacio de 1.100m2 diseñado por Jean Porsche , una decoración que crea una experiencia única y original y que alberga una propuesta de gastronomía con los hermanos Sandoval al frente.
Coque celebra la estación más profunda del año ofreciendo el El menú “Madrid, acorde a la estación basado en los productos de temporada, setas silvestres, caza, guisos y matices terrosos que definen una propuesta rica , profunda y emocional. El recorrido comienza en la coctelería , el siguiente bocado se ofrece en la sala Onix , el erizo de
mar puro y yodado marca el primer impacto en la boca . La bodega y la sacristía donde se ofrece servido en un cofre este aperitivo de toro bravo. En este recorrido cobra especial importancia el guisante de toro bravo procedente del Jaral de la Mira. El segundo paso del Menú se adentra dentro de los sabores otoñales que invitan a un viaje sensorial , la sopa de cocina de hummus y gel de caldo de gallina , la calabaza , el cordero y la trufa melanosporum que se convierte en un protagonista. El atún en salazón con una técnica ancestral y el cochinillo asado, auténtico emblema de Coque desde sus inicios en Humanes. El servicio de sala está dirigido por Diego Sandoval y el maridaje por Rafael Sandoval completan esta experiencia donde gastronomía, historia y temporada se funden en un mismo relato.
About Coque
Founded in Humanes de Madrid in 1956, Coque relocated to central Madrid in 2017. Today it holds two Michelin stars and one Michelin Green Star for its commitment to sustainability, three Repsol Suns (including one Sustainable Repsol Sun), three “M” in the Guía Metrópoli, and is a member of Relais & Châteaux and Les Grandes Tables du Monde. At the helm are brothers Rafael, Juan Diego and Mario Sandoval— the third generation of a family dedicated to hospitality and recipients of Spain’s National Gastronomy Awards. Coque is now widely regarded as one of the leading references in Spanish haute cuisine.
COQUE WELCOMES THE YEAR’S MOST INTROSPECTIVE SEASON, REAFFIRMING ITS STATUS AS A GUARDIAN OF MADRID’S FLAVOUR THROUGH GAME, WILD
MUSHROOMS AND CULINARY MEMORY.
menu by Coque
Led by Mario Sandoval, Coque is an exclusive gastronomic destination in the heart of Madrid (Fortuny 12). Awarded two Michelin stars, three “M” in the Guía Metrópoli and three “Metrópoli” distinctions, the restaurant occupies a 1,100 m² space conceived by Jean Porsche—an interior design that sets the stage for a singular, original experience, and for a culinary proposal shaped by the Sandoval brothers.
To honour the season, Coque presents its “Madrid” menu, designed in harmony with autumn and grounded in the finest market produce: wild mushrooms, game, slow-cooked stews and earthy nuances that lend the experience depth, richness and emotion. The journey begins in the cocktail bar; the next bite is served in the Onix Room, where pure, briny sea urchin delivers the first striking impression on the palate. The
experience then moves to the cellar and the sacristy, where an aperitif of toro bravo is presented in a bespoke casket. Along the way, particular prominence is given to the toro bravo “pea”, sourced from Jaral de la Mira. The second act of the menu delves into autumnal flavours that invite a fully sensory voyage: a “kitchen soup” of hummus with henbroth gel; pumpkin; lamb; and truffle melanosporum, which takes centre stage. Ancestrally cured salted tuna and the roast suckling pig—Coque’s true emblem since its beginnings in Humanes— complete the narrative. Dining-room service is directed by Diego Sandoval, while the wine pairing curated by Rafael Sandoval rounds out an experience in which gastronomy, history and seasonality merge into a single, compelling story.
ADDICTIONS DESIGN BY ERICO NAVAZO
NATUZZI BY PEPE LEAL
NEOLITH BY ALFONS & DAMIAN
UECKO BY LAURA CARRILLO
Estimados amigos,
Damos la bienvenida a la octava edición de Marbella Design & Art.
Este sueño, que nació en 2018 y que año tras año se ha ido fortaleciendo y consolidando, ha convertido a la Costa del Sol en un referente nacional en el mundo del diseño, el interiorismo y el arte.
Recorrer este camino no ha sido sencillo, pero el apoyo y el talento de todos los que han participado en cada una de las ediciones lo han hecho posible. Decenas de profesionales del diseño y centenares de firmas españolas e internacionales han pasado —y siguen pasando— por nuestro evento, enriqueciéndose con sus creaciones, su tecnología y sus productos, cada vez más esmerados y avanzados.
Este año, la feria llega llena de novedades: desde un layout diferente y más fresco, hasta la incorporación de un grupo de nuevos profesionales que participan por primera vez con nosotros.
El apoyo de la ciudad, de su gente, de sus autoridades y de los medios de comunicación ha sido un pilar fundamental de este éxito. En este sentido, esta colaboración —que esperamos sea la primera de muchas— con ELM - Exclusive Life Magazine es, para nosotros, especialmente importante. Deseamos que sus lectores disfruten de Marbella Design & Art 2026 tanto como nosotros.
Cordialmente,
Dear Friends,
We welcome you to the eighth edition of Marbella Design & Art.
This dream, born in 2018 and strengthened and consolidated year after year, has turned the Costa del Sol into a national benchmark in the worlds of design, interior design and art.
Walking this path has not been easy, but the support and talent of everyone who has taken part in each edition have made it possible. Dozens of design professionals and hundreds of Spanish and international brands have participated —and continue to participate— in our event, enriching it with their creations, technology and products, ever more refined and advanced.
This year, the fair arrives full of new features: from a different, fresher layout to the addition of a group of new professionals who are joining us for the first time.
The support of the city, its people, its authorities and the media has been a fundamental pillar of this success. In this regard, this collaboration —which we hope will be the first of many— with ELM - Exclusive Life Magazine is, for us, especially important.
We hope your readers enjoy Marbella Design & Art 2026 as much as we do.
Yours sincerely,
ALEJANDRO ZAIA
From 19 to 29 March 2026, Marbella will become the epicentre of design and creativity for the eighth edition of Marbella Design & Art, which will once again transform the Adolfo Suárez Palace of Fairs, Exhibitions and Congresses into an iconic event. Here, leading interior designers create unique, ephemeral spaces in collaboration with top-tier brand
Over the course of eleven days, the venue will host more than fifty exhibition spaces, showcasing proposals ranging from residential interior design to the most innovative concepts for other environments. Ten spaces will be reserved for product showcases.
For this edition, the organisers are already working to bring together a carefully curated selection of interior designers, artists and internationally renowned brands, set to place Marbella firmly back on the global design map—although the names of the participants have not yet been revealed.
The event recaptures the spirit that, in previous editions, attracted more than sixteen thousand visitors and featured over one hundred and fifty exhibitors,
cementing its status as an essential platform for discovering trends and emerging talent.
• Marbella Design brings together Spain’s top interior designers and architects year after year to collaborate with leading national and international brands.
• It’s an event for design enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
• Now in its eighth edition, it has become a firmly established event in both Marbella and Spain.
Tickets go on sale online: marbelladesignart.com
ESTUDIO HILERA
UECKO BY DEVESA Y AGENJO MD22
NEOLITH Y LA EBANISTERIA BY CRISTINA PUERTA
LA EBANISTERIA BY WELCOME DESIGN
GRUPO NAGAR BY CON N STUDIO
Entre el 19 y el 29 de marzo de 2026, Marbella se convertirá en el epicentro del diseño y la creatividad para la octava edición de Marbella Design & Art, que volverá a transformar el Palacio de Ferias, Exposiciones y Congresos Adolfo Suárez en un evento icónico donde estimados interioristas crean espacios únicos y efímeros con la colaboración de marcas de altísimo nivel.
MARISA GALLO
Durante once días, el recinto será escenario de más de cincuenta espacios expositivos en los que se desplegarán propuestas que van desde el interiorismo residencial hasta el diseño más innovador para otros ámbitos. 10 espacios serán reservados para exposición de productos.
Para esta edición, la organización trabaja ya en reunir a una cuidada selección de interioristas, artistas y firmas internacionales de renombre que volverán a situar a Marbella en el mapa global del diseño, aunque los nombres de los participantes no se hayan desvelado todavía.
La cita recupera el espíritu que en ediciones anteriores atrajo a más de dieciséis mil visitantes y contó con la presencia de más de ciento cincuenta expositores, consolidándose como una plataforma imprescindible para descubrir tendencias y talentos emergentes.
• Marbella Design reúne año tras año a los mejores interioristas y arquitectos de España para que colaboren con marcas de altísimo nivel nacional e internacional.
• Es un evento para amantes del diseño o profesionales del sector.
• Es la octava edición y ya es un evento consolidado tanto en Marbella como en España.
La venta de entradas on-line : marbelladesignart.com
ESCENIUM
PARALELA
USC GALLERY
participate in Design Art Marbella with
JORDI MOLLÀ & RAFA B
Úrsula Salvador is an international art dealer born in Madrid, with a career developed across the United States, Europe, and Latin America. At the age of 10, she moved to Florida, where she grew up between West Palm Beach and Miami, forging an early and strong connection with the art world. After 15 years in the United States, she settled in Paris, where she studied Art History at the Sorbonne and became actively involved in the city’s cultural and artistic scene.
“Jordi is a persevering creator, driven by a genuine passion for the beauty of the world, for human beings, and for nature.”
Throughout her career, she has lived and worked in cities such as Paris, London, Athens, Beirut, Istanbul, Madrid, Marbella, and Santiago de Chile, in addition to traveling extensively throughout Africa, Asia, and the Middle East—experiences that have shaped her international artistic vision. She has participated in art fairs such as Art Miami and Art Beirut on several occasions, and has operated her own spaces and pop-ups in Miami, Palm Beach, and Marbella, through which she has promoted and presented emerging artists.
She is the founder and director of the USC Gallery, from where she develops curatorial projects and international collaborations. She works freelance with private collectors and with works by major masters such as Picasso and Dalí. In 2015, she was appointed a member of the Host Committee of Art Marbella, a fair she has been involved with since its first edition.
This year, she will participate in Design Art Marbella with her gallery USC, presenting works by Jordi Mollà, a sculpture by Marcos Marín, and supporting young talents such as Rafa B., a 13-year-old prodigy with very promising talent.
Jordi Mollá is an established, internationally recognized actor and artist whom I have known for over twenty years, and whom I deeply
admire not only for his multidisciplinary career, but for his creative authenticity and his unique pictorial voice.
Jordi is a persevering creator, driven by a genuine passion for the beauty of the world, for human beings, and for nature. All of this is expressed on his canvases through a figurative, abstract, and conceptual style of painting, charged with symbolism, emotion, and profound meaning. His work dialogues with pop, but always from a place of depth, reflection, and awareness. We have shared exhibitions in cities such as Miami, Madrid, and Tbilisi, Georgia, and in each of them his work has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to connect with diverse audiences, transcending labels and disciplines. Alongside Jordi, I will present Rafa B., the very young marbellí talent Rafa Barrio Pavón, a 13-year-old prodigy who has been painting since the age of four. Completely self-taught, he has developed a personal visual language inspired by great masters such as Picasso and Dalí, to which he adds a contemporary pop sensibility and a unique gaze that blends expressive maturity with the innocence of childhood.
Despite his young age, he has already received early recognition, participated in both group and solo exhibitions, and his work forms part of private collections in Spain and abroad.
His artistic projection clearly points toward a solid evolution within contemporary and avant-garde art. I will also present Laura Zambrano, a visual artist linked to the contemporary art scene in Málaga, Her work moves within a personal visual language, marked by a sensitivity for figurative aesthetic exploration and a strong connection to nature. I will also present Martina Berti, an Ecuadorian visual artist based in Spain whose work lies at the intersection of color, geometry, and perception. Finally, I will be bringing Marcos Marin back to Marbella following the exhibition of his “Poseidon” in Puerto Banús last summer.
RAFA B
The young artist dreams of exhibiting at New York’s MoMA and the Thyssen, while developing a distinctive style inspired by masters such as Picasso, Dalí, Velázquez and Klimt.
RAFA B, el joven artista sueña con exponer en el MoMA de Nueva York y el Thyssen, mientras desarrolla un estilo propio inspirado en maestros como Picasso, Dalí, Velázquez y Klimt.
At just 13, Málaga-born artist Rafa B. has already achieved what many creators aspire to over a lifetime: exhibiting in multiple cities, selling works to international collectors, and capturing the attention of both audiences and contemporary art experts. His largeformat pieces—defined by an explosion of colour—will be on view in Marbella once again at Marbella Design & Art, from 19 to 29 March, represented by Úrsula Salvador (USC Gallery).
Con tan solo 13 años, el artista malagueño Rafa B. ya ha conseguido lo que muchos creadores aspiran a lo largo de toda una vida: exponer en varias ciudades, vender sus obras a coleccionistas internacionales y captar la atención de públicos y expertos del arte contemporáneo. Su obra, de gran formato y marcada por una explosión de colores, la veremos próximamente en Marbella Design & Art del 19 al 29 de marzo, representado por Úrsula Salvador (USC Gallery).
RAFA B. Artista Contemporáneo
2020
• First prize from the Official College of Architects of Malaga at age 7 for “My dream home”
• International Children and Youth Festival “Embrace the World” at the Palacio de Congresos in Marbella February. Exhibition of children’s drawings.
• Winner International University of Marbella, September. Collective exhibition of children’s paintings.
• International children’s exhibition of paintings dedicated to Ilya Repin in Marbella at International University of Marbella (MIUC).
2021
• V international competition of the Helena Roerich Charitable Foundation “We are the Children of Space”.
• Children’s exhibition dedicated to Ilya Repin at the Palacio de Congresos y Exposiciones in Marbella.
• Children’s exhibition dedicated to Ilya Repin at Russian House in Finland, Helsinki.
• 100th Anniversary of Vitebsk Art School International Children’s Art Exhibition in Moscow, Skolkovo.
• Children’s exhibition dedicated to Ilya Repin at Branch Museum – Estate of I.E.Repin “Zdravnevo” Vitebsk Regional History Museum.
• International children’s exhibition of paintings “Malevich´s Space” in Marbella at Interna- tional University of Marbella (MIUC).
2022
• Winner Young hope exhibition 2022, D31 Art Gallery, Doncaster, England.
• IV Ocaña Painting Contest at the Ocaña Interpretation Center (CIOC), Sevilla. Fundación FIES a la 41º Edición del Concurso ¿Qué es un Rey para ti?
• International children’s exhibition dedicated to the avant-garde, Technopark capsule in Moscow.
2023
• SOLO ART EXHIBITION “Picasso through my eyes” at ES ART GALLERY, Marbella (May)
• Winner III International children’s art competition Osvaldo Lobalzo in Puerto Sotogrande gallery, Cadiz.
• Collective exhibition in Puerto Sotogrande Gallery, Cadiz.
• Winner II children´s art competition University of Architecture Málaga
2024
• SOLO ART EXHIBITION AT SAM (Salón de Arte Moderno – Madrid) –(March 6th-10th)
2025
• ART EXHIBITION at Tikitano Restaurant with Borja Sémper (March 2025)
• COLLECTIVE ART EXHIBITION at Casa de las Tejerinas – Ayto. de Estepona (from June 5th to July 30th)
• ART EXHIBITION at OBAL HOTEL MARBELLA with Iván Espinosa de los Monteros (November 2025)
2026
• COLLECTIVE ART EXHIBITION with Jordi Mollá. USC GALLERY at ART & DESIGN MARBELLA (From March 19th to 29th)
CAYETANA. GRANDE DE ESPAÑA
THE CASA DE ALBA FOUNDATION PRESENTS
THE EXHIBITION CAYETANA. GRANDE DE ESPAÑA AT THE PALACIO DE LAS DUEÑAS IN SEVILLA
TEXT: BY MÓNICA
IGLESIAS
Curated by Eugenia Martínez de Irujo and Cristina Carrillo de Albornoz, the exhibition marks the centenary of the birth of Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart, 18th Duchess of Alba, through a selection of close to 200 works, including artworks, haute couture dresses, photographs, objects and personal correspondence. In early March 2026, Sevilla’s Palacio de Las Dueñas will open a new gallery devoted to temporary exhibitions for this historic event.
To coincide with the centenary of the birth of Cayetana FitzJames Stuart, 18th Duchess of Alba, the Casa de Alba Foundation presents CAYETANA. GRANDE DE ESPAÑA at Sevilla’s Palacio de Las Dueñas, on view from early March to late August 2026.
CAYETANA. GRANDE DE ESPAÑA traces the life of the Duchess who made the greatest impact on the recent history of the House of Alba, and her extraordinary contribution to preserving the artistic and historic legacy she inherited. Structured around five thematic sections, the exhibition journeys through her biography and her cultural contributions, from her patronage of major artists to her work as a collector and painter. It continues with her immense role as an ambassador for Spain and for the international profile of the House of Alba, as well as her status as an icon of fashion, flamenco and the art of bullfighting. It also explores her most intimate dimension, from the profound influence of her father, Duke Jacobo, in matters of heritage protection, to the
defining role played by her husband, Duke Luis. The exhibition will also reveal lesser-known facets, such as her pioneering advocacy for animals, her charitable work and her social commitment.
The exhibition is the result of three years of research and work by its curators, Eugenia Martínez de Irujo and Cristina Carrillo de Albornoz, together with the team at the Casa de Alba Foundation, who have succeeded—through more than 200 pieces—in offering a panoramic portrait of the Duchess Cayetana.
An extraordinary selection of artworks acquired by the Duchess will be shown for the first time, alongside works by the great masters who portrayed her, such as Zuloaga and Benlliure. Alongside her profile as a collector and patron, the exhibition highlights her vital work in preserving the Casa de Alba’s heritage, through restorations and renovations at the Palaces of Liria, Monterrey and Dueñas. The show also encompasses her artistic side through a selection of her paintings; her life as a dancer and her defence of flamenco as an art form; and her role as a fashion icon, presented through her haute couture wardrobe, the groundbreaking Dior fashion show staged at the Palacio de Liria, and personal objects. As part of the preparation process, significant research and recovery work has been undertaken on the Duchess Cayetana’s photographic archive, which includes unique images by Juan Gyenes, Cecil Beaton and Richard Avedon.
La fundación Casa de Alba presenta la exposición Cayetana. Grande de España en el Palacio de las Dueñas de Sevilla
Documents of special value are also included, such as her correspondence with leading 20th-century figures including Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom and Jackie Kennedy.
The exhibition conveys the Duchess’s devotion to SevillA and takes place in what likely became her favourite residence: the Palacio de Las Dueñas, a spectacular 15th-century building in a Gothic–Mudéjar and Renaissance style.
With CAYETANA. GRANDE DE ESPAÑA, a new temporary exhibitions space—the Sala del Patio del Aceite—will be inaugurated. Restored over the course of two years, it will launch a rich cultural programme at the Palacio de Las Dueñas. For this occasion, the exhibition will also unfold across the house’s various reception rooms and in outdoor spaces, including the gardens and courtyards.
To accompany the exhibition, a book/catalogue on the Duchess will also be published in English and Spanish by the prestigious publisher Assouline, which is present in more than 70 countries.
Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart y Luis Martínez de Irujo, XVIII duques de Alba en el Imperial Ball de Nueva York. Anónimo, 1959
Palacio de Las Dueñas de Sevilla
Cayetana Fitz-James Stuart, XVIII duquesa de Alba en su viaje de novios en Estados Unidos. Anónimo, 1947
Palacio de Las Dueñas de Sevilla
A CIELO ABIERTO
Marbella Welcomes a New Benchmark
IN LUXURY INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR DESIGN
Just 100 meters from our first store in Marbella, we are proud to unveil a space that takes design experiences to a whole new level. Our 800 m² showroom, exclusive and meticulously curated, equally showcases interior and exterior displays, offering comprehensive solutions to create complete homes that are elegant, functional, and full of personality.
We are the exclusive Dome Deco showroom in Spain, and we also feature internationally renowned brands such as Jati & Kebon, among more than 40 carefully selected luxury labels. Every product reflects excellence, innovation, and style, designed for those who demand quality without compromising on design. From sophisticated interiors to outdoor terraces that make the most of Mediterranean light and climate, every area of our showroom is crafted to inspire and demonstrate the real potential of every project.
In addition to our Marbella locations, we also have a store in Estepona that offers both indoor and outdoor solutions, providing a full spectrum of design possibilities for homes and professional projects along the Costa del Sol. Together, our stores form a network of spaces dedicated to creating harmonious, fully realized interiors and exteriors.
Our team of highly skilled professionals is ready to guide both private clients and industry experts: architects, designers, developers, and real estate professionals. Beyond showcasing products, our goal is to support every phase of a project, providing personalized advice, complete solutions, and proposals that perfectly balance aesthetics and functionality. With our expertise, every choice—from materials and textures to furniture and accessories—helps create unique, harmonious spaces where interior and exterior living coexist seamlessly.
The new store is not just a luxury showcase; it is a space for inspiration and creativity, where every detail encourages discovering new ways to enjoy and live in a space. The combination of elegant interiors and inviting outdoor areas allows visitors to envision a complete home, offering a sensory experience that reflects our commitment to quality and refined taste.
We invite design enthusiasts and industry professionals to explore our new Marbella showroom, just 100 meters from our first store, as well as our Estepona location, and experience how interior and exterior come together to create complete homes. Discover Dome Deco, Jati & Kebon, and our other luxury brands, and let our team help transform any idea into an exceptional project, where creativity, elegance, and functionality unite to bring unique spaces to life.
MARBELLA: Oasis Business Center local 4 & 14
+34 951 668 347 marbella@acieloabierto.net
ESTEPONA: C/ Policía nacional local 2 & 3
+34 951 960 366 estepona@acieloabierto.net
A Story of atmosphere, emotion, and timeless design
EICHHOLTZ SPRING 2026 COLLECTION
“Interior design is deeply connected with color and the way it shapes space and emotions. Color influences how we perceive a home, enhances light and architecture, and creates fluidity, while simultaneously influencing how we” Edwin van der Gun, artistic and creative director of Eichholtz
THE ART OF COLOR
Color is not decoration. It is a feeling, a memory, a quiet force that shapes how we live and how we feel within a space. For Spring 2026, Eichholtz invites us into a world where color becomes the soul of the interiorlayered, expressive, and deeply personal.
This new collection unfolds as a story of balance and beauty, where craftsmanship meets emotion and every piece is designed to bring harmony, warmth, and presence into the home. With a universe of nearly 4,000 meticulously designed articles, Eichholtz offers one of the most comprehensive luxury interior collections available today allowing endless possibilities to curate spaces for your individuality, timeless and inviting.
In this season’s palette, color is treated with nuance and restraint. Jewel tones of turquoise, coral, amethyst, and warm amber add depth and richness, while earthy neutrals and stone-inspired shades ground interiors in calm sophistication. These tones are not chosen to impress, but to
endure, creating environments that feel alive and represent the personality of your home. Color moves softly through the collection, sometimes leading, sometimes whispering, always shaping atmosphere. It enhances light, defines proportion, and allows each room to tell its own story.
LIGHT AS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY
Lighting becomes a moment of transformation this season, as Eichholtz unveils its first designer collaboration with celebrated interior designer Corey Damen Jenkins. Inspired by ancient civilizations, Art Deco elegance, and neoclassical grandeur, the collection reimagines lighting as sculptural art.
These pieces do more than illuminate; they create presence. Like jewelry for the interior, each chandelier, lamp, and wall light captures the dialogue between light and shadow, history and modernity bringing drama, intimacy, and a sense of occasion to everyday living.
LAYERS OF TEXTURE CRAFTED BY HAND
Texture is the quiet luxury woven throughout the collection. Handcrafted rugs, created in collaboration with Kamyar Moghadam, ground interiors with depth and emotion. Layered piles, hand-cut details, and subtle variations in tone create surfaces that feel organic, expressive, and beautifully imperfect.
LAYERS OF TEXTURE CRAFTED BY HAND
Texture is the quiet luxury woven throughout the collection. Handcrafted rugs, created in collaboration with Kamyar Moghadam, ground interiors with depth and emotion. Layered piles, hand-cut details, and subtle variations in tone create surfaces that feel organic, expressive, and beautifully imperfect.
A COLLECTION DESIGNED TO ENDURE
Furniture in the Spring 2026 collection is defined by elegance of form and depth of material. Sculptural silhouettes, refined upholstery, and architectural lines come together in pieces that feel both inviting and enduring. Sofas and seating offer comfort with restraint, allowing bolder accents to shine while maintaining a calm visual rhythm.
Tables, cabinets, and consoles reveal the beauty of craftsmanship through ribbed veneers, natural stone surfaces, and carefully considered finishes details that reward a closer look and speak to lasting quality.
Decorative objects complete the narrative. Sculptural glass, refined brass, tactile ceramics, and soft textiles add moments of reflection and contrast allowing spaces to feel collected, personal, and effortlessly sophisticated. More than a seasonal launch, the Spring 2026 collection reflects Eichholtz’s commitment to timeless design and exceptional service. With 95% of the collection available from stock and delivery within approximately 15 days, luxury becomes immediate designed not only to inspire, but to be lived with.
In Spain, the collection is available exclusively through EICHHOLTZ by IDHOUSE, with brand stores located in Madrid and Marbella, offering a curated experience that reflects the brand’s international vision and refined lifestyle.
EICHHOLTZ BY IDHOUSE
EXPOSITION MADRID
Calle Bárbara de Braganza n°8. Madrid 28004
EXPOSITION MARBELLA
Centro Comercial Azalea. C.Nacional 340 km 173. Marbella 29660
RICKY REESE
HIS SCULPTURAL WORK STEMS FROM A CONSTANT SEARCH FOR BALANCE BETWEEN MATTER, SPACE, AND EMOTION
SU TRABAJO ESCULTÓRICO NACE DE UNA BÚSQUEDA CONSTANTE DE EQUILIBRIO ENTRE MATERIA, ESPACIO Y EMOCIÓN
He uses steel as his primary medium because he finds in it a synthesis of strength and transformation. It is a living material that ages, oxidizes, and stabilizes, engaging with the passage of time in the same way that we, as people, and the spaces we inhabit do.
Utiliza el acero como lenguaje principal porque en él encuentra una síntesis entre fuerza y transformación. Es un material vivo, que envejece, que se oxida y se estabiliza, y que dialoga con el paso del tiempo del mismo modo que lo hacemos las personas y los espacios que habitamos.
For him, abstraction is a form of freedom. Each work is constructed from essential geometries, spaces, and lines that intersect or support one another. The creative process begins with an idea or concept that is then translated into forms—an intuitive yet rigorous process, allowing the material to impose its own limits and possibilities. In this negotiation, the identity of each piece emerges.
Space is a fundamental element of his work. He does not conceive of sculpture as an isolated object, but rather as a body that engages with its surroundings, be it a natural landscape, an urban space, or contemporary architecture. His sculptures seek to integrate, generate harmony, and modify the perception of the place where they are installed.
His goal as an artist is to create works that invite contemplation and reflection, establishing a silent connection with the viewer. He doesn’t aim to provide definitive answers, but rather to raise questions, so that each person can find their own meaning, their own connection with the piece. If a sculpture manages to stop time for a moment and evoke a profound emotion, then it has fulfilled its purpose…
La abstracción es su forma de libertad creativa. Cada obra se construye a partir de geometrías esenciales, espacios y líneas que se cruzan o se sostienen mutuamente. El proceso creativo parte de una idea o de un concepto que luego se traduce en formas, un trabajo intuitivo pero riguroso, dejando que el material imponga también sus límites y sus posibilidades, y en esa negociación surge la identidad de cada pieza. El espacio es un elemento fundamental de su obra. No concibe la escultura como un objeto aislado, sino como un cuerpo que dialoga con su entorno, ya sea un paisaje natural, un espacio urbano o una arquitectura contemporánea. Sus esculturas buscan integrarse, generar armonía, y modificar la percepción del lugar donde se instalan. Su objetivo como artista es crear obras que inviten a la contemplación y a la reflexión, que establezcan una conexión silenciosa con quien las observa. No pretende dar respuestas cerradas, sino abrir preguntas. Que cada persona pueda encontrar su propio significado, su propio vínculo con la pieza. Si una escultura logra detener el tiempo por un instante y provocar una emoción íntima, entonces ha cumplido su función…
A SPACE DESIGNED TO HOST UNREPEATABLE MOMENTS WITH BEAUTY, LIGHT, AND HARMONY. We create a place where everything begins to happen
Cristobal Cabello Terrino | CEO – Luxuring
S paciousness, comfort, and beauty in perfect balance
Our premium tent is conceived to disappear while becoming absolutely essential. Designed to blend naturally into its surroundings, to respect and elevate them without imposing.
To shelter a space without taking away its magic—allowing light, landscape, and the moment itself to remain the true protagonists. Nothing is excessive. Nothing distracts. Everything supports the experience.
Each structure is carefully designed to offer spaciousness, comfort, and beauty in harmony. Curved lines, refined material selection, generous height, and the way light enters and filters through create a unique atmosphere: an elegant, warm, and natural refuge. A space
that welcomes from the very first moment, invites you to stay, and envelops those within it—transforming any celebration into an experience that lingers in memory.
We don’t see the tent as a mere technical solution, but as an extension of the event and the story being told. A living stage that adapts, dressed with thoughtfully chosen furniture, lighting, and details to create harmony, coherence, and style. Every element interacts with the space so everything flows naturally and effortlessly. Because when the environment supports the moment, emotions are heightened.
And when a space is well conceived, everything makes sense.
Because when the environment supports the moment, emotions are heightened. And when a space is well conceived, everything makes sense.
ENTREPRENEUR WITH EXTENSIVE INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE IN THE SPORTS INDUSTRY
IVÁN BALLESTEROS INNOVATION IN GOLF EQUIPMENT
FROM FORGIVENESS TO DEMANDIVENESS
TEXT BY: IVÁN BALLESTEROS
We live in times when comfort and immediacy have become the norm. Younger generations want quick results, simple processes, and frictionless rewards. Everything should be easy, instant, and—if possible—require minimal effort. But neither golf—nor life, nor business—works that way. No lasting achievements are born from comfort. Progress requires friction, attention, and commitment. This principle, as simple as it is uncomfortable, is what guides the design of the putters I brought to market in October 2023. In too many areas—and especially evident among younger generations—the idea has become normalized that improvement should be almost automatic. If something is difficult, it is discarded; if it takes time, it is replaced; if it requires self-correction, it is avoided. Golf is not immune to this trend. On the contrary, it reflects it clearly. And perhaps that is why golf remains such an honest sport: it does not allow you to hide for long what you are unwilling to work on.
For years, innovation in golf equipment has been oriented almost exclusively toward a single concept: forgiveness. More tolerant clubs, cushioned mistakes, instant results, and marketing campaigns filled with grandiose language. A tempting promise in an era dominated by haste. Yet authentic progress has never come from shortcuts, but from discipline, repetition, and conscious demand. In golf, as in any pursuit that aspires to excellence, there are no real substitutes for work done well.
I have been fortunate to work from a very young age with Seve Ballesteros across multiple areas of the golf industry, and from him I learned an idea that remains fully relevant today: equipment should help the player improve, not hide their mistakes. That simple, direct phrase summarizes a way of understanding golf—and design. To a large extent, his inspiration and teachings were the driving force that led me, at the end of 2023, to bring a new range of putters to market.
“I have been fortunate to work from a very young age with Seve Ballesteros across multiple areas of the golf industry, and from him I learned an idea that remains fully relevant today: equipment should help the player improve, not hide their mistakes.”
DESIGN AND TRUTH: WHEN EQUIPMENT STOPS TEACHING
From a design standpoint—and especially in putter design—I believe excessive comfort is a problem. When equipment hides errors, the player stops receiving reliable information. And without honest feedback, learning is impossible. The player believes they are executing well when they are not, repeats incorrect patterns, and consolidates flaws that, over time, become structural.
That is why the key question is not whether a club “helps,” but how it helps: Does it correct or disguise? Does it teach or protect?
A design that protects too much may feel pleasant in the short term, but it impoverishes the improvement process. By contrast, a demanding design provides clear, direct information—even if it feels uncomfortable at first. That discomfort is precisely the starting point of progress. Without it, the player settles into a false sense of control that rarely translates into sustained improvement.
FORGIVENESS VS. DEMANDIVENESS: A CONSCIOUS DECISION
After the pandemic, and following many years involved in a wide range of projects across the sector—including golf equipment design between 2004 and 2008—I made a clear decision: to place demand at the center of design. Helping the player who truly wants to improve necessarily means abandoning forgiveness as the primary argument. Thus was born what I call demandiveness. Putters designed with reduced margins for error that require the player to be present, aligned, and committed—forcing a better motion. This is not an aesthetic stance or an empty declaration of intent; it is a functional decision. A demanding putter offers something extraordinarily valuable: truth. A well-executed stroke can be felt, heard, and repeated. A poor stroke can as well. There are no filters or artificial dampeners. That direct relationship between action and result accelerates learning, because the player understands what they do well and what they must correct. Improvement ceases to be a promise and becomes a tangible, measurable, honest process.
Iván Ballesteros
“A well-executed stroke can be felt, heard, and repeated. A poor stroke can as well. There are no filters or artificial dampeners. That direct relationship between action and result accelerates learning, because the player understands what they do well and what they must correct. Improvement ceases to be a promise and becomes a tangible, measurable, honest process.”
THE GREEN ALLOWS NO EXCUSES
If there is one place where design must be honest, it is the green. Putting allows no excuses. There is no power that can compensate for a technical error. Here, everything is precision, control, tempo, and alignment. Every small detail matters, and any flaw reveals itself immediately.
Under this premise, the iBPUTTER SWEET SPOT 373G was born, presented in October 2023 at the Old Course at St Andrews. This was no casual choice. Introducing a demanding putter at the home of golf carried strong symbolic value: doing so in a historic setting was a sign of respect for the essence of the game and its inherent difficulty, while also evoking a place that, in 1984, witnessed one of the most iconic celebrations in golf history following the victory of the man from whom I learned so much— Seve Ballesteros—at The Open Championship. There, on holes 1 and 18, we presented a design that did not aim to please everyone, but to challenge the demanding player with a genuine desire to grow. A putter conceived for those who accept that improvement requires taking responsibility for one’s own motion and leaving the comfort of shortcuts behind.
Over time, feedback has been consistent: players who commit to demanding models such as the 373G or the 410G gain regularity, confidence, and reduce strokes—especially in the decisive 2–3 meter range, where many scorecards are built—or broken. Not because the putter “does the work,” but because it forces the player to do it better. Despite having been on the market for just two years, our putters have quickly found their place in several international markets. Particularly significant has been their positioning in the United Kingdom—the most important golf market in Europe—driven by a partnership with American Golf, the largest golf equipment retailer on the continent. They are also present in markets such as China, Australia, and France. On the Costa del Sol, they are available through the stores of GolFriends.
DESIGN, GEOMETRY, AND TECHNICAL COHERENCE
Today, much is said about zero torque, often as if it were a recent innovation. In essence, it means that the putter does not tend to open or close involuntarily during the stroke, allowing for a more neutral path and a clean reading of impact. This principle has always been present in our designs—not as a commercial argument, but as a technical foundation.
Demanding more from the player does not mean designing without criteria; on the contrary, it requires maximum technical coherence. That is why, even in later models I have designed—with a more conventional look—the DNA remains intact: total symmetry, cylindrical geometry, a centered shaft, true balance and zero torque, along with continuous alignment lines running from heel to toe across the putter head.
DEMANDING TO IMPROVE
Ultimately, demandiveness does not aim to make golf harder, but to make better players. In times dominated by comfort and immediacy, choosing to demand more is a conscious—and often countercultural—decision.
There is no real progress without challenge, no reward without effort. The example is simple: run 5 or 10 kilometers every day carrying a 3–4 kilogram backpack; at first it will be hard, but after a year, you will fly. In golf, the same applies. Body, mind, and motion adapt to what they are consistently and coherently asked to do.
Authentic innovation in golf equipment does not consist in smoothing the path or promising easy results. It consists in designing with honesty, respecting the player’s intelligence, and clearly showing the way forward. Because only when equipment stops hiding mistakes does the player truly begin to improve.
SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY
THE POWER OF THE MIND
LA FUERZA DE LA MENTE
TEXT BY: EVA MOLLEJA
A tenth of a second too long can take an athlete from glory to disaster at the Olympic Games. A single minute of lost focus can undo months of work for a tennis player. An hour of mental blockage can ruin a football goalkeeper’s outstanding season. In all these cases, the athletes have followed their physical trainers’ programmes to the letter, adhered meticulously to nutrition plans for months, and scrupulously executed their coaches’ strategies. What, then, happened in that brief window of time? What did everyone overlook? In many instances, the answer is inadequate mental preparation. Fortunately, sports psychology has been an integral part of professional sport for years—and increasingly so at amateur level. It is no longer questioned that psychological work enhances performance. Psychologists succeed in increasing athletes’ capacity for concentration, enabling them to shave off those crucial fractions of a second needed to achieve their goals. Yet there are many other factors to consider. Psychological work also helps prevent
future mental health issues and fosters emotional stability, which has a direct and positive impact on family life, personal relationships and the working environment.
“Today, sports psychology occupies a prominent place in the development of sport. The reason is simple: the power of the mind is unstoppable.”
The growth of sports psychology in recent years has been driven in part by testimonies from elite athletes who publicly acknowledged mental health struggles to explain dips in performance. Two particularly clear examples stand out. American gymnast Simone Biles withdrew at the start of the Tokyo Olympic Games, unable to withstand the pressure of being the benchmark and symbol of an entire nation. Unlike many others, she chose to address the issue immediately, explaining her situation openly at a press conference. The outcome was remarkable: after many months away from competition and intensive work with her team of psychologists, she returned stronger than ever, reclaiming her position at the pinnacle of world gymnastics at the subsequent Olympic Games held in Paris in 2024. Closer to home
John Arano-Unsplash
“Although sports psychology has been widely implemented within clubs and federations, there is still a long way to go. A degree of reluctance towards our work persists.”
EVA MOLLEJA
High-Performance Psychologist with 25 years of professional experience. She holds a degree in Psychology from the University of Seville, a Master’s in Sports Psychology from the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), and a European Master’s jointly awarded by the University of Leuven (Belgium) and the Free University of Amsterdam. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Sports Psychology at UAB. evamolleja.com
is the case of Andrés Iniesta, overwhelmed by the loss of a loved one— himself a footballer—and by his own injuries. Andrés had the courage to share his experience so that it might serve as an example for future generations. After spending a long time in a very dark tunnel, and with the necessary psychological support, he re-emerged in the most brilliant way possible: scoring the goal that gave Spain its first Football World Cup in South Africa.
All of this connects to a fundamental issue in psychological work, particularly in professional sport: long-term injuries. When an athlete breaks down physically and receives a diagnosis that rules them out of competition for months, their world collapses. Their first thought is that their career is in jeopardy. As the days pass and the initial shock subsides, their outlook may improve, yet fears persist—returning is one thing, regaining their former status quite another. In short, fear takes hold. Regrettably, these fears can slow recovery time and even hinder rehabilitation protocols. The psychologist’s work, in close coordination with doctors, physiotherapists and rehabilitation specialists, can work wonders, leading to a full and satisfactory recovery. Scientific advances are also equipping professionals with tools that seem drawn from science fiction. Today, thanks to research into the functioning of mirror
neurons, we can work with athletes who must remain in absolute rest by projecting images of their own competitive activity from the past, helping those neurons retain the memory of movement and thus facilitating their return to training once fully recovered.
Although sports psychology has been widely implemented within clubs and federations, there is still a long way to go. A degree of reluctance towards our work persists. Much damage was done decades ago by the trivialisation of this discipline. In the early 1990s, one of football’s pioneers ventured to illustrate a simple group exercise in the dressing room by asking players to close their eyes and imagine biting into a lemon. The anecdote went viral and led many to dismiss the exercise as nonsense, without recognising that it was merely one element within a broader session combining games, stimuli and challenges designed both to stimulate the mind and to foster team cohesion. Not to mention the prejudices that women in the profession still face: their physical appearance, attire and even manner of speaking are subjected to relentless scrutiny.
Let us focus on the positive. Today, sports psychology occupies a prominent place in the development of sport. The reason is simple: the power of the mind is unstoppable.
EVA MOLLEJA
Psicóloga experta en Alto Rendimiento con 25 años de experiencia.
Licenciada en Psicología por la Universidad de Sevilla; Máster en Psicología del Deporte por la Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona(UAB) y Máster Europeo en la Universidad Lovaina (Bélgica) y la Universidad Libre de Amsterdam; Doctoranda en psicología del deporte por UAB.
evamolleja.com
“Por fortuna, la psicología del deporte está integrada desde hace años en el deporte profesional. Y también en el amateur. Nadie cuestiona ya que con ese trabajo se mejora el rendimiento.”
Una décima de segundo de más puede llevar de la gloria al desastre a un atleta en unos Juegos Olímpicos. Un minuto de desconcentración puede tirar por la borda el trabajo de meses de un tenista. Una hora de bloqueo mental puede arruinar una temporada fantástica de un portero de fútbol. En todos esos casos, los deportistas han seguido estrictamente el plan de sus preparadores físicos, han cuidado la alimentación durante meses según las indicaciones de sus nutricionistas y han obedecido escrupulosamente la estrategia de sus entrenadores. ¿Qué ha pasado en ese corto espacio de tiempo? ¿Qué se les escapó a unos y otros? Pues en muchos casos, un deficiente trabajo mental.
Por fortuna, la psicología del deporte está integrada desde hace años en el deporte profesional. Y también en el amateur. Nadie cuestiona ya que con ese trabajo se mejora el rendimiento. Los psicólogos logran aumentar la capacidad de concentración y con ello se pueden arañar esas décimas necesarias para lograr el resultado que se han marcado. Pero hay otros muchos factores a considerar. Con el trabajo psicológico, se están previniendo futuros incidentes relacionados con la salud mental. También se consigue una estabilidad emocional que repercute directamente en las relaciones familiares, afectivas y del entorno laboral.
Al crecimiento de la psicología deportiva han contribuido en los últimos años los testimonios de grandes deportistas que acabaron reconociendo sus problemas de salud mental para explicar su bajo rendimiento. Dos ejemplos muy concretos. La gimnasta norteamericana Simone Biles huyó en el inicio de los Juegos Olímpicos de Tokio porque no pudo soportar la presión de ser la referencia y el símbolo de todo un país. A diferencia de otros, quiso dar la cara de inmediato y explicar en una rueda de prensa esos problemas. El resultado fue que, tras largos meses de retiro y trabajo con su equipo de psicólogos, pudo volver más fuerte que nunca y recuperar el trono de la gimnasia mundial en los siguientes Juegos celebrados en París en 2.024. Más cercano es el caso de Andrés Iniesta, agobiado por la pérdida de un ser querido, futbolista como él, y por sus propias lesiones. Andrés tuvo la valentía de dar su testimonio para que sirviera de ejemplo a futuras generaciones.Tras atravesar un túnel muy escuro durante bastante tiempo, y con la ayuda psicológica necesaria, resurgió de la forma más brillante: marcando el gol que daría a España su primer Mundial de fútbol en Sudáfrica.
Enlaza todo ello con una cuestión fundamental en el trabajo psicológico, fundamentalmente en el deporte profesional. Hablamos de las lesiones de larga duración. Cuando un deportista se rompe y el diagnóstico es que debe estar meses sin poder competir, el mundo se le viene encima. Lo primero que consideran es que su carrera está en peligro. Según pasan los días y asimilan el golpe, mejoran su previsión, pero consideran que puede que vuelvan, pero no recuperen el sitio que ostentaban antes la lesión. En definitiva, los miedos se apoderan de ellos. Y por desgracia, esos miedos puedan ralentizar el tiempo de baja e incluso las pautas de rehabilitación. El trabajo del psicólogo, en coordinación con médicos fisioterapeutas y recuperadores, puede obrar el milagro de una sanación completa y satisfactoria. Incluso el avance de la ciencia está permitiendo que los profesionales podamos tener herramientas al alcance que parecen sacadas de una película de ciencia ficción. Hoy día, gracias al estudio que se ha realizado del funcionamiento de las neuronas espejo, podemos trabajar con un deportista que necesita estar en reposo absoluto, mediante la proyección de imágenes de su propia actividad cuando estaba compitiendo, para que dichas neuronas no pierdan ese recuerdo y faciliten su vuelto al trabajo cuando ya esté recuperado.
Aunque se ha implantado de forma generalizada la psicología deportiva en clubes y federaciones, queda mucho camino por recorrer. Todavía se observa con cierta reticencia nuestro trabajo. Hizo mucho daño la frivolización hace décadas de este desempeño. A principios de los noventa, uno de los pioneros en el mundo del futbol, se atrevió a poner un ejemplo simple de cómo se desarrollaba un trabajo en grupo dentro de un vestuario, haciendo que los jugadores cerraran los ojos y pensaran que estaban mordiendo un limón. Aquello se viralizó y sirvió para que muchos calificaran de tontería aquel ejercicio, sin tener en cuenta que era una parte dentro de una sesión donde se mezclan juegos, estimulaciones y retos que sirven, tanto para estimular la mente como para unir un vestuario. Por no mencionar los prejuicios que aún se tienen con la mujer. Su aspecto físico, su indumentaria e incluso su forma de hablar, son analizadas con lupa.
Quedémonos con los positivo. Hoy por hoy, la psicología deportiva ocupa un lugar importante en el desarrollo del deporte. La razón, bien sencilla: la fuerza de la mente es imparable.
Photo: matthieu
Petiard-Unsplash
Eduardo Inda
THE LEGAL FUTURE
is being shaped in Marbella
EL FUTURO
JURÍDICO
SE
DISEÑA
EN
MARBELLA
TEXT: BY @FERNANGONZALEZ
Beneath the golden skies of the Costa del Sol and within the discreet luxury of the Hotel Don Carlos, the 2nd OKDIARIO Legal Conference has emerged as a showcase of legal intellect and incisive institutional debate. Over two intensive days, leading public prosecutors, judges, magistrates and senior lawyers ignited conversations on the transformation of Spain’s judicial system.
Bajo el cielo dorado de la Costa del Sol y el lujo discreto del Hotel Don Carlos, las II Jornadas Jurídicas de OKDIARIO se han convertido en un escaparate de la inteligencia jurídica y el debate institucional más agudo. En dos días intensos, fiscales, jueces, magistrados y abogados de primer nivel han encendido conversaciones sobre la transformación del sistema judicial español.
Maria Angeles Muñoz
“At the criminal justice round table, discussions addressed — without euphemism — large-scale cases, procedural safeguards and the pressing need for efficiency without compromising impartiality.”
Beneath the golden skies of the Costa del Sol and within the discreet luxury of the Hotel Don Carlos, the 2nd OKDIARIO Legal Conference has emerged as a showcase of legal intellect and incisive institutional debate. Over two intensive days, leading public prosecutors, judges, magistrates and senior lawyers ignited conversations on the transformation of Spain’s judicial system.
The agenda left no contentious issue untouched: from long-awaited judicial reforms to procedural delays, the influence of media coverage on trials and the role of the Public Prosecutor’s Office. The defining moment came with the confirmation, during the conference itself, of the conviction of the State Prosecutor General.
At the criminal justice round table, discussions addressed — without euphemism — large-scale cases, procedural safeguards and the pressing need for efficiency without compromising impartiality. In the debate on high-profile trials, magistrates and lawyers explored how to balance media pressure with the calm and rigour required by judicial proceedings. The presence of lawyers representing Koldo García and José Luis Ábalos was particularly notable. Another key focus was Europe’s influence, especially the Amnesty Law and the growing weight of rulings by the Court of Justice of the European Union in relation to national sovereignty. Prominent figures such as Eligio Hernández, former State Prosecutor General, delivered
compelling lectures on transparency and integrity, recalling that “entry by competitive examination leaves an indelible mark” on the judiciary. Meanwhile, among others, Francisco Espinosa, President of the New Association of State Attorneys, argued for radical reforms to democratise the Public Prosecutor’s Office, advocating that its highest authority should not depend directly on the Government.
On an institutional level, Manuel Ruiz de Lara, magistrate and spokesperson for a judicial platform, called for increased investment to revitalise the judicial career.
Media-profile lawyers Beatriz Uriarte and Luis María Pardo reflected on the most widely publicised trials, underscoring the need for professionalism, composure and the careful use of the media.
A POWERFUL CLOSE:
INDA RAISES HIS VOICE FOR THE RULE OF LAW
The conference concluded with a forceful address by Eduardo Inda, who did not shy away from political debate. He warned of democratic regression, questioned certain practices of those in power and welcomed recent judicial decisions, highlighting the Supreme Court’s oversight of the Government. “The most important pillar of a democracy is the rule of law,” he asserted, delivering a firm and hopeful message: the law must continue to prevail if Spain is to remain a democracy.
Mesa El Futuro de la Justicia Penal en España
ELEGANCE AND REFLECTION IN A UNIQUE SETTING
Beyond legal rigour, the conference unfolded as an exclusive experience: debates in light-filled rooms, informal encounters by the sea, lunches set to the rhythm of the Mediterranean. Marbella was not merely an idyllic backdrop, but a symbol — the place where institutional tradition converges with the aspirations of modern law.
After this second edition, the OKDIARIO Legal Conference is no longer simply a forum, but a vital platform for shaping the future of law in Spain. It has consolidated its identity as a space where in-depth analysis, critical thought and collaboration come together — without losing either its lustre or its ambition.
Eligio Hernández
Maria Francisca Caracuel
Fidel Cadena
Fernán Gonzalez
Mesa El poder judicial y los juicios mediaticos
Mesa el Impacto de Europa en la Justicia de España
Mesa las Reformas pendientes
“La agenda no ha dejado un solo punto caliente sin tocar: desde las reformas judiciales pendientes, hasta la lentitud procesal, el peso mediático en los juicios y el papel de la Fiscalía“
La agenda no ha dejado un solo punto caliente sin tocar: desde las reformas judiciales pendientes, hasta la lentitud procesal, el peso mediático en los juicios y el papel de la Fiscalía. El plato fuerte ha sido la condena al fiscal general del Estado que se ha confirmado en plenas jornadas.
En la mesa sobre justicia penal se habló sin anestesia de macrocausas, garantías procesales y el deseo de agilidad sin sacrificar imparcialidad. En el debate sobre juicios mediáticos, magistrados y abogados se preguntaron cómo equilibrar la presión mediática con la serenidad del proceso judicial. Ha destacado la presencia de abogados de Koldo García y José Luis Ábalos. Otro foco candente fue el impacto de Europa, especialmente la Ley de Amnistía y la relevancia de las decisiones del Tribunal de Justicia de la UE frente a la soberanía nacional.
Figuras como Eligio Hernández, ex fiscal general del Estado, ofrecieron conferencias poderosas sobre la transparencia y la integridad, recordando que “el acceso por oposición imprime carácter” en la judicatura. Al mismo tiempo, entre otros, Francisco Espinosa, presidente de la Nueva Asociación de Abogados del Estado, defendió cambios radicales para democratizar la Fiscalía: que su máximo responsable no dependa directamente del Gobierno.
En el plano institucional, Manuel Ruiz de Lara, magistrado y portavoz de una plataforma judicial, reivindicó más inversión para revitalizar la carrera judicial. Por su parte, los letrados mediáticos Beatriz Uriarte y Luis María Pardo reflexionaron sobre los juicios más mediáticos, subrayando la necesidad de profesionalidad, serenidad y el delicado uso de los medios de comunicación.
UN CIERRE CON FUERZA: INDA ALZA LA VOZ
POR EL IMPERIO DE LA LEY
La clausura corrió a cargo de Eduardo Inda, que no rehuyó el debate político: denunció un retroceso democrático, cuestionó prácticas del poder y celebró decisiones judiciales recientes como el control del Tribunal Supremo frente al Gobierno. “Lo más importante de una democracia es el imperio de la ley”, reivindicó, lanzando un mensaje firme y esperanzador: la ley debe seguir triunfando para que España siga siendo una democracia.
ELEGANCIA Y REFLEXIÓN EN UN ESCENARIO ÚNICO
Más allá del rigor jurídico, las jornadas se vivieron como una experiencia exclusiva: debates en salas luminosas, encuentros informales junto al mar, almuerzos al ritmo del Mediterráneo. Marbella no solo fue un decorado idílico, sino un símbolo: el lugar donde convergen la tradición institucional y las aspiraciones del derecho moderno.
Tras esta segunda edición, las Jornadas Jurídicas de OKDIARIO no son ya solo un foro, sino una plataforma fundamental para trazar el futuro del Derecho en España. Han consolidado su identidad: un espacio donde el análisis profundo, la crítica y la colaboración se dan la mano, sin perder el brillo ni la ambición.
PRINCESS CAROLINE MURAT
THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME: THE GSTAAD FESTIVAL, SWITZERLAND UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF PRINCE ALBERT OF MONACO
LA AVENTURA DE SU VIDA: EL FESTIVAL DE GSTAD SUIZA PATROCINADO POR ALBERTO DE MÓNACO
It all began in December 2005, when Princess Caroline Murat — a distinguished pianist known on stage as Caroline Haffner — decided to bring together young talents and established masters with the aim of creating a festival in Gstaad, Switzerland, and in the surrounding mountain villages during the Christmas season. Conceived as an opportunity to discover innovative programmes while allowing audiences to encounter artists in an elegant yet relaxed setting, the festival quickly found its identity. Princess Caroline Murat was uniquely suited to this role: her career had seen her support Martin Engstroem for several years at the Verbier Festival, and in 2001 she co-founded the Verbier Academy and the Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad.
Today, the festival is held under the High Patronage of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco. Over the years, it has presented more than 300 concerts and events, welcoming over 1,000 artists aged between three and eighty. Performers from Switzerland, across Europe and from around the world gather to appear in refined venues, sharing unforgettable moments with their audiences.
In recent seasons, the festival has welcomed an impressive roster of artists, including Maxime Vengerov, Gautier Capuçon, Julian Rachlin, Emmanuel Rossfelder, Jeremy Menuhin, Gastón Rivero, Inva Mula,
Marthe Keller, Clotilde Courau, Cyrielle Clair, Pretty Yende, Marina Rebeka, Fatma Said, Nadine Sierra, Elina Garanča, Pinchas Zukerman, Roberto Alagna, Jonathan Tetelman, Francesco Meli and many other internationally renowned performers. This non-profit event has a significant cultural impact.
GSTAAD NEW YEAR MUSIC FESTIVAL CELEBRATES TWO DECADES IN GRAND STYLE
Bartoli, Grigorian, Anduaga and Domingo headline a historic edition that also brings together Grigolo, Winters, Viotti, Orliński and Spyres in the alpine sanctuaries of the Swiss Oberland.
Founded in 2005 by pianist and patron Caroline Murat (Caroline Haffner) and now held under the High Patronage of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, the Gstaad New Year Music Festival marked its 20th anniversary with an exceptional edition: 17 days of music, a dazzling lineup and a programme that reaffirmed bel canto, recital performance and artistic intimacy as its defining hallmarks. What began as a meeting point for young talents and great masters has evolved into a leading European festival, with more than 300 concerts presented and over 1,000 artists invited since its inception. This anniversary confirmed the maturity of a
“Today, the festival is held under the High Patronage of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco. Over the years, it has presented more
than 300 concerts and events, welcoming over 1,000 artists aged between three and eighty.”
project that is intimate, refined and capable of attracting some of the most sought-after voices on the international scene.
The festival opened on 26 December at the Église de Rougemont with soprano Anna El-Khashem and pianist Keval Shah, in a programme ranging from Mozart and Schumann to Strauss and Rachmaninov. On 27 December, also in Rougemont, violinist Yesong Sophie Lee, winner of the Menuhin Competition, took the stage, followed by the duo formed by Corinne Winters and Xabier Anduaga, performing works by Verdi, Puccini, Donizetti, Sorozábal and Lehár.
On 28 December, at the Église de Lauenen, Vittorio Grigolo presented a recital spanning a wide stylistic spectrum, with works by Bellini, Puccini, Donizetti, Morricone, Rossini, Tosti, Poulenc, Gastaldon, Jarrett, Leoncavallo and D’Annibale, accompanied on the piano by Cristiano Manzoni. The festival then brought together, on 29 December at the Église de Saanen, Christina Poulitsi — one of the most brilliant coloraturas of her generation — and Plácido Domingo, in an evening devoted to the great Italian vocal tradition.
On 30 December, the Église de Saanen hosted Cecilia Bartoli and the orchestra Les Musiciens du Prince, in a programme that reinforced the historic bond between the Roman mezzo-soprano and the festival. Asmik
Grigorian, one of the most influential sopranos on today’s operatic scene, appeared on 3 January at the Église de Rougemont with a programme ranging from Tchaikovsky and Dvořák to Brahms, Verdi and Puccini
On 4 January, also in Rougemont, countertenor Jakub Józef Orliński, accompanied by Michał Biel, presented a repertoire uniting Bach, Handel, Predieri, Purcell and the Central European tradition. Marina Viotti offered a hybrid recital blending classicism, chanson and European jazz on 1 January in Rougemont, alongside Didier Puntos, Antoine Brochot and Gerry Lopez
This concert was also one of the festival’s two free performances, open to the public in celebration of the anniversary. The duo of Anastasia Bartoli and Michael Spyres performed on 2 January, again in Rougemont, with Vincenzo Scalera at the piano, in a programme of outstanding bel canto virtuosity. On 8 January, soprano Golda Schultz — a regular presence at the Metropolitan Opera and the Salzburg Festival — presented her recital devoted to Broadway and American song, once more in Rougemont.
The alpine sanctuaries that host the festival — the churches of Rougemont, Saanen, Lauenen and Château-d’Oex — remain essential to its identity.
Their warm acoustics, the closeness between artists and audience, and the snow-covered landscape of the Oberland transform each concert into an intimate, almost ritual experience.
Todo comenzó en diciembre de 2005 cuando la Princesa Caroline Murat, reconocida pianista bajo el nombre artístico de Caroline Haffner, decidió reunir a jóvenes talentos y maestros consagrados con el objetivo de crear un Festival en Gstaad (Suiza) y en los pueblos de montaña de los alrededores durante la temporada navideña, una oportunidad para descubrir programas innovadores y, al mismo tiempo, permitir al público conocer a los artistas en un ambiente elegante y relajado.La Princesa Caroline Murat es especialmente idónea para esta tarea, por su trayectoria había apoyado a Martin Engstroem durante varios años en el Festival de Verbier y fue cofundadora de la Academia de Verbier l Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad en 2001.
Hoy en día, el festival se celebra bajo el Alto Patrocinio de S.A.S. el Príncipe Alberto II de Mónaco. A lo largo de los años, ha presentado más de 300 conciertos y eventos con más de 1000 artistas de entre 3 y 80 años. Artistas de Suiza, de toda Europa y de todo el mundo acuden a actuar en elegantes espacios y compartir momentos inolvidables con su público.
En las últimas temporadas, el festival ha acogido a un gran número de artistas como Maxime Vengerov, Gautier Capuçon, Julian Rachlin, Emmanuel Rossfelder, Jeremy Menuhin, Gastón Rivero, Inva Mula,Marthe Keller, Clotilde Courau, Cyrielle Clair, Pretty Yende, Marina Rebeka, Fatma Said, Nadine Sierra, Elīna Garanča, Pinchas Zukerman, Roberto Alagna, Jonathan Tetelman, Francesco Meli y muchos otros artistas de renombre internacional. Este evento sin fines de lucro tiene un importante impacto a nivel cultural.
L FESTIVAL DE AÑO NUEVO DE GSTAAD CELEBRA DOS
DÉCADAS POR TODO LO ALTO Bartoli, Grigorian, Anduaga y Domingo lideran una edición histórica que también reúne a Grigolo, Winters, Viotti, Orliński y Spyres en los templos alpinos del Oberland suizo
El Festival de Año Nuevo de Gstaad, fundado en 2005 por la pianista y mecenas Caroline Murat (Caroline Haffner) y hoy bajo el alto patronazgo de S.A.S. el Príncipe Alberto II de Mónaco, celebró su 20º aniversario con una edición excepcional: 17 días de música, un cartel deslumbrante y una programación que reafirma el bel canto, el recital y la proximidad artística como su sello más característico. Lo que nació como un encuentro entre jóvenes talentos y grandes maestros ya se ha convertido en un festival de referencia europea, con más
de 300 conciertos celebrados y más de 1.000 artistas invitados desde su creación. Este aniversario confirma la madurez de un proyecto íntimo, exquisito y capaz de atraer a algunas de las voces más solicitadas del panorama internacional. El festival se inauguró el 26 de diciembre en la Église de Rougemont con la soprano Anna El-Khashem y el pianista Keval Shah, en un programa que recorre de Mozart y Schumann a Strauss y Rajmaninov. El 27 de diciembre, también en Rougemont, actuó la violinista Yesong Sophie Lee, ganadora del Concurso Menuhin, seguida por el dúo formado por Corinne Winters y Xabier Anduaga, con páginas de Verdi, Puccini, Donizetti, Sorozábal o Lehár
El 28 de diciembre, en la Église de Lauenen, Vittorio Grigolo se celebró un recital que abarcó un amplio abanico estilístico, con obras de Bellini, Puccini, Donizetti, Morricone, Rossini, Tosti, Poulenc, Gastaldon, Jarrett, Leoncavallo y D’Annibale, acompañado al piano por Cristiano Manzoni. El festival reunió después, el 29 de diciembre en la Église de Saanen, a Christina Poulitsi, una de las coloraturas más brillantes de su generación, y a Plácido Domingo, en una velada centrada en la gran tradición vocal italiana.
El 30 de diciembre en la Église de Saanen, contó con Cecilia Bartoli y la orquesta Les Musiciens du Prince en un programa que refuerza el vínculo histórico entre la mezzo romana y el festival. Asmik Grigorian, una de las sopranos más influyentes de la escena actual, actuó el 3 de enero en la Église de Rougemont con un programa que transita de Chaikovsky y Dvořák a Brahms, Verdi y Puccini. El 4 de enero, también en Rougemont, el contratenor Jakub Józef Orliński, acompañado por Michał Biel, presentó un repertorio que une Bach, Händel, Predieri, Purcell y la tradición centroeuropea.
Marina Viotti ofreció un recital híbrido entre clasicismo, chanson y jazz europeo el 1 de enero en Rougemont, junto a Didier Puntos, Antoine Brochot y Gerry Lopez. Este fue además uno de los dos conciertos gratuitos del festival, abierto al público con motivo del aniversario. El tándem Anastasia Bartoli y Michael Spyres actuó el 2 de enero, también en Rougemont, con Vincenzo Scalera al piano, en un programa de gran virtuosismo belcantista. La soprano Golda Schultz, habitual del Metropolitan Opera y del Festival de Salzburgo, presentaron su recital dedicado a Broadway y la canción americana el 8 de enero, nuevamente en Rougemont.
Los templos alpinos que acogen el festival —las iglesias de Rougemont, Saanen, Lauenen y Château-d’Oex— siguen siendo espacios esenciales de su identidad. Sus acústicas templadas, la proximidad con el público y el paisaje nevado del Oberland convierten cada concierto en una experiencia íntima y casi ritual.
ELM
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The man who left nougat behind and entered the world of millionaires through the front door, on the strength of his investments
BY AMPARO DE LA GAMA
El Turronero has arrived in Marbella in grand style, with his real-estate group López Real Inversiones and the acquisition of almost the entire Marbell Center Shopping Centre—a site located in the heart of the city—bringing into play an investment valued at more than €25 million. As the businessman himself tells us in an interview granted to ELM – Exclusive Life Magazine, “Marbella is extremely attractive for investment. I’m sure people are going to like this very interesting space we’re creating. We’ve started with an Oriental multi-store, and next there will be a whole leisure area.” Until just a couple of years ago, El Turronero was an anonymous figure—without an identifiable face—who does not even use a smartphone or WhatsApp. Some even stigmatised him at the time over his legal cases, which brought down none other than the mayor of Jerez, Pedro Pacheco. Yet, detached from everything that was unfolding, he never renounced his happiness; and one day, his lucky charm cheated fate and catapulted him to the very top, granting him a name of his own as the foremost organiser of lavish soirées, with thousands of guests and famous faces: a patron of abundance. “When you’re born into a humble family, you have to remember where you come from and understand what life gives you, and know you come from the bottom. Humility is something you must never forget.”
José Luis López Fernández is one of Andalusia’s best-known business figures, and his financial clout does not come from selling nougat— as he himself says, “my parents sold it; that’s where my nickname comes from”. His father wanted him to study medicine, but at just 17 he found work in Seville selling roadside assistance insurance to drivers. A few weeks later, he had already earned around 120,000 pesetas, which he gave to his parents—replacing the flooring in their home and buying them a three-piece sofa. And that was the beginning of the singular path that made him a millionaire.
In this way, friends and strangers alike began gravitating towards him. He has an ability to bring together the most eclectic characters at his gatherings, and says he is rich in friends. “Now it’s the celebrities who call me after they’ve come to my parties. I don’t throw them that often because they generate a lot of stress. I’ll be going to Susanna Griso’s wedding—I was among the first people they called.
To the wedding of Paz Padilla’s daughter… they all keep calling me.”
But he now approaches life differently. José Luis likes to rest in the beautiful house he has along the seafront promenade in Ciudad del Canto sin dueño. It is increasingly common to see him at Marbella’s social events and, although he likes to go unnoticed wherever he goes, he poses discreetly in front of a photocall while many around him wonder, when they see him: Who is that man? Well, he is none
other than José Luis López Fernández, the entrepreneur of the moment who heads a conglomerate of companies turning over almost €60 million.
He is aware that his fame also stems from being a major benefactor, with a philanthropic vision for his hometown. “You have to help those who need it. If you give, life gives back. You have to be generous.” He carries out these actions through the López Mariscal Foundation, which bears his surname and that of his wife, Carmen Mariscal, whom he married in 1983. She is not fond of photocalls and prefers to remain in the background. Together they have two children, María and Pepe, who help their father across the entire empire he has built. The management report for the group describes the principal activity of its member companies as the buying and selling of real-estate assets. And so that child who once sold nougat at his village fair has continued to grow—now beginning to be seen as the “Amancio Ortega” of bricks and mortar. A man who overcame a humble environment to make himself, and who now presides over a consolidated group comprising more than 18 companies, still expanding, devoted to property sale and purchase, leasing, management and real-estate advisory services.
Another notable activity within his portfolio is the manufacture and retail of clothing and footwear. He also holds stakes in companies where his share does not reach 50%, such as a clinic in Córdoba—often visited by Bertín Osborne—a psychology centre in Seville, where he also has a bakery, and even a company related to beer taps. Beyond these two core business areas, there is also a company producing masks and medical supplies, as well as one involved in electricity generation. Of the nearly sixty million euros earned by the group, the vast majority—more than €5.8 million—was contributed by López Real Inversiones, the company dedicated to developing commercial properties, and through which it is now beginning to operate in Marbella. His inguinal hernia
and I got on a bandwagon that can be dangerous for my health. I won’t throw as many parties now; they stress me out. I want to do them when I feel like it, but not systematically.” As he tells us, “Every time I throw a party, something kicks off, hahaha. People are so different that news always comes out of them.” Such as the break-up of Escassi and Suárez, and the appearance of Hibu—because, after the communion party for his granddaughter in Jerez, Pandora’s box was opened: “You know, in matters of the heart no one is in charge. People have hearts; they fall in love and they fall out of love. What am I going to tell them?”
The one person he does offer advice to is his friend Bertín Osborne, whom he loves like a brother. “He has taken a big step,” he explains to La Razón, “by recognising the little one— who’s not so little now, he’s big and handsome, and every day he looks more like him. Bertín has proclaimed himself the child’s father, and that is the best outcome of the advice I’ve given him, even though he still doesn’t know his son. I’m only a friend to my friends, and I give them good advice.” This brush with celebrity gossip has meant he has appeared more often in the yellow pages than in the business pages. But he is determined for that to change, and for everyone to see him as the serious businessman he is.
A €25 million “commercial mix” in Marbella
His parties are nothing if not eclectic. Those who wander through them range from the president of the Regional Government of Andalusia, Juanma Moreno (PP), to his predecessor Susana Díaz (PSOE), to Iván Espinosa de los Monteros (Vox), and to former Aznar ministers Ángel Acebes and José María Michavila. He loves show business, and his Ubrique gatherings have brought together everyone from Carlos Herrera and Bertín Osborne to actors such as Miguel Ángel Silvestre and Álex González, a regular who did not miss the communion of El Turronero’s granddaughter. Women such as Susanna Griso and Paz Padilla never miss one, either. Since undergoing treatment for his inguinal hernia, he has put everything on hold. “I’m trying to reduce my exposure a little—only what’s strictly necessary—because life wasn’t enough for me. Fame is seductive, but I’m better known for the famous friends I have,
The Marbell Center shopping centre—which he himself came to inaugurate with his wife Carmen—is the new flagship with which El Turronero docks his business interests in Marbella. The project involves the creation of a new complex in the very heart of the city, where most premises were shut and even occupied by squatters inside. The business is backed by an overall investment of more than €25 million and is expected to create more than 150 direct jobs. The aim of José Luis López’s company is to undertake a complete modernisation and re-commercialisation, generating an attractive range of services capable of meeting the needs of residents and visitors, and creating a significant new focal point for the entire area.
Specifically, the project will revitalise 10,000 square metres of space through a “commercial mix” that includes the installation of supermarkets or gyms, leisure and dining offerings, and additional uses for basement levels or floors without direct street access— such as state-of-the-art storage units, office spaces, clinics and other services. Marbell Center first opened to the public in 1987, at the height of the “Gil” era, in a privileged location with an absolutely promising outlook, and remained in operation until 1994. Since then, despite multiple attempts to reactivate the site, this had not been possible because ownership was divided among different stakeholders with differing interests and difficulties.
Some homes invite you in quietly, revealing their beauty slowly. Olivia O. Wickerts creates interiors that feel alive yet calm — spaces where subtle details and hidden moments emerge over time. Through OMEO Design, she shapes interiors that are intimate, timeless, and connected to their surroundings.
Recognised internationally for projects including Casa Cenote and the Secret Spaces concept, Olivia approaches design with the same calm clarity that defines her spaces — where luxury is felt rather than displayed. In this exclusive interview, she speaks about intention, meaning, and the quiet elegance of authenticity.
OLIVIA O. WICKERTS
ON DESIGNING WITH INTENTION
BY ANA PAVÓN, EDITOR OF ELM
Olivia, OMEO Design was recently awarded for your projects Casa Cenote and Secret Spaces concept. What does this recognition mean for you?
More than anything, it makes me proud of our team. The work we do is detailed and thoughtful, and it takes a lot of care and collaboration behind the scenes. Seeing that dedication recognised is something I’m truly grateful for.
The concept of “Secret Spaces” has become closely associated with your work. Why are hidden or unexpected spaces so important to you?
For me, secret spaces are about discovery. I want a home to feel like an experience — something that slowly reveals itself. There should always be little surprises, details that feel intimate and personal. That’s what makes a home feel alive.
Natural materials play a central role in OMEO Design. What do they bring to a home?
Natural materials immediately bring warmth and authenticity. They age gracefully, gaining character over time instead of wearing out, which makes interiors feel calmer and more balanced. I also like to connect the interior with the exterior — when the same materials appear outside your window, the home feels more connected and harmonious.
Your projects often feel guided by something deeper than a fixed aesthetic or style. Do you see your work as telling a story?
I don’t really think in terms of stories — it’s more about finding the soul of a home. That soul is different for every project. If a house has history, we highlight what makes it special. If it’s new, we create meaning — through the location, a material tied to the area, or a single feature that gives the home its identity. Then everything — materials, wallpaper, unique pieces, even the name — comes together to give the home character.
What does luxury mean to you?
To me, luxury is the little things — quality, craftsmanship, thoughtful details — and also giving a home space to breathe.
Every area should have a purpose, but nothing should feel crowded. Functionality is essential, and materials are everything. We don’t rely on brands — everything is made by us, using the best fabrics and finishes. True luxury is quiet, subtle, and something you feel every time you step inside.
How do your horses and philanthropy influence your creative work?
Being with my horses or involved in charity work makes me completely present. That mental space is where ideas and creativity flow. My connection to animals and nature naturally appears in my designs — in shapes, details, and sometimes even in elements like horses. It’s also tied to the local Andalusian culture, which influences my work.
Do you have a ritual before starting a new project?
Not really — most ideas appear unexpectedly, often while driving or in the middle of the night. The vision comes clearly to me, and then it’s about interpreting it with the team. What is essential, though, is visiting the site. Even if it’s just an empty plot, I need to experience the surroundings. Observing the environment has become my ritual — after that, the design comes together naturally.
How do you stay true to your own vision amid fast-moving trends?
I don’t follow trends. I focus on what works best for the project, the location, and the client. I want my designs to last, and trends rarely do. Thinking about durability is also part of being sustainable — it’s about creating spaces that endure, both visually and environmentally.
Looking ahead, how is OMEO Design evolving?
We’re expanding into construction and property development, which feels like a natural next step. It allows us to offer clients a full 360° service and be involved in every stage of a project. This reflects how we already work — with a focus on detail, craftsmanship, and consistency. As we grow, we’re excited to take on more projects, bringing the same care and thoughtfulness to everything we do.
MIUC
WHY SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE ARE STUDYING AGAIN AND CHOOSING MARBELLA TO DO IT
TEXT BY MARIA POLO, OPERATIONS DIRECTOR AT MARBELLA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY CENTRE (MIUC)
There’s a growing confidence in the air, a shift in how people think about learning. Across Europe, more professionals are returning to university to continue evolving. They already have successful careers, families, and lives they’re proud of, but they also have one more thing: curiosity.
At Marbella International University Centre (MIUC), we see that spark every day. Students who have already built companies, led teams, or changed industries are walking back into classrooms because they want to stay ahead, inspired, and connected to what’s next. Education is no longer a box you tick early in life, and we are so happy to be part of the movement that keeps curiosity alive at every age.
THE MINDSET BEHIND MODERN LEARNING
Returning to study isn’t necessarily about starting over, I’d like to think about it as sharpening the way you see things. Business leaders want to understand psychology. Designers want to be better at communication. Entrepreneurs want to know how cultural context influences negotiation, branding, and leadership across borders.
That’s why our degrees in International Business, Psychology, Marketing, and International Relations are built around what’s happening in the real world. Almost every month, senior figures from the UN, global tech companies, or leading financial institutions come to talk about the kind of decisions you wouldn’t find in case studies - the political ones, the cultural ones, the human ones.
Those sessions change how our students think. We all can see it, they stop memorising
the frameworks and start being curious, asking better questions. Our students soon understand that global issues aren’t abstract, but personal, complex, and connected.
Every MIUC degree is awarded by the University of West London (UWL) and fully recognised by the Junta de Andalucía. This framework gives our graduates both international prestige and European legitimacy, which is a combination only few universities can offer.
Under the leadership of our Dean Dr Beata Fröhlich, LLM (UCL), who holds a PhD in International and Commercial Arbitration and is a former postdoctoral researcher at McGill and visiting scholar at Columbia University, USA, MIUC teaches with both academic rigor and worldly perspective.
WHY MARBELLA WORKS
Marbella has evolved into one of Europe’s most interesting crossroads, and today it’s a place where global perspectives meet Mediterranean perspective. It’s a healthy environment that rewards balance, which means the goal is to support your ambitions without giving you anxiety. Especially for students with careers, this matters. You can have a business call in the morning, attend a seminar in the afternoon, and still have time to walk by the sea at the end of the day. The environment supports focus - and focus is something most professionals are starved of. We try to balance between pace and perspective, which is part of what makes studying here different. Learning becomes part of your life, not something that disrupts it. I like to say that the future belongs to people who stay curious. Not endlessly online, but actively learning. Marbella gives them the space to do that, and we at MIUC give them the structure.
If you would like to learn more about MIUC, visit www.miuc org or contact our admissions team at info@miuc.org or +34 952 860 000.
María Polo
Painting in background by Elizabeth Fernández
ELIZABETH FERNÁNDEZ ERIZE
DESIGNER & PHOTOGRAPHER
BY RAFAEL BARRIO, DIRECTOR OF ELM
“With a Fine Arts degree from the University of Málaga and creative studies in Paris and Buenos Aires, Elizabeth moves naturally through the world of visual communication.” Her passion for graphic design, photography and illustration has led her to explore new creative paths, now including programming, to bring dynamic ideas to life. Whether behind a camera or immersed in a good book, she is always seeking new perspectives, capturing emotion, atmosphere, and the essence of every story through her work.
Elizabeth, tell us how your journey with art began. Was it photography or design that first captured your heart?
Cinema was the first one that truly captivated me and have always remained a constant source of inspiration. From a very young age, I was fascinated by the way stories are told through images and music, and how life itself can be captured on screen. That form of storytelling left a deep mark on me and sparked my interest in the visual world. As I grew older, I gravitated towards creative disciplines that allowed me to express both what I see and what I imagine. Photography became my way of capturing the world around me, while drawing helped me translate ideas and give them form.
As a designer and photographer, how do you balance technique with emotion when capturing or creating an image?
For me, technique is a way to give form to what I have in mind. Even when I work intuitively, understanding how things function helps me bring my vision to life with clarity and confidence. Each project comes with its own challenges and variables. Finding what fits best often means experimenting, playing, and occasionally pushing beyond the rules. In the end, it’s a dance between technique and emotion, guided by what feels right in each moment.
Throughout your career, has there been a project that marked a turning point for you? What made it so special?
Working at MN Comunicación has played a key role in my personal and creative growth. Being able to do what I love,
contribute to each project in my own way, and continue learning alongside an inspiring team led by my mother has shaped me deeply. I’m truly grateful for everything this journey is teaching me on so many levels. How would you define your style?
I would describe my style as clean, visual and emotionally driven, with a strong focus on atmosphere and storytelling. I’m drawn to light, composition and subtle details that help create images with depth, mood and meaning.
What advice would you give to a young artist who dreams of pursuing design or photography but hasn’t dared to take the leap yet?
I believe we are all creative in our own way. I really connect with Elizabeth Gilbert’s approach to creativity: “A creative life is a life where you choose the path of curiosity over the path of fear.”
When curiosity becomes your motivation, you move forward with a sense of what feels right. I try to live by that philosophy , and that’s a reminder that each of us has a unique perspective and set of talents. It’s important to trust yourself, your vision, and enjoy the process. Journey before destination, you don’t need to have everything figured out, just dare to begin, make mistakes, learn by doing, and grow along the way.
If you could tell a story through a single image, what kind of moment would you choose and why?
I would choose a memory, one of those moments that stays with you like a mental photograph, to preserve not only the scene itself, but the emotion it holds.
When I work on projects that are close to my heart and truly resonate with me, I approach the process as a way to explore my inner world. In that space, creativity becomes both therapeutic and revealing, allowing me to better understand myself, connect with the emotions behind each idea, and discover what truly inspires and moves me.
Finally, tell us a phrase that inspires you every day. We are just walking each other home.
LA QUINTA
ULTRA-LUXURY VILLA IN LA QUINTA, BENAHAVÍS
OUTSTANDING SEA & GOLF VIEWS | MINUTES FROM PUERTO BANÚS & MARBELLA
Experience the pinnacle of modern Mediterranean architecture with this brand-new designer villa nestled in the prestigious La Quinta residential enclave of Benahavís. Offering breathtaking panoramic sea and golf course views, this exquisitely crafted home captures the essence of the Marbella luxury lifestyle.
Located just a 5-minute drive from Puerto Banús, Marbella, and the golden beaches of the Costa del Sol, this south-facing masterpiece combines serene privacy with unmatched convenience.
Architectural Brilliance: Built over three levels with cutting-edge contemporary design coupled with highspec materials and finishes. Panoramic Views: Uninterrupted vistas of the Mediterranean and surrounding golf courses
Open-Concept Living: Expansive main floor featuring a designer lounge with floor to ceiling windows creating a harmonious flow between interior comfort and outdoor splendour,
Outdoor Living: Sun-drenched terraces with a built-in BBQ, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen ideal for al fresco dining and entertaining.
