The iconic 52-meter pool at Azure Beach—heated to 27°C and overlooking the Mediterranean—received the “Best Pool” accolade during the sixth edition of these awards, which celebrate excellence in Spain’s luxury hospitality sector.
This recognition highlights the resort’s lifestyle concept, where gastronomy, music, and entertainment converge around one of its most emblematic spaces.
The iconic Azure Beach & Pool at METT Marbella – Estepona was awarded the “Best Pool” title at the 2026 Beyond Luxury Awards, held on October 15th at the Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá in Mallorca. Jaime Buxó, CEO of Sunset Hotels & Resorts, accepted the award during the ceremony, which brought together prominent figures from Spain’s luxury hotel industry.
The award recognizes the offering at Azure Beach—one of the most iconic areas of METT Marbella – Estepona—where the pool serves as the centerpiece of an experience that blends gastronomy, music, entertainment, and relaxation by the Mediterranean.
Situated between Marbella and Estepona, METT Marbella – Estepona has transformed its central pool into far more than just a place to unwind. Azure Beach embodies the essence of the “METT Experience”; its 52-meter, 27°C-heated pool acts as the true heart of the resort, surrounded by sun loungers, Balinese daybeds, and exclusive cabanas—some featuring private plunge pools—right on the beachfront. It is a setting where the energy of the Mediterranean meets a vibrant social atmosphere that evolves throughout the day. An environment designed for enjoying the sun and the sea, where a Pan-Asian culinary offering, signature cocktails, and a carefully curated musical program enhance the experience—from the early hours of the day until sunset.
The heart of the METT experience
Beyond its scale and privileged location, the pool embodies the philosophy of METT Marbella – Estepona: a vision of luxury rooted in enjoyment, connection, and a balance between relaxation and entertainment.
Spontaneous encounters, music sessions, and moments of unwinding coexist in a space that evolves with the rhythm of the day. This concept makes Azure Beach one of the resort’s primary gathering spots, reflecting its dynamic, cosmopolitan character while remaining true to the relaxed essence of the Mediterranean.
This experience is part of a broader offering that combines international cuisine, wellness, and luxury accommodations. The hotel features 251 rooms and 27 suites, alongside dining venues such as Ammos Greek Restaurant, Isola Ristorante, and El Bar de Lola—all designed to help guests enjoy the destination, both within the resort and beyond.
Recognition for excellence in hospitality
The Beyond Luxury Awards—now in their sixth year—honor the hotels and professionals shaping the future of luxury hospitality in Spain. With an official selection of 60 five-star and five-star “Grand Luxury” (Gran Lujo) properties, the awards are judged by a panel of industry experts tasked with identifying establishments that stand out for their excellence and their ability to deliver unique, distinctive experiences.
The recognition of METT Marbella – Estepona in the “Best Pool” category—within the section dedicated to outdoor spaces and lifestyle—highlights a key element of the resort’s identity: its ability to transform a space traditionally associated solely with relaxation into the centerpiece of an experience that blends design, gastronomy, music, and social life. An award that reaffirms METT’s commitment to contemporary hospitality, where every space invites guests to experience the Mediterranean in a unique way.
About Sunset Hospitality Group
Sunset Hospitality Group (SHG) is a leading multinational lifestyle hospitality group with an extensive portfolio spanning Hotels & Resorts, Dining, Daylife, Nightlife, Social Gaming, and Private Clubs. SHG currently operates 112 venues across 26 countries, dedicated to delivering authentic and diverse hospitality experiences that connect people around the world.
