A one-bedroom apartment situated in Cerros del Lago, Istán, positioned at an elevation of 304 metres above sea level. Completed in 1985, this 55m² property offers views of the surrounding countryside from its terraces. The apartment is located approximately 10km northwest of Marbella, providing rural living conditions whilst maintaining reasonable proximity to coastal amenities. The property has undergone recent refurbishment and is presented partially furnished.
Key characteristics of location, homes, project phase and points of attention.
The apartment is situated inland in the municipality of Istán, beneath the Sierra Blanca mountain range. Its elevated position provides views across the Rio Verde valley. The property is located 9.2km from the nearest beaches and 10km from Marbella, requiring vehicular transport for most journeys beyond the immediate vicinity of the village.
This property would suit those seeking a quieter lifestyle away from coastal crowds. With one bedroom and one bathroom, the apartment is suitable for individuals or couples. The communal pool facility and private terrace spaces offer outdoor living options. The property's orientation towards the east, south-east, and south provides varied sunlight exposure throughout the day.
The building was completed in 1985, classifying it as an established rather than new development. Recent refurbishment works have updated the interior spaces, including the bathroom and kitchen areas. The building structure and communal areas are mature, with established landscaping around the property.
The property requires a car for daily living, as public transport options are limited. The distance to essential services including supermarkets (8.0km) and healthcare facilities (8.7km) necessitates regular travel. The property's inland location means beach access requires a 9.2km journey. The apartment size of 55m² may be limiting for those accustomed to larger living spaces.
This property would suit individuals or couples seeking a secondary residence that balances accessibility with tranquillity. It would particularly appeal to those who prefer to be away from the main tourist areas yet within reasonable distance of amenities. The requirement of a car for daily activities suggests it would suit those comfortable with driving in Spain. The property would function well as a holiday home, with the option to access both countryside and coastal activities. The proximity to multiple golf courses makes it suitable for golf enthusiasts. The apartment size makes it manageable for those not requiring extensive space. The recent refurbishment means it would appeal to buyers seeking a property that requires minimal immediate work. Its location would also suit those who appreciate the natural environment of the Sierra de las Nieves region.
The apartment has been recently refurbished, with particular attention to the bathroom which now features a modern shower and wooden finish elements. The kitchen is described as fully fitted, suggesting contemporary appliances and storage solutions. Flooring throughout appears to be of a wood finish, providing a consistent aesthetic. The open-concept design of the living, dining, and kitchen areas creates a sense of space despite the apartment's modest dimensions. The partially furnished status indicates that essential items are included but allows for personalisation. The property's condition is described as good, reflecting both its recent updates and the maintenance of the building structure over time since its original construction in 1985. The terraces provide well-designed outdoor living spaces that capitalise on the property's orientation and views.
The property is priced at €229,000 for a 55m² apartment with one bedroom and one bathroom. This represents approximately €4,164 per square metre. The property includes partial furnishing and is presented as ready for immediate occupation. When compared to similar properties in the region, such as Lantana Residencial in Mijas (from €205,000) and Aquamar in Torre del Mar (from €269,950), the pricing positions this property in the mid-range. The price reflects the property's recent refurbishment, rural location, and proximity to both Marbella and golf facilities.
Living in Istán offers a distinctly different pace compared to coastal developments. The mornings typically begin with peaceful surrounds, with the possibility of enjoying breakfast on the terrace whilst taking in the forested landscape. Daily errands require planning, as the nearest supermarket is 8km away. Most residents combine visits to Marbella for shopping with other necessary journeys. The property's terraces become extensions of the living space, particularly during the warmer months. Afternoons can be spent by the communal pool or exploring the local walking paths. The nearby viewpoints, including Mirador de Penon just 0.2km away, offer opportunities to appreciate the surrounding landscape. Evenings remain quiet, with the majority of dining and entertainment options located in Marbella or the coastal areas.
The location of this apartment requires consideration of transportation for daily life. Essential services beyond the immediate village require travel: supermarkets are 8.0km away, healthcare facilities 8.7km, and the nearest beach 9.2km. Marbella, with its extensive amenities, is situated 10km away, making it accessible for regular shopping and dining. The property's position at 304m elevation means it experiences different weather patterns from the coast, often being slightly cooler and less humid. The local village of Istán has basic amenities including restaurants, a pharmacy, and a bank within 2km. The presence of a primary school indicates the area supports permanent residents, not just holiday homeowners. For international education, the British International School is 8.3km away. The property benefits from being close to nature whilst maintaining access to urban conveniences within a reasonable distance.
The property is situated in the Cerros del Lago area of Istán, positioned at an elevated point of 304 metres above sea level. The location offers views towards the surrounding countryside and the nearby reservoir created by the Presa de la Concepción dam. The property lies approximately midway between the village of Istán and the coastal area of Marbella, with mountainous terrain characterising the immediate environment.
Approximate area · exact address shared on request
Istán occupies a distinctive position within the Costa del Sol region, offering an inland alternative to coastal developments. Situated 10km northwest of Marbella, the municipality provides contrasting experiences to the bustling coastal areas. Istán's population of approximately 1,707 inhabitants (2025 estimate) makes it a small community compared to Marbella's 147,958 residents or Málaga's 579,076. The property is positioned on the southern slope of the Sierra de las Nieves, close to the Presa de la Concepción reservoir, which supplies water to towns along the Costa del Sol. This location places the property at the intersection of rural tranquillity and regional accessibility, offering a different perspective on Costa del Sol living than the typical coastal developments. The proximity to both the natural park and urban centres creates a balanced position within the region's geography.
The property's inland location necessitates careful planning regarding access to key amenities. Beach access requires a 9.2km journey to locations such as Playa de Casablanca, Playa de la Fontanilla, or Playa de Nagüeles. Marbella city centre is 10km away, offering extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Málaga city is 50km distant, providing access to larger retail centres, cultural attractions, and international travel connections through its airport. Golf enthusiasts will find several courses within 7.5-8.7km, including the Driving Range/German Golf Academy and Aloha Golf Club. The nearest EV charging point is 8.9km away at the Marbella Supercharger. Public transport options are limited, with 6 bus lines serving the area but with 50 stops spread throughout the region, reinforcing the necessity of private vehicle ownership for residents.
| Malaga-Costa del Sol (AGP) | 42 km |
| Gibraltar (GIB) | 60 km |
Source: OpenStreetMap, Google Maps
Istán's position at 304m elevation above sea level contributes to its microclimate, distinct from the immediate coastal areas. The region enjoys approximately 3,851 hours of sunshine annually, with average temperatures ranging from 11°C to 26°C throughout the year. The annual average temperature of 18.2°C creates generally mild conditions suitable for year-round habitation. The swimming season extends for approximately four months when water temperatures reach or exceed 20°C. The elevation provides relief from the coastal humidity during summer months, though winter temperatures can be cooler than at sea level. The proximity to the Sierra de las Nieves natural park influences local weather patterns, occasionally bringing more rainfall than coastal areas. This climate supports the surrounding vegetation, creating the green landscape visible from the property's terraces.
Source: Open-Meteo (2020, 2025 average)
Despite its inland position, the property offers reasonable access to coastal recreational facilities. The nearest beaches, including Playa de Casablanca, Playa de la Fontanilla, and Playa de Nagüeles, are all situated 9.2km away, approximately a 15-minute drive. These beaches provide typical Mediterranean coastal experiences with sandy shores and associated amenities. Golf enthusiasts benefit from the property's proximity to several courses within 7.5-8.7km, including the Driving Range/German Golf Academy, Aloha Golf Club, and Golf Los Naranjos. The Real Club de Golf Las Brisas is also accessible at 8.7km. For maritime activities, Puerto Deportivo Virgen del Carmen in Marbella is 10km away, offering boat mooring facilities and coastal dining options. The property itself includes access to a communal pool, providing on-site recreational opportunities without travelling to the coast.
9 Facilities Available
Source: OpenStreetMap, CSD
Istán occupies a distinctive position within the Costa del Sol region, offering an inland alternative to coastal developments. Situated 10km northwest of Marbella, the municipality provides contrasting experiences to the bustling coastal areas. Istán's population of approximately 1,707 inhabitants (2025 estimate) makes it a small community compared to Marbella's 147,958 residents or Málaga's 579,076. The property is positioned on the southern slope of the Sierra de las Nieves, close to the Presa de la Concepción reservoir, which supplies water to towns along the Costa del Sol. This location places the property at the intersection of rural tranquillity and regional accessibility, offering a different perspective on Costa del Sol living than the typical coastal developments. The proximity to both the natural park and urban centres creates a balanced position within the region's geography.
Istán is a town and municipality in the province of Málaga in Andalusia in southern Spain with an estimated population in 2005 of 1400 people. It lies beneath the Sierra Blanca in the valley of the Rio Verde about 15 km to the northwest from Marbella and the Mediterranean coast. It is situated on the southern slope of the Sierra de las Nieves. It is also near the large reservoir created by the Presa de la Concepción dam, built in 1972 to provide drinking water to towns all along the Costa del Sol.
| Month | Avg. Temperature | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|
| January | 10.6°C | 60 mm |
| February | 10.9°C | 64 mm |
| March | 13.1°C | 59 mm |
| April | 15.1°C | 43 mm |
| May | 17.4°C | 35 mm |
| June | 21.9°C | 9 mm |
| July | 26.0°C | 1 mm |
| August | 26.3°C | 2 mm |
| September | 22.4°C | 15 mm |
| October | 18.1°C | 57 mm |
| November | 13.9°C | 79 mm |
| December | 11.2°C | 67 mm |
Ref: VL278234
Source: Wikipedia, Wikidata, INE, Junta de Andalucía
When compared to properties in the immediate coastal areas, this Istán apartment offers a different value proposition. Properties in central Marbella command higher prices due to beach proximity and urban conveniences but come with associated noise and density. This apartment provides similar regional access at a lower price point, with the 1985 construction reflecting in more generous proportions than many newer developments. Compared to other inland options such as Lantana Residencial in Mijas (from €205,000), this property is positioned at a similar price point but offers a more established village environment rather than a purpose-built residential complex. When contrasted with coastal developments like Aquamar in Torre del Mar (from €269,950) or Etherna Homes 2 in Estepona (from €259,000), this apartment represents approximately €30,000-€40,000 savings whilst maintaining reasonable access to similar amenities. The key distinction lies in the lifestyle offering: this property provides a countryside experience with optional coastal access, whereas beachfront developments prioritise immediate beach proximity above all else. For buyers seeking balance rather than dedicated beach living, this positioning may offer enhanced value.
With years of experience, Emma Whitfield expertly guides English-speaking clients through the intricacies of the Spanish property market. Her dedication ensures a smooth journey.
AI-assisted multilingual representative. Your inquiry is handled by the team behind this site.
Interested?
Leave your details and we will contact you shortly with more information about this project.
NL
EN
DE
FR
ES
IT
PT
DA
SV
NO
FI
PL
ZH
RU
AR
TR
CS
RO
HU
LT
ET
BG
HR
SK
HE
JA
KO
HI
UK
SR
EL
SL
LV
ID