Glass discovers a sense of stillness at Fairmont La Hacienda

IT’s 8 in the morning, and I’ve never been happier to see Heathrow Terminal 2. With my mind half in yesterday and desperately trying to switch it into the second half of my Friday, I board my flight to Gibraltar en route to Fairmont La Hacienda with no expectations, only a strong desire to leave the London skies behind.

Swimming Pool at Fairmont La Hacienda

The moment I land, something shifts. And I don’t just mean the unusual experience of crossing the border into Spain on foot, but also a noticeable change in my demeanour in the presence of nature. You see, the thing about Gibraltar Airport is that the eponymous Rock greets you as you land. Legend has it that it’s one of Achilles’ heels. I do love a good Greek myth reference.

The drive to Fairmont La Hacienda is smooth. Hills roll out beside us, the sea winks in the distance, and already I feel as though I’m somewhere far from my usual thoughts.

Upon arrival, Fairmont delivers immediately. There’s something about certain hotel chains that gives you an instant sense of belonging. It feels like a home away from home. This is especially true of Fairmont, which even has a signature scent designed specifically for its properties. And we all know that scent is deeply connected to memory.

As I enter my room and draw back the curtains, I’m taken aback by the view. The seafront, the lighthouse, the hills—all of it transports me to a place I once regarded as my healing sanctuary in Spain. I feel a subtle but undeniable pull, a sense that the energy of this place will offer something similar. After all, energy rarely lies. I sit on the balcony and exhale. At last, I’ve fully arrived.

Fairmont La Hacienda Hotel

The afternoon unfolds peacefully. What I love about the resort’s atmosphere is how it allows you to ease in at your own pace. Lunch at Umbra is light and served family style, with a cheeky glass of cava to start. That’s all you really need, along with a bit of poolside sunshine. It’s only mid-May, but what better way to open the season?

The resort’s grounds are expansive, green and open. You can hear birds, the distant sound of waves, and little else. The view stretches out towards the hills, and as the sun sets, everything slows. No one checks their phone.

Dinner at Dalmar is calm and confident. The menu focuses on local produce—vegetables that taste of real sunshine and seafood prepared with care. There are no unnecessary garnishes or over-explanations. Just food that knows where it comes from. It is the kind of tasting menu I could return to again and again. The simplicity of presentation is where two-star Michelin Chef Benito Gómez truly shines. The sardines, in particular, have made a lasting impression.

Dalmar Restaurant, Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol

Dalmar Restaurant at Fairmont La Hacienda Hotel

The next morning is quiet and breath-focused. A well-needed yoga session awaits beside the hotel’s spa. The view is grounding rather than overwhelming, and my body and breath begin to move in time with the ocean tides. It has been a while since I’ve felt this connected to my surroundings. The Fairmont experience is all about surrendering. Everything here feels safe, as long as you lean in and trust.

The afternoon stretches into a long lounge by the pool, followed by a much-anticipated spa treatment. I’ve been craving it. The space is simple, the therapists warm. There is no performance, only genuine care.

Back at Umbra for lunch, everything feels lighter. We chat more easily now. The meal meanders with fresh bread and small plates, passed around without fuss. Then it’s time for the boat.

My transfer is unconventional. I hop into a local Mini Moke and we drive through Sotogrande, often called the Palm Springs of Spain, on our way to the yacht at the pier.

The sea is still. We drift for hours, sharing snacks and stories. There are no grand moments, just a quiet calm you don’t realise you’ve been missing until you’re immersed in it. The sun begins to set, and no one hurries to leave.

Dinner at El Faro de la Hacienda is another highlight. The pace is gentle. Dishes arrive at just the right moment. Local wine flows, and a quiet contentment fills the table. It doesn’t feel like the last night, only another good one.

Yoga at Fairmont La Hacienda Hotel

Sunday arrives softly. I wake without an alarm and wander alone to the beachfront for one final look. I reflect on the internal changes I’ve experienced, brought about by an exceptional level of external care. Friends, wine, sunshine, and the thoughtful wellness provided by Fairmont all played their part. I now believe a little more in the future.

There’s a tender feeling of being open to serendipity when you least expect it. A hope that what is meant for you will find you. And perhaps, just perhaps, a reason to romanticise your life a bit more. Who knows when your next beautiful moment might come? It could be right now.

I look out to sea, and it gazes back. I had forgotten how cleansing an empty beach can be. It is priceless. I will never take it for granted again.

Fairmont La Hacienda gave me more than a break. It gave me space—not just to rest, but to feel clearer and lighter. The food, the pace, and the care in every detail came together to create something truly rare. I arrived full of noise. I leave with nothing but peace.

by Adina Ilie

Fairmont La Hacienda is located on Calle De Faro De Punta Mala 2, 11310 SAN ROQUE, Spain. Prices start from £380. Book via https://www.fairmont.com/en/hotels/san-roque/fairmont-la-hacienda-costa-del-sol.html 

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