The dog enjoyed the holiday at a villa in Marbella more than the owners
Toy Poodles are known for their affectionate nature, and for one family, their dog Bruce is very much at the heart of their daily life. Travelling without him has never felt right – but finding luxurious, pet-friendly accommodation is often a challenge.
That changed recently with the discovery of Vacation Marbella’s dedicated collection of pet-friendly villas, which allow guests to bring their four-legged companions along without compromising on comfort or style. On a recent holiday, Bruce was able to join the family for the entire trip, eliminating the need for kennels and creating a far more relaxed experience.
The family opted to drive from the UK for convenience, though some airlines do offer the option for small pets to travel in-cabin – something worth considering depending on the route and destination.
The overall experience proved to be so positive that it’s one worth sharing with fellow pet owners looking for thoughtful, animal-inclusive travel options.
The choice of Villa Milka turned out to be a complete success
Travelling as a large group – two families with four adults, four children and one happy Toy Poodle – the aim was to find a villa that offered space, comfort and plenty of communal areas for both relaxation and fun. Villa Milka delivered on all fronts. From the moment the group stepped inside, there was an immediate sense of ease and welcome.
The private pool was a firm favourite with everyone, while the children were particularly taken with the games room and the ideal spot for football in the garden. With ample outdoor space for both energetic children and a lively dog to roam freely, the adults were able to unwind and enjoy their time together without worry – a rare and appreciated luxury.
Bruce, the family poodle, seemed especially delighted. His tail barely stopped wagging throughout the stay, thanks to a few dog-friendly touches that made the experience even more memorable:
- Over 1,500m² of garden space for Bruce
One of Villa Milka’s standout features was its expansive garden – more than 1,500 square metres of green space, ideal for energetic children and curious dogs alike. With a large lawn and football goals, the garden became a shared playground for both the kids and their four-legged companion. The space was so generous that daily dog walks were almost unnecessary. - A first swim in the heated pool
For Bruce, who had always been hesitant around water and sensitive to cold, the villa’s large heated pool offered a turning point. Encouraged by the presence of the whole group and the comforting warmth of the water, he gradually overcame his apprehension and took his first proper swim. From that moment on, he was unstoppable – happily alternating between racing across the garden and paddling in the pool, much to everyone’s delight. - Social time on the terrace
Marbella offers several designated dog parks and dog-friendly beaches, particularly outside the peak summer months. After exploring these with Bruce and meeting other pet owners, the group invited some new friends and their dogs over to Villa Milka. Thanks to the spacious, shaded terrace and secure garden, it became a relaxed social afternoon for adults, children and dogs alike. - Restful nights for all
Villa Milka provided a quiet and restful atmosphere, essential for recharging after busy days. Bruce settled in comfortably, especially with his familiar dog bed brought from home. In the evenings, while the adults dined out, he was content to rest peacefully in familiar surroundings – a reassuring detail that made the experience seamless for the whole group.
Marbella is a pet friendly city
Marbella has a well-earned reputation for being welcoming to both pets and families, making it an ideal destination for travellers who prefer not to leave their animals behind. With its outdoor lifestyle and mild climate, the city offers countless opportunities to include dogs in day-to-day activities, particularly at lunchtime and during the day. In many cafés and restaurants, dogs are greeted with a bowl of water even before orders are placed – a small but thoughtful gesture that reflects the city’s easygoing approach to pet ownership.
At Rosas Café, pets are more than welcome – they’re celebrated. The café features a dedicated dog menu, allowing canine companions to enjoy their own specially prepared dish while their owners relax in a stylish, photogenic setting. Luuma Beach follows a similar ethos, offering a dog menu with a charitable twist: each dog-friendly meal ordered helps support the Triple A animal shelter.
Beyond dining, Marbella invites exploration. The seafront promenade is perfect for relaxed walks with pets, and the city is dotted with green spaces, parks and play areas for children and dogs alike. For the more adventurous, Onou Experiences offers guided countryside hikes led by a dog-loving guide – a great way to explore nature, meet like-minded travellers and ensure happy, well-exercised pets.
Villa Milka’s pet policy
Villa Milka welcomes pets weighing up to 10kg, with a modest additional charge of €10 per day to cover enhanced cleaning – a small price for the convenience and comfort of travelling with a beloved companion.
The team at Vacation Marbella went above and beyond to ensure both Bruce and the rest of the family felt at home, contributing to a holiday that was as seamless as it was memorable.
The editorial unit
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