Nestled in the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park, Lake Istán offers a serene mountain escape just minutes from Marbella, blending pristine nature with easy coastal access for luxury living. Location and Accessibility: Lake Istán, a man-made reservoir formed by a dam on the Rio Verde in 1972, spans about 7.8 square kilometers with depths up to 45 meters, providing essential water to Marbella and the broader Costa del Sol. The area lies northeast of Puerto Banús, roughly 10 minutes’ drive from Marbella’s Golden Mile via the A-7176 road, making it an ideal retreat while remaining connected to urban amenities and the A-7 motorway. Its position at the base of La Concha mountain ensures a mild climate with big skies and unspoiled scenery, despite proximity to the sea. Natural Beauty and Activities: Surrounded by the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the lake boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean on clear days, teeming with wildlife like deer, goats, otters, birds, and fish such as trout and catfish. Popular pursuits include family-friendly hikes like the 6km Lake Istán Trail, which features viaducts, picnic spots on a peninsula, and sightings of eagles and mountain goats, taking about 1.5 hours. Additional adventures encompass canoeing, fishing, mountain biking on extensive trails, and visits to natural pools and waterfalls, best enjoyed in mornings or evenings to avoid summer heat. Village Charm and Lifestyle: The nearby village of Istán, a historic Moorish whitewashed pueblo with roots in the 15th century, features crystal-clear springs, aqueducts, and a population of around 1,400, offering a peaceful contrast to coastal bustle. Key sites include the El Chorro fountain, Mirador Tajo Banderas for vistas, the 17th-century Iglesia San Miguel Arcángel, and the Water Interpretation Center highlighting local mills and hydrology. Residents enjoy tapas at small bars, community events like the Gastronomic Fair and Holy Week’s El Paso reenactment, plus facilities such as a municipal sports center with pools, tennis, and gyms. Real Estate Highlights: Properties around Lake Istán cater to luxury buyers seeking privacy, with options ranging from modern apartments in gated communities like Almazara Hills and Sierra Blanca Country Club to spacious villas and townhouses offering lake, sea, and mountain views. Developments emphasize contemporary design in tranquil settings, appealing to those desiring nature-integrated living just 10 minutes from Marbella’s beaches and golf courses.