‘Marbs’ is the most popular hen party destination for British brides-to-be

Brides-to-be have a reputation – and an excuse – for acting selfishly. As the biggest day of their lives looms into view, finer details become crises; minor hiccups seismic events that could threaten to derail all of humanity, and mere flower arrangement decisions adopt the importance of a national referendum…But it seems that at least one aspect of the pre-wedding melee is easily squared away: the hen party. According to a recent survey by hen and stag party website Red7, Spain tops the list of destinations for British hens, claiming the top three hotspots.

Marbella is the choicest choice of all, followed by Majorca and Barcelona. British men, on the other hand, are swayed by the delights of Riga, Amsterdam and Prague, eschewing the sun and sophistication of Spain for the more earthly pleasures of central and eastern Europe when on their stag.

Few who live on the Costa del Sol will be surprised by these results. Marbella has long been seen as a great option for hen and stag parties thanks to the masses of choice the region can offer.

Hens in search of a relaxing few days on the beach, a pampering weekend at a luxurious spa, or a quiet time enjoying excellent food in fancy restaurants are simply spoilt for choice in Marbella.

Equally, if they are after a weekend of adventure, then the hills around the resort offer horse riding, paintballing, go-karting and a whole host of other mildly adrenaline-fuelled pursuits.

And, of course, Marbella is a great location for swanky nightclubs, cocktail lounges, friendly bars and cool pubs, allowing the hen and her entourage to let their hair down in style.

Affordable and regular flights between Málaga airport and most corners of the UK make it extremely easy to get to southern Spain all year-round, while once there the choice of accommodation is unsurpassed: hotels, apartments, posh villas or even hostels are all available, with styles to suit all tastes and prices to suit all budgets.

“Many brides- and grooms-to-be travel a considerable distance for their perfect hen or stag do,” said Red7’s Viki Sanders. “In the search for the perfect send-off, hens and stags are now prepared to travel farther afield than England, with Spain an obvious top choice.”

Southern Spain’s favourable climate makes Marbella a great option throughout the year, and while flight and accommodation prices increase in the height of summer, hen parties that plan ahead can secure themselves a great deal.