| | The extensive and varied coastlines of the Costa del Sol have many diverse offerings, with numerous long sandy beaches, half hidden coves dotted amongst cliffs, leisure marinas and fishing grounds. It has its own microclimate being protected from the cold northerly winds by the mountain ranges close to the coast and benefits from a mild climate with gentle sea breezes and low rainfall.
The vegetation has a subtropical characteristic with oranges, lemons and olives growing in abundance. Away from the coast the scenery is largely mountainous and dotted with traditional white Spanish villages, valleys and hillsides covered with orchards and pine forests creating a natural habitat for endangered wildlife and supplying spectacular and breathtaking views. With the many developments in recent years the Costa del Sol has gained an alternative name of Costa del Golf, due to the large number of first class golf facilities and has proved a must for golfers from all walks. Lastly and most importantly, the Costa Del Sol is acclaimed for its way of life, with plenty of small bars to relax in, superb food, wonderful people and its ferias or fairs. Every town and village has at least one feria in celebration of its patron saint. These usually last a week and are an excuse for residents and visitors alike to enjoy themselves from dusk to dawn.
Málaga, the fifth largest Spanish city is situated at the heart of the Costa del Sol and has been influenced over the centuries by the many different cultures which have populated it. Founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century, before becoming a Roman settlement and subsequently being conquered by the Moors and re-conquered by the Christians in 1487. With such a diverse and varied history it is no surprise that the city contains an abundance of interesting features including magnificent gardens, a magical cathedral, the Alcazaba (an 11th century Moorish castle) and numerous museums and galleries. Celebrating Its is position as the birthplace of Picasso his childhood home has now been converted into a museum and the main airport terminal is also named in honour of Malaga’s favourite son. Along the Costa del Sol you will find that each of the town’s has evolved with its individual character retaining elements of its history.
Torremolinos, birthplace of the Costa del Sol’s tourist industry is the first of the resorts heading west from Malaga, many people still today associate it with its reputation of yesteryear. Whilst retaining its discos and high rise apartments and hotels, the old fisherman’s quarter has been developed into an area of boutique shops and restaurants, whilst the main town area has recently undergone a facelift. The two main beaches, Bajondillo and La Carihuela, are renowned for their beauty.
Heading further west you will arrive in Benalmadena Costa, a modern resort that incorporates the older towns of Arroyo de la Miel and Benalmadena Pueblo. The reosrt provides every facility for tourists, including one of the finest pleasure ports on the Mediterranean, a modern seaside area and the amazing Paque Paloma with its expansive green areas, lakes, waterfalls and wildlife. To sample the traditional side of the town pay a visit to Benalmadena Pueblo, a typical white Spanish village which still retains its traditional character.
Further along the coast is Fuengirola, the smallest of the resorts by area the town boasts the longest sea front promenade on the costa. The old town centre with all its attractions has been preserved and is an area buzzing with life, with bars and restaurants from every corner of the globe. Priding itself on catering for everyone’s needs you will find wide and varied attractions, from the water park, to the world acclaimed zoo and traditional elements such as the bull ring and ancient castle.
Mijas perched midway up the Sierra de Mijas mountain in the midst of pine forests is a traditional white Spanish village boasting amazing views out over the Fuengirola bay area. It is famed for its donkey taxis and artist colonies. The town has spread its wings down to the coast where it is known as Mijas Costa, encomapsing the residential resort areas of La Cala de Mijas, Riviera del Sol and Calahonda. Mijas Costa also incorporates the golf areas of Mijas Golf, the acclaimed La Cala Golf and Mirfalores Golf where you will find numerous challenging professional courses.
Marbella, the international playground of the rich and famous, has never been a little fishing port but has always been a thriving trading town. Along with Puerto Banus and Estepona, further to the west, Marbella has always been successful at attracting upmarket guests to its exclusive developments, luxury hotels and five star shopping areas.
To the east of Malaga you will find the coast is less well developed with the main resort town being Nerja. This is a small town built around the famous Balcon de Europa where the mountains meet the sea. Nerja is famed for its protected microclimate, clear air, caves and magnificent views over the sea. A series of musical concerts and ballets, with top artistes are held in the caves every year.
Heading inland you will find small white villages in abundance, with narrow winding streets, each has its own quality and history. There are several areas of incredible natural beauty such as El Parque de los Alcornocales, a forest area populated with cork oaks and chestnuts and El Torcal, a nature reserve carved in the rock in ancient times. The two inland towns of Ronda and Antequera each have something special to offer visitors. Ronda is a particular favourite, with its spectacular gorge, ancient bullring and magnificent mansions.
|
|
| | |