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The Costa Del Sol
Probably one of the most popular destinations on the Spanish mainland the Costa del Sol extends along 300km of the Spanish Mediterranean coast from Nerja to the west coast of Cadiz. There is always something happening in the bars and clubs as well as on the streets of the Costa del Sol, never more so than at fiesta times. Festivals are the expression of the character of a culture and Mediterranean life originates from the folklore, music and traditional dress of the people of the Costa del Sol.
Open and welcoming, the Costa del Sol has preserved its most precious Andalusian treasures: a typically bright Mediterranean style of architecture, scenery from craggy peaks to golden beaches and an ancient culture influenced by many civilisations including the Phoenicians and Romans.
Whilst Malaga is the birth place of Picasso, it is also a hotbed of flamenco, fiesta and bullfighting, whilst picturesque white villages, Islamic palaces and a never-ending coastline make it an exotic and picturesque destination. Mid-August each year the city of Malaga has a week-long festival called the Feria Grande. Once the sun sets thousands dance, drink and have fun in the real, which is an open air venue filled with traditional Andalusian tents and stalls (entry is free). A similar celebration - Feria del Centro - is held from dawn until dusk in Malaga's historic centre. Wherever you venture in Spain you can not fail to notice the Spaniards' infectious zest for life.
Most travellers arrive on the Costa del Sol through Malaga airport for the towns whose names have become generally well known to most of us and include the following.
Fuengirola
Fuengirola is about an hours drive from the airport and is commonly known as the 'Heart of the Costa del Sol' thanks to its privileged position. In true Andalusian tradition Fuengirola is a place of relaxation where you can sit out under a tree lined promenade or beside the long beautiful beach. As evening falls you can banquet on gourmet delights in one the many restaurants that line the streets before the atmosphere heats up for a typical night of enjoyment and fun.
Marbella
Marbella is one of the most colourful and cosmopolitan resorts of the Costa del Sol and the choice of the rich and famous. With 28km of sandy beaches and a glittering yacht marina, it has a vast commercial centre and an Andalusian town centre with attractive whitewashed houses and tree-lined squares. Compared as Southern Spain's version of St Tropez, it is an ideal choice for those seeking a high standard of accommodation in a stylish resort and is about 90 mins from the airport.
Puerto Banus
Just west of Marbella, 1 hour 45 mins from the airport lies Puerto Banus, which is acknowledged for its wealth, fashion, glamour and parties – its highlife and nightlife. Characterised by rows of glistening luxury yachts, the port boasts a casino, commercial shopping centre, department stores, marine observatory and a multi-screen cinema. With its impressive mountain backdrop and open ocean views the setting is idyllic.
Torremolinos
The biggest and probably the most famous of the Costa del Sol resorts Torremolinos is just 30mins from the airport. The 9kms of beach are regularly packed with groups of all nationalities enjoying the sun. Whatever the time of day or night, Torremolinos is all about having fun, fun and more fun, making it a popular resort with groups and young couples.
Mijas
That enticing combination of sun, sand and sea sports is enjoyed by Mijas. The beaches at La Cala have been awarded the Blue Flag and are among the best in the province and an action-lovers paradise: jet skiing, water skiing, parasending and much more to offer. Do not miss the experience of the chiringuitos, the small open-air bars or beach restaurants, where you can enjoy an assortment of Spanish seafood eaten with a favourite holiday drink tinto verano - red wine topped up with lemonade. Mijas is just 45 minutes from the a
Whilst on the Costa del Sol here are five things to see:
- The Friday market in Arroyo de la Miel
- The marina at Benalmadena
- The Aquapark at Torremolinos
- The Old Quarter of Nerja
- The Thursday market at San Pedro airport
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