Local Information about the Costa del Sol and Andalucia

The Spanish region of Andalucia is home to one of the most amazing collection of historic towns and cities anywhere in the world. Seville, Granada, Ronda, Malaga, Jerez, Cadiz and Cordoba spread out across the Andalusian landscape offering a historical past to rival any. Andalucia has more than eight hundred kilometres of Atlantic and Mediterranean coastline, and lots of interesting places to visit for those who want to explore "real" Spain with its culture, history and traditions. It has a very diverse landscape, from the beaches on the coast to the fertile valleys and the mountains of the Sierras. Folklore is an important part of the Andalucian culture and throughout the year traditional celebrations are held. Flamenco dance and music originated here and competitions are held regularly.

The Costa del Sol is perhaps the most known area of Andalucia, where you can enjoy glorious beaches, a superb range of sporting activities, including golf, and excellent Spanish cuisine with a wide choice of evening entertainment. Marbella has a wealth of high-class shops and restaurants, while Puerto Banus is a delightful marina where you can stroll along the harbour, enjoying the yachting atmosphere and the bustling activity of the smart bars, shops and fish restaurants.

The historic cities and towns of Granada, Cordoba, Seville and Ronda are within easy reach of the Costa del Sol. Granada is only about a two hour drive inland from the Costa del Sol and is well worth visiting for its beautiful Moorish buildings as well as being the home of the famous Alhambra palace, one of the most remarkable buildings ever constructed. Not far north from Marbella is the historic town of Ronda, famous for the ravine that cuts the town in half, and for being the birthplace of bullfighting. The Ronda bullring is one of the oldest in Spain.

The character of Andalucia has been strongly marked by its distinctive white houses, which make a striking impression as you travel through the countryside. The pueblos blancos or white villages of Mijas, Gaucin and Frigiliana are easily accessible by car from the coast and are delightful villages with narrow streets and pretty squares. The region of mountain villages known as Las Alpujarras lies on the southern flanks of the Sierra Nevada with breathtaking valleys and gorges which run down towards the Mediterranean coast.

Alhaurin El Grande

Alhaurin el Grande is 28 KM from Malagá and 240 metres above sea level. It is situated between the river Fahala, and the stream of Blas Gonzalez. Alhaurin el Grande is said to be one of the most picturesque towns in the Guadalhorce valley. And it is positioned only 18 KM from Fuengirola Beach. Alhaurin el Grande has fantastic views of the mountains and an interesting history. With two golf courses in close proximity, it is very popular with the golfers among us.

Alora and El chorro

Alora is at the top of the Guadalhorce valley, about 40 KM from Malagá, There is a local train that runs frequently to the city centre. The train station is located down in the valley, next to the river. The main area of town, lies on top of a hill, with the church and cemetery at the very top. The town is shrouded in breath-taking views, whichever way you turn. Approximately 14 KM north of the town are the magnificent man-made lakes of “as embalsas Del Guadalhorce”. This national park has ample opportunity for camping and BBQ’s. Sequences of the famous Von Ryans Film “Express” were shot here.

Málaga

Málag is the capital city of the Costa del sol. Frequently overlooked by the holiday-makers that converge on the costa del sol, Malagá is a wide ranging mix of old and new. Despite its proximity to Benalmadena and Torremolinos, which have their distinctly English influence, Malagá has remained a Very Spanish city. Like many large cities, Malagá can be somewhat of a surprise. When seen coming either to or fro either on the train or by air, it appears that Malagá is made up of high rise apartments, small retail outlets and industrial estates. It is only when you travel into Malagá by foot, tour bus, or horse drawn cart, that you truly appreciate the Outstanding manner of the architecture and historical buildings of this beautiful city.

Mijas

Mijas is a picturesque postcard town, the excellent climate through the year, and the quality f the sea water makes it an ideal destination for those who want which lets them coast, without having them miss out on the beauty of the Andulucian mountains.

Coín

Coín is set in the fertile valley of the “Rio Grande” roughly 22 KM inland from Marbella, with a history dating back long before the Roman conquest. The costal mountains meet the Guadalhorce valley amid the cork oak and the pinewoods of Alpujata de Coín. According to archaeologists, people have been living there since the 1st BC. There are many foreign residents here, which take advantage of the links to the coast whilst enjoying its inland characteristics.