The Costa del Sol is a 161 km. stretch of coastline that spans from Nerja (in the east) to Sotogrande (in the west).
With 325 days of sunshine and a temperate climate year-round, this area offers something for everyone, with beautiful beaches, picturesque towns, nearly 60 golf courses, cosmopolitan marinas, chic shops and fine dining.
Here is a list of some of the things to see during your stay on the Costa del Sol:
- Málaga – the capital of the province, this port city is a bustling commercial and residential center. Visit the Alcazaba (10th C. Moorish palace and Archaeological Museum), Gibralfaro (Moorish castle, now a parador), Cathedral (16th C. Renaissance cathedral), and the Picasso House-Museum (birthplace of Pablo Picasso). For more information, click here and click here
- Marbella – the “jewel” of the Costa del Sol, Marbella has upscale boutiques and restaurants, a charming old quarter, and the Puerto Banús marina, which attracts an international crowd. For more information, click here
- Mijas – a picturesque village in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean, white-washed houses, and charming squares
- Fuengirola – offers wide sandy beaches, many shops and a popular flea market on Tuesdays
- Ronda – one of the oldest towns in Spain, Ronda’s location on the edge of a 500-foot gorge makes it dramatic and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Visit the 18th C. Puente Nuevo, the 17th C. Plaza de Toros (one of the oldest bullrings in Spain) and museum, and Santa María la Mayor (Renaissance church)
- Grazalema – 31 kms. from Ronda, Grazalema is the prettiest of the pueblos blancos (white villages)
- Arcos de la Frontera – 31 kms. east of Jerez, this lovely white village is perched on a cliff overlooking the Guadalete valley
Photo credit: © Christopher Pappas · All rights reserved.
As usual, thanks for reading. Please visit International Lodging Corporation at our home page.
If you are looking for an itinerary that will allow you to satisfy both your interest in cultural activities and your desire for some fun in the sun, then consider combining a visit to Madrid with the Costa del Sol.
The Museo del Grabado is a contemporary art museum that showcases a fine collection of engravings and graphic art. It is located in the old section of Marbella, and is housed in a restored 16th C. building that was formerly the Hospital Bazán.