If you are planning a trip to the Costa del Sol in sunny Spain this year, you are no doubt eagerly anticipating the wondrous weather, gleaming warm waters and the blissful feel of sand between your toes to rid you of any woes. The coastline is unarguably fantastic, but there’s also plenty more on offer so ensure a truly royal time and enjoy some of these jewels of the Costa del Sol during your trip…
Dolphin & Whale Watching
Take to the seas, or rather the Strait of Gibraltar on an organised boat trip and enjoy the fantastic dolphin and whale watching that the area is well known for. At just 13 miles wide, the inquisitive whales and dolphins frolic happily in the waters. The trips usually last for around 2 hours and you can usually spot up to 7 different species!
Malaga & Picasso Museum
For many, Malaga is simply a stop gap for the surrounding resorts, but a large, bustling city with a rich history, it’s worth noting that many enjoyable days can be spent unearthing its treasures. As the birthplace of Picasso, one of the greatest attractions is the Picasso museum. Housed within a restored 16th century mansion, the collection of Picasso’s work in addition to changing exhibitions is perfectly executed. Just around the corner at Plaza de la Merced you will find his birthplace and home.
Marbella Old Town
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Marbella proves to be one of the area’s most popular towns; for the most part modern and certainly a cosmopolitan beach resort. Nestled on the eastern edge of the town centre however lies the Old Town; the heart of Marbella. A maze of well-kept flint cobbled streets flanked by white washed houses and line ups of orange trees, an afternoon wandering around will definitely deliver a taste of traditional Spain. Galleries, gift shops, and boutique shops are well complimented by the cafés and tapas bars, so your afternoon is all set.
The Axarquia
Escape the sea and sand for a while and take in the breathtaking sights of the Axarquia. Partake in a spot of wine tasting and get stuck in with a hike through the rugged and mountainous Almijara Natural Park.
Sotogrande Marina
Many of the resorts along the Costa del Sol have marinas filled with expensive, envy inspiring yachts and boats but Sotogrande Marina is perhaps the best example and thought to be the most upmarket in this area. Although distinctly cosmopolitan, it still has a friendly village feel to it. Treat yourself to lunch with a glass of wine and enjoy a spot of people watching.
Frigiliana
A fantastic example of a traditional Spanish village, a visit to Frigiliana is a real treat for those looking to combine the bustling and modern coastal resorts with a sense of real Spain and its just 10 minutes inland. Meander around the cobbled streets and ancient buildings and pay the local museum a visit for some added culture.
Nerja Caves
Although only discovered around 50 years ago, the caves contain paintings of snakes, turtles and shellfish dating back 15,000 years and also house the world’s largest stalagmites and stalactites. The caves of Nerja are the one of the most popular attractions along the Costa del Sol and it’s quite easy to see why; a visit here will be curious and unique.
These are a just handful of the gems you can expect to discover during a trip to the Costa del Sol; rest assured there’s plenty more! What are your favourite places to visit here?
