If you think that this a place for partygoers and expats alone, then think again, as there are plenty of jewels to be found in around the area that offer up a swanky stay for all. From Michelin awarded restaurants to festivals and fairs to great golfing and heaps of history and cultural heritage, we take a look at 10 ways in which the Costa del Sol delivers a dream holiday destination.
Bountiful beaches
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with the selection of beautiful beaches that rest along the Costa del Sol. With 161km of coastline, visitors are sure to find their favourite new hangout along the Mediterranean Sea. From the city beaches, which provide a range of amenities needed for a full and fun day and night out to the laid-back beaches with secluded coves and rugged cliffs, your seaside holiday awaits.
Easy to get around
With all of the exciting places to visit in and around the area, those hoping to take in the action from the big resort towns to the picturesque inland villages should consider travelling in style and on their own time. Visitors can hop in a car hire from Malaga Airport and enjoy the freedom to explore from the moment they land and will do so in style, of course.
Fine hotels
There nothing quite as indulgent as staying in a luxury hotel when you travel and this region boasts many an option for a luxurious stay. From the Nobu Hotel Marbella, with its seemingly endless facilities, to the oh-so stylish Hotel Claude and the historic Marbella Club Hotel, which boasts five stars, to the Anantara Villa Padierna Palace with its spa, golf and top-notch food, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Great weather
With more than 320 days of sunshine each year, you can see how the sunshine coast got its name and it’s a big part of what draws its visitors in for their holidays time and time again. Those looking to escape the heat of the cities in summer love the Costa del Sol as much as those who are travelling from colder countries in search of that guaranteed great weather for their summer break.
Charming towns, villages and resorts
Perhaps you’re seeking a lively destination that offers as much during the day as it does at night, or maybe you crave a slower pace of life with long, lazy days punctuating your holiday, the great thing about this area is that you can do a bit of both. Marbella, Malaga, Puerto Banus, Mijas, Bendalmadena, Torremolinos, Fuengirola and Estepona are some of our favourite places to seek out when staying on the Costa del Sol.
Fine food
From experiencing the best of the best at the selection of Michelin rated restaurants to enjoying casual dining that equally wows, food lovers will have a whale of a time here. Nobu Marbella, Dani Garcia, Breathe, Skina, Paco Jimenez, Sollo, Max Beach – Restaurant, Pool and Beach Club, and Restaurante Las Tablas del Rey are some of our favourite picks, but there’s nothing like wandering around and stumbling upon a great local restaurant yourself.
Stunning sights and experiences
Get your camera ready as there are an array of dazzling sights to take in here that you’ll certainly want to capture as you explore. Walk the Camino Mozarabe for an unforgettable adventure, seek out the town of Ronda and marvel at its unique location, explore the Botanical Garden of La Concepcion, capture the Pena de los Enamorados, and wander the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Torcal for amazing experiences.
Great golfing
If days spent on the golf course sounds like a dream holiday for you, then this sunny destination should certainly be on your list. Perfect your swing at an academy, stay close to the action in accommodation overlooking the courses and enjoy tournaments with your travel buddies on some of the finest golf courses in the area.
Fairs, festivals and events
It’s not all about the beaches, restaurants and nightlife here, as the Costa del Sol plays host to many fairs, festivals and events throughout the year that visitors can enjoy. Whether you’re looking to be entertained with Flamenco dancing, enjoy a musical performance, are a fan of sports, food, the theatre and more, there will be something to suit.
Heritage and history
Having your own car means that you’ll have the freedom to travel around the area and take in the range of historical sites while learning about the past, which has shaped the people of the area today. Roman ruins, Moorish castles and plenty of other sights are ready and waiting to be explored.
