Literally translating to ‘sun coast’, Spain’s Costa del Sol is revered for its stretches of beautiful beaches, the warm Mediterranean weather and a relaxed ambience that embodies the destination, among many more delights.
Travellers have voyaged here for years to soak up the atmosphere, whether heading to the charming old towns, lively beach resorts, or inland national parks, and there are plenty of places to see and explore in the region, from the city of Málaga to the towns of Estepona, Mijas, Benalmadena, Marbella and its Puerto Banús, and more.
With the sea to the south and the Cordillera Penibética mountain range to the north, visitors can expect to experience a range of landscapes when out exploring, whether it’s the bays, dunes, beaches, estuaries and cliffs of the coastline or the imposing mountains with their hiking trails, panoramic views, and natural parks.
Making sure you can get around with ease is important so that you can take in all of the sights this area has to offer. When your flight lands, head straight for the car hire at Málaga Airport and enjoy the freedom to roam at your own pace from the moment you arrive. What’s more you can do all of your local travelling and exploring in comfort and style with a pick of luxurious vehicles to transport you from one great location to another.
Without further ado, we take a look at some of the best places to stay, eat and explore when visiting the famed Costa del Sol.
What to do
From days lounging at the beaches to exploring local ports and towns, exhilarating water sports and hiking the mountain trails to partying at the array of beach clubs, there is so much see and do on the Costa del Sol, that you’ll be aching to come back for more.
Marbella is known for its great food, bountiful beaches, great golfing opportunities, and upscale nightlife, while its historic quarter is a draw for many. Check out the luxury yachts docked up at the Puerto Banús marina and explore the high-end shopping malls, bars and restaurants – an area that attracts millions of visitors each year.
Málaga holds a lot of history, from the grand cathedral to Roman theatre ruins and Moorish palaces to the Picasso Museum, which celebrates the renowned artist who was born there. Beaches, art museums, botanical gardens and more, in Málaga you’ll find a great mix of things to see and do.
Where to stay
You will want to make sure that you have a luxurious place to relax and lay your head when your days exploring and evenings spent dining and socialising are done. There are a great selection of luxury villas in and around the area, perfect for spending days lazing by the pool and relaxing to your own schedule, and they make for a great base when travelling with a group, whether that’s friends or extended family members.
When you want to be pampered and have everything readily available for you – from spa treatments to great food and room service, it has to be a luxurious hotel, and the Costa del Sol is brimming with great options. The historic five-star Marbella Club Hotel is a top pick and boasts a seafront Thalasso spa and a popular beach club, while the Tuscan-style palace hotel, Anantara Villa Padierna Palace is a lavish offering with golf, spa and great food available. The boutique Hotel Claude is a stylish affair; showy Nobu Hotel Marbella impressive with its range of services; and Finca Cortesin Hotel Golf and Spa is an elegant retreat.
Where to dine
One of the delights for many when they travel is to take in the local culture and more specifically, the food when exploring a new place, and Mediterranean fare, and more specifically Spanish food, is favoured among many. Using fresh seafood, local pork and other meats, cheeses, vegetables, fruits and spices, and serving in a variety of ways – tapas being a favourite to try a number of delectable dishes – Spanish food is popular for good reason.
When travelling to the Costa del Sol, you’ll want to book into some really special restaurants that will guarantee great food, wines and service, with the experience leaving you with many positive memories to take away with you.
In Marbella you’ll find many Michelin rated restaurants and local dining hot spots alike that will impress. Head to Dani Garcia for creative dining, Nobu Marbella for the famed Japanese cuisine, Breathe with its lively atmosphere, traditional Paco Jimenez, steakhouse Vovem Paseo Maritimo, or Skina for its seasonal fare and seafood delights.
Outside of Marbella, there’s a range of great spots to visit including the beachside ANGUS Torrequebrada in Benalmadena; fine dining seafood restaurant, Sollo; Max Beach – Restaurant, Pool and Beach Club for casual dining in a great spot; and Restaurante Las Tablas del Rey in Fuengirola.
