The mountains or the beach? This is the question all holidaymakers ask themselves. As if they were caught in the horns of a dilemma. In Málaga Province and the Costa del Sol, you can have it both ways. No need to travel far. There are hinterland villages with coastal areas a pebble’s throw away: white, cosy, traditional – and with a view of the sea.
In just a few strides, you can go from a steep cobbled street with flower pots hanging from the walls to a waterfront promenade brimming with beach bars, life and laughter. Here we go over five of these villages where the mountains and the sea shake hands.
Torrox
Torrox is no simple town. It has been scientifically proven to have the best weather in Europe. Only 4km from the historic district – very popular with British and German tourists – lies Torrox Costa, a small fishing village turned into entertainment area. It is ideal if you are looking for the peace of the countryside without having to relinquish holiday fun on the beach.
Algarrobo
Algarrobo has a recently developed coastal area. Originally a hinterland village, it sprawled along the river Algarrobo and reached the sea. Algarrobo Costa features the traditional attractions of a holiday resort: beachfront hotels, a sea promenade, and so on. La Mezquitilla, also in this municipality, is a converted fishing village where there are important archaeological sites.
Mijas
The majestic Sierra de Mijas rises in Southern Europe to plunge into the Mediterranean. At the foot of the sierras stands the huge municipality of Mijas. The administrative centre lies in Mijas Pueblo, a lovely white village giving way to other population centres – La Cala, El Chaparral – as the sierras become less sharp. Come to Mijas for a successful holiday. There are so many things to do here!
Benalmádena
A Costa del Sol classic, Benalmádena is one of those places that have helped build a leading tourist destination out of Málaga. It contains three different population centres: Benalmádena Pueblo, for a pure hinterland experience; Arroyo de la Miel, for a blend of countryside and beach; and Benalmádena Costa, for a full beach holiday. Entertainment and leisure services include an amusement park, two aquariums, a cable car and one of the largest marinas in Andalusia.
Casares and Manilva
The two last municipalities on our tour are close to the border with Cádiz. Casares, the birthplace of Blas Infante, is a legendary village perched on the hills. This is why it is usually described as ‘the hanging village’. The coastal strip is not fully developed, but visitors interested in the origins of the ‘Andalusian fatherland’ could still come and turn to the neighbouring village of Manilva for a splash. There is a beach resort, San Luis de Sabinillas, not far away. In these municipalities, the full holiday experience that only the Costa del Sol can offer is at your reach.
