Costa del Sol Blog

Where is the Costa del Sol located?

The Costa del Sol is the name for the 300-kilometer-long coastal area that stretches from the Gibraltar Peninsula to the resort town of Almeria. 

It is part of the Andalusia region. 

As the name suggests, it primarily covers the coastal area, but a number of Pardalis Estates’ recommendations are located a bit inland and do not officially belong to the Costa del Sol, yet they are so impressive that the company still wants to mention them!

Costa del Sol Weather

This region can be visited all year round, but it’s important to note that it can be very busy during the summer. Therefore, Pardalis Estates recommends visiting in May/early June or September/early October, when the weather on the Costa is delightful and it’s slightly less crowded.

Costa del Sol: 7 Attractions & Tips

Ronda

From Marbella, a day trip to Ronda is highly recommended. Driving north for an hour via the A-397 mountain road takes you to this city. 

Park your car just outside the center and proceed on foot.

Ronda is famous for the Tajo de Ronda gorge that splits the city in two and the accompanying Puente Nuevo. The combination of these two is truly impressive!

The best view of the entire scene is from the valley, which requires sturdy walking shoes due to a steep descent followed by a climb. 

A great photo can also be taken from one of the various Miradors (viewpoints) on the sides of the bridge. Inside the bridge, there is a museum about the history of the gorge and bridge.

From the bridge, head to the Arabic/Moorish baths, which have been incredibly well-preserved. 

Dating back to the 13th century when the city was under Moorish control, the diversity of architectural styles in the city reflects its history of domination by various tribes, religions, and cultures.

Also, visit the Mirador de Aldehuela and Balcón del Coño for panoramic views of the surroundings around Ronda. 

Finish your walking tour at Puerta Grande for a fulfilling and delicious Paella.

Near Ronda is another stunning natural monument: Cueva del Gato (the Cat’s Cave). Around the caves, there are beautiful spots for swimming (though quite cold) in crystal-clear water. Do not enter the cave complex without experience.

Málaga

Málaga, the largest city on the Costa del Sol, is likely where visitors arrive by plane. The city center is easily navigable on foot, with several noteworthy attractions.

Pardalis Estates highlights the climb to Gibralfaro Castle. 

The castle, situated at an elevation of 130 meters, is accessible via steep paths, reaching the top in about 20 to 30 minutes. The ascent rewards with a magnificent view over Málaga, the bullfighting arena La Malagueta, and the Costa del Sol coastline.

The castle itself, along with a small museum detailing its history and that of Málaga, is worth exploring.

Caminito del Rey

The Caminito del Rey, or the King’s Path, an hour’s drive north of Malaga, was established in 1905 and was off-limits for years due to danger. 

After extensive restoration work, it reopened to the public in 2015.

Situated about 100 meters above the gorge, the path offers stunning views of rock formations and cliffs. The path spans nearly 8 kilometers, with tickets available online for 10 euros per person.

Gibraltar

Gibraltar stands out as a unique area on the Costa del Sol because it belongs to the United Kingdom, not Spain. 

With a population of just 30,000, it is mostly comprised of a massive rock formation.

Crossing from Spain into Gibraltar on foot is advised to avoid long waits. 

Once across, visitors can opt for a bus tour, which we find to be the ideal way to explore Gibraltar’s highlights, including the Great Siege Tunnels, Saint Michael’s Cave, and The Rock, home to a semi-tame colony of Barbary macaques. 

The tour concludes in the center, where tax-free shopping is an option. Return to the border via the unique experience of walking across the runway.

White Villages (Pueblos Blancos)

The “white villages” are one of Andalusia’s most famous features, with several located on the Costa del Sol. 

Pardalis Estates recommends spending an afternoon wandering through a few of these villages, highlighting Casares, Mijas, and Frigiliana as must-visits for their panoramic views, hand-painted blue flower pots, and historical charm, respectively. 

Frigiliana, in particular, has been named the “most beautiful village in Southern Spain” multiple times.

Top Dining Locations on the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol, synonymous with excellent food, offers two must-try options: fresh fish and tapas. 

For tapas in Marbella, Arco Tapas Bar is the perfect place to end your day. 

The Spanish saying “barriga llena, corazón contento” (“a full belly makes a happy heart”) truly applies here.

Enjoying The Beach House

While the Costa del Sol offers much more than just beach relaxation, spending time at the beach is still a delightful option. 

Pardalis Estates particularly recommends The Beach House for its serene location away from Marbella, on Playa Real Zaragoza, and its variety of traditional Spanish and international dishes, as well as excellent cocktails, in a relaxed atmosphere.