The Caves of Nerja were undiscovered until in 1959 when a group of local boys came across the narrow entrance into the limestone caverns while chasing bats. Once rediscovered the Caves soon became one of Spain’s important and popular treasures.
The town of Nerja lies approximately 30 miles from Malaga and the Caves of Nerja are located just two miles from the town itself. The caverns contain numerous archaeological treasures such as spectacular wall paintings from the Palaeolithic and post-Palaeolithic periods. Skeletal remains and artefacts found suggest the caverns were inhabited from approximately 25,000 B.C. until the Bronze Age. The rocky formation of crystalline dolomites date back over 250,000 years, and are thought to be some of the oldest deposits of the culture in Southern Spain.

Although some sections of the cave complex are closed to public viewing due to safety concerns and for preservation, you can walk through the smooth, polished steps and paths deep into the darkness of the caverns and witness the stunningly beautiful back-lit rock formations. With atmosphere music playing in the background and the high ceilings almost gives the sensation of being in an underground cathedral.
The cavern houses eight rooms including the Hall of the Cataclysm, which the Guinness World Book of Records claims is the worlds’ largest stalactite column measuring 49 metres high and 18 metres in diameter. This has been formed by an estimated 1,000 billion drops of water.

Close to the Hall of the Cataclysm is the Room of the Waterfall which forms a natural theatre. In this room there is a stage and seating for 600 people. On May 15th which is the day of the patron saint San Isidro, a collection of floats follows the statue of the Virgin on her journey to the caves. This is followed by a huge festival with live music, flamenco dancing, drink and fun. During the summer months the theatre hosts several festivals of classical and alternative music in this beautiful atmospheric setting. Even during the winter season processions such as the arrival of the Three Kings and a week-long carnival feature here.

The town of Nerja itself is well known for its spectacular Balcon de Europa, which is a wonderful promenade alongside a towering cliff, once the site of a Moorish castle with stunning views out to sea.
Nerja is flanked by the Sierra Almijara mountain range and its whitewashed homes with their Moorish style border the narrow winding streets below. There are several stone walkways that twist and wind their way down to the beaches below.
The beaches here are smaller than the larger resorts along the Costa del Sol and are much quieter for those that prefer a more tranquil holiday. The golden sandy beaches are stunning with the dramatic cliffs as the backdrop, cooling sea breezes and secluded coves, small beach bars and comfortable sun beds make for a relaxing day building up a tan or cooling in the sea.

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The Costa del Sol is blessed with sunny days throughout the year and finding things to do is not limited to the summer months alone. In fact many tour operators, travel agencies, and low cost flight companies offer excellent reduced flight and accommodation packages between October and March. The same applies for low cost winter cruises from Malaga port sailing around the Mediterranean Sea.

Almost all the hotels along the coast remain open throughout the year, as do many rural houses and apartments in Malaga. Many of the establishments even organize activities, entertainment programs, and excursions for their winter visitors.

One of the most popular activities during the winter months on the Costa del Sol is golf. There are an abundance of first class courses all along the coast.

Other outdoor activities not restricted to the summer months are sailing and fishing. Spring and autumn is also an excellent time to explore the inland and mountainous regions when the temperatures are cooler. There are 5 natural parks in the area, ideal for hiking, climbing and horse riding.

In some of the major tourist resorts along the Costa del Sol there are some excellent sports centers with indoor swimming pools and gymnasiums. The municipal sport center in Benalmadena has an indoor ice rink of 900m2 open during the winter months.

Christmas time in Malaga is quite magical with the streets adorned with festive lights, Christmas floral displays and the aromas of roasted chestnuts and roasting potatoes. A spectacle not to be missed is the Three Kings parade through the streets of Malaga on the 5^th of January.

Another option, particularly on a rare wet day, is a trip to Plaza Mayor Commercial and LeisureCenter which is close to Malaga airport and easily accessible with the suburban train. Here, apart from a multitude of shops there are restaurants, bars, bowling, cinema, a gym with heated pool, nightclubs, and a children’s corner.

Leaving Malaga, there are an abundance of other activities and places worth visiting along the Costa del Sol. There are several theme parks, Tivoli amusement park, Sea Life and Selwo Marina all in Benalmadena, the CrocodilePark in Torremolinos, The Bio Park zoo in Fuengirola and the SelwoAdventurePark in Estepona. Traveling inland and about an hours drive from Malaga to Antequera there is the LoboPark housing varieties of wolves in a semi wild habitat.

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The LoboPark (Lobo meaning wolf) is situated just outside the town of Antequerra which is approximately 47kms north of Malaga. This wildlife sanctuary is unusual and very different from other typical animal parks. The parks’ residents are various different breeds of wolves. The founder of the park is Daniel Weigend has dedicated his life to studying and understanding wolves in their natural habitat without them becoming domesticated by human contact.

LoboPark is surrounded by the stunning Andalucian countryside with the El Torcal mountain range forming the backdrop and fields and olive groves on all sides. The park offers visitors the opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close but still in their natural surroundings with the daily guided tours by wolf experts.

During the tour there will be explanations about the nature of the wolves and the complex structures within the packs. One of the highlights of the tour is the feeding of the wolves and of course the beautiful wolf pups.

From May to October the LoboPark holds a special “Howling Night” over the weekends. This event is held in the evening when it is much cooler and the animals are more active. The evening begins with a barbeque in the amazing surroundings followed by a tour into the night and into the world of the wolves. When Daniel enters the wolf enclosure you will witness the amazing friendship he has established with them as he begins to howl and suddenly the air is filled with the sound of howling wolf packs resounding from the peaks of every hill.

There is more to Lobo Park than just wolves here you will be able to understand and be educated by learning from nature about these amazing animals which we can relate to the domesticated animals we are all familiar with, dogs. To be able to understand dogs we need to look at the behavior of their ancestors.

Within the park there is also the chance to see other animals in the school farm. Here children can learn how to take care of Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs, Iberian pigs, geese, goats, and hens. There are also horses, dogs, peacocks and foxes. You can enjoy the stunning views from the terrace of the cafeteria while you have a drink or snack.

The cost of the guided wolf routes is 8.50 € for adults, children (3-12yrs) 5.50€. Farm school tickets 1.50€.

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Most of us at some point in our lives have seen dolphins performing in man-made pools jumping and performing tricks but how much more rewarding and natural it is to watch them swimming freely in their natural habitat.

The Costa del Sol can offer visitors numerous common dolphin sights a few miles off shore where we can observe pods of dolphins along the coast. Trips can be taken from numerous locations along the coast where, from a respectful distance we can observe Mediterranean dolphins and porpoises frolicking in the waves.

These wonderful graceful and intelligent creatures can be seen in small numbers or large pods as they swim, play, and feed in the warm waters of the Mediterranean not far from the coast.

There are numerous reputable operators offering dolphin watching excursions from Puerto Marina in Benalmadena in both sailing and motor boats. The marina is also home to some excellent restaurants, bars, disco pubs and shops all bordering the stunning marina.

A short distance further along the coast is Fuengirola marina and although smaller, and not as beautiful as Benalmadena, there are still several companies offering dolphin trips and an inexpensive ferry service travels between Fuengirola and Benalmadena numerous times each day so trips can be booked from either.

Dolphin trips can also be booked from the small but beautiful marina at Cabopino which is a short distance from Marbella.

The marinas of Marbella, Estepona, and Duquesa offer numerous boat excursions and although they may not be specialist dolphin trips, there is every chance of witnessing pods of dolphins off the coast in these areas.

Gibraltar, although not part of the Costa del Sol is a popular destination for tourists taking a day trip from the holiday resorts along the coast and is an ideal place to take a dolphin watching excursion as well as doing some duty free shopping.

Travelling a little further west we arrive at the stunning coastal town of Tarifa with its golden sandy beaches. As well as dolphins the straits of Gibraltar is an excellent place to witness various species of whales including Pilot and even Killer Whales, although these tend to be around in the summer months.

As we all know animals of any variety can be unpredictable and Mediterranean dolphins are wild, free creatures and no-one can guarantee them being where we want them to be. This is all part of the fun of the trip and the experience is all the more memorable if we do witness them enjoying themselves as nature intended.

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Torremolinos is situated 7kms west of Malaga airport and was the first holiday resort created in the sixties on the Costa del Sol. Before evolving into a tourist destination, Torremolinos was a small village centering on the fishing industry. Several of the original fresh fish bars are still in existance in the heart of the shopping centre and now surrounded by boutiques, bars, and souvenir shops.

The influx of tourists to the area in the fifties and sixties had the effect of changing the face of Torremolinos for ever. However in the early years of tourism, the region soon gained a reputation as being a down market holiday destination, but now things have changed for the better.

Over the years Torremolinos has been re-vamped and upgraded, making it an attractive, appealling resort renowned for its miles of clean, sandy beaches, excellent hotels and apartments, restaurants, activities, and vibrant night life available.

In the heart of the town is the pedestrianised Calle San Miguel  which is always a hub of activity as visitors browse the boutiques and shops and stop off at one of the bars or cafes for a snack or drink. The Cuesta del Tajo at the bottom of Calle San Miguel leads down a steep flight of steps through the old fishing area of El Bajondillo. This is a busy, popular area lined with restaurants and market stalls selling beach goods and souvenirs. At the bottom you will reach El Bajondillo beach.

The beach area reveals the other face of Torremolinos. Here there are huge hotels, apartment blocks, bars and restaurants and this area is very busy during the summer season. To the east the Playa de Bajondillo leads on to the beaches of Playamar and Los Alamos. To the west lie the beaches of La Carihuela and Montemar.

The Paseo Maritimo (promenade) extends all the way to Benalmadena Marina and beyond. As well as the chiringuitos (beach bars) the promenade is full of fish restaurants serving typical Spanish specialities, icecream parlours, snack and tapas bars, and places just to sit and enjoy the views. There are also many shops selling beach wear, inflatables leather goods, and souvinirs. The air is filled with the smell of sardines being barbequed outdoors. In the evenings a refreshing walk with the cooling sea breeze and shops to browse makes a welcome relief from the heat of a day on the beach.

Although busy during the summer, you will always find a comfortable sunlounger to relax and build up your tan. The beaches are also well serviced with watersport facilities such as pedaloes, kayaks, banana boat rides, and waterskiing. Families with young children will enjoy atrip to Aqualand, Torremolinos waterpark next door to which is the Crocodile Park.

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Southern Spain better known as the Costa Del Sol has a multitude of hidden regions inland from Malaga just waiting for thrill seekers and outdoor enthusiast to explore.

The Sierra Norte, to the extreme north east of Malaga Province is especially mountainous which is perfect for rock climbing, mountain biking or kayaking. The turbulent waters of the GenilRiver, the steep slopes of Sierra de Camarolos, or the recently opened Parque del Arborismo (tree canopy walking park) in Villanueva del Trabuco are just examples of the numerous ideal locations for outdoor activities.

Many of these activities are catered for by authorised, experienced companies that supply safety equipment and give training. Even the most inexperienced adventure seeker will be able to take part with a little tuition.

One of the most popular activities in this area takes place on the River Genil, a tributary of the Guadalquivir. Here the turbulent waters are perfect for Rafting or kayaking. Travelling along the river you get to explore this unique area with its dense vegetation, bird and wild life as you negotiate the flow of the river.

One of the newer additions for thrill seekers is the Parque del Arborismo. Set in dense pine forests in Villanueva del Trabuco in Sierra de Camarolos there are installations which combine zipwires, ropes and suspended bridges. There are three courses of varying difficulty and safety is assured as monitors are always present distributing safety equipment such as helmets and harsnesses, and helping and instructing throughout the activities.

Sierra Norte is also ideal for sports such as rock climbing. The rugged, jutting slopes of Villanueva del Trabuco, Archidona and Cuevas de San   Marcos amalgamate numerous sites suitable for climbing enthusiasts. Several of these areas are suitable for beginners such as those in ‘Sector Darrin’ but there are also many extremely complex sites including the ‘Chilam Balam’ in Villanueva del Rosario which is considered one of the worlds most difficult.

For the less adventurous another way of ascending these slopes is by using the climbing routes that are equipped with steps or chains and handrails to make the journey easier. Even taking this route supervision and wearing adequate safety equipment and attire is paramount.

There are several of these installations within the region but the most interesting is in Archidona which ascends up to the foot of the Arabic castle.

The terrain of this region is also popular for mountain biking and the spectacular gradients of Sierra de Camarolos attracts many cyclists throughout the year.

Hiking is also a popular outdoor pursuit here as there are flatter areas around the banks of the Genil River and  more challenging routes with steeper inclines such as the climb to the summit if Chamizo which is approximately 1,640 metres above Andalucia.

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Cabopino is the perfect holiday destination, with something for everyone particularly those who like a more relaxed atmosphere. Being within easy reach of the bustling resorts of Fuengirola, Benalmadena, Torremolinos as well as the popular resorts of Marbella and Puerto Banus, Cabopino is the ideal location for a relaxing holiday with the advantage having plenty of other resorts to visit close by.

Cabopino is a mere 14km from Fuengirola and 12km from Marbella in the heart of the Costa del Sol. It boasts an attractive beach and a small stunning marina with excellent places to dine with high class restaurants and bars.

Unlike other resorts along the coast, Cabopino’s natural beauty is unspoilt by high-rise tower blocks as development has been strictly controlled. It is also well sheltered and protected from the elements and artificial reefs on either side of the beach keep the sea calm and the wind at bay. Alongside the sand dunes on the beach stands an old fortified watchtower and from here it is possible to see along the coast to Marbella and Gibraltar.

The beach area is well maintained, clean and in most cases the sand is far superior to other resorts along the Costa del Sol. The beach slopes gently to the sea making Cabopino extremely safe and child friendly. Throughout the peak summer season there are also lifeguards on duty.

There are numerous chiringitos (beach bars and restaurants) here serving excellent quality food, particularly sea food all at reasonable prices.

The many restaurants in the resort are based in two main locations, chiringitos along the beach, and an abundance of restaurants around the beautiful harbour. You will find a variety of cuisines from all over the world from typical Spanish specialities such as paella, Italian, Chinese, and international cuisines, most also cater for vegetarians.

Although small and tranquil, Cabopino gets really busy, particularly at lunch times and weekends. The stunning setting, pretty harbour and exclusive yachts moored there make it a picturesque setting to sit and enjoy a delicious meal, snack or chilled drink.

With its close proximity to the major tourist resorts, Cabopino can be easily be accessed by the frequent bus service fro Marbella and Fuengirola. Parking is also easy and close to the beach if you are travelling by car.

Accommodation in this area is mainly self-catering apartments and there is also a camping site within a five minute walk of the beach. There are also several golf courses close by as well as various water sports and exciting evenings to enjoy around the stunning marina.

Whether you choose to visit Cabopino just for a day trip or for your whole holiday, this beautiful family-friendly resort will tick all the boxes.

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Calahonda is situated west of Malaga between Fuengirola and Marbella and is a resort developed mainly for tourism. There are extensive apartment blocks and timeshare developments in the area which extend from he coast into the hillside behind.

This reasonably small resort provides an excellent base for exploring other resorts and attractions along the Costa del Sol as it is situated on the main CN-340 road which links all the major tourist resorts. The majority of visitors to Calahonda tend to be British so if you prefer visiting and experiencing a more Spanish atmosphere and culture this may not be the best holiday destination for you.

Calahonda is a relatively new resort therefore there is only one historic monument which is a small Christian monument situated in the hills above Calahonda. Due to its elevated location you will get a spectacular view of the whole coast including North Africa and Gibraltar on a clear day.

Travelling west of Calahonda for a couple of kilometres you will reach Puerto Cabopino, a stunningly beautiful picturesque marina. Here there are gently sloping sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, and you’ll be able to see the expensive yachts moored here.

Close by you will also find Miraflores, a popular golf resort and to the east Mijas Costa. Going inland, a trip to Andalucia’s most popular white village of Mijas Pueblo with its narrow winding streets, cafes, tapas bars, restaurants, and donkey taxis makes a pleasant break from the beach.

Calahonda is divided in two by the coastal road, so has a beach side area and a resident and commercial area. There are several Chiringuitos (beach bar-restaurants) along the beach.

Travelling west you will reach the natural sand dunes at Cabopino, which also has a naturist beach area. If you are looking for a beach resort with more facilities then travelling east will bring you to Fuengirola and west to Marbella. Here you will find plenty of leisure facilities, glorious beaches and a vibrant night life as well as aqua parks and other tourist attractions. These resorts are easily accessible by public transport. The bus service is regular and inexpensive.

The main area of Calahonda has numerous restaurants and shops with the best option for dining, shopping, and entertainment being the El Zoco commercial centre. On the beach side of the motorway there are more shops and restaurants as well as a gymnasium and other fitness venues.

There is a definite international cuisine on this part of the coast with British fare, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, and Indian, there is something to suit all tastes and appetites.

Calahonda, being one of the smaller, developed urbanisations on the coast means there are few nightclubs as noise has to be kept to the minimum, particularly after midnight. However there are is selection of smaller venues in the El Zoco complex.

Enjoying a sub-tropical Mediterranean climate, Calahonda has hot summers, and warm winters with cooling sea breezes during the summer months. For those looking for a quieter holiday resort relaxing on the beach, Calahonda is ideal, but equally it forms an ideal base for exploring other resorts along the coast or for being close to some of the best golf courses in Spain.

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The rural village of Ardales is situated along the border of the Ronda mountains. The village offers stunning views of the countyside and also has numerous archeological sites and important monuments.

Throughout the centuries this hillside village has been inhabited and conquered by numerous people and Ardales has evidence to show that it was a popular place to live as far back as the Neolithic period. Today remains are found close to the church and castle and Copper age remains have also been found in the cave in Ardales. The Romans seem to be at the forefront of civilisation here and are responsible for the building of the castle. The Moors later took over the town and left various monuments and built a mosque that later became the foundation of the 15th century church that is still there today.

The reservoirs and lakes surrounding Ardales are like a magnet to both Spaniards and tourists, particularly during the hot summer months for camping, fishing and watersports.

El Chorro-Malaga province

Close to Ardales and Alora you will find Malaga’s ‘Lake District’. These are three lakes artificially created by a dam built across the dramatic 200 m. high Guadalhorce river gorge, known as Garganta del Chorro.

Creating a tranquil retreat where you can camp, swim, fish or picnic by the lake shore, these three stunningly beautiful turquoise coloured lakes surrounded by pine forests attract thousands of visitors during the summer months.

After traveling through the Valle de Abdalajais you arrive at the small village of El Chorro from where you catch your first sight of the dam and gorge area. Crossing the middle of the  gorge is a small bridge which was built during the construction of the reservoir between 1914 and 1921. Officially opened in 1921 by King Alfonso Xlll of Spain, he walked along the specially constructed walkway called El Camino del Rey(The King’s Path which is connected to the face of the gorge approximately 100metres above the river.

Although officially closed, the Camino del Rey is a popular attraction and there are experienced guides who take visitors along the path, although this journey is not for the faint hearted. It is recommended that treking and climbing in this area should only be done by experienced climbers with the correct equipment.

To get to the lakes you need to drive over the dam and follow the road to the left of the gorge, it’s about a 4 km. drive. Even though the lakes are busy during the summer months, the extent ot their shores makes it easy to find a comfortable spot to picnic, swim, fish or sunbathe.

There are a couple of restaurants close to the lakes with stunning

views across the lakes and mountains and plenty of places to picnic or barbeque in the designated areas.

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Even on the rare occasion when the sun doesn’t shine on the Costa del Sol there are always plenty of options for keeping children occupied, in fact there is enough to cater for all age groups.

An ideal day trip for young children is the Bio Park in Fuengirola. It is conveniently located within a two minute walk from both the bus and train station. It is easy to get around and divided into different areas of the world, there is also a reasonably priced restaurant on site. For older children that can manage a lot of walking, the Selwo Adventure Park in Estepona which is much larger and planned out as a safari park is an exciting day out.

Other options for those families that enjoy seeing animals is Selwo Marina Dolphinarium or the sea life centre both situated in Benalmadena, or the Crocodile park in Torremolinos. If you are planning on taking a trip to Gibraltar, you will see the resident apes and can also take a boat trip around the bay to see dolphins, flying fish and occasionally whales.

Tivoli World amusement park in Arroyo de la Miel in Benalmadena and Isla Magica amusement park in Sevilla are ideal for thrill seekers.

No summer holiday on the Costa del Sol would be complete without a day spent at one of the water parks. You will find one, ‘Parque Acuatico’ in Mijas Costa, and another ‘Aquapark’ in Torremolinos.

The cable car ride in Arroyo de la Miel to the top of Monte Calamorro provides stunning views of the coast as well as being home to a bird of prey sanctuary. From the cable car station you can take either an open top bus ride or mini road train through the town down to the Puerto marina. An open top bus is an ideal way to see the sights of Malaga City too.

Of course a day or two playing on the beach costs very little and can be fun for all the family. Many beaches have dedicated play areas for children with slides, swings and climbing frames all costing nothing.

If you are unfortunate to be affected by bad weather during your holiday there are numerous shopping centres along the coast which also have restaurants, tapas bars, and cafeterias as well as fast food outlets. Many, Plaza Mayor which is situated between Malaga and Torremolinos for example, has multi screen cinemas often showing at least one English film, arcades, a gym, and a ten-pin bowling alley. This complex is easy to get to by using the train which runs between Fuengirola and Malaga every 20 minutes in each direction.

For evening entertainment during the summer months, there is always something to see and do with ferias, festivals, night markets, and even horseracing. Children are made welcome in most establishments apart from discos and nightclubs of course and most hotels have entertainment programmes for children with fun games and entertainers, there’s even babysitting services in some hotels.

The Costa del Sol has everything for the perfect family holiday package. Whatever your family holiday wish list contains, the Costa del Sol can deliver.

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