GASTRONOMY A diet based on delicious fresh produce Costa del Sol PAGE 8

November 2008

Where the sun always shines II COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET NOVEMBER 2008 SUR IN ENGLISH SUR IN ENGLISH NOVEMBER 2008 COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET III TOURISM Spoiled for choice Guides to planning your holiday Salvador Pendón President of the Costa del Sol Tourist Board NCE upon a time, people chose to holiday on the Costa del Sol Obecause of the sunshine and its beautiful beaches. That hasn’t changed, as can be seen from the numbers of tanned bodies on the “A combination of sandy shores of Malaga province almost all year round, but nowadays the Coast of the Sun has a great deal more to offer and it is a popular destination for people seeking holidays of all different types. The Costa del Sol Tourist Board is keen to make the region’s attractions tourist attractions ” known, and provides a wealth of information at its headquarters in Plaza del Siglo in the centre of Mala- ga city. There is a tourist informa- tion point within this three-storey building, but those who like to plan The Costa del Sol’s success as a Costa del Sol, the area’s woodlands Sol a high class destination. Nobody of attractions of all types. Where in advance or who are merely check- holiday destination is due to a and landscapes, the capital city of would argue that other holiday else can you find sunshine and ing out the attractions of the Costa combination of differentiating Malaga and its historic and cultural areas may have even better beaches beach tourism at the same time as del Sol as a holiday destination factors which make it a unique heritage, which its competitors or natural parks or archaeological the opportunity to learn languages? should visit the tourist board’s web- destination, a tourist destination of cannot emulate, the innumerable remains, or gastronomy, or historic Where else has so many golf courses site, www.visitacostadelsol.com. quality. It is important for a holiday but barely exploited possibilities for monuments or climate or leisure and leisure ports, and also so many There, you can see what makes this area to be able to offer a wide range active tourism, our range of golf facilities, but we can state conference facilities? Where else region so perfect for a holiday and of attractions and in this context we courses and other sporting unequivocally that if the Costa del can offer health tourism, download information on the differ- must point out the large number of activities, our leisure ports, theme Sol maintains its position as a gastronomic tourism, cultural and ent options available. Whether you high quality hotels and other parks, festivals, and so on. All those leader in international tourism it is equestrian tourism? And on top of are thinking of a full scale vacation establishments which exist on the contribute to making the Costa del because of its unique combination or a short break, coming on business or to play sport, wanting to learn People who Spanish, see the works of Picasso or just chill out on a beach of golden come here sand this website will provide infor- mation about everything you want to several times know. The tourist board has pro- duced a series of useful colour guides SUN AND SAND. Beach holidays are still popular on the Costa del Sol/ SUR on themes such as beaches, shop- then want to ping, art, folklore, gastronomy, wine and , golf, marinas, excur- live here sions, museums, and health and beauty, and these include maps, opening times and how much it costs all this we have to add almost to visit historical buildings. There unique qualities such as the best are over twenty such guides, and climate in Europe, the hospitality of these can also be downloaded from the people of Malaga province, and the website. our special way of life. These three The Costa del Sol has something factors, added to all the others, for everybody, and a look at the mean that somebody who comes to tourist board website demonstrates the Costa del Sol will want to come that this region can meet any back to the Costa del Sol, and when requirement. It is a great help in they have been several times they planning a holiday. The climate lends will want to live here. Obviously, itself to sports and outdoor activities, not everything is perfect. Some and enthusiasts will be amazed at the things need to be worked on, such choice on offer, from golf to excur- as our reliance on the British and sions on horseback, from paragliding German markets, and we have to to paintball, from hiking to sailing, keep moving forward as a tourist and from windsurfing to skiing. Cul- destination. We need to attract ture vultures will find their fill of gal- tourists with increased spending leries, theatres and concert halls, power. We must learn to consider ancient churches, castles and quality more important than palaces. Then there’s gastronomy, quantity. The number of tourists whether it’s avante-garde in award- who choose this area is continuing winning restaurants or traditional to rise, golf tourism is growing, and specialist dishes cooked in small bars hotel occupancy continues to be normally known only to locals. good. The Costa del Sol is If you want beaches, www.visita- maintaining its position as one of costadelsol.com will tell you all about the world’s best holiday them. Also spa centres, beauty treat- destinations, and tourism is so ments, holiday facilities for senior important to our local economy that citizens, , rural tourism, we will never stop working to try to and luxury hotels, and much, much SALVADOR PENDÓN. President of the Costa del Sol Tourist Board. make it as perfect as possible. more. INLAND. The guides and website have information about rural areas IV COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET NOVEMBER 2008 SUR IN ENGLISH SUR IN ENGLISH NOVEMBER 2008 COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET V ATTRACTIONS

The area’s No chance theme parks and water parks will of getting keep everybody bored happy Boats and cable car A boat trip is an enjoyable way to travel from one place to another, and these run from Benalmádena to The Costa del Sol Torremolinos and Fuengirola. Admire the views of the Costa del Sol from the sea, then stop off and explore one of these resorts before taking the leisurely journey back to has attractions Benalmádena. While you’re doing so, cast a glance up at the mountain behind the town, and plan another interesting and altogether spectacular trip, this time by cable to suit all ages car. The cable car runs from Arroyo de la Miel to the highest point on the Malaga coast, almost 800 metres above sea level. The journey takes and tastes 15 minutes and the views are incredible. You might think these alone are worth the trip, but once you arrive at the top there is even HEY are the words which different species. A guided tour more fun in store. Donkey rides are guaranteed to cause takes two hours and is educational along the mountain paths, discord on any family as well as fun. For animal lovers, exhibitions of dressage by beautiful Tholiday: “I’m bored!” It’s no Fuengirola is a good place to Spanish horses, and a bird of prey fun, trying to sight-see with grumpy visit, and for those who are more sanctuary where you can watch a children trailing behind you, but interested in extinct species a visit display of their flying and hunting you don’t necessarily want to spend to Tivoli World attraction park in skills. all day, every day on the beach even Arroyo de la Miel will be a popular Caves and ruins if that is your children’s idea of option. There, you will find life-size heaven. The key to a successful replicas of dinosaurs in their You don’t have to be a potholer to family holiday is to choose a Jurassic park, and can enjoy a fun explore all the caves on the Costa destination which has something to afternoon on the fairground rides, del Sol. Many of them are open to interest everybody in the group, watching musical shows, or the public and are easy to walk young, elderly or in-between. The tucking into a delicious meal in one around. The unforgettable Nerja Costa del Sol is one of the prime of the themed bars or restaurants. Cave, for example, dates back 40,000 destinations in the world for family Oh, and Dad and Grandad will years and is a glorious specimen holidays, and this isn’t surprising undoubtedly insist on seeing the which is also the venue for an when you look at the extensive largest miniature model train in DOLPHINS. Children can also swim with sea lions at Selwo Marina/ SUR International Music and Dance attractions on offer. Let’s take a Europe while they’re there. The Festival every summer. La Cala del look at a few ideas to keep the Costa del Sol also has several water Moral, just east of Malaga city, is children happy... parks, with some of the biggest and the home of Treasure Cave, the only The Costa del Sol has several best rides in Europe. The Mijas marine cave in Europe which can theme parks, all of them easily Acuatic Park in Mijas Costa boasts be visited, and Cueva La Pileta, accessible and guaranteed to a wave pool, kamikaze slide, water close to the inland village of interest youngsters and adults aike. chutes, adventure river with Benaoján, has one of the country’s Selwo in Estepona is a winding raft slides and a mini aqua most important collections of wall must-see; as well as more than 2,000 park for little ones. There are also paintings. The Cueva del Gato, animals from the five continents, it live shows and free water aerobics which isn’t far away from La Pileta, offers adventure activities and classes. Torremolinos Aquapark can be admired from outside as it is camel rides in a beautiful, natural has the added attraction of sea lion only navigable by experts and with setting. You can even learn how to shows and Aqua Velis in Torre del guides, but its spectacular waterfall shoot with a bow and arrow. Its Mar has 21 rides including super- runs all year round and the bathing sister park, Selwo Marina, in fast slides, a dinghy river ride and a pools below provide a cool and Benalmádena, is also a delight, paddling pool for small children. If refreshing place to lie back and especially in the summer months you have ever fancied water skiing, enjoy the view of the cave. when children can swim alongside or would like to improve your The Costa del Sol and, particularly, the sea lions. The marine park has technique, you only have to head Malaga province, is also known for a modern and a for the Cable Ski centre in its historic ruins. Dolmens are penguinarium, exotic birds, a Marbella, where a cable system dotted around the countryside, the snake house and crocodiles. Ah, pulls skiers around a lake, at speeds Acinipo Roman Theatre just outside yes... crocodiles. We mustn’t forget which are adjusted for beginners, Ronda is one of the finest examples the crocodile park in Torremolinos, those without much experience, or of its type, and there are castles which has over 300 examples of experts. galore just waiting to be explored. CABLE CAR. The journey up the mountain is only part of the fun/ SUR HORSES. A dressage exhibition REMAINS. Malaga province has fascinating historic ruins / SUR VI COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET NOVEMBER 2008 SUR IN ENGLISH SUR IN ENGLISH NOVEMBER 2008 COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET VII BEACHES Beaches and marinas galore The Costa del Sol boasts

160 kms of sandy beaches SECRET COVES. Hidden coves are ideal for those who seek peace and quiet/SUR and eleven leisure ports

he Costa del Sol has an volleyball and organised aerobics adapted showers and changing enviable climate with or Tai Chi sessions. Loners who rooms, and helpers on hand to Tsunshine for more than 300 prefer to be a bit more away from it assist with swimming. Other towns days of the year and an all, however, would do better to also have facilities for the disabled. average temperature of 22 degrees head for the small coves, especially In Torremolinos this includes El Celsius. This, combined with 160 those at Maro, near Nerja, and in Bajondillo, La Carihuela and kilometres of beaches ranging from some cases four wheel drive Playamar beaches, and all of wide stretches of golden sand to transport is available for anyone Fuengirola’s beaches have been tiny hidden coves, makes it a who is reluctant to take their own adapted. The Cruz Roja (Red Cross) paradise for lovers of sunshine, car across the uneven ground to service provides an adapted swimming and nautical pursuits. reach the beaches but doesn’t fancy swimming service on the Marbella Many beaches have been awarded a trek to the sand either. beaches of La Bajadilla, Nueva the European Blue Flag for the Twenty years ago, naturist Andalucía, San Pedro de Alcántara quality of the sea water and their beaches were unheard of on the and Pinomar. On the eastern Costa facilities, and life guards are on Costa del Sol, but nowadays there del Sol, the beaches of Torrox, duty on all town and city beaches are seven to choose from. Estepona Vélez-Malaga and Rincón de la during the summer. Think of lying boasts two, and the others are in Victoria have accesses which are on a sunbed on a beach of golden Marbella, Benalmádena, the suitable for the handicapped. This sand, with a bar-restaurant close by Guadalmar district of Malaga, and, is an ongoing process and more for refreshments; think of to the east of the provincial capital, beaches will be adapted in the swimming, sailing, surfing, or Torre del Mar and Maro. Topless future. windsurfing on the blue waters of sunbathing is now the norm on all the Mediterranean; think of the beaches in this area, and Yachts visiting a pretty leisure port and nudism is accepted on some of Most people enjoy looking at yachts admiring the yachts berthed there; those which are not officially even if they are not into sailing, MARINAS. Puerto Duquesa is Malaga’s most westerly port you are thinking of the Costa del classified as being for naturists. and there is plenty of opportunity Sol. The Spanish authorities are to indulge yourself on the Costa del Fourteen of Malaga province’s working hard to improve facilities Sol as it now has eleven pretty municipalities are beside the sea for disabled people, and the beaches harbours, some of them and others are just a few kilometres are no exception. Six of the sixteen internationally renowned, with away. Such is the attraction of the beaches of Malaga city are officially almost 4,500 berths between them. beaches here that people who live classified as being suitable for the Approximately forty per cent of all or are holidaying quite far inland handicapped and have disabled moorings in Andalucía are on the are happy to make the trip down to parking facilities nearby, Costa del Sol and the demand for the coast for a day on the sands. wheelchair ramps, fixed pathways berths in this area is so great that Whether on the eastern or western to the sea, amphibious chairs, many existing ports are to be Costa del Sol, the beaches are extended in the near future, while magnificent. The town and city several new ones are also planned. ones have the most facilities, such Perhaps the most famous port of all as showers, lavatories, jetski and The most is Puerto Banús, in Marbella, pedalo hire and children’s play known for its mega-yachts. A stroll areas. They all have sunbeds and along the quay there gives an sun umbrellas, and a choice of famous port insight into the lifestyle of the several ‘chiringuito’ restaurants. wealthy, whether you are peering These beaches are perfect for is Puerto into the luxuriously furnished families with children of all ages, saloons with their leather and an added advantage is that upholstery, pot plants and oil there are usually good parking José Banús, paintings, or looking into the facilities nearby. Family favourites windows of the designer boutiques SAFE BEACHES. Beaches are watched over by life guards / SUR CHIRINGUITOS. There are plenty of bars and restaurants on town beaches/ SUR include Malaga city, Torremolinos, where the and jewellery shops which line the Benalmádena, Fuengirola, quayside. Marbella has three other ten kilometres to the east and has received two awards as Best all hours of the day and night. Manilva, which isn’t far from eastern Costa del Sol has only one Marbella, Estepona and Sabinillas, ports as well as Banús. One of surrounded by beaches of white Marina in the World, and its design Eight of the Costa del Sol’s Gibraltar. There are two leisure leisure port at the moment, in all of which have long stretches of mega-yachts them, La Bajadilla, is a former sand dunes of important ecological and architecture are certainly leisure ports are west of Malaga, ports in Malaga city itself, one at El Vélez-Malaga, but more are sand and seafront promenades. fishing port, Marbella Leisure Port value. Puerto Banus may be the stunning and very photogenic. and apart from those mentioned Candado and the select and planned along this stretch of Many town beaches have extra are moored is right in the centre of the town, most famous, but it is Puerto Marina is also known for its above these include Fuengirola, historical Royal Mediterranean coastline and will be built in the services, too, such as areas to play and the smaller, pretty Cabopino is Benalmádena’s leisure port which lively nightlife, and is thriving at Estepona, and La Duquesa, in Club which has just 25 berths. The next few years. SUR IN ENGLISH VIII COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET NOVEMBER 2008 SUR IN ENGLISH NOVEMBER 2008 COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET IX GASTRONOMY

GREEN GOLD. Olive oil forms a very important part of the Mediterranean diet / SUR

SARDINES. The cuisine of the coast is based mainly on fresh fish and seafood/ SUR PAELLA. This dish is one of the most popular at coastal and inland restaurants / SUR WINE. Malaga has a very long history of wine making and is famous for its sweet wine / SUR

he health benefits of the garlic. indoors. Whatever it is called, it is skilled, innovative chefs and the famous Mediterranean diet Although some traditional dishes delicious and rich and well worth Malaga offers kitchens of Malaga can now Tare well known, and dining feature on menus in both inland trying. Another Costa del Sol proudly be compared with those The treasures of out in Malaga province is and coastal restaurants, in general speciality is , and there is a which are deemed to be the best in doubly enjoyable because the the cuisine on the coast is based soup for every season. In hot a wonderful . The cosmopolitan delicious dishes you order are more on fish and seafood, while weather, a bowl or glass of the population of the region has also probably also doing you good. The country establishments will offer famous ‘’ is refreshing, as choice of encouraged the opening of Chinese, Mediterranean diet is based on more rich stews and meat dishes. In is ‘ajoblanco’, another cold soup Japanese and Thai restaurants, and simple, fresh ingredients, abundant coastal towns and villages, one of created with ground and its geographical proximity to vegetables and salads, fruits, the most requested dishes is the garlic and served with peeled traditional, Morocco has resulted in Moroccan Mediterranean pulses, meats, fresh fish and one ‘pescaíto frito’ or ‘fritura’ fried fish grapes or raisins. This is a dishes featuring on the menus of magic ingredient: olive oil, known for which Malaga is deservedly speciality of La Axarquía district. cosmopolitan many restaurants as well as those locally as ‘green gold’. In a region famous and of which there are Álora, in the Gualhorce area, also which specialise in this type of where the gastronomy is already different variations. Malaga’s chefs has its own cold soup, called ‘sopa cuisine. noteworthy, its high quality olive are masters of frying and they perota’. When the weather is and innovative And what about wine? It almost oil plays a starring role and it is no jealously guard the secret to their cooler, there is a wide variety of hot seems too good to be true, but coincidence that there are 120,000 delicious, crisp golden batter. The to choose from. Local cuisine Malaga province produces some hectares of olive trees in this other dish which is most frequently specialities include ‘cachorreña’, very good wines to accompany its cuisine region, some of them, especially in requested by tourists at both which is prepared with water, delicious meals. The history of Periana in La Axarquía and in coastal and inland restaurants, is mashed red pepper, salt, paprika, wine in Malaga dates back to Alameda, over one hundred years paella. This dish originated on the olive oil and a touch of bitter Roman times, and nowadays the old. Olive oil is said to lower eastern coast of Spain but can now orange juice, ‘gazpacho tostado’, speciality of Colmenar. region has two Designations of cholesterol levels in the blood, be found everywhere. In Malaga, which is similar but is served on a While the delicious traditional Origin. The D.O. Malaga includes lower blood sugar levels and blood however, there must be at least one platter and covered with slices of dishes of Malaga province will nver liqueur wines and natural sweet pressure, prevent peptic ulcers and thousand different ways of toasted , and the restaurants disappear, during the past five wines, while those classified as A wealth of delicious be effective in treating peptic ulcer preparing paella, including meat in Archidona are famous for their years chefs of this region have D.O. Sierra de Malaga are the disease, and may be a factor in versions, seafood ones, a mixture of ‘gazpachuelo’, a hot soup consisting progressed in leaps and bounds in locally produced red, white and preventing cancer. Hardly meat and fish, and even vegetable of water, bread, egg white and a the field of creative cuisine, and rosé wines. Although the local surprising, then, that it is used in paellas. In some restaurants the little mayonnaise which has have brought Malaga to the sweet wine is world famous, the the preparation of so many dishes, word paella is never seen: this is previously been diluted in some of forefront of Europe in terms of region is now also getting a name dishes and fine wines is an integral part of any salad because, officially, a paella is the soup. Fish soups are a popular avant-garde gastronomy. The for its reds, many of which are dressing, and is even eaten for cooked outside. Traditionalists will starter, as are stews made with hostelry schools which have produced at bodegas in the Ronda breakfast, poured over toast which list the dish as an ‘arroz’ (rice) on pulses, noodles and/or meats such opened on the Costa del Sol in the area, and the white wine of Mollina has been rubbed with a piece of raw their menus because it is prepared as the ‘cazuela de fideos’ which is a past few years are producing is becoming increasingly popular. X COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET NOVEMBER 2008 SUR IN ENGLISH SUR IN ENGLISH NOVEMBER 2008 COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET XI SPORT

the official winter base of the PGA their own golfing academies. Club, in Estepona, is the winter base of Europe. Golf courses La Cala Golf of the PGA of Europe. It consists of The Spanish authorities are well two courses, the Old, which is flat, aware of the importance of golf With so many excellent golf courses has three and the New, which is more difficult A perfect climate and tourism and continue to make on the Costa del Sol, there is not and hilly. Classes and courses are massive investment in this sport enough space to describe all of them available at the Atalaya Internation- and the holiday infrastructure but some must certainly be men- championship al Golf Academy. which goes with it. Not only do tioned. La Cala Golf, in Mijas Costa, Inland, Alhaurín Golf was golfers spend an average of 120 is now the largest golf resort in designed by Severiano Ballesteros euros a day on holiday, compared Spain. It has three championship courses and and is in a stunning location with with 38 euros spent by other courses, holds competitions for play- fantastic views. It is suitable for all tourists, but statistics show that 80 ers of all ages and experience, and is is Spain’s levels of play, but is very hilly and great golf courses per cent of golfers will return to a home to the exclusive David Lead- can be challenging. golf course during their stay as well better Academy. East of Malaga, the par 71 as trying out new ones. However, The world famous Valderrama in largest resort Baviera Golf near Caleta de Vélez is golf is no longer considered an elite San Roque was designed by Robert worth a visit. It was designed by sport on the Costa del Sol and green Trent Jones and its fairways are José María Canizares and has spec- fees are extremely competitive. described as being the best in tacular sea and mountain views. More than forty of Andalucía’s Europe. This 18 hole, par 71 course, Alhaurín Golf The course has wide greens and Suitable for all ages and levels seventy two golf courses are on the was not designed to be easy - in fact, numerous obstacles and is suitable Costa del Golf. The majority are to its 16th hole is named the ‘Muy Difí- for all handicaps. the west of Malaga city, but others cil’ (Very Difficult) because after is in a One of the other advantages of have been built to the east and winning the Volvo Masters in 1989, the Costa del Sol is that non-golfers HE Costa del Sol is the some of the world’s leading experts courses include a combination of inland, in the Guadalhorce Valley Ronan Rafferty described it as one of can also have fun while their golf- primary European and golf champions. The Costa del Many courses these features, and can test even the and in Antequera. The authorities the toughest par-4s he had ever stunning ing partners are practising their Tdestination for golfers, Sol’s courses have been designed to most experienced player. are proud to boast that, no matter played. skills on the course. Beaches, thanks to the number and take into account the conditions of are designed Golf is so popular in this region where you go on the Costa del Sol, The Santa María Golf course, on location with shops, history and culture are all variety of its courses and the fact the terrain, and you will find that it has been nicknamed the you will be in reach of at least one the eastern side of Marbella at close to hand, and at the end of the that its lovely climate means that it courses by the sea, Scottish-style ‘Costa del Golf’, and has hosted course, and sixteen new ones are Elviria, is always popular. It is quite day, the social life of various ‘19th is possible to play all year round, courses with upward and by golfing important championships such as being planned. Many clubs offer a short course which is best suited fantastic holes’ awaits you. Unless, of course, There are courses to suit all levels, downward slopes, and the the Spanish Open, the World Cham- extra facilities such as professional to players with a high or medium the golfers have planned a night- situated amid beautiful, natural American style with plenty of flat pionships, the Volvo Masters and tuition and classes, sometimes in handicap. scenic views time round at the floodlit La Dama surroundings and designed by spaces and lots of water. Some champions the Ryder Cup. This region is also several languages, and some have The Atalaya Golf and Country de Noche course in Marbella......

SEA VIEWS. Some golf courses are close to the sea SUR

LA CALA RESORT. Many golf complexes have hotels / SUR

SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES. The whole family can play golf on the Costa del Sol/ SUR LA DAMA DE NOCHE IN MARBELLA. On the Costa del Sol you can even play golf at night /SUR SPECTACULAR. Alhaurín Golf’s stunning location SUR XII COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET NOVEMBER 2008 SUR IN ENGLISH SUR IN ENGLISH NOVEMBER 2008 COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET XIII RURAL TOURISM

Visiting some Small villages of the region’s small Arab villages is like and wide open stepping back spaces in time Malaga has its own lake Inland Malaga is just district, where you can waiting to be explored picnic, fish and canoe HERE is a different world, Antequera, lying beneath its villages which nestle into the just a few kilometres away Moorish castle, has a myriad of surrounding mountains, and these Tfrom the beaches of the Costa churches, and its museums house are the perfect get-away for nature del Sol. A world of hills and about 80 per cent of the art lovers. Take almost any road inland mountains, rivers, lakes and treasures of Malaga province. from the coast, and you will in size and, although not protected cascading waterfalls, woods and Ronda is known for the amazing 150 eventually find yourself in a small per se, it includes sections of the natural parks, tiny white villages metre deep gorge which divides the village, with steep and winding natural parks of the Sierra de and pretty towns. A world where town. The ancient district known streets, and spectacular views. Grazalema, Los Alcornocales, the you are more likely to pass someone as ‘La Ciudad’ has many beautiful These are ideal bases for bird Sierra de las Nieves and the Sierra riding a mule or donkey than palaces and mansions and a short watchers and walkers, and guide Bermeja. This was bandit country driving a car. A world peaceful walk below the town brings you to books for hikers, written in in the 19th century, as the difficult enough to hear the birds sing and the well-maintained Arab baths, English, can be found in almost any terrain made it easy for bandits the bees hum. A world which is which are well worth a visit. bookshop or stationers. Tourist such as Tragabuches, El green all year round and where Apart from its pretty towns, offices, too, can usually provide Tempranillo and Pasos Largos to traditional values are still inland Malaga is known for its routes and maps. hide out in the caves which can still important. These are just a few of ‘pueblos blancos’, the whitewashed The names of these small villages be seen in the sides of the the reasons why ‘rural tourism’ is are a reminder of their Arab past, mountains, secure in the knowledge becoming popular in Malaga, and dating back to the time when the that there was little chance of being there are many more. Moors occupied southern Spain for found. Rural doesn’t necessarily mean A world of seven hundred years, before the And, finally, lakes. Malaga has its isolated, although there are some reconquest by the Catholic own lake district at El Chorro, near beautiful out-of-the-way places in mountains, Monarchs in the 15th century. the villages of Álora, Pizarra, the countryside of the province. Alozaina, Benarrabá, Cútar, Carratraca and Ardales, where Just a short journey by car, bus or Frigiliana, Genalguacil, three reservoirs are surrounded by even train will introduce you to that rivers, tiny Macharaviaya, Ojén, Teba, to name spectacular countryside. El Chorro other world of inland Malaga, and it but a few. It doesn’t take a lot of has an impressive gorge, and this is like stepping back in time. white villages imagination, as you stroll through area is perfect for a day trip. You Choose from a variety of types of their cobbled streets below can picnic, fish or canoe in the accommodation, from simple balconies filled with colourful lakes, go paragliding or rock rooms in a village hostel to and pretty flowers, to imagine yourself back in climbing, visit the ruins of the luxurious hotels, or from fully the days of old and finding that, mod Moorish castle and Spain’s first equipped campsites to charming little towns cons and motor vehicles church at Bobastro, or visit the cave country cottages, with or without notwithstanding, there has been paintings at Ardales, just a few private swimming pool. The very little in the way of change. kilometres away. There are also regional government has strict Most visitors to the countryside lagoons at Fuente de Piedra, the standards for accommodation, in of Malaga province are amazed at home of a large colony of flamingos, terms of facilities and safety, and the amount of empty space. Such is and these lovely birds can also be the provincial government is also The natural the environmental value of this seen just outside Campillos in the sparing no effort to ensure that the region that much of the countryside Guadalteba natural park. quality of accommodation in rural parks are also is protected and has been classified With its incredibly beautiful areas is equal to that on the coast as Natural Park. East of Malaga is GAUCÍN. The white villages of Malaga province nestle into the surrounding mountains / SUR scenery, wildlife, ancient towns and Selecting an inland destination the Axarquía Natural Park, which villages, and within easy reach of for a holiday or a short break is not zones of consists of the Sierra de Tejeda, all parts of the Costa del Sol, inland always easy, because of the sheer Sierra Almijara and Sierra de Montes de Malaga. This natural afore-mentioned Catholic Monarchs Further west are the Sierra de las but also the third deepest abyss on Malaga is just waiting to be choice available. One of the region’s special Alhama mountain ranges. The Park dates back to the 15th century, who had to take measures to resolve Nieves and the Guadalhorce Valley, the planet, where over 1,098 metres explored. Whether you go for a day, attractions is its variety, so there is highest peak here is Pico Maroma when the land was divided up and the problem. Nowadays, the Montes the latter famous for its citrus have been explored. This is the a weekend, a week or a fortnight, something for everyone. For a short (2,068 metres). The park is also a the Mediterranean forests were de Malaga consists of woods of pine, fruits. The Sierra de las Nieves is an home of the pinsapo, a type of this stunning region is guaranteed break, a country town such as protection national hunting reserve and a zone replaced by cultivations of vines, elm, cork oak and oak trees, and is a international biosphere reserve and spruce tree which has been growing to recharge your batteries and send Ronda or Antequera is ideal. Both of special protection for birds, and almonds and olives. Soon habitat for the chameleon, which is a special bird protection zone, and it in this area since the Ice Age. you back relaxed. What is certain is are full of history and culture, and is covered in pine forests. afterwards, Malaga city suffered an and also can boast not only the Torrecilla Finally, we come to the Serranía that, no matter how long your stay, there is plenty to do and see. for birds Behind Malaga city are the dreadful flooding and it was the protected. peak which towers at 1,919 metres, de Ronda, 1,536 square kilometres you will wish it had been longer. XIV COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET NOVEMBER 2008 SUR IN ENGLISH SUR IN ENGLISH NOVEMBER 2008 COSTA DEL SOL WORLD TRAVEL MARKET XV DOXXDXXX FIESTAS

Ferias mean frilly dresses, fairground rides and dancing in the streets

Periana has two food festivals each year, one for olive oil and the other for its peaches

‘Day of the Níspero’, as the medlar fruit which are grown there are said to be the best in the country. Also in La Axarquía, the village of Periana has two claims to fame, its olive oil and its peaches, and it holds festivals in March and August respectively in honour of these products. The Guadalhorce Valley, west of Malaga, is famous FERIAS. Ladies in Goyesque costume ride in a horse-drawn carriage at Ronda’s Feria de Pedro Romero / SUR for its citrus fruits and the small PROCESSIONS. Elaborate floats bearing religious images are carried through the streets / SUR town of Coín holds an annual Orange Festival every summer, en route to regale the customers ‘ferias’. This is southern Spain as August every year, and like most while villages in the chestnut- with satirical songs which cause most tourists picture it, with events in Malaga, it shouldn’t be growing areas of the Sierra Blanca great hilarity among those lucky flouncy dresses, horse-drawn missed. The daytime partying takes mountains, behind Marbella, and enough to have a thorough grasp carriages, dancing in the streets place every afternoon in the city in the Genal valley, celebrate Fairs and Festivals not only of the and parties which go on for several centre, and at night the gigantic chestnut festivals in the autumn but also the national and local days, almost non-stop. Most of these fairground is thronged with people each year. political scene. fairs are held around the time of the who have no intention of going The grape harvest, ‘La The mood becomes more sober town or village’s patron saint’s day, home until long after dawn has Vendimia’, is celebrated in after Carnival, because the next but some have two ‘ferias’ a year, broken. municipalities which produce major festival is Holy Week, or thereby providing a double excuse In July, another religious wine, such as Manilva and Mollina, Semana Santa. The beautiful and to party. Every fair has its festival takes place on the 16th. usually in September. As Autumn emotive processions in Malaga city fairground rides for the delight of This is the Fiesta del Carmen, draws on, another major religious throughout the year should not be missed, and it is also the young and not-so-young, and which is of vital importance to the festival, ‘Todos Los Santos’ or All well worth seeking out one of the every fairground has bars and local fishing industry as the Virgen Saints, takes place on November villages where Passion Plays are social clubs where adults can meet del Carmen is the patron saint of 1st. This is the day when families performed, such as Riogordo and to drink, eat and dance the night fishermen. This is a very happy visit the cemeteries to pay their Alhaurín el Grande. Almost all the away. Malaga city’s fair is held in festival, but is also touching as the respects to deceased relatives, but towns and villages on the Costa del image of the Virgin is paraded it is not deemed to be a solemn Sol hold their own Holy Week along the seafront and then carried occasion, especially by those who Always something to celebrate processions, the smaller ones on In Cómpeta’s into the sea to bless the gaily- also mark the occasion by heading just one or two days of the week,, adorned fishing boats which await into the mountains to eat roasted when the images of Jesus and Mary her. The Fiesta del Carmen is chestnuts and drink the powerful are brought out of the church and Noche de particularly pretty in Estepona, but aniseed liqueur known as paraded through the seats to a is worth seeing in any coastal town. ‘aguadiente’. HE festivities begin early in waiting for the first glimpse of ‘Los bring the children their gifts. haunting drum beat and the Vino, people The Costa del Sol’s unique and And then it is Christmas. Only the year on the Costa del Sol, Reyes Magos’, Melchor, Balthasar The Three The next festival is indeed fragrance of incense. The size of the individual charm is also reflected Christmas Day is a holiday here, Tas Spanish children are and Gaspar, in the grand Carnival. The majority of towns place is unimportant: the emotion in some unusual festivals, many of although most businesses close brought their gifts by the procession. In towns and cities, this and villages celebrate this event, is the same everywhere and is flock to drink which are held to promote local early on Christmas Eve if possible Three Kings on the night of is almost a precursor of the Kings start but it is in the cities that the most almost palpable. This unique event produce. The village of Cómpeta, in because that’s when the celebratory January 5th instead of by Santa wonderful Carnival processions elaborate processions take place. never fails to move onlookers, no the local wine La Axarquía, holds its ‘Noche de meal is held with family and Claus on Christmas Eve. This may which take place in February or the festivities Carnival often lasts for a couple of matter what their personal Vino’ in mid August each year and friends. After that comes New be an event for children, but no March, but the Three Kings visit weeks, during which time groups of religious beliefs. thousands of people flock there to Year’s Eve, but, unlike in some adult can resist the sense of fun and even the tiniest village on 5th musicians perform in the streets, Once Semana Santa is over, the all night drink the local wine all night. Each countries, the partying is not yet excitement of lining the streets January, usually on horseback, to each year popping into bars and restaurants Costa del Sol begins to think about Spring, Sayalonga celebrates the over. In fact, it is just beginning. MORE INFORMATION: www.visitcostadelsol.com

Costa del Sol November 2008

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