Things to do in Estepona and on the Costa del Sol

Info & Reviews » If you wish to see dressage demonstrations they are held every Thursday at The Andalucian School of Equestrian Art in Jerez. Many local tour operators have organised trips to Jerez including a visit to a sherry bodega. An Andalucian horse show is held more locally at El Ranchito near Torremolinos every Wednesday at 5.30 pm. Tel. 952 38 31 40.

Alhaurin Golf & Country Club
An excellent riding school is located at the Alhaurin Golf & Country Club (tel. 952 59 58 00) which is about 15 minutes by car from Mijas. Horses are provided for experienced riders and lessons can be arranged if required.

The Escuela de Arte Ecuestre in Estepona
A riding school is located at The Escuela de Arte Ecuestre in Estepona, they provide lessons or simply hire horses for riding. La Almuna farm/guesthouse (952 15 13 43) near Gaucin will provide horses for experienced riders only. You can also hire horses near Tarifa for riding across the miles of sand dunes. If you wish to see dressage and demonstrations they are held every Thursday morning at The Andalucian School of Equestrian Art in Jerez. Many local tour operators have organised trips to Jerez which also usually include a visit to a sherry bodega.

Hurricane Hotel (Tarifa)
Situated right on the beach, this well known Moorish style hotel has good riding facilities, offering beach rides, lessons or four day excursions through mountain trails to Ronda. Tarifa, Cadiz. Tel: 956 68 49 19

Caballo Blanco Trekking
Unique trekking centre in the heart of Andalucia, impressive horses available for hire from 1-8 hours every day. BHS qualified instructor offering both riding & jumping lessons. Further details on the Horse riding Holidays Page. Cortijo La Chaparra, Granada. Tel. 627 794 891 or 958 34 71 75

Valderrama Equestrian Centre
In the hills just above Sotogrande, professional tuition in dressage, jumping and competition preparation. Lessons from beginners upwards with BHSAI and escorted hacks in delightful countryside. Livery service available.

Los Caireles Riding Club, Marbella
Trips and excursions to mountain villages, horse rental, beginners lessons, spanish style dressage, horse training, liveries. Open Tuesday to Sunday in Marbella.

Sierra Trails
From the ranch nestling alongside the picturesque mountain village of Bubion above Granada, you can mount a sweet-tempered, part-Arab Andalucian horse for a short or day-long mountain trek and share a delicious picnic. The trail affords stunning views across the towering Sierra Nevada mountain range, with abundant wildlife and indigenous flora to hold your attention en route. Bubion, Granada. Tel: 958 76 30 38.

Info & Reviews » There is no shortage of places to play tennis on the Costa del Sol. The two most famous clubs are the Manolo Santana Club in Marbella is where the Marbella Open is held each summer and Lew Hoad's Campo De Tennis in Mijas (tel. 952 47 48 58).

The Lew Hoads facilities include 8 tennis courts, tuition, beautiful landscaped gardens, bar, restaurant, pool, boutique and changing rooms. There are year round Tuesday and Thursday tournaments for all standards, plus another 5 major tournaments throughout the year. Ideal tennis playing conditions with an average daily temperature of 20 deg.C make it possible to play tennis all year round.

Info & Reviews » The Lobo Park (Wolf Park) is located near to Antequera, an unspoilt nature and wildlife park in the heart of Andalusia. You will find four large enclosures and observe European wolves, Timber wolves, the rare white Alaska-Tundra wolves (polar wolves) and Iberian Wolves.

The 40-hectare protected and untouched nature park has innumerable rare plant and animal species. Unlike other parks you find socialised but not domesticated wolves that live in a semi-natural environment. The guided tour (Spanish and English) will lead you through the park and explain everything you need to know to have a better understanding for these precious animals.

Riding facility in the Lobo Park
Purebred Andalusian horses (Pura Raza Espanola) are available for rides and riding lessons. You find suitable horses for both the absolute beginner and for the experienced rider. To make reservations Tel.952 03 11 07

Wolf Howl Nights - Come hear the wolves howl!
See the pack when they are most active and you even get the chance to howl along! If you are looking for a very special evening out, don't miss the regular weekend "Howl Nights" from May until October (During the Winter period once a month). Enjoy a BBQ on the terrace with a spectacular view of the El Torcal during sun set. Our "Wolf Howl Night" is a unique experience which will stay in the memory of the visitors. Definitely unforgettable!

For more information please visit: Lobo Park Website
The Park is opened daily:
Jan. - Dec. 10:00 - 18:00
Guided Tours
Everyday at 11:00, 13:00, 15:00 & 16:30
Saturday, Sunday & Holidays every hour 11:00 - 15:00 & 16:30

Info & Reviews » There are 15 marinas on the Andalucian coast - the most local to Mijas is Fuengirola & to Estepona are Puerto Estepona, Puerto Duquesa and Sotogrande.

From here you can hire windsurfers, jet-skis, sailing dinghies and go water-skiing and fishing. Usually there are larger boats you can charter by the day from the marina office.

Boat Charter
If you would like to charter a small sailing boat with a skipper for 4 to 6 hours then contact Johan who organises private day-trips aboard his Beneteau First 31.7 Cruiser out of Benalmadena Marina ... his rates are pretty reasonable at around 200 euros a trip for up to 5 friends or family.

For more information please visit: Sailing Mediterranean

Marbella Boat Charter
Based in Marbella, offers you, hourly, half day and full day charters on board a variety of boats - sailing, motor and fishing boats. Plan your own day and enjoy the clear blue waters snorkelling, swimming & looking for dolphins or just relax on board and top up your tan whilst taking in the views of the Costa Del Sol.

For more information visit Marbella Boat Charter
Or contact them on 952 86 55 92

Info & Reviews » Fly Blue Gran Catamaran Based in Marbella & Puerto Banus - they offer daily 3 hour cruises. Sail along the Mediterranean while looking for dolphins and enjoying the views of the Costa del Sol. Cool off in the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean then enjoy a BBQ and a glass of Sangria.

For more information visit their website at: Fly Blue

Enquiries & Bookings: 952 92 36 33 or 696 501 159

Info & Reviews » Sea fishing between March to October - enjoy an unforgettable day aboard Sama. Based in Benalmadena port, for full details tell. 617 923 178.

Also try Luna 5 also based in Benalmadena Marina - you should see the picture of their record tuna catch of 628lb ! Their boat is a new luxury Astinor 1000 with twin 240 hp diesels, cabin, shower, flybridge etc - full details at 670 611 427

From Fuengirola & Benalmadena - Maine Coaster 35, details can be found at MedBoat Charter

Info & Reviews » Walking in sunshine

Spain is the second most mountainous country in Europe and the mountain ranges of the Costa del Sol extend almost to the coast. Most people content themselves looking at the mountains from their pool loungers but that is no substitute to being among them. The area of Mijas has some of the most stunning scenery and best walks that you can find in Europe. Best of all the trails are deserted and easy to access. The best time of the year for walking is from Mid September through to Mid June. Some seasonal delights are January when the skies are clear blue and the bare almond trees are in full blossom, and Spring when the mountains are alive with wild poppies, lavender and other flowers.

Discover hidden valleys and pine forests, walk though old open mines where the Romans first mined. Easily walk from one side of the mountain where you can see the sea to the other and gaze upon inland Spain. Visit the Shrine of Calvario that appears to float on the mountainside above Mijas.

The Costa del Sol is an area of contrast. El Torcal is a 'must' place to visit with its lunar like landscape and stunning views. The Sierra de Nieves National park is only a short drive from Mijas and offers another area to discover. As well as stunning scenery the cities of Malaga, Ronda and Granada all dating back to the Moors all offer cultural treats for visitors and walking around them allows you to take in the ambiance of the streets. For those of a stout heart, the Ghost tour of Malaga may offer an unusual highlight to your holiday.

The tourist office in Mijas organises free walking tours on a Wednesdays ranging from an easy stroll to a whole day traversing the Sierra de Mijas. They also have free maps of the walks available, including information on the flora and fauna you are likely to see (call them directly on 952 58 90 34

Suggested books:
Guide to the Sierra de Mijas - Juan Antonio Gomez Alarcon
The best book by far for walking in Mijas containing a useful flora and wildlife section too.

Andalucia and the Costa del Sol - John and Christine Oldfield
Contains both suggested car routes and walks. A good guide for exploring more than just the immediate area of Mijas.

The areas around the Guadalhorce Lakes, El Chorro & Torcal have some of the most beautiful scenic countryside in Andalucia.

For more information see: Andalucia Rural Walking

Info & Reviews » Their experienced team will make you discover the beautiful mountainous countryside very close to the coast. This will be a day to remember, and a great change to lying on the beach! A family friendly activity, suited for children from 8 years old.

Muddy Adventures offer guided off-road buggy tours departing daily from our Mijas office, all year round. There is a 2 hour tour or a longer 3 hour tour and for the real 'die hards' a full day tour that includes lunch.

No previous experience needed, only requirement is a valid driving license.

Info & Reviews » Guadalhorce Lakes

El Chorro is less than an hour's drive from Mijas and the drive itself takes you through the Guadalhorce lakes, an area of outstanding beauty.

The lakes themselves are an unbelievable shade of blue and in the summer provide a perfect place to swim.

Info & Reviews » El Caminito del Rey

El Chorro itself is very small but is well renowned for its world class climbing and the famous Caminito del Rey, a path constructed in 1901 100 mtrs above the gorge just 1m wide so that workers at the hydroelectric plant could easily walk between 2 parts of the plant.

In 1921 it was officially opened by King Alfonso XIII giving the path its name of ‘Little Kings Road’. The path is in disrepair, missing not only the hand rail but large sections of the path itself - this path is now closed.

Info & Reviews » Los Giantanes from the GR7

There are 3 well marked routes with posts here on information boards. Walking from the car park outside ‘El Chorro’ camping you will find a notice with 2 short walks on which take you around the gorge itself. If you start from the train station you are able to walk part of the GR7 following the Giantanes.

The GR7 is the longest trail in Europe, and is nearly 9000 km long. The route starts on the Atlantic coast near the Strait of Gibraltar and the path passes through Spain, France, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria and ends in the Peleponesos in Greece. Following this route, or sections of it, is a great way to some excellent walks in Spain.

Info & Reviews » The Ruined Church at Bobastro

Very close to El Chorro and well worth a visit is the deserted village of Bobastro. The ancient church was built between 879 and 918 and is carved directly from the rock.

Info & Reviews » Those who find hiking not quite exciting enough, may like to try mountaineering, rock climbing or caving, all of which are popular in this part of Spain with a wealth of challenges and some of the best areas in Europe outside the Alps.

The Garganta el Chorro (El Chorro Gorge - pictured here), two and a half miles long, up to 1,300 feet deep, and, in places, barely 30 feet wide, briefly splits the Andalusian heartland. Join the countless climbers who home in from all over the world and whose bright colors make its walls shimmer. Choose from over 200 routes traced into the rock face. Their names-The Policeman Stole My Walkman, Brain Clot, Mama Wants to be a Bullfighter-are as intriguing as the routes themselves. Standards range from beginner-type clambering up the Placa de los Cotos to scary routes up the near-vertical walls of the gorge's steepest sections. There are several mountaineering clubs and some challenging rock faces, particularly around the area of El Chorro near Alora (see above).

Sierra de las Nieves, between Ronda and Malaga or Sierra Almijara are also popular with climbers.

Info & Reviews » They call it the Costa del Golf - and with nearly 60 golf courses in Andalucia, including more than 30 are on the Costa del Sol, it's easy to see why! With year round sun the Costa del Sol is perfect for your golfing vacation.

Among my personal favourites are:

Torrequebrada - just 20 minutes from Mijas by car. It has hosted many world class tournaments including the Spanish Open.

Alhaurin El Grande - designed by Seve Ballesteros, 15 minutes from Mijas. Two 18 hole courses (one of which is a par three course) and a 9 hole short course. A buggy is advisable.

La Cala North and South - 15 minutes from Mijas. Two superb championship courses, also home to the David Leadbetter Golf Academy.

Valderrama - host to the '97 Ryder Cup and San Roque - a venue for the PGA European Tour Qualifying School (90 minutes from Mijas).

Mijas Los Lagos - wide fairways, large raised greens and a monster 571 metre par 5, 5th - quite interesting!

See our dedicated Golf Course Guide for more courses and info.

Info & Reviews » The nearest aqua park is on the Fuengirola ring-road next to the turn off for Coin/Mijas Golf. The other is located near Torremolinos.

Families travel from as far away as Gibraltar to spend a day at the Mijas aqua park. The aqua parks open from about Easter onwards for the summer season. Look out for special entrance offers in the local English newspapers (The Entertainer & Sur).

Mijas Aqua Park website: Mijas Aqua Park

Info & Reviews » Brand new to the coast - it's a bit like all the fun things they have on Wipe Out.

My kids loved it. Rowan said it was fantastic, Kim said it was awesome & Ash said it was better than the Aqua Park (high praise indeed!)

You can pay for and 1hr, 2 hr or all day. Open for summer months only.

Info & Reviews » I certainly don't advocate you try your hand at this! But if there is a bullfight on at The Plaza de Toros in Mijas Pueblo or at the Estepona Bull ring, and you are interested in Spanish tradition, it may well be worth a visit ..... and yes there is blood and they do kill the bulls. Not my idea of an afternoon out, but each to their own.

Bullfighting remains today as popular as ever in Andalucia, in fact it is gaining not losing popularity!

Info & Reviews » We are often asked 'where can I see flamenco?' Well, after a bit of research we have turned up the following:

Sala de Fiestas Bona Dea: (tel 952 816 044) at Nueva Andalucia which is near Puerto Banus (25/30 mins by car). This show of Spanish classic ballet and flamenco is every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening at 2230 (please check current times and dates); there is also an optional restaurant and bar service from 9pm.

Pub Flamenco Albero y Arte: (Calle Vicente Blasco Ibanez, Marbella). Very difficult to find but worth the effort if you are looking for authentic flamenco. An unusual, small venue frequented by artists.

Valpariso Restaurant: (tel 952 485 996) On a Thursday evening (check for current program), located on the Fuengirola to Mijas Pueblo road.

Hotel Torrequebrada: (tel 952 44 60 00) has a show nightly from Tuesday to Saturday, with or without dinner. The program is : 2230 International show, 2330 Flamenco show, 0030 end. Torrequebrada is about 15/20 mins from Mijas by car.

The above are staged for tourists; if you are looking for 'real flamenco' then there are also many ferias and fiestas throughout the year where flamenco can be seen.

Info & Reviews » The most modern Zoo in Spain, Fuengirola Bioparc reflects the true environment of the animals

Open from 10.00h to midnight during July and August, giving a chance to see nocturnal animals by moonlight. Otherwise open from 10.00h to sunset.

Set amidst tropical forests of Madagascar, Equatorial Africa and south-east Asia, this zoo is designed to replicate the natural habitat of each of the animal species living here. Large areas have been created in which water and vegetation are plentiful - rivers, gigantic trees, waterfalls, bamboo-shrouded temples, hanging bridges and abandoned mines.

Located at: Calle Camilo José Cela 6, 29640 Fuengirola, Malaga Province. Tel: 952 66 63 01 More details can be found at: Bioparc Fuengirola

Info & Reviews » The Crocodile Park in Torremolinos is fun for all the family with exciting guided tours and live demonstrations with experienced keepers. The crocodile Park hosts the largest croc in Europe and has a baby croc nursery. If you're feeling brave you can even hold a live crocodile!

For more information visit their website at Crocodile Park
Or contact them on (0034)952 051 782

Info & Reviews » A fun tour on a Segway ... if you haven't tried one this is a 'must'!

Based in the car park just behind Fuengirola Marina - they offer a 20 min (10 euro - 2014) port area tour & a 1 hour (30 euro - 2014) tour of Fuengirola.

They also operate out of Marbella port & Malaga city.

Tel: 622 490 196 or see their web site at EnSegway Tours

Info & Reviews » This tour is a truly amazing way to explore the scenic landscape of the Costa del Sol in a buggy! Board a two-seater buggy with your partner and cruise on the endless trails of Marbella and beyond through woodlands and sleepy valleys.

From a bumpy ride on dry river beds, to splashing through rivulets and past lush woodlands and melancholy valleys, this excursion combines a nature tour and adventure safari into one!

Tel. 651 053 518 or 952 83 36 64
For more information visit Buggy Safari Marbella

Info & Reviews » South Coast Quad - are run by an English family who decided to offer something different to do in Spain & take pride introducing you to a fun day out. So why not take the opportunity and live life in the open air of the Mijas mountains and in harmony with nature - they will find you the best route up into the mountains, stop for a quick drink in a typical venta and return by breathtaking views to the coast.

Located in Fuengirola Port Tel: 676 771 120

Info & Reviews » Born to be Wild Adventures - Jeep & Dolphin Eco-Tours

Based in Marbella, Born to be Wild offer unforgettable adventures from half a day to a full day. They have a multilingual team to help you discover and enjoy the wonders of Andalucia. Pilot you own speedboat, a fast and unsinkable craft, without needing a permit, and their professional guides will help you locate the dolphins. Or discover the marvels of the Sierra de Las Nieves by open roof jeeps, 80% of the time OFF ROAD.

For more information visit their website at Born to be Wild Adventures

Or contact them on 639 720 246 or 606 454 431 or 952 11 35 11
Email: Email Eco-Tours

Info & Reviews » Established in 1969, the Original Dolphin Safari TM is the longest running and most popular marine safari in Europe. Based in Gibraltar our brand new boat called GOLDFIN, 430 horse power, is especially designed to watch dolphins and whales in the bay and Straits of Gibraltar. Strong, fast, modern, safe, with all the accommodation necessary inside and outside for one of the most enjoyable and unforgettable experiences of your life.

For Reservations telephone: 607 290 400 or see: Gibraltar Dolphin Safari

Info & Reviews » Enjoy the thrill of the many rides and amusements, using the Tivolino, the parks own currency or alternatively you may take advantage of the Supertivolino, which is a special offer that enables unlimited use of some 30 rides.

There are several squares where you will enjoy varied free shows.

At the Western Square: An authentic reproduction of a Wild West Town, you will be delighted by sensational French Can-Can, and Country Western Shows. Also special kids shows are performed.

At Andalusian Square, you will be able to appreciate the Andalusian Folklore with the best Flamenco and Spanish Ballet shows on the Coast.

In high season there is an open air theatre which caters for all tastes with live music, folklore, dances etc.

Avda de Tivoli s/n Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena. 29631, Málaga. España.

July & August open 1800 to 0200 - for other months Tel: 952 57 70 16

Web: Tivoli World

Info & Reviews » AVENTURA AMAZONIA MARBELLA, is the largest adventure park in Andalusia and the only one right on the coast.

Just 500m from the beach, AVENTURA AMAZONIA MARBELLA has a total of 83 challenges in the trees and 20 ziplines distributed over 6 adventure circuits: MiniKids, Kids, Explorador, Jungla, Aventura and Deportivo, and 3 training circuits. You can also launch yourself on the longest treetop zipline in Andalusia, an amazing 240 m. in length.

The MiniKids area offers adventure challenges and a zipline, for kiddies from the age of 4 to 7, and also serves as a creche for parents who want to do the circuits and have nowhere to leave their little ones.

Aventura Amazonia website: Aventura Amazonia
Tel: 952 83 50 05 / 625 08 93 20

Info & Reviews » Enjoy an unforgettable experience for the whole family as you explore the wonderful sea creatures of the marine world at Sea Life Benalmadena. Discover the kingdom of the seahorses and enjoy our colourful tropical fish.

Enjoy the biggest collection of sharks in Europe and come face to face with more than 20 species of sharks from around the world.

Located in Benalmadena Port, open daily from 10 am.

For more information, please call on 952 56 01 50 or visit:
Sea Life - Benalmadena

Info & Reviews » Simply Diving are a Britsh-run, friendly & professional team that invites you to experience the wide selection of marine life that the Costa del Sol has to offer … with stunning reefs, dramatic cavern & wall dives, boat dives, night dives and deep dives there is something for every one.

The team dive at a variety of sites, with itineraries based on customer’s levels of experience and prevailing weather conditions. Popular locations include Gibraltar, Tarifa, Marbella and Nerja each offering a different underwater experience. Simply Diving offer a fun family experience with bubble maker and seal team for the kids and a full range of diving courses from ‘Discover Scuba’ through to PADI professional certification for the adults.

I have personally dived with Simply Diving and recommend a fun day out with them.

Contact Natasha or Simon on +34 600 506 526

https://www.simplydiving.com/

Info & Reviews » Anna & Taco are a husband and wife team who are two highly qualified & experienced fitness experts with many years of experience between them. If you are looking to keep up with your training or want to try something new, these are the people for you.

All are welcome to any of their group session run on the beach & in their gym located close to Mijas. Sessions include H.I.I.T , WOD's, circuits, Kettle bells, Tabata, TRX. They also regularly run 1/2 day beach boot camps as well as outdoor activities such as hiking and river walks (a perfect way to cool off in the summer heat). Whatever your fitness level, they will get you working hard & progressing in a safe and fun way.

They also available for personal training sessions in the privacy of your own villa or if you are looking to create a boot camp with your friends these are the people to talk to.

For schedules & prices please contact:

Taco Fleur 663 468 840 / [email protected] / facebook.com/taco.fleur
Anna Junghans 663 468 860 / [email protected] / facebook.com/anna.junghans

Info & Reviews » SELWO is a nature park unique in Europe where animals of the five continents coexist in semi wild conditions. The park is divided into several zones, each of which features a variety of different animals.

The first remarkable area which you will encounter is the lagoon which is populated by exotic birds, including some colourful flamingos. Nearby are habitats suitable for birds and monkeys. One of the park's most striking man-made features is the bird canyon, a massive enclosed area of hills and plants, within which more than 40 different species of birds live freely.

A great part of the circuit is made in all-terrain trucks, although there is lots to see on foot, so I recommend you to wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Also there is limited shade so summer visitors should remember to bring along a hat and sun cream. Open 7 days from 10 am.

Autovía Costa del Sol, km 162,5; Las Lomas del Monte s/n ; 29680 ESTEPONA
Tél :902 19 04 82
Web: Selwo Aventura

Info & Reviews » A Balloon Flight in Spain ................ a truly magical experience!

Come and join us for the exclusive thrill of a lighter-than-air flight in the undiscovered Andalucian hinterland near to the Costa del Sol, and take a birds-eye view of the spectacular Spanish countryside.

Weather permitting, we offer daily passenger flights in Ronda and Antequera two of the most historic towns in Andalucia and only a short drive from either Marbella or Malaga. With the predominantly good flying conditions here in Southern Spain, we can offer balloon flights all year round. The changing seasons enhance the experience and offer something unique during each flight.

So climb aboard and enjoy the magic of the oldest and gentlest form of aviation.

For more information please visit: Flights to Globe

Info & Reviews » There any many many day tours that are available with pick ups all along the Costa del Sols. Trips include: Gibraltar, Granada, Sevilla, Cordoba, Ronda, Tangiers, Tetuan (Morocco), Ceuta, Torcal, Jerez, Frigiliana etc.

All can be booked from the many agencies in the area.

Info & Reviews » Your luxury private tour, exclusively for you on your dates.

Get the most out of your time in Spain with a private tour designed just for you. Enjoy personalised, luxury service with a friendly, knowledgeable English-speaking guide/driver. You'll be welcomed at the doorstep of your villa and whisked away in the comfort of a deluxe, air conditioned vehicle reserved exclusively for your party.

Their personable English-speaking guide will respond promptly and efficiently to your requests and get you all set for a memorable touring experience!

For full details visit Luxury VIP Tours