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Costa del Sol – the heart of all tourist destinations in Spain, gets its name from its all year round sunny climate.
Costa del Sol literally means “sun coast” and that is its strongest pursuits. The cultural history of Costa del Sol dates back to the Phoenicians and its impacts can still be seen in the architecture and cultural heritage of the area.
Besides the beautiful weather, the Costa del Sol offers all sorts of modern facilities, and a rich cultural background to explore. There is something for everyone. Thus, people of all ages and nationalities can have a good time here. If you have planned your year’s holidays in this region, here is our list of 10 things that you must do, to make the most out of your time and trip.
1- Aqualand Torremolinos Water Park
If you are going to the Costa del Sol, you absolutely cannot miss the Aqualand water amusement park in Torremolinos. It is the largest water park in the region that has adventures available for everyone, without any limit of age. Aqualand, among others, has a jacuzzi and a surf beach for those families who are looking for some laidback water fun to unwind. The children find their own little ‘paradise’, with water slides, hanging bridges and several other fun stuff for a kid’s safe water fun experience. Finally, for those who are visiting Costa del Sol for some much-needed adrenaline rush, there is an array of water adventures. If you are seeking this kind, you must try Europe’s highest kamikaze slide. You will definitely want to do it over again and again.
2- Parque La Batería Torremolinos
The Parque La Bateria is the perfect place to plan a mini afternoon picnic and spend some quality family time. Originally, this was a military fortress that has now been turned into a botanical garden. A pleasant place for a walk with kids or even for some light jogging.
3- Castillo Sohail in Fuengirola
The Sohail Castle in Fuengirola is a testament to the region’s historical significance. The Caliph of Córdoba, Abd-ar-Rahman III, built it in 956 AD as a mean of coastal defense. The castle has been renovated from the ruins and is open for public now. If you are planning to feast your eyes on some iconic cultural heritage besides the natural scenery of the Costa del Sol, you should not leave out a visit to this castle.
4- Bioparc Fuengirola
Bioparc Fuengirola is a zoological park – a new and commendable initiative. Its model is based on the acceptance and respect of animal’s natural instincts and habits. The park is a house for over 200 animal species that are threatened with extinction. Bioparc Fuengirola provides them a safer and natural space, where they can develop their natural habitat and coexist. If you have an interest in wildlife and nature, observing these animals living in their natural conditions without cages is a mind-blowing experience that you cannot have anywhere else.
5- Marbella Old Town
Marbella is one of the top most visited cities in Spain, due to its postcard-perfect infrastructure, architectural heritage and mild sunny climate. If you want to catch some quiet time in an old traditional city, away from the shores and man-made amusements, stroll around the Marbella’s old quarters. The narrow streets, the old-style cafes, the museums and the historical church Ermita de Santiago, are perfect for some tourist sightseeing and getting some memorable photographs.
6- Spend a day on one of Marbella’s 23 Beaches
Marbella’s beaches are a dream for beach lovers since there are 23. In 2015, 6 Marbella beaches received Blue Flags from the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) which of course increased their popularity. Every Marbella beach has its own peculiar attraction. We do recommend you at least to enjoy one of them for a serene and calm experience during your stay and soak up some Spanish sunny warmth.
7- Butterfly Park of Benalmadena
Benalmadena is Spains’ nature lover’s paradise since it houses the largest butterfly park in the region. The park is constructed as a Thai temple and the special blue tiles used for it were imported from Chang Mai, Thailand to keep things authentic. If you have kids accompanying you on this trip, they can learn all about the life of a butterfly, especially see how the cocoon turns into a beautiful butterfly.
8- Teleferico Cable Car Ride
The Teleferico cable car ride is a spectacular way of exploring the region! The cable car takes you all the way up the Calamorro Mountain where you can enjoy the breathtaking views. Make sure you take your camera with you.
9- ‘Castillo de Colomares’
‘Colomares Castle’ was built to pay homage to the great explorer of all times, Christopher Colombus, for his discovery of America. It is not actually a castle but still the world’s largest monument dedicated to this explorer. Its fascinating fairytale-like architecture is the major attraction for tourists. Inside the monument, you will find information of all sorts covering Colombus’s voyage.
10- Explore the Nerja Caves
If you have time to explore only one historic site of the Costa del Sol, make sure it is the magnificent Caves of Nerja. These were discovered accidentally in 1959 and since then they have been a major tourist attraction. Experts believe these were inhabited by men back in 25,000 BC. Not all halls of the caves are open for public, but there are still plenty to stroll around. You may enjoy the ancient cave paintings on your own, but you can also book a guided tour and educate yourself with the complete history of these ancient caves.
