Great Costa Del Sol Day Trips

There’s so much to do in the Costa Del Sol that you would be forgiven for visiting the region and never leaving. But if you’re spending a longer stay in the Costa Del Sol, or if you live in the region, then why not carve out the time for a longer day trip? This will provide a unique opportunity for you to explore more of the incredible beauty and exciting adventures that Spain has to offer. And you really will be spoilt for choice!

Here is a list of just some of the wonderful day trips that you can enjoy, both inside and outside of the Costa Del Sol, that you won’t regret incorporating into your next holiday:

Explore Exquisite Estepona

Estepona is a beautiful example of a traditional Andalusian old town. With its white washed walls, steep cobbled streets, and an abundance of pretty flower pots dotted across the town, Estepona feels tranquil, with a much quieter pace of life than many of the larger towns and cities in the region. Estepona is worth visiting for so much more than just its pretty houses though: A long plant-filled promenade runs along the beach, and on clear days you can enjoy an excellent view of the Rock of Gibraltar from here.

Whilst the feel here is much less touristy than other Costa Del Sol resorts, you’ll still find a healthy number of reasonably priced restaurants, bars, and cocktail bars, perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. Indulge in some traditional Andalusian specialties before heading to the marina to spot the mix of yachts and fishing boats arriving for the day.

Perfect Your Swing in Benahavís

Benahavis is a tiny mountain village just outside of Marbella that has been dubbed “La Sartén de Andalucía”, which translates to mean the frying pan of Andalucia. This beautiful village, with its terracotta roofs and excellent mountain views, might boast some of the most delicious Andalusian-style restaurants in the region, but it is its world-class golf courses that really attract visitors.

If you’re committed to perfecting your swing in truly awe-inspiring surroundings, or perhaps you just want to hike or mountain bike in a convenient location, then Benahavis is the perfect place to be. The mix of forest, flower-filled valley, and incredible views means that, no matter what the time of year, Benahavis always offers greenery and scenery that is well worth the visit to enjoy.

Enjoy Childhood Nostalgia in Juzcar

Juzcar exploded onto the map in 2011 when, in honour of their newest Smurfs movie, Sony Pictures painted all of the buildings in the village blue, turning it into the world’s only ‘Smurf village’. In 2017, the village lost this status and the number of tourists visiting declined, but with its abundance of blue buildings, relics of cartoon creatures and little mushroom-shaped houses dotted across the landscape, it is still an excellent place for a memorable day trip.

This is a particularly fun place to visit if you’re travelling with kids (or just the young-at-heart) and the vibrant blue of the village makes it great for photo opportunities. Away from the Smurf-blue, and the village is also a great place for hiking, rock climbing, and even guided mushroom hunts.

Embrace British Nostalgia in Gibraltar

Gibraltar remains a British Overseas Territory, and it is an island which embraces it’s innate ‘Britishness’ but despite this, it is a cultural hodge podge, with many fascinating influences. Here you’ll find ancient caves alongside the remains of a Moorish castle rubbing shoulders with a host of traditionally British pubs. The highlight of a trip to Gibraltar has to be taking a cable car to the top of the Rock, where you can see Europe’s only wild monkeys at play; this also provides incredible views of two continents and two seas from one spot.

Gibraltar is a fascinating place for a day trip, particularly for fans of military history: the Great Siege Tunnels are one of the most important military installations in the Mediterranean. And let’s not forget that Gibraltar still offers tax-free shopping – another excellent reason to visit!

Slow Down in Setenil de las Bodegas

You can’t visit the Costa Del Sol without visiting one of its famous White villages (or ‘pueblo blancos’) and Setenil de las Bodegas is one of the very best examples that the region has to offer. What makes it stand out is its unique layout, with many of the houses built under giant rocks. What’s more, the town also boats a ruined Moorish castle, which can be reached by climbing the steep staircase built into the cliff walls.

What is really special about Setenil de las Bodegas is the many cave restaurants that the town offers: the area’s famous chorizo, honey, and olive oil can all be enjoyed from cave entrances, whilst enjoying incredible and unforgettable views. It is a great place to slow down, and really appreciate the beauty that surrounds you. As Setenil de Las Bodegas is located in the north easternmost corner of the Cádiz province, it is incredibly easy to access in just one day.

Make a Day of it in Malaga

We believe that Malaga is one of Spain’s greatest cities, and if you’re in the Costa Del Sol it is the perfect place to visit to soak up some traditional Spanish culture and heritage. With a vibrant old town, incredible array of bars and restaurants, and a lively port promenade, this birthplace of Picasso has been attracting visitors for centuries.

It’s the perfect place for a classic city day trip: you can enjoy the architecture, appreciate the works of one of the greatest artists of all time, and then unwind after a busy day by drinking a glass (or two) of fine Spanish wine in one of the many excellent tapas bars that the city has to offer. A trip to Malaga will certainly not be forgotten, and is sure to be an experience you’ll want to repeat again and again.

 Are you thinking of moving to Spain? Whether you want to travel from spot to spot and enjoy everything is culturally diverse location has to offer, or you’re just looking for somewhere quiet and warm to enjoy your retirement, our locally based property experts can help. Why not get in touch today to find out more about how we can help you find the home of your dreams.