If you are lucky enough to be staying on the Costa del Sol you will find a wide choice of excursions and day trips within a 90-minute drive of your luxury family villa in Marbella.
Ronda
Ronda is a real feast of the senses – stunning architecture, breath-taking views over the 120m deep gorge and some of Andalucia’s most celebrated tapas bars. Just a 60-minute drive from Marbella, this historical small city is split by the Puente Nuevo bridge which spans the El Tajo Gorge. Visit the Real Maestranza bullring, one of the oldest in Spain or take your time and stroll around some of the many beautiful churches and museums. The Museo del Bandalero comes highly recommended and explains Ronda’s rich history when bandits and smugglers accosted wealthy visitors to the town in the surrounding countryside.
Luxurious family villas in Marbella offer the perfect base if you want to explore the attractions nearby.
Gibraltar
Gibraltar is like marmite – you will either love it or hate it. Very British, to the point of red post boxes, fish and chips and policeman in the same uniforms as their UK counterparts, the Rock offers an intriguing day trip. Take a trip up the Rock to see the Barbary Apes, stock up on British goodies in Morrisons supermarket or visit the Great Siege tunnels. A strategic point between Europe and Africa, Gibraltar was home to a massive Royal Navy presence during World War 2 and they still retain a presence to this day. Main Street is great for shopping and in Casemates Square at the bottom of the street, you will find a great choice of restaurants, bars and pavement cafes. Just over an hour’s drive from Marbella, this is one trip you should all go on – at least once in your life.
Mijas-Pueblo
This iconic white village, perched high above the coastline of Fuengirola is known for its beautiful squares and streets, breath-taking views and traditional attractions. If you are lucky enough to be visiting on a Saturday, take a stroll around the fresh flower market and enjoy a free Flamenco Show in the middle of town. Choose from a range of restaurants serving everything from authentic Spanish tapas to pizzas, English breakfasts, curries and Japanese food. Everything is within easy walking distance in Mijas and the Casa Museo, Folk Museum is well worth a visit if you are interested in the fascinating history and traditions of the village.
Malaga
What a stunning city Malaga has become. Once only known for being the gateway to the Costa del Sol and its international airport, the city is now one of the most popular places in Spain to visit for a short break. With a thriving shopping scene in the main street, Calle Larios is also home to bustling restaurants and cool bars. Take a trip to the Atarazanas Food Market, recently voted one of the top ten markets in the world by the UK newspaper, the Guardian. Lined with tapas bars selling the freshest produce, this is a must-visit attraction if you are in town. Stroll around the Old Town and visit the Cathedral and the Gibralfaro for a shot of history. Malaga Port and Muelle Uno is famous for its seafront attractions, rooftop bars and museums, including the Centre Pompidou. Don’t miss the Antigua Casa de Guardia – the oldest bar in Malaga for some tasty fresh seafood and sherry.
If you are looking for somewhere special to stay for a holiday on the Costa del Sol, why not book a luxurious family villa in Marbella?