Why Spain’s Costa Del Sol lives up to its name!

Second only to Italy, Spain is one of those destinations that you automatically associate with a villa vacation – and with its beautiful coasts, charming countryside, and its plethora of authentic Spanish towns, it’s not hard to see why.

Of course, when you think of Spain, you probably think of the Mediterranean coast and its golden beaches. And you wouldn’t be wrong – Spain’s Costa Del Sol, in Spain’s southern region, Andalucía, is indeed home to some of the most beautiful beaches and amazing climates in the world. In fact, you could go a full two weeks without seeing a single cloud in the sky during the summer (though the summer has unfortunately seen some rainfall – thank you, global warming).

Beaches in Nerja

For the luxury traveler, Marbella offers a wide variety of 5-star villas, each with their own unique features and décor. The city itself offers some of the best nightlife in Spain, but bargain-hunters be warned – this port town is geared heavily to the jet-set crowd, especially in Puerto Banus, where yachts, designer shopping and high-end dining all converge to create one of Europe’s chicest ambiances. Sun-worshipers also love flocking to Nikki Beach and Ocean Club, which are some of the best places to sun-bathe and people watch on the whole Mediterranean coast. The city is also home to some of Europe’s finest golf courses, such as the famed La Quinta. Those looking for a quieter experience would be wise to check out the old town, which offers a taste of authentic Spain in the form of tapas bars, narrow streets and local craft shops.

Puerto Banus, Marbella's Chicest Spot

Those seeking a more relaxed vacation would be wise to check out Torremolinos, a beach town just north of Marbella that offers unspoiled beaches, narrow roads with plenty of unique shops, and all the grilled Mediterranean seafood you can eat! That’s because Torremolinos’ beaches are filled with plenty of tapas bars and restaurants right on the sand, allowing you to enjoy a cold Cruzcampo (a local favorite beer) while nibbling on some delicious adobo (lightly fried fish served with a butter sauce) or grilled sardines fresh from the sea. Here, you can find plenty of villas or apartments that will suit your needs, even allowing you to pick up some of the local produce and cook your own, authentic paella!

If you get bored of lounging and strolling, the Costa Del Sol also offers plenty of urban appeal in the form of its main city, Malaga. Malaga earns the distinction of having Europe’s warmest winter, and is also the birthplace of Pablo Picasso (those interested in the great Cubist would be wise to check out the Museum of Picasso, also located in Malaga). The city’s main plaza, the famed Calle Larios, is also among the most beautiful in Europe, with marble floors, plenty of terraces, and some of the best shopping in Spain. Not to be missed is the famous Lepanto pastry shop (http://www.lepantomalaga.com/), which has been serving up some of Spain’s best deserts for over 35 years.

Malaga's famed Calle Larios

If you’re getting tired of the big city and beaches, though, you can always soak up the Mediterranean’s beauty in a way that’s a little more direct – via boat. That’s because Benalmadena, a town just west of Malaga, offers one of the best marinas in the area. Land-locked visitors will definitely enjoy strolling through enjoying their shops, restaurants, and plethora of yachts, but sea-skippers can rest assured that a number of charter companies are just beginning to take them out on a sailing or fishing expedition.

Benalmaden'a amazing coast line

So go ahead – book a rental in the Costa Del Sol, and experience all the charm, beauty and history it has to offer. You won’t regret it!

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