Mijas in the Costa del Sol is the perfect destination for a villa holiday. It’s got everything you could possibly want or need, and has something to offer everyone. But sometimes it’s good to hire a car and explore the rest of what the Costa del Sol has to offer. If there’s one place you really have to visit, then it’s got to be Fuengirola. It’s big and it’s lively, but it’s also a beautiful place too. Fuengirola lies just 25km south west of Malaga airport half way between Malaga city and Marbella. Along with Torremolinos and Benalmadena Costa, Fuengirola is the third major tourist development on this section of Spain’s Costa del Sol.
Fuengirola
Fuengirola is a bustling town and one of the most popular holiday resorts for both tourists and Spanish holidaymakers. There is a great aqua park to keep the kids occupied and entertained during the spring and summer months. Fuengirola’s beaches which stretch from Los Boliches for 8 km are well worth a visit. They’ve been awarded Blue Flag status by the E.U. authorities, and that guarantees clean white sand and crystal clear waters. You can hire a pedalo, a jet ski or a banana boat if you fancy a dip while you’re there. Along the Paseo Maritimo there are lots of places to eat and drink, and you’re guaranteed to find food to suit whatever your tastes may be. There marina is particularly attractive and worth a visit. You could always try your hand a sailing, or take a trip to Benalmadena.
Fuengirola attractions
El Castillo Sohail
The castle El Castillo Sohail is an interesting place. It is located on a hill at the outskirt of Fuengirola and is 38 metres above sea level. The Carthaginians and Romans occupied it continuously many centuries ago. On the ruins of these settlements the first buildings were erected at the time of the Caliphs. Then the Almohades built a defensive wall in the 12th century. And the Christian army occupied the castle in 1485 and adapted it to their military purposes. They removed the eastern tower to fit their cannons, which are still on display at the castle. The castle is now being restored by the students of the Workshop of Fuengirola Town Hall.
Fuengirola Zoo
The Fuengirola NEW Zoo is designed to replicate the natural habitat of each of the animal species living there. Large areas have been created to replicate the natural surroundings in which water and vegetation feature prominently: rivers, gigantic trees, impressive waterfalls, bamboo-shrouded temples, hanging bridges and abandoned mines have now been colonised by birds and bats. The Zoo is in the centre of Fuengirola and is only a few minutes’ walk from the bus terminal and train Station. It opens every day from 10am, and is open at night in the summer.
Children and seniors 7 euros
Adults 9.5 euros
Fuengirola Markets La Boliches
The Fuengirola street market is the largest in Andalusia and one of the most important of Spain. All types of objects, souvenirs and bits and pieces can be purchased here. The market, the Recinto Ferial, is held on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 9am til 2 pm, and is held in a large square located near Los Boliches. The local bus service stops directly outside the main entrance.
