Are you searching for the perfect holiday location for your next villa holiday? Then Estepona on the Costa del Sol could be exactly what you’re looking for, Estepona has something for everyone, whether that’s a traditional Spanish experience or contemporary Spanish culture.
Estepona may only be small, but it is still one of the loveliest seaside resorts on the Costa del Sol. Its narrow cobbles streets are lined with traditional street cafes and bodegas. Estepona is the perfect place to stay whether you’re looking for a sun-filled break, or a relaxing holiday. There’s easy access to all the bars, restaurants, shops you could wish for, and some of the finest Blue Flag beaches on the Costa del Sol are within walking distance.
Estepona is situated midway between Gibraltar and Malaga, and lies in a fertile valley surrounded by the magnificent Sierra Bermeja Mountains. In spite of a number of recent tourist developments, Estepona has managed to retain much of its original Andalusian charm and character. Anyone looking for the very tapas will be able to find it here.
Things to do and places to see
Beaches:
If you like to be beside the seaside, then you’re in for a treat. Estepona has some of the finest beaches on the Costa del Sol. Take your pick from Punta Pinillos, Padrón, Vallerín, Rada, Cristo, Bahía, El Castor beaches, or try Costa Natura beach – the naturist beach if you’re feeling a little more liberated. In fact Estepona has a total of 117 beaches on its 21 kms of coastline, so you’ll really be spoilt for choice.
Port and Promenade:
Estepona has a fantastic promenade that runs along the western fringes of the seafront. At one end you’ll find the main town, and at the other you’ll find the marina. The picturesque marina is a hub for both locals and tourists. It’s home to some of the finest shops and restaurants in Estepona, and the local street market which specialises in textile and leather goods. The markets usually take place on Sundays, but can vary depending on the season.
Estepona Festivals:
Like all other Andalusian towns and cities, Estepona also celebrates its own series of festivals throughout the course of the year. The festival of San Isidro is celebrated on May 15 with celebrations and a large party, the main town festival is celebrated in June at the central fairground, and Virgen del Carmen festival is celebrated on 16 July, when a statue of the Virgin Mary is carried out to sea and back on fishing boats.
The Church of Los Remedios:
This is the historic church lying at the centre of the Plaza de San Francisco. It was originally a Franciscan monastery – the hermitage of Vera Cruz, and was subsequently used as a hospice, La Purisma. It has now reverted back to being a simple church and a focal point. Though the building is undeniably impressive, it’s also has a curious blend of styling with its of American colonial and Rococo architecture.
Orange Square:
Although the square that is lined with orange trees has been known by a variety of names over the years, it is now definitively referred to as Plaza de la Flores. Lying at its centre is the Casa de la Cultura. Formerly a hospital, the Casa is a sort of combined museum and library and is well worth a visit. When the square was renovated in the 1980s many Roman and Moorish artefacts were uncovered. These are now on display at the Casa de la Cultura.
