The Costa del Sol is famous for its golden beaches and lively seaside resorts. But behind this picture-postcard image lies a region of many charms: spectacular hikes, characterful whitewashed villages, and gourmet Andalusian cuisine await those who dare to venture far from the coast.
For nature lovers, the Parque Natural de los Reales de Sierra Bermeja, just minutes from Estepona, is a paradise. Here, century-old pine trees grow alongside wild orchids, and small streams meander between the reddish rocks. From the summit, the view takes in the entire Mediterranean, and on a clear day, the Moroccan Rif Mountains appear like a bluish shadow on the horizon. An ideal place for a hike, a picnic, or simply to breathe in the pure mountain air.
The white villages of Andalusia, such as Casares, Gaucin, and Benahavís, seem frozen in time. Cobbled streets lead to small squares where the scent of freshly roasted coffee mingles with that of blooming bougainvillea. The smiling, welcoming locals are always ready to share a story or recommend the inn where you can eat “just like at your grandmother’s house.”
On the Costa del Sol, eating is an art. Local markets are filled with sun-drenched produce: plump olives, fragrant goat cheese, sweet tomatoes, and mountain honey. Contemporary chefs are revisiting Andalusian classics—like gazpacho and pescaíto frito—with modern, creative twists, while respecting the region's authentic flavors.
To discover the true essence of the Costa del Sol, sometimes all you need to do is turn your back on the beach and follow a path inland. Between wild mountains, picturesque villages, and gourmet delights, every day becomes an adventure. The region isn't just about visiting: it's about experiencing it, tasting it, and feeling it.
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