FUENGIROLA sits between Malaga and Marbella and nestled between the towns of Torremolinos and Benalmadena on the Costa del Sol, it is located some 15 minutes west of Malaga airport and has easy access by either motorway, coastal roads and by the reliable coastal train service which runs between Malaga and Fuengirola. The town enjoys a privileged position nestled at the foothills of the Sierra de Mijas and protected even further by the Sierras of Malaga and Ronda its microclimate is one of the best on the Costa and perhaps the Spanish mainland itself.

I have spent some 25 years residing in and around Fuengirola and have seen many changes, perhaps the most important has been the massive growth in property and the ex-pat community in the area. However Fuengirola is dominated by tourism and with some 8 kms of clean sandy beaches it has become a leading holiday destination for most Europeans and Spanish nationals alike.

The newly renovated promenade is flanked by Restauarants, cafes, bars and winds along the clean sandy beaches of , Carvajal, Gaviotas, Los Boliches, San Francisco, Santa Amalia and ends at the Castillo ( the castle End ) which are all Blue Flag holders. All water sports and activities are catered for including, sailing, windsurfing, pedalos, diving and fishing trips.

Fuengirola and the areas closely adjoining the town such as Mijas Costa and Benalmedana really do provide every amenity for family holidays with a large selection of attractions and interesting venues to suit all tastes.

Recommended Local Attractions and Facilities on offer:

There are some 15 top quality golf courses within a 30 km radius alone including the fine courses in Mijas, Torrequebrada, La Cala, La Noria, Miraflores, Calanova and El Chapparal.

There is a large Aquapark situated on the outskirts of Fuengirola open from April to September, a great place to cool down and have fun during the hot summer months.

Fuengirola Zoo is situated some 10 minutes walk from the towns centre and is one of the most important in Spain being completely refurbished in 2001.

Local visits should include trips to the Arab castle of Sohail situated on the sea front to the west of the town . The Roman Baths situated just off the Los Boliches train station, the harbour area and yacht club and the local bull ring .

A 20 minuted buss ride will take you to the picturesque village of Mijas which is nestled in the Sierra de Mijas hills , enjoy a walk around this old and charming village and enjoy spectacular views over Furngirola and the Mediterranean Coastline.

Eating out in Fuengierola is always a real treat as you are absolutely spoiled for choice, every type of food is readily available from Burger king to the Tapas Bars, and from Asian to more upmarket fine dining Fuengirola really does offer the lot. A good place to start is by walking around the old part of town from the Old Church Square ( Plaza de la Constitucion ) and branch out around the many narrow roads and lanes, try out some of the tapas bars and local restaurants offering local and international fare at very reasonable prices.

2 minutes walk from the Church Square down toward the sea front you will find what is locally known as Fish Alley , a bustling area of 2 or three streets full of restaurants of every kind, type and price. And although as the name suggests you will find quality sea food on offer these days fish alley caters for all tastes, there are a at least a dozen restaurants offering great value 3 course menus for around 10 Euros.

Boat rides are available from the harbour area. trips to Benalamdena provide a good opportunity to look back along the Malaga coastline . Normal sailing days out are popular where you can spend a lazy day out under the sun, swimming and enjoying the onboard catering washed down with liberal quantities of the local brew which is usually included in the price.

There is a large selection of quality shops and shopping centres now open in the Area. El Corte Ingles ( The most famous shopping complex in Spain ) has just opened behind Fuengirola and is about a 15 minute walk from the Towns center ( a free courtesy bus is available and leaves the town centre on a regular basis ). The new Myramar center is a large shopping maul and cinema complex situated at the Castle end and offers everything from Pets to Food and Jewellery to Boutiques. There is also a good smattering of shops and upmarket boutiques situated around the town centre. The indoor municipal market is well worth a visit, get there early to pick up the freshest produce Spain has to offer specially the fish and seafood on offer in the market situated on the first floor.

There are two main outdoor markets , the main one is held on Tuesdays and is the largest and liveliest open market on the coast and is situated in the mid section of Fuengirola in the area where the annual Feria ( Local Fair held in October ) is held. The other is more of a car boot sale held at the same vedue on Saturdays and is great for picking up the odd bargain or two.

Fuengirolas annual and colourful fiesta is held in October of each year and where colourful spectacles, flamenco and dry sherry ( Fino ) are in abundance and carries on for 24 hours a day for so pacing yourself is a must !!. The other Feria is the feast of the Virgen del Carmen held in July and is from the Los Boliches ( a subdivision of Fuengirola ) area of the town.