Estepona, the new Golden Mile

Estepona is a picturesque coastal town located on the western end of the Costa del Sol, about 30 kilometers west of Marbella. Known for its charming old town, beautiful beaches, and more laid-back vibe compared to some of the more glitzy destinations along the coast,

Estepona has retained much of its traditional Andalusian charm while embracing modern developments.

It has become an increasingly popular destination for both tourists and expats seeking a more authentic Spanish experience on the Costa del Sol.

Old town Estepona

History:

Estepona’s history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of settlements from the Phoenician, Roman, and Moorish periods. Like much of the Costa del Sol, it was an important town during the Moorish rule in Spain, though much of its architecture was rebuilt after being recaptured by the Catholic Monarchs in the late 15th century.

Historically a fishing and agricultural town, Estepona's economy has shifted toward tourism and real estate development, especially since the 20th century.

Old Town (Casco Antiguo):

Estepona's Old Town stands out as one of the most well-preserved areas on the Costa del Sol, renowned for its narrow, white-washed streets adorned with colorful flower pots. The central square, Plaza de las Flores, serves as the old town's focal point, offering a delightful setting for observing passersby from the various cafes and restaurants.

This town is celebrated for its lively murals and street art, including the "Route of the Murals" initiative, which has seen large-scale artworks adorning buildings across the town, solidifying its status as a distinctive cultural hub.

Old town Estepona

Beaches and Promenade:

Estepona features 21 kilometers of coastline offering a diverse range of beaches, from family-friendly expanses to more secluded coves. The primary beach, Playa de la Rada, is a broad sandy beach situated close to the town center, providing top-notch amenities and beach bars (chiringuitos).

Along the seafront, the town's promenade (Paseo Marítimo) is adorned with palm trees and benches, creating an ideal setting for strolling, biking, or dining with a view of the Mediterranean. Recently, this area has been pedestrianized and revamped, enhancing the appeal and spaciousness of Estepona's beachfront for pedestrians.

To the west of the marina lies Playa del Cristo, a tranquil and sheltered beach that is particularly favored by families for its calm waters and shallow depth.

Playa del Cristo Estepona

Estepona Marina:

Estepona Marina (Puerto Deportivo) is a vibrant location featuring a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. It is a fantastic place for dining and enjoying the nightlife, offering a wide range of international cuisine. In contrast to the nearby Puerto Banús, the marina has a more laid-back atmosphere, making it perfect for casual evenings.

Furthermore, the marina serves as a central point for nautical activities like sailing, fishing trips, and dolphin-watching tours. There are current plans in place to expand and enhance the marina in order to compete with Puerto Banus.

Nature and Outdoor Activities:

Estepona is surrounded by natural beauty, with the Sierra Bermeja mountains providing a stunning backdrop to the town. Hiking in the Sierra Bermeja offers incredible panoramic views of the coast, and on clear days, you can even see the coast of Morocco across the Strait of Gibraltar.

The Los Reales de Sierra Bermeja Natural Park is a protected area where visitors can explore the diverse flora and fauna unique to this region.

Selwo Aventura, an African-themed safari park located on the outskirts of Estepona, is a popular attraction for families, where you can see animals like lions, giraffes, and elephants in a semi-wild environment.

Cultural and Historical Sites:

The Castillo de San Luis is a 16th-century fortress built by the Catholic Monarchs to defend the town from pirates and invaders. Today, only a part of the castle remains, but it’s an important piece of the town's history.

The Orchidarium of Estepona (Orquidario de Estepona) is a stunning, modern botanical garden with over 5,000 plant species, including a vast collection of orchids. Its contemporary glass architecture stands in contrast to the traditional look of the old town.

Estepona also has several museums, including the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases the traditional customs and history of the area.

Golf and Sports:

Estepona is a golfer’s paradise, with several prestigious golf courses in the area, such as Valle Romano Golf & Resort, Estepona Golf, and La Resina Golf & Country Club.

The area is also ideal for water sports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, and snorkeling.

Real Estate and Development:

In recent times, Estepona has experienced notable growth in the real estate sector, especially in the luxury property market. Despite being more cost-effective than Marbella, Estepona has become a desirable location for international buyers seeking beachfront residences and contemporary apartments boasting sea views.

New Golden Mile

Situated between Estepona and Puerto Banús, the "New Golden Mile" region features upscale resorts and residential projects, offering a sophisticated lifestyle within close reach of both Estepona and Marbella. The once quaint towns and agricultural land are swiftly transforming with new developments emerging along the coastline and in the hills. This area has also witnessed the opening of several luxury hotels in recent years, including IKOS Andalucia, recognized as the best family hotel globally in 2023.

The New Golden Mile

Festivals and Events:

Estepona celebrates traditional Andalusian festivals throughout the year. One of the most important is the Feria de Estepona, held in July, which features parades, flamenco music, dancing, and carnival rides.

Another popular event is the Estepona International Guitar Festival, which attracts musicians from around the world.

During Semana Santa (Holy Week), the town holds processions that are deeply rooted in local culture and religion.

Accessibility:

Estepona is about a 50-minute drive from Málaga Airport, making it easily accessible for international travelers.

The town is well-connected to other parts of the Costa del Sol, including Marbella and Puerto Banús, via the AP-7 motorway.

Summary:

Estepona is often described as the "hidden gem" of the Costa del Sol, combining the authentic charm of a traditional Andalusian town with the amenities and attractions of a modern tourist destination. Its beautiful beaches, quaint old town, and stunning natural surroundings make it a fantastic destination for those seeking a balance between relaxation, culture, and outdoor adventure.

With its growing appeal as a luxury destination and its commitment to preserving its historical roots, Estepona offers something for everyone—from families and retirees to tourists and expats looking for a quieter alternative to the more bustling areas of the Costa del Sol.