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Travel
Guide
Estepona - Quiet Gem on the Costa del
Sol in Spain
 Estepona
is a wonderful little town - relatively unspoiled by tourism - and located
on the Costa del Sol, about 30 minutes from Marbella, and only a short
drive to Gibraltar.
Unlike the busy towns of
Marbella and Fuengirola, Estepona is relatively quiet - and the centre
of town is still very traditionally Spanish. The winding narrow streets
are lined with older houses, with balconies decorated with bright geraniums,
and the sound of pet birds singing in their cages makes a lovely sound
as you stroll along. Relax in the Plaza de las Flores - a beautiful
town square lined with flowers and several excellent cafes and bars.
 There's
a coffee bar on virtually every corner of town and you will never go short
on somewhere different to eat dinner, or have a light snack, or "tapas".
On the beach you will find the famous beach "chiringuitos" serving excellent
sea food and other dishes, or just an ice cold drink when you need one.
The outskirts are developing,
however, and there are many huge apartment blocks sprouting up, but luckily
this doesn't luckily interfere with the atmosphere and attractions of the
town itself. New supermarkets and shopping centres have also been
built on the outskirts, giving more shopping options for both residents
and holidaymakers including the famous Carrefour and the ubiquitous McDonalds!
Running alongside the town
is a beautiful Blue Flag beach, which is surprisingly quiet even in the
summer months, lined by a stunning flower-strewn promenade. Estepona's
beaches are in actual fact 21 kms long in total! Walk along
the promenade from town to the end of the beach (a comfortable stroll),
and you will find first the lighthouse, and then the Port of Estepona.
The port is a traditional
working fishing port, but there is also the addition of a modern marina,
with lovely yachts, and a selection of fine restaurants serving international
and Spanish cuisine and also a Yacht Club. Definitely the place to
"hang out" in the evenings, with bars and nightclubs to entertain all ages.
For history buffs, there
are interesting museums to visit including the archaeological museum, the
Ethnic museum and also the museum at the bull ring. Quite a few interesting
historical ruins in the town too. Selwo Aventura, close to Estepona, is
the only Adventure, Animal and Nature Park in Europe - enjoy a safari drive
in the warm Spanish sunshine. 200 species of animals can be viewed,
and photographed.
 The
town retains its original bull ring which hosts not only bull fighting,
but also international music concerts.
Golfers will be happy with
the selection of courses, including Atalaya Golf & Country Club, El
Paraiso Golf Club (designed by Gary Player), Estepona Golf, Los Almendros
and Golf SotoSerena,
Plenty of attractions close
by too… you can easily visit Ronda, a fascinating mountain top city, or
Ojen, a beautiful traditional white village, both reasonably close by,
or pop down the coast to Marbella one way, or Gibraltar in the other direction,
for shopping.
In town, you will find small
hotels and hostals to accommodate you in comfort, or you could go for the
larger and more luxurious resort hotels on the outskirts of town.
There are many wonderful holiday apartments on offer in the town - either
along the beachfront, or above the marina, giving options to suit all.
Transport-wise, the town
has an efficient bus service and many taxis, but you might find that you
need a hire car to travel further afield. As for language, many workers
in restaurants and shops do speak a certain amount of English, but it would
be good to have your Spanish phrase book handy.
All in all, Estepona is the
ideal destination for families, couples, golfers and the young. While
retaining its traditional Spanish features, it offers everything one could
want for the perfect holiday, and gives you a chance to relax without the
crazy crowds!
About the Author Anne
Sewell is involved in web
based accommodation reservations and advertising in La Cala de Mijas,
Spain.
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