WHITE TOWNS

1. Ronda

Just 100 kilometers west of Málaga , perched atop a plateau cut by a knife through the Guadalevín River gorge, stands proud Ronda , the third most visited city in Andalusia. There is no shortage of reasons for this ancient and picturesque place that Celts have passed through - they founded what was the germ of the city, then called Arunda, in the 6th century BC -, Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs and, finally, Christians, who They would reconquer Ronda led by the Catholic Monarchs in 1485.

A walk through the essential places

On this walk through Ronda we will visit the most interesting monuments of this ancient city , which has traditionally been divided into three neighborhoods : the modern Ronda that emerged in the 16th century, located to the north and called El Mercadillo , is connected by the Puente Nuevo and others. with the historic center, known as La Ciudad and located south of the Guadalevín River. Finally, at the southern and highest end of Ronda is the San Francisco neighborhood , the oldest in the city, where the remains of the Arab citadel and wall are located , which in turn were built on the Laurel Castle. from Roman times.

New bridge

Completed in 1793, this 98-meter-high masterpiece that crosses the Tajo de Ronda , connecting the old town with the modern El Mercadillo area, is the most recognizable symbol of the city . There is not much more to say: the best thing is to cross it and be amazed by the vertigo that comes from looking out at its incredible panorama.

Mondragon Palace

Once in the old town, it is unavoidable to visit this Mudejar-Renaissance palace that was the residence of the Andalusian kings of the Taifa of Ronda and, later, of the governors of the Nasrid kingdom of Granada; until the Catholic Monarchs took the city in 1485. Currently occupied by the Municipal Museum of Ronda , visiting it is a good excuse to see its beautiful interior patios.

House of the Moorish King

Located on the edge of the Guadalevín River gorge, this enclosure is made up of three elements: a neo-Mudejar house from the 18th century (the interior cannot be visited), a water collection mine from the Muslim era and beautiful terraced gardens designed by the landscaper. French Forestier in 1923. From the garden, some dizzying stairs allow us to descend to the very bank of the Guadalevín.

Almocábar Gate

Already in the neighborhood of San Francisco, south of Ronda, we can visit the remains of the Muslim walls and the fantastic Puerta de Almocábar , from the 13th century, which was the access to the city from the south in Arab times.

Arab Baths of Ronda

At the foot of the wall, we find this 13th century hammam , the best preserved from the Arab period in the entire Iberian Peninsula . It was supplied with water from the nearby Arroyo de las Culebras thanks to a waterwheel system that is perfectly preserved.

2. Medina Sidonia

Medina Sidonia is one of the most beautiful towns in Cádiz ,In fact, Medina Sidonia is considered as:

• The most charming town in Andalusia in 2018 .

• It has won the award for the Beautification of Andalusian Towns .

• The entire town has been declared a Historic-Artistic Site .

• The historic center of the town has been an Asset of Cultural Interest since 2011.

1. The most beautiful balcony overlooking the Bay of Cádiz

Medina Sidonia is located on the so-called second line of the Cadiz coast. This makes it the perfect place to enjoy the views of one of the most beautiful bays in Spain , Cádiz.

I can't say that it is the most beautiful, because the most beautiful is that of Santander (my land), but after the Cantabrian bay, that of Cádiz takes the cake.

From various places in the town, if the day is clear, you have stunning views of the bay. And on top of that, views from above, the way I like it.

It should be noted that Medina Sidonia is 337 meters above sea level . It is halfway between the Bay of Cádiz and the Alcornocales Natural Park . Therefore, the views of the bay and the mountains from this town are exceptional.

2. The Muslim walls and gates of Medina Sidonia

If I liked something about Medina Sidonia, it is that walking through its historic center is like pressing the button to go back in time. Several civilizations have passed through here, but as soon as you see the walls of the old town and the arches of the walls you will go back to the Islamic medieval era in the blink of an eye. And transporting yourself to other times while sightseeing is a real pleasure.

The walls of Medina serve to give us an idea of ​​how important this town was in ancient times. From the remains of the medieval walls these are the three arches that you have to see in Medina Sidonia :

• The Arco de la Pastora is a horseshoe arch and an authentic Arab jewel from the 10th century .It is in a very well preserved section of the wall. In fact, this place has become the most photographed image of the town. Of course, you can't leave Medina Sidonia without dropping by here. You don't want to leave without having a photo in the most iconic place in Medina, right? I, of course, would begin my visit to Medina with this arch.

• The Arco de Belén , also of Islamic construction, is the perfect welcome door during the little hill ,from here you have a very cool image of the town. A perfect place to stop, take some photos and get some air to continue the visit.

And finally, the Arco del Sol is located in the eastern area of ​​the walled perimeter. Recently restored, of all the arches in Medina it is the simplest.

3. The best museums in Medina Sidonia

Medina Sidonia was the settlement site of ancient civilizations such as the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, Visigoths and Muslims. That is why, after visiting the most important places to see in Medina Sidonia , I recommend that you take some time to see two museums:

• The Archaeological Museum . The underground of Medina comes to life in this museum. And by visiting it you will reach nothing more and nothing less than the sewers and sewers of a Roman city . In addition, among other things, you will see a perfectly preserved section of a Roman road from the 1st century .

Archaeological Museum, one of the best museums to see in Medina Sidonia.

• Ethnographic Museum of Medina Sidonia : very interesting if you like to know how the local population lived during the last centuries. In the museum you will see elements of scenes from the daily life of the Asidons.

4. The Castle of Medina Sidonia

Come on! You can continue with the slope (I promise that now I am exaggerating a little and the slope is not that bad, I think the Cádiz exaggeration sticks). Don't miss out on the walk to Cerro del Castillo ! After the Church of Santa María la Mayor I recommend that you continue climbing to the Archaeological Complex of the Medina Castle.

We are facing one of the most important historical places to see in Medina Sidonia :

• These are three superimposed fortifications (Roman, Arab and medieval).

• From here you have the best views of Medina Sidonia .

Before I told you that Medina Sidonia was the most beautiful balcony in the Bay of Cádiz. Well, specifically from this place the view is amazing. You can see the bay in the background, all the white houses of Medina Sidonia and the mountains. Seriously, this place makes your hair stand on end and the sunset from here is super romantic.

I also told you before that you couldn't leave Medina without taking a photo from the Arco de la Pastora. Well, climbing to the top of the castle and relaxing in front of such a view is another must .

5. Stroll through the center of Medina Sidonia

If there is something I like about Andalusian towns, it is that strolling through their centers is always a real pleasure. Narrow streets, white passageways and the smell of typical sweets are waiting for you among the streets of this town. Above all , Calle San Juan stands out , one of the main arteries of this quiet Cadiz town with its restaurants, pastry shops and shops.

6. The Plaza de España in Medina Sidonia

Another place that deserves a point to highlight in the center of Medina Sidonia is the Plaza de España . It is the town square and the town hall is located here. Without a doubt, it is a very lively square and has a lot of bars and restaurants nearby.

3. Almuñécar

In the westernmost part of the Costa Tropical -- in Andalucia -- lies the town of Almuñécar, the pretty fishing village of La Herradura, and the upscale Marina del Este... and it is one of our favorite places!

Discovered and settled by the Phoenicians over 3000 years ago, Almuñécar has been occupied by the Greeks, Romans, and Arabs. Today, still somewhat isolated from the more commercialized areas of the Costa del Sol, it has become a magnet for those craving an authentic Spanish experience and a trip back in time on this sunny stretch of Andalucian coastline.

We have been visiting and living in Almuñécar for the past twenty years (now happily living next door in pretty La Herradura) and have learned a lot about this beautiful village... which I would like to share with you.

1. The San Miguel Castle - Visit the great Arab castle, built on old Roman fortifications, which still stands today overlooking the town and sea... reminding us all of Almuñécar´s prolific historical past. ➜ Climb to the top and check out the incredible coastal views!

2. The Almuñécar Old Town (Casco Antiguo) - Explore this amazing maze of narrow cobblestone streets, sprinkled with cafés, bars, and boutiques... as well as many interesting ancient relics.

3. The Spanish Markets - Almuñécar's 'Friday Flea Market' is well-known and frequented by all, while the daily “farmers market” is laden with tropical fruits and veggies. The Almuñécar market is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts for friends back home...

4. The Beaches - Almuñécar's coastline extends for 19 kilometers and incorporates more than 15 different gorgeous beaches and coves. So take the opportunity to slow down and relax with a good book...

5. The Village of La Herradura - Just 5 minutes down the coast from Almuñécar, is the town of La Herradura. Visit the beautiful Marina del Este or enjoy a tapa in its beautiful bay. Kayaking excursions around the Cerro Gordo Point are the most popular activity!

6. Abderraman I monument -At one time, Al-Andalus (Andalucia) was a province of the Emirate in North Africa, part of the Caliphate of Damascus that ruled the Muslim world. In 750 the Omayyad Caliphate dynasty was overthrown by a rival clan and this shifted the Caliphate from Damascus to Baghdad.The Omeyan prince, Abderrman I, or more fully Abd al-Rahman ibn Mu'awiya ibn Hisham ibn Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan (731–788), one of the last Omayyad survivors, managed to escape to Spain.He came ashore in Almuñecar August 15 of 755 AD, and later established himself as the Independent Emirate in Cordoba, in 756. Andalucia would be under Muslim rule for almost the next 800 years...

4. Mijas

Located in the heart of the Western Costa del Sol, Mijas perfectly combines its status as a mountain town with important tourist development in its coastal area. Precisely, its privileged geographical location between the sea and the mountains makes it possessed of endless charms, which place it among the most attractive tourist destinations in the province. Its large territory is divided into three urban centers that offer different faces of the town. Thus, we find in Mijas a municipality with deep-rooted traditions, which has also opened its doors to innovation and modernity.

It offers the traveler the contrast between the traditional image of these lands and the adaptation to our time, all without losing the essence. The walk through whitewashed corners, the patios, the gardens... the town preserves the slow pace and charm of yesteryear, sheltered by the mountains and extending its gaze to the countryside and the sea. We invite you to tour the old town and its most interesting places.

1Monumental town
On the slopes of the homonymous mountain range, the town of Mijas extends. Its historic center (declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1969) has a layout of Arab origin with whitewashed streets, which are an improvised balcony overlooking the Mediterranean.The charming town is distributed in winding slopes that go up and down, full of colorful pots overflowing with flowers that contrast with the white of the facades they decorate. Its typically Andalusian architecture and its magnificent panoramic views of the Mediterranean are undoubtedly two of Mijas' best assets.

2Plaza Virgen de la Peña, the starting point of a tour of Mijas

Plaza Virgen de la Peña is the nerve center of the town. Here we find its Town Hall, the hermitage that gives its name to the square, many restaurants, souvenir shops and the famous Mijas donkeys .

3The donkeys of Mijas, from countryside transport to tourist attraction

Donkeys have been animals used in the countryside and for transporting minerals in Mijas. In the fifties of the last century, the first tourist tours from Thomas Cook began to arrive at the place, and they were so surprised by the animal that they saw the reef and began to become another attraction.

This is how it has evolved to the point that Mijas is known for being the town of donkey taxis . They say they have their own veterinarian and that they are very well cared for. I confess that I rode one when I was little, but seen from my current perspective, I personally wouldn't do it. It is everyone's decision. The one I did get on was the bronze one that is in the center of the esplanade.

4The House-Museum of Mijas

The old town hall of Mijas houses an ethnographic museum of the town. Admission costs one euro and is open every day of the week. Inside we can find many farming instruments, everyday utensils from the past, machinery and many interesting objects. Furthermore, the house itself and its patios with aromatic herbs are very beautiful.

Perhaps the element that most attracts the visitor is the representation of the hiding place of Manuel Cortés, the last republican mayor of Mijas in the 20th century, who acted as a mole and was forced to seclude himself in a small hole behind the wall for thirty years.

5The Gardens of the Wall, places to visit in Mijas

To have beautiful views of the sea and discover some remains of the defensive wall of Mijas, there is nothing like a leisurely walk through the Gardens of the Wall. At its beginning, in the Cuesta de la Villa, the botanical route of Mijas also begins, where you can enjoy the aroma of many plants.

5.Benalmádena: Essential

Never stop experiencing new things, the warmth, the passion, the radiant sun that shines on our beaches more than 300 days a year. Benalmádena is that place that can always surprise you again with its contrasts, open and casual, splendid and dazzling.

A cosmopolitan city that looks out to sea from its Marina, an international reference point for sailing and leisure, or from the shore of its 9 kilometres of coastline and its 17 beaches, some of them wide, perfect for children, and others, located in small coves ideal for relaxing.

1: Selwo Marina

This is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Benalmádena. Here you will find dolphin shows, sea lions and the first ice penguinarium in Andalusia, with the most complete collection of penguin species. If you have children, this is a mandatory stop.

2: Equestrian Show

Enjoy an authentic equestrian show in El Ranchito. More than 20 Purebred Spanish Horses will make you dream for an hour and a half with spectacular exercises; a show full of joy and colors. (You can buy your tickets at the Sunset Beach Club leisure desk)

3: Water sports

If you are passionate about water sports , Benalmadena will not disappoint you. Live the experience of 'flying' over the waves on a jet ski or enjoy the best views of Benalmádena by doing 'Parasailing' 150 meters above the sea. Another option is to try the trendy water sport, Stand Up Paddle Surf.

4: Cable car to the top of Mount Calamorro

If you don't mind heights, going up Mount Calamorro on the cable car is another activity you should try. It will take 15 minutes to climb and once you reach the top, you will be able to see impressive views of the Costa del Sol.

5: Puerto Marina

Recognized as one of the best marinas in the world, Puerto Marina offers something for the whole family. With an impressive range of bars and restaurants, you will also find activities and attractions such as the Sealife aquarium , the adventure game, Prison Island, the laser tag game , Laser Island or the new Ferris

wheel, Mirador Princess.

6: Pure Adrenaline aboard the Great Shark

If you like strong and extreme experiences, get on board the Great Shark, a motorboat with 440 horsepower that makes 360º turns, skids and wild braking in the middle of the sea. Pure adrenaline! You will find it docked in Puerto Marina.

7: Great Beaches

The beaches of Benalmádena are some of the best on the Costa del Sol. Visitors will enjoy wider beaches such as Malapesquera, or quieter coves such as those that can be found in the western part of the municipality. On many of these beaches you can also have fun practicing water activities and beach sports.

8: Colomares Castle

Colomares Castle is actually not a castle, but a monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus and his discovery of America. It was built between 1987 and 1994 and can be visited all year round. It is a unique building worth visiting.

9: Diving

Although it is not the Caribbean, the waters of Benalmádena are perfect for diving. At Sunset Beach Club we are fortunate to have a PADI Diving center within our facilities and from there you can participate in classes of all levels.

10: Visit the Market

Benalmádena has two weekly markets. The first is on Wednesdays in the Parque de la Paloma parking lot and offers second-hand products. The second is held every Friday in the Tivoli World car park and is more traditional with all kinds of products and items for sale.