Fuengirola is just a stone’s throw from Malaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol, and many charming towns, as well as natural areas that are well worth a getaway. If you plan a holiday in Fuengirola, be sure to enjoy its surroundings. What can be seen in and around Fuengirola?
If you want to see beautiful towns, simply go to Torremolinos, Mijas, Benalmádena, Marbella and even Ronda. They are very famous destinations which, despite the many tourists they receive, preserve their identity and their particular Andalusian essence.
If you prefer nature areas, Fuengirola’s surroundings offer a large range of options, from the Montes de Málaga Nature Reserve to the Nerja Caves, the Sierra de las Nieves mountain range, the Blanco Ravine and the Caminito del Rey walkway. You should get going because it won’t take you long to get there from Fuengirola.
Beautiful towns near Fuengirola
The Costa del Sol is dotted with charming towns that are well worth visiting. Here are some of the most beautiful towns near Fuengirola that are a must:
Torremolinos
This town is the tourism flagship on the Costa del Sol. It welcomes visitors from all over the world all year round, yet it retains its unique charm in its historic centre. Located at the foot of the Sierra de Mijas mountain range, 20 kilometres from Fuengirola, it has a very pleasant promenade that divides the town into two parts: La Carihuela and El Bajondillo. It is clearly one of the most cosmopolitan destinations in Andalusia and its beaches are the main attraction for visitors. You should go there.
Mijas
Whitewashed houses, beautiful courtyards, lush gardens, hermitages, etc. Mijas is a very touristy town, although it has also remained faithful to its origins. Its historic quarter, declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1969, has a Moorish layout and overlooks the sea. It is seven kilometres from Fuengirola and its bullring, the Immaculate Conception Church and the Chapel of the Virgin of the Rock are its main monuments, as well as its ancient Moorish wall. It is very typical to take a trip through the centre of Mijas on the back of a donkey taxi. As if that were not enough, the beaches in Mijas have nine Q flags for Tourism Quality and three Blue Flags.
Marbella
This is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Spain. Although its reputation comes from being the European playground for the rich and famous, it also has beautiful beaches, museums, art galleries and interesting architecture. Marbella’s historic centre comprises the ancient wall and the town’s two historic quarters: Alto, which extends to the north; and Nuevo, located to the east of Marbella. King Fahd’s Palace is located in this town, 30 kilometres from Fuengirola.
Benalmádena
This is another major tourist resort on the Costa del Sol. Located 13 kilometres from Fuengirola, Benalmádena is famous for its long beaches and the Tivoli World theme park. Like the other towns stated above, it has an old quarter in the traditional Andalusian style that includes Colomares Castle, which is dedicated to Christopher Columbus and the discovery of America, plus a large Buddhist temple.
Ronda
Its landscape, history, gastronomy and, above all, its romantic legend of bandits make Ronda a unique and literary city. Writers such as Pliny, Rilke, Juan Ramón Jiménez and Juan Goytisolo were drawn to this beautiful town. Ronda is set over a deep gorge that separates the new town (15th century) from the old town, which dates back to Moorish times. Its 18th century bullring is one of the most visited monuments in the town. It is 120 kilometres from Fuengirola.
Natural environment surrounding Fuengirola
Around Fuengirola there are natural spaces of great value which you can enjoy. The inland areas of Malaga province have unique places that are sure to be highly valued by nature lovers. Here are some of them:
Montes de Málaga Nature Reserve
This is a mountain range that is north of Fuengirola. Conifers, cork oaks and chestnut trees grow there, and the animal life is very diverse. It is very easy to spot squirrels and woodpeckers. This park features hiking trails, panoramic viewpoints, and areas for outdoor sports.
Sierra de las Nieves mountain range
This mountain range is very popular with the locals due to its proximity (just over 50 kilometres) and attractions. In winter its peaks are covered in white and in summer it shines with its natural exuberance among ravines and gorges. It is home to many species of plants and animals, including the mountain goat and the golden eagle. There are also trails for everyone, regardless of their physical condition.
Caminito del Rey walkway
This hiking route is famous for its narrow paths overlooking impressive cliffs and its beautiful views of the river Guadalhorce. Adrenaline junkies and adventurous hikers must head to the Caminito del Rey walkway, located 80 kilometres from Fuengirola.
Nerja Caves
These underground caves, located 90 kilometres from Fuengirola, are a fantasy for everyone. The impressive formations of stalactites and stalagmites create true wonders. One of its main attractions is the large central chamber known as the ‘Cathedral’ because of its almost mystical and religious atmosphere. The caves are very close to the town of Nerja, which also has beaches, heritage and gastronomy.
