Costa Del Sol:
Spain's `sunshine coast' is one of Europe's favourite holiday destinations. With an average of 320 days of blue sky annually, it is perfect as a summer holiday or as a winter destination for golfers, walkers and those wishing to pursue out -door activities. Families are particularly well catered for, with myriad attractions, restaurants and of course miles of beaches. Children are not just tolerated but welcomed by the friendly Spanish people.
Despite the march of development, the area still has the ambiance of Andalucía, the most `Spanish' of all regions and you do not have to venture far from your holiday home to encounter local ferias, fiestas and romerias - the scent of Jasmine is in the air, inexpensive wine is flowing freely- come and enjoy!
There are many national parks just on the doorstep and from December to April you can ski in the Sierra Nevada, 2.5 hours drive. Further afield, for the more adventurous Morocco, with its souks and 3rd world charm is only 2 hours away.
Marbella and coast:
Internationally known as a 'jet set' play ground, Puerto Banus is a sophisticated village -style port development with whitewashed condominiums clustered around the lovely marina, where you can admire the luxurious yachts of the rich and famous or 'people watch' in one of the many exclusive bars and restaurants that line the port. Or if your purse can stretch to it, shop until you drop in the many designer boutiques, that stay open until late in the evening.
Old Marbella is only 10 mins drive away with its pretty Plaza de los Naranjos, beautifully preserved white Moorish houses and geranium-filled balconies. There are many excellent restaurants set amongst the narrow winding streets and some fantastic shops although not priced for the faint hearted. If you have children there is a really great toy shop with unusual toys.
San Pedro has a long seafront promenade, perfect for those sunset strolls or winter walks. It has a wide sandy beach and children's play areas.
More:
Estepona has a promenade and a fishing port where you can watch local fishermen unloading their catch from their colourful boats, but you will have to be up early for the fish auction!The pretty main square has numerous cafes and restaurants amid remnants of old castle walls and traditional whitewashed buildings with their balconies of scented flowers. There is a good mix of shops and the area is particularly popular with families and well heeled British retirees.
There are many children's activities locally and within 30 mins drive. Fuengirola Zoo, the most modern in Spain is excellent and well worth a visit, also Tivoli World theme Park. Selwo Park, a safari style park is nearby. There are also Water parks and all types of sports, horse riding etc.
The area is well placed for exploring beautiful Andalucia.The famous white villages are well worth a visit and also Ronda with its breathtaking gorge and the oldest bullring in Spain, still in use!
Ski:
Sierra Nevada is approximately 2-2.5 hours from Marbella and often has snow up to the first week in May. This mostly undiscovered ski resort is known for skiing in the morning and sunbathing on the beach in the afternoon. The prices are good and you can stay overnight locally for a reasonable price in a wide range of properties in and around the resort. The countryside is beautiful and worth a visit out of ski season as well.
Golf:
The Costa Del Sol is also know as 'Costa Del Golf' . If you stayed for a month you could play a different course every day and not travel more than 45 min to do it.There is a huge range of courses to suit all abilities and of course some fantastic club houses, many of whom feature regular dinner dances and special events.
