Costa del Sol is a densely populated coast area in southern Spain. It stretches along over 150 km and is one of Spain's most popular tourist destinations. Its beaches are visited by millions of European tourists every year. The offer for visitors is extremely varied from sunny beaches to beautiful mountain ranges with interesting fauna and the famous "white villages". The area's mild climate is a major factor in enjoying the beaches and a wide variety of outdoor and water activities year round.

The landscape of Costa del Sol

Costa del Sol has mountainous inland and many kilometres of golden and grey sand beaches at the seaside. The eastern end of the coast has many isolated coves, which are accessible by car or trail. It’s a perfect getaway if you’re in search of peace and relaxation. Over the last decade cultivation of subtropical fruits such as mangos, papayas, guavas and avocados has replaced the traditional orange, lemon and almond trees.

Large cities in Costa del Sol: Malaga and Granada

Malaga is steeped in ancient history and culture and offers plenty for visitors to see and to do such as the Gibralfaro Castle, the Archaeological Museum and the Picasso Museum, the refurbished birthplace of this artist.

Granada is one of Spain's most spectacular historical cities with millions of tourists and international students. Granada has been declared a national monument in virtue of its many well preserved remains as the Alhambra Palace. 

Tourist attractions in Costa del Sol

In Granada the most outstanding monument is certainly the great Arabian palace Alhambra known for its unique architecture and gardens with beautiful fountains and tranquil ponds.

The Sierra Nevada mountain range contains a ski resort with the highest peak in continental Spain, Mulhacén (3.482 m). It is a popular tourist destination, as its high peaks make skiing possible in Europe's most southern ski resort in an area predominantly known for its warm temperatures and abundant sunshine. At the foothills you will find the city of Granada.

Other attractions include zoos and water parks, casinos, bullfights and amusement parks like the renowned Parque de Atracciones Tívoli and Aqua Park in Torremolinos.

Sports activities in Costa del Sol

There are great possibilities for most different sports as well. You’ll enjoy every kind of water sports from sailing, yachting, swimming or simply relaxing.

Gastronomic characteristics of Costa del Sol

Costa del Sol cuisine always  includes freshly caught fish, the best expression of which is the famous 'pescadito frito', an assortment of fried fish including 'chanquetes and chopitos', small sardines, and red mullet. Other seafood such as lobster and baby squid are also popular and many kinds of fruits like oranges, pomegranates, avocados, kiwis and other tropical fruits.
Málaga is also famous for its sweet varieties of wine. The wine is made from the grapes of Antequera and La Axarquía, in the mountains of Malaga. 

The climate of Costa del Sol

Costa del Sol enjoys around 330 days of sun each year with an average temperature of 22°C. The sea temperature, rise at an average of 18°C  to 24°C in August.