December 26th 2024.
Estepona is a charming town nestled between the glitz and glamour of Marbella and the lavishness of Sotogrande. Despite its location, Estepona remains true to its traditional roots as a 'Pueblos Blanco' or 'White Town' of Andalusia, differentiating itself from its luxurious neighbors.
The town stretches along a picturesque 21-kilometer coastline, steeped in rich history. What was once believed to be a Roman settlement is now a popular holiday destination, offering a palm-lined promenade, authentic Spanish tapas bars, and a micro-climate that boasts 325 days of sunshine per year.
Andalusia has always been a popular tourist destination, with over 12 million international visitors flocking to the region in 2023. However, only a small percentage of them, 253,376 to be exact, chose to visit Estepona. Despite being recognized as the European City of the Year, it remains a hidden gem, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil and authentic Spanish experience.
Getting to Estepona is simple, with budget airlines offering affordable flights from various UK airports to Malaga. From there, it's just an hour's drive or a short bus journey to Estepona Bus Station. The town is also easily accessible by car, making it a convenient and stress-free destination for travelers.
I visited Estepona in May 2023, just six months before it was awarded second place in the European City of the Year awards. The town was recognized for its efforts in improving the quality of life for its residents and visitors through initiatives such as 'Estepona, Garden of the Costa del Sol' and the pedestrianization of its charming Old Town.
As I strolled along the accessible path from Playa de la Rada beach to the town's beautiful marina, I was struck by the abundance of vibrant shrubs and palm trees lining the streets. The small whitewashed houses of the Old Town were adorned with colorful flowers and charming polka-dotted plant pots, creating a stunning display of nature's beauty.
The highlight of my visit was the Plaza de las Flores, a bustling square in the heart of the town. Here, a Baroque fountain is surrounded by hundreds of blooming flowers, creating a magnificent spectacle. This is also where locals and tourists alike come to enjoy a leisurely lunch, sipping on drinks and indulging in delicious tapas at one of the four main bars in the square.
For a taste of the authentic Andalusian way of life, I ventured further into the Old Town, where I found quaint tapas bars nestled on street corners. Here, I was welcomed by friendly locals and enjoyed delicious food and refreshing drinks while taking a break from the warm sun.
It would have been a shame not to spend some time at the beautiful beaches of Estepona, and with over 12 miles of unspoiled coastline, there were plenty of options to choose from. I couldn't resist taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters and soaking up the sun on the golden sands.
In conclusion, Estepona may be a hidden gem, but it's a true gem nonetheless. With its rich history, charming streets, delicious food, and stunning beaches, it offers an authentic Spanish experience that is not to be missed. It's no wonder it was recognized as the European City of the Year, and I can't wait to visit again.
Nestled between the opulent boutiques of Marbella and the lavish playground of Sotogrande lies Estepona, a hidden gem in Spain. Despite its proximity to these luxurious destinations, Estepona has managed to retain its quaint charm as a traditional 'Pueblo Blanco' or 'White Town' of Andalusia. With 21 kilometers of stunning coastline, Estepona is not just a picturesque holiday spot, but also steeped in history. From its Roman origins to its current status as a popular tourist destination, this town has a lot to offer.
Despite being a well-kept secret, Estepona has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, over 12 million international tourists visited Andalusia, with most heading to popular cities like Malaga, Granada, and Seville. However, only a small percentage, about 2%, made their way to Estepona, even though it was named the second best European city of the year. This explains why I never had to fight for a sunbed during my visit.
Accessing Estepona is easy, just like the rest of Costa del Sol. I flew from Manchester to Malaga, with a return trip on easyJet costing me just under €121. Other budget airlines like Wizz and Ryanair also offer flights from various UK airports, with one-way trips starting at a mere €25 during low season. From Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, it takes about an hour to reach Estepona. While a taxi ride may cost around €100, there is also a direct bus service from the airport to Estepona Bus Station for a more budget-friendly option. The journey takes about 70 minutes and tickets range from €8 to €14, with only six buses running daily. It's best to plan your flight around the bus schedule if possible.
I visited Estepona in May 2023, six months before it was recognized as the second best European city of the year. This charming town was commended for its efforts to improve the quality of life for its residents through initiatives such as 'Estepona, Garden of the Costa del Sol' and the pedestrianization of the Old Town. As I strolled along the promenade from Playa de la Rada beach to the beautiful blue and white marina, I was greeted by an abundance of shrubs and palm trees lining the road. The Old Town, with its whitewashed houses adorned with bright pink flowers and polka-dotted plant pots, was a delight to explore. The highlight of this floral spectacle was the Plaza de las Flores, a bustling square with a Baroque fountain surrounded by hundreds of blooming flowers.
This square is not only a feast for the eyes but also a popular lunch spot for tourists looking to soak up the Andalusian atmosphere. With four main tapas bars in the square, it doesn't matter which one you choose as they are all equally busy and have a friendly camaraderie between them. If one is full, the waiters will happily direct you to the next one. Instagram blogger @kristatheexplorer recommends some of the best local-run restaurants in Estepona, including Amarillo Coffee & Lounge, Restaurante Las Gitanillas, MOM Brunch & Coffee, El Patio del Macarena, Tapas Diez, and Churrería El Barco. I personally enjoyed a delicious meal at La Sureña, a traditional tapas restaurant where local musicians played flamenco music on their guitars. For only €12, we indulged in a selection of mouth-watering dishes like Patatas Ali-oli, Pinchito de Pollo, Jamón Serrano, Salchichas al Vino, and Enslada de Bocas. And of course, no trip to Spain is complete without a jug or two of Sangria, which only cost us €9.
As we continued to explore the Old Town, we came across remnants of Arab rule, a testament to the region's rich history. The Moors ruled for over five centuries before being overthrown in 1456 by Henry IV of Castile. In this historic quarter, you'll find smaller, more casual tapas bars where locals gather to enjoy a cold beer and escape the scorching sun. Don't be afraid to join in and experience the true Andalusian hospitality.
Lastly, Estepona boasts over 12 miles of unspoiled coastline, making it the perfect destination for beach lovers. With golden sands and crystal clear waters, it's no wonder this town is called the Garden of the Costa del Sol. So, if you're looking for a hidden gem to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in Spanish culture, look no further than Estepona.
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