Visiting Estepona

Getting to Estepona, there and back. With the choice of 2 international airports, Gibraltar (45km) and Malaga (80km), Estepona is an easy direct flight away from most European capitals, which increases its appeal for thousands of summer visitors, winter-break sunshine seekers, and long-weekenders eager to spend some time away from the cloudy skies of their natural habitat!!

Getting to Estepona, there and back

With the choice of 2 international airports, Gibraltar(45km) and Malaga(80km), Estepona is an easy direct flight away from most European capitals, which increases its appeal for thousands of summer visitors, winter-break sunshine seekers, and long-weekenders eager to spend some time away from the cloudy skies of their natural habitat!!

Estepona Beaches

From either airport, road transport to this part of the Costa del Sol is straight-forward thanks to the A7 Mediterranean Motorway and the AP7 Highway Toll Road. You may encounter some congested traffic in certain stretches of the A7 along the way, especially in the summer months so, if heading to one of these two airports, leave with extra time to spare which, if unused, you can spend on your last tapa or shopping at the airport before you board the plane!

A very, very short history of Estepona

There is evidence that the area now known as Estepona had been occupied as far back as prehistoric times, but between seaquakes and various battles over the centuries to regain possession from Roman and Moorish forces, the Spanish monarch Henry IV of Castilla was the final victor in 1457. On the site where the Moors had built their mosque, a church was erected by the Christian families who had come to settle, but the only remains still standing today are those of the old Clock Tower. A vestige to these battle-torn times stands the Castle of San Luis, which was erected to defend the settlement against attacking pirates known as the Berbers.

Estepona was governed by Marbella until 1729 when it was granted independent town status by royal charter. Then it was an important farming and fishing town but today the main focus is on tourism and its direct and indirect activities, in which local fishermen continue to play an important and vital part by servicing local hotels, restaurants and families all year round.

Things to do in Estepona

Apart from enjoying the typical “sun, sea, sand and seafood” combo, Estepona offers a wide range of “extra-curricular” activities that are well worth programming into your days whether you are a visitor or a resident. Some landmarks worth a visit include: the old town and the Town Clock Tower, the 15th century San Luis Castle, and the Virgen de los Remedios Church.

The port and sports marina not only offers a great scene for socializing and nightlife, it is also the place to go if you enjoy walking around street markets and searching through and picking up original holiday souvenirs and gifts at the various stalls. And if you are a die-hard market lover, the typical Spanish “Flea Market” is held once a week in the main town square.

Estepona Golf Courses

As with all street markets (and shopping in general), if male partner does not enjoy this activity, he may prefer to spend the morning on a round of golf at one of the great course in and close to Estepona, including Valle Romano Golf Course, Estepona Golf, La Resina Golf and Country Club, or El Paraiso Golf Club, designed by Gary Player. There are of course many other courses for a challenging game and the choice widens the further afield you go. But if the shopping spree to be missed is a relatively short one, then maybe a game of tennis or paddleball at the Bel Air Tennis and Paddle Club would suit better!!

More can be found for shop-o-holics in the old town of Estepona, where small shops and stores are a delight to wander through while on the serious business of looking for unusual and original bargains. Looking for something with a brand name on the label? Then head for the main town centre or nip down to Puerto Banus in Marbella, just 20 minutes’ drive away, where you will find all the designer stores your heart simply yearns for!

Old Town Estepona

And the kids, what about the kids?

Perhaps a much-needed break from the beach is in order, but the kids won´t hack the shopping (or the golf, tennis or paddle!!!)… so, where can you go and what can you do?

Selwo Safari Adventure Park is the perfect solution – it makes a super day out for all the family. Only about 20 minutes by car from Estepona, you can enjoy viewing many beautiful and interesting animals, including birds and reptiles, in a semi-wild environment; a huge variety of exotic trees and plants; as well as taking part in the many fun-packed adventure activities and exhibitions. We place an easy bet that they will be fast asleep on the way home!!

Another event the kids will enjoy would be to go along to the Clock Tower Square (Plaza del Reloj) where the Municipal Band plays regularly. They will enjoy dancing and clapping to the rhythms of the band´s trombone as it booms out its deep regular notes in the cool of the summer evenings.

Feria de Estepona

If you are visiting during the month of July, look up the dates of the local “Feria de Estepona” (they change the date each year) as it makes for a great evening out for all the family, young and younger alike. For this and lots of other additional information on music concerts, festivals and events, check out the Estepona Town Hall Agenda, there´s something there to suit all tastes!

Eating out in Estepona

Read about our “6 Favourite Restaurants in Estepona”, listed in a previous blog post by clicking here and which include some lovely eateries offering good quality food, at good prices and in fabulous surroundings and locations.

Enjoy!!

If you would like to see a range of property for sale in Estepona, click here and you will be taken to MP Dunne Property listings in Estepona.

Text by Patricia Torney, August 2014

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