LOCATION FOCUS - FUENGIROLA

Fuengirola is a lively town on the popular Costa Del Sol.  With 8km of sandy beaches, it is one of the premier Spanish resorts for many. With great connections to Malaga airport just 25km away and average summer temperatures above 30°C, it’s easy to see why. The main beach stretches from the west of the region, to nearby Torreblanca in the east. The town also has history stretching back to its Medieval roots, so Fuengirola has plenty to see and do. Here are some of the essentials when visiting (or living) here.

Sohail Castle

Overlooking the Playa Del Castillo, Sohail Castle is a beautiful 1000-year-old hilltop fortress. Its ruins have been lovingly restored for visitors to admire, including its turrets and cannons. It also houses a small museum detailing the castle’s history. It is free of charge to enter. In the summer months, several festivals are held here, including an Oktoberfest beer party, medieval fair and several crafts markets. The castle may be closed to visitors during some of these ticketed events, so it’s always best to check before visiting. Even still, one of the best things to do is to hike to the hill upon which the castle is perched and admire the surrounding views of Fuengirola and the Mediterranean.

Bioparc Fuengirola

Bioparc Fuengirola is a family friendly attraction. A twist on the traditional zoo concept, the animals are enclosed in immersive recreations of their natural habitats, which blend into visitor areas. The zoo has been designed to block views of surrounding buildings, through the clever use of landscaping, including ravines, waterfalls, rivers and caves. This envelops visitors in areas representing several different tropical rainforests such as Madagascar, Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands, and aids the animals’ natural development. There is a vast array of stunning creatures on display, such as Gorillas, Orangutans, Red Pandas, Tigers and Komodo Dragons, as well as many more. The conservation work the Bioparc does is also second-to-none, and you can be at ease knowing your entrance fee is going to such a great cause.

Miramar Shopping Centre

As much as we all love browsing smaller boutiques and stalls on beachfront streets, sometimes, we just need everything under one roof. Thankfully, Fuengirola has the Miramar Shopping Centre, one of the largest on the Costa del Sol. Just a few minutes’ walk from the beach and Sohail Castle, the mall is air-conditioned, so perfect for a break from the midday sun in summer months. Inside, you’ll find a wide variety of stores, including some British favourites like H&M and even a Primark. The centre also has a food-court with big chains and local Spanish restaurant, child-minding facilities, and a multiplex cinema showing latest releases in English. Something to keep everyone entertained between sun bathing sessions.

Roman Ruins

Known as the Finca del Secretario (Secretary’s Estate), this find was discovered in the 1970s. Hidden away just off the beach and behind some apartment developments, it is well-worth seeking out. Dated to the 1st century AD, these roman ruins consist of the remains of several interesting facets of life during the Roman empire. The most well-preserved and interesting is the clearly visible Roman bath structures in the centre of the complex. Informational signs are in Spanish and English, with no fee required for entry. A viewing platform enables great views of all areas, whilst a trendy bar located on-site allows you to enjoy a drink over-looking the historic site.

Water Sports

Fuengirola is famed for its water sports. There is something for everyone seeking a little bit of excitement out on the open waves. With numerous companies competing for your attention, prices are some of the most affordable on the Costa del Sol. Most of the biggest companies are located in the marina area (worth a visit in itself!), offering everything from parasailing, to jet-skiing and boat trips. There is also a floating water park located right by the beach, offering fun for all the family. Featuring several large inflatable slides and obstacles, it is just metres from the shore and lifejackets are provided. However, the inflatables can get busy and might be a little daunting for younger children. 

As can be seen, there’s much more to Fuengirola than just sunbathing and beaches (though these are always an option…), and it makes the perfect place to buy a home in the sun. If you’d like to learn more about your buying options in Fuengirola or the Costa del Sol, please get in touch with our team. We can also arrange viewing trips if you’d like to visit the area for yourself.