Villa Spain - Property Magazin for the Costa del Sol

Villa España - The New Costa Del Sol

It wasn't all that long ago when articles about the Costa del Sol would invariably lead off with exhortations to tourists to come and enjoy "sun, sea and sangria".

In reality, Europe's most popular Mediterranean resort has always been much more than exceptional climate, 100 kilometres of coastline, and jugs of ice-cool red wine, lemonade and fruit - but sometimes the complete picture is not apparent in postcard images.

That, however, is all changing. With an estimated one million-plus northern Europeans now living here either permanently or for various months of the year, the Costa del Sol enjoys an international image as a contemporary, cosmopolitan and culturally rich area extending from trendy beach bars to rustic retreats in the mountain hinterland. From only the third Pablo Picasso museum in the world (the artist was born in Málaga capital) to the exclusive boutiques of Marbella. From Europe's most highly rated golf course, Valderrama, to picturesque walking tracks through the Andalucian countryside.

That is the real Costa del Sol. Millions of visitors (and "residential tourists") might be perfectly satisfied with “sun, sea and sangria” but an increasing number are seeking a more diverse lifestyle and they can certainly find it on the Costa del Sol.

The Costa del Sol is the most popular destination for discerning people looking for a second home, and the long list of reasons for this always begins with one indisputable and durable fact: it offers the highest number of sunshine days in the European Union.

It isn't rare to see people basking on the beach, and strolling along the promenades in short sleeves, as early in the year as March, when the last chills of winter disappear into sun-drenched spring days.

In fact, the Coast's unrivalled climate enables residents to enjoy fine outdoor living all year round, and this is most impressively the case in one of the area’s most emblematic “industries”. In the lead-up to the 1997 Ryder Cup at Valderrama, signs began appearing along the coastal highway declaring, “Costa del Sol – Costa del Golf”. This was no mere promotional slogan. The international spotlight was on the Coast that week as Seve Ballesteros captained Europe to a memorable victory against the Americans, but the golfing story didn’t end there. Golf can be played all 12 months of the year on the Costa del Sol, unlike other northern European areas where the golfing season takes a long break over winter, and there are about 40 courses to choose from.

Of course, while it may seem illogical to incurable golfers, not everyone wants to play golf. And for them Málaga capital) to the exclusive boutiques of as well the Costa del Sol is the ideal place to indulge their passions or try new pursuits.

Contents

 

Mijas costa

---

Marbella

---