Marbella, on Spain's southern coast is the venue of choice for those planning a golf holiday on the Costa del Sol. It is superb, it has everything. More than 70 golf courses within easy reach and when the golf is finished you find yourself in the heart of the leisure capital of Europe. Without question Golf in Marbella is as good as it gets.
Here we share with our guide to the top 5 five things you can do in Marbella when you are not playing golf that will make your golf holiday in Marbella unforgettable.
Paseo Maritimo - Cafe Society
The Paseo Marítimo, the walkway that runs the length of the seafront is home to chiringuitos, beach bars, restaurants, music venues, cafes and more. It is the beating heart of daytime Marbella. Here are five fun things you can do along the Paseo Marítimo in Marbella:
Stroll and Enjoy the Views: Take a leisurely stroll along the Paseo Marítimo to soak in the beautiful coastal views. The promenade runs along the coastline, offering picturesque vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, sandy beaches, and the horizon. It's a perfect way to unwind, enjoy the sea breeze, and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Beach Activities: The Paseo Marítimo connects to various beaches in Marbella, providing easy access to the sandy shores. Spend time sunbathing, swimming, or participating in water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, or beach volleyball. Many beachside cafes and bars are also located along the promenade, allowing you to enjoy refreshments and meals with an ocean view.
Cycling and Rollerblading: The wide and paved pathway of the Paseo Marítimo is ideal for cycling and rollerblading. Rent a bike or rollerblades from local rental shops and enjoy a fun and active way to explore the coastline. The flat terrain and refreshing sea breeze make it a pleasant experience for people of all ages.
Dining and Cafes: The promenade is lined with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars offering a wide variety of culinary delights. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, Mediterranean cuisine, or international dishes, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds. Many establishments offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal while watching the sea.
People-Watching and Shopping: The Paseo Marítimo is a popular spot for people-watching, especially during the evenings when locals and tourists come out to enjoy the ambiance. You can also find small shops, stalls, and markets along the promenade, selling souvenirs, clothing, accessories, and local crafts.
Bonus: Sunset Watching: The Paseo Marítimo is a fantastic place to catch breathtaking sunsets over the Mediterranean Sea. As the sun sets over the horizon, the sky transforms into a palette of warm hues, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. Find a comfortable spot along the promenade or on the beach to enjoy this natural spectacle.
Overall, the Paseo Marítimo in Marbella offers a mix of relaxation, recreation, dining, shopping, and stunning views. It's a versatile destination where you can tailor your experience to your preferences and enjoy the best that the Marbella coastline has to offer.
Get on a boat Whale watching, sailing, fishing, chilling, jetski
Whale and Dolphin watching in the Mediterranean Sea from Marbella offers an exciting opportunity to observe marine life and enjoy the beauty of the sea. Fin Whales, Orcas and several species of Dolphin call the Mediterranean Sea their home. Rarely sighted, but nonetheless present are Sperm Whales and Pilot Whales. If you are lucky enough to watch these magnificent creatures up close it will forge a memory that nevers dulls.
The best time for whale watching in the Mediterranean Sea from Marbella is generally during the warmer months, from late spring through summer and into early autumn. During this period, the sea conditions are generally calmer, and marine life is more active. Dolphins are frequently seen throughout the year, while larger whale species might be spotted during their migratory routes.
There are several tour operators in Marbella that offer whale watching excursions. These tours typically involve guided boat trips led by experienced naturalists who can provide insights about marine life and the local ecosystem. The boats used for these tours are designed to minimize disturbance to the animals while providing passengers with good visibility.
Whale watching tours can vary in duration, ranging from a few hours to a full day. The itineraries often include sailing along the coastline in search of dolphins and whales. Some tours may also include stops at points of interest along the coast for swimming, snorkeling, or exploring coves and beaches.
Whale watching in the Mediterranean Sea from Marbella might not guarantee an encounter with Moby Dick but it will provide an enjoyable way to appreciate the local marine life while taking in the natural beauty of the coast.
Ronda, wine tasting
Ronda is a picturesque town located high in the mountainous terrain about 20 minutes from Marbella known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and emerging wine scene. Wine tasting excursions to Ronda offer a delightful experience for both wine enthusiasts and travellers looking to explore the scenic beauty of the region. Here's what you can expect from a wine tasting excursion to Ronda:
Ronda is gaining recognition for its production of quality wines, especially red wines. The region's unique climate, altitude, and soil conditions contribute to the distinctive character of Ronda wines.
A wine tasting excursion to Ronda will present you with the opportunity to visit local vineyards and wineries. You'll have the chance to learn about the winemaking process, from grape cultivation to bottling. Expert guides often explain the specific characteristics of the local terroir and the techniques used to craft Ronda's distinctive wines. The tours usually conclude with tastings of different wine varieties produced by the winery. Some well-known wineries in the area include Bodega Descalzos Viejos, Bodega F. Schatz, and Bodega Joaquín Fernández. The most prominent grape variety grown here is Tintilla de Rota, a red grape variety known for its aromatic and flavorful profile.
Set against the backdrop of the stunning Ronda landscape, featuring rolling hills, vine-covered slopes, and the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge spanning the dramatic El Tajo Gorge, you can be sure that this will be an experience to savour.
Beyond wine, Ronda offers a rich cultural experience. The town itself is steeped in history, with ancient Moorish architecture, charming narrow streets, and significant landmarks. You can explore attractions like the Puente Nuevo bridge, the Arab Baths, and the Mondragón Palace while immersing yourself in the town's heritage.
In summary, a wine tasting excursion to Ronda, Spain, provides a well-rounded experience that combines wine appreciation, stunning landscapes, cultural exploration, and gastronomic delights. It's a chance to discover the unique wines of the region while immersing yourself in its history and beauty.
Caminito del Rey
Caminito del Rey (King's Little Pathway) is a famous walking path located in the El Chorro region of Málaga. It's known for its stunning natural beauty, dramatic views, and historical significance. The path winds its way through the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a narrow canyon carved by the Guadalhorce River.
The origins of the Caminito del Rey date back to 1901 when it was built as a maintenance walkway for workers on a hydroelectric power plant. It was officially inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII in 1921, which is how it got its name, "King's Little Pathway."
Over the years, the pathway fell into disrepair due to lack of maintenance. By the early 21st century, it became a dangerous and decaying structure, with sections of the pathway collapsing. Despite this, some adventurous hikers continued to attempt the walk, leading to several fatal accidents.
In 2014, a major renovation project was undertaken to restore and reinforce the Caminito del Rey. The walkway was completely reconstructed to ensure safety while preserving the historic and scenic aspects of the route. The path was reopened to the public in 2015. The Caminito del Rey offers breathtaking views of the Gaitanes Gorge, with its towering rock walls and the Guadalhorce River flowing below. The path includes sections pinned to the sides of cliffs and a glass-floored bridge, creating an exhilarating experience for visitors.
The total length of the Caminito del Rey is around 7.7 kilometres (about 4.8 miles). The walk takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete and involves uneven terrain, narrow pathways, and some steep sections. While it is not an extremely strenuous hike, visitors should be reasonably fit and not have a fear of heights.
The surrounding area is designated as a natural site and offers diverse flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The Caminito del Rey is located near the towns of Álora, Antequera, and Ardales. These towns offer facilities for visitors, including accommodation and restaurants.
E Bike Tours
E-bike tours provide an exciting and eco-friendly way to explore the scenic beauty, historical sites, and local culture of Marbella. E-bikes, or electric bikes, offer an assistive motor that makes pedalling easier, allowing riders to cover more distance with less effort. Here's what you can expect from e-bike tours in Marbella:
E-bike tours are usually led by experienced local guides who are knowledgeable about the area's history, culture, and attractions. These guides provide valuable insights and information throughout the tour, making it both an informative and enjoyable experience.
E-bike tours in Marbella often take you along scenic routes that showcase the town's natural beauty and coastal landscapes. You can explore the picturesque beaches, charming promenades, and even venture into the surrounding countryside for a diverse range of views.
You do not need the fitness of a Tour de France winner to enjoy an E bike tour. E-bikes are equipped with electric assistance that makes cycling uphill or against the wind much easier. This means you can comfortably explore areas that might have been challenging on a regular bike. The motor assistance allows riders of varying fitness levels to participate and enjoy the experience.
E-bike tours in Marbella might include stops at local eateries, allowing participants to sample traditional Andalusian cuisine. These culinary experiences can add a delightful gastronomic dimension to your tour.