The alternative COSTA DEL SOL

This infamously glittery stretch of the southern Spanish coast is not just about extravagant luxury. The lesser-known Costa del Sol is full of unexpected and memorable experiences guaranteed to appeal to the more intrepid wine and food lover

- STORY SHAWN HENNESSEY

The words ‘Costa del Sol’ conjure up images of a sun-drenched coastline and not-always-tasteful luxury – designer shops, glitzy nightclubs, shiny supercars and yacht-studded marinas marking the Costa out as a playground of the rich. It’s true, all that does exist along Spain’s southernmost coastline, notably the western stretch between Marbella and Manilva, including ultra-extravagant resort town Puerto Banús. But what happens along the other two-thirds of Málaga’s sun coast? Let’s have a look.

Officially the Costa del Sol lies within Málaga province, stretching between Nerja in the east to Manilva in the west. Sotogrande (Cádiz province) also gets an honourable mention since, although not technically a part of the Costa del Sol, it shares its tourist identity and people who live there consider themselves to be a vital part of the Costa lifestyle.

The entire Costa is on the Mediterranean, but geographically and culturally the two halves of the east/west divide – taking Málaga city as the median – could hardly be more different: each offers a contrast of landscapes, microclimates, lifestyles and culture – and, of course, gastronomy and wines.

Let’s assume you have arrived in Málaga (always a good choice) – in this article, we shall offer you plenty of ideas for some decidedly un-glam Costa del Sol places to check out, depending on whether you opt to turn to the east or west. It’s not a list as such, more a pick-n-mix selection of destinations that will enable you to tailor your route depending on your day. Remember to book all activities and restaurants in advance, and bear in mind that you will need a car for most of these day trips. The distance of each recommended spot from Málaga, in kilometres, is noted in brackets, to help you plan your outings and itineraries.

Málaga

Epicurean appeal