Property for sale Costa del Sol

Costa del Sol

The southern coast of Andalucia has been a popular destination for travellers and tourists for many years now. The quality of life and picturesque scenery has long been a major attraction. Andalucia, which has been occupied by the Romans and the Moors has developed its very own character, somewhat distinct from other provinces in Spain.

The southern coast of Andalucia has been a popular destination for travellers and tourists for many years now. The quality of life and picturesque scenery has long been a major attraction. Andalucia, which has been occupied by the Romans and the Moors has developed its very own character, somewhat distinct from other provinces in Spain.

The geography of the area ranges from the hard rugged mountain ranges of the Sierra Nevada, to the golden beaches of the south. The majority of the coast meets the Mediterranean, although east of Gibraltar it also borders the Atlantic. This diversity within Andalucia means the region can offer every kind of water sport from fishing to diving to surfing, along with safe shallow waters for the youngsters and novice swimmers. Furthermore, away from the hot beaches of the south, about two hours drive inland takes you to the ski resorts of Granada.

Golf is extremely popular on the coast, with many courses suitable for all standards of play right up to major international competitions. Just away from the coast, the foothills of the larger mountain ranges provide an excellent location for activites such as painting, horse riding, walking and wildlife spotting. Andalucia also boasts numerous beautiful lakes and national parks, with an abundance of wildlife including flamingos, eagles, hawks and many other birds along with wild boar, deer, snakes and reptiles and even the occasional wolf. On a clear day North Africa can also be seen from many of the beaches.

Malaga, the main city on the coast, is a city of contrasts. It is a bustling business centre with an industrial port, industrial estates and factories, an international airport and university, but also offers historic buildings, a castle, parks and gardens, a multitude of bars and restaurants ( some of which are over one hundred years old ), excellent shopping and even has its own beaches. Two hours drive from Malaga is Gibraltar, famous for its tax free shopping, finance houses, and its apes who live at the top of the rock.

Communications have been greatly improved over the last twenty years in the region, and you can now be in Madrid within approximately four to five hours from Malaga, by train or by car. Several new motorways have been constructed along the coast making east - west travel much faster as well. At present the motorway is being extended westwards towards Almeria.