The Costa del Sol is perhaps the most traditional summer holiday destination for UK holiday makers and this summer, like many gone before, will see an influx of Brits and holiday makers throughout Europe descend on the Andalucian city in droves. The merits of Malaga and the surrounding region are well known but the area is often shunned by the more discerning traveller with pronounced stereotypes of sun, sand and sangria. But what, then does this region of southern Spain have to offer by way of cultural attractions for those who want more than a dose of sunshine? Malaga is the main entry point for any traveller visiting the Costa del Sol and is the main coastal city of Andalucia. Relatively untouched by tourism itself, Malaga administers the plane loads of passengers passing through to the traditional resorts of Torremilinos, Fuengirola and Puerto Banus. But Malaga offers more than simply a passenger terminus and the more independently spirited traveller will be presented with a vibrant city with a strong historical legacy and easily identifiable Moorish influence. As the home of Picasso, art features prominently amongst the cultural points of note and the local tourist information site details sites of interest. Out with Malaga itself, the Andalucian nature of the region is evident for all to see. This most Spanish of regions retains a strong Moorish influence throughout most notable and easily recognised within the architecture of the area. Travelling throughout the region is easy and independent travellers will find car hire abundant with most of the large car hire companies having car hire firms in Malaga making travel in the surrounding regions relatively simple. Heading east out of the Costa del Sol the cliff lines coastal roads where the Sierra Almijara meet the sea offer stunning landscapes and a unique driving experience. Further east and into Granada and the magnificent city that gives the region its' name is a must on a self drive tour of southern Spain. Although relatively unspoilt by tourist activity Granada is dominated by the impressive Alhambra, and offers meandering, narrow streets - a further legacy of the regions Moorish influence. For a more cosmopolitan experience, the capital city of Andalucia, Seville, lies to the north. Although the drive from Malaga is not particularly rewarding, Spain's fourth largest city offers the grandeur expected of a major European city. The city is characterised again by Moorish architecture, but is dominated by one of the largest cathedrals in Europe and the impressive Mudejar Palace of Alcazar. Malaga may be more renowned for its' airport than anything else but the city really does offer an insight into Southern Spain and Andalucia and just might prove worthy of some interest beyong the package tourists. |
