With its gorgeous setting on Spain’s famous and much-loved Costa del Sol, the town of Estepona has huge appeal – not only to those looking for the classic relaxing beach holiday, but also to anyone who enjoys exploring culture and history. Renowned as one of the most attractive towns in the entire region, with its eclectic architecture and gorgeous floral displays, there’s definitely more to Estepona than meets the eye.
So, while there should most definitely be plenty of lazing around on the town’s wonderful golden beaches, just a short, relaxing stroll around the Old Town will help you get a handle on the deep cultural and historical roots of this truly lovely town.
Highlights of the Old Town
The winding streets of the Old Town date back to mediaeval times and provide a charming backdrop for a walk – here’s what you’ll likely discover even without trying!
Wander the Streets
Even before you encounter any monuments or reminders of the past, the gaily planted floral blossoms spilling from doorways and windowsills will catch your eye. It’s been called the most beautiful town in Andalucia and it’s not hard to see why. There are often open-air sculptures on display from local and visiting artists, as well as murals painted on the sides of buildings. The municipal heads of the town are committed to preserving its rich, storied heritage and art is a wonderful way of doing it.
The Church of the Virgen de los Remedios
Dating back to the eighteenth century, this beautiful church with its sandstone facade
was originally part of a convent. Located on Plaza San Francisco, you can still see chips and stones of iron ore embedded in its surface. The interior and exterior architecture is an interesting mix – which speaks to the diverse heritage of the region.
Plaza de las Flores
This pretty square has had many incarnations, including as a produce market and a bullfighting ring! As well as wandering around looking at the central fountain and floral displays, you can visit the very interesting eighteenth-century Casa de las Tejerinas, which also houses the Tourist Office and MAD Art Gallery. Once you’ve had your fill of culture, you can take a seat at one of the multiple cafes and restaurants that line the plaza and have a coffee, wine or lunch.
The Clock Tower
The fifteenth-century clock tower – La Torre del Reloj – is all that’s left of the original church that stood on the site. It laid claim to being the oldest ecclesiastical building on the Costa del Sol, but was a casualty of the earthquake that hit the region in 1755. It has a sundial on one side and also a modern clock face, which was added more recently in the 1940s.
Archaeological Museum
The town has several small museums, but this one is probably the most interesting. Located on Plaza Blas Infantes, it is home to a fascinating collection of relics from multiple eras – all the way back to the Palaeolithic. Set over four levels, the very well-curated collection includes: Early Populations and Phonecians; the Romans; Byzantine and Omeya Califate; Twelfth century onwards. Set aside a couple of hours to do the museum justice and delve into the history.
Castle of San Luis
There really isn’t much left to see of this once great castle, but the defensive walls remain, and it’s very interesting to trace the stories that surround the construction that was once the very heart of Estepona – built on the orders from the ruling Catholic monarchs. You can walk around the perimeter of the few remaining vestiges of the ruins and stroll through the delightful gardens that hug the sixteenth-century castle walls.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Silken El Pilar Andalucía: Set across from the beautiful beach, this stylish and authentic hotel delivers all the comforts of home and more. Rooms feature elegant decor, air-conditioning and room service, and there’s a wonderful buffet or continental breakfast to set you on your day just right.
Casa del Patio: Quiet, refined and just 350 metres from the beach, this adults-only hotel offers spacious apartments with air-conditioning, fully-equipped kitchens and well-appointed private bathrooms. It’s perfectly situated to allow you to explore the town at your leisure.
Hanami Avenida de Espana: Offering city, mountain and outstanding sea views, these lovely apartments are beautifully appointed and decorated throughout. With spacious bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, washing machine and all the conveniences of home, your stay will be topped off with a fabulous balcony taking in views over the ocean.
How to Get There
Getting to Estepona is a cinch, with your best option being to fly into the popular Malaga Airport (AGP). The flight from the UK to Malaga is under three hours, and then when you land you can get a quick and easy pre-booked transfer from Malaga Airport to Estepona. A friendly and experienced driver will get you from the airport to Estepona in around an hour.
Overview
UK to ALC Flight Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
AGP to Estepona Distance: 82 kilometres
Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 1 hour
Types of Estepona Airport Transfer Services
There are numerous options at your disposal when booking a Malaga airport transfer. Whatever your needs, there will be one to suit you perfectly. Here are the most common options.
Taxi: Who wants to stand in a queue? You won’t have to if you pre-book an airport taxi. Malaga to Estepona taxis can be booked before you arrive, meaning you won’t have to wait around or get caught up in the crowds.
Shuttle Bus: A shared shuttle bus is a popular way to get from the airport to your accommodation. You’ll share the service with other passengers travelling to the same destination, which makes it a more affordable airport transfer than a taxi.
Private Transfer: If you like to travel in luxury, the answer to all your needs is a private transfer. Malaga to Estepona is no distance at all when you’re travelling in a door-to-door private service.
Minibus Transfer: If you’re travelling with a bigger group and you have lots of luggage between you, a larger vehicle is much more practical and you can spread the cost amongst yourselves.
Choosing the Right Estepona Airport Transfer
When you’re pre-booking a Malaga airport transfer service there are some things you should keep in mind before making your decision.
Cost: Always check the prices of comparative services and see which one is best suited to your personal budget and needs.
Convenience: Take the convenience of each service into consideration. A shared service from Malaga airport to Estepona will be healthier for your budget, but a private service will get you to your destination and accommodation in the fastest possible way.
About Shuttle Direct
Here at Shuttle Direct, we’ve got many years experience getting travellers to and from airports and accommodation all over the world. No matter what kind of traveller you are and what kind of service you require, from shared budget-friendly rides to luxurious private transfers, we’ll get you to where you need to go.
