Malaga
This enchanting part of the country is often described as the seductive lady from Andalucia; Not what you expect in a tourist city. With a personality greatly influenced by its Moorish past, its native son – Pablo Picasso, and Malaguenos love of fine food, this magical destination envelops a traveler in a thrilling world of history, art and unsurpassed dining.
Mijas: a delightful 15th century village overlooking Malaga. The shrine of the Virgin Mary provides a moving spiritual connection for any seeking it. This location provides the appearance of Mary, hundreds of years ago, and continues to provide an outlet for those who seek spiritual intervention, guidance and miraculous healing. I felt a deep connection to this place.
Spain, long being famous for its olive oils, tapas and wine, provides an exemplary display with its Museo del Vino. This innovative and cultural culinary experience was delightful to all of the senses, and shouldn’t be missed for the world.
Full of charm and ambience, there is always time for shopping in Mijas. Here you will find fine leather goods, linens, pottery, jewelry and local wine, olives, olive oils and the most delicious almonds imaginable!
In the evening, a visitor can wrap up their night with an amazing local feast in Marbella’s Orange Square at Restaurante Buenaventura. The wine, the cava (Spanish sparkling wine), tapas, entrée and dessert are overwhelmingly sumptuous! There is always ‘time’ provided to enjoy a culinary experience.
Just a little exploration of the area yields enjoyable surprises. The Equestrian Center, with its incredibly gorgeous horses and wide open spaces, the Cortijo de Corted hacienda-style venue providing equestrian showcasing, and the Marbella Club Golf Course are all located in this varied and vibrant region. This course is tucked into a very upscale environment, supplying amazing golfing and scenery to enliven the senses.
Perhaps one of the most fun, interactive treats – a Paella cooking class at the Alaberdero Playas in San Pedro. Upon entering, you are donned with a chef’s hat and apron, the necessary cooking tools and delectable ingredients, and helped to make your own creative masterpiece. The backdrop for your culinary adventure is the amazing Mediterranean Sea, with the northern coast of Africa in the not-so-distant distance, less than an hour away by boat.
The five-star Hotel Melia Don Pepe (www.donpepe-Marbella.com) plays host to amazing, oceanfront property in Marbella. The varied room/suite categories comfortably accommodate any guest. Staying here affords the chance to run into several celebrities, such as Antonio Banderas, who also enjoys casual elegance, and a trip to engage the senses and enliven the mind.
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Hi Denise,
How funl to read your blog on the Costa Del Sol! It was a gastronomical delight – a “Taste of Spain” experience in enchanting Andalucia. I took about 900 photos, plus videos. Once edited, I will forward to you the best photos of our time together.
Rita