The starting point, what better place than Fuengirola!
A vibrant coastal town that I have made my home. Situated on the Costa del Sol in Malaga province, it has loads to offer. Easily accessible with a direct train link from Malaga airport. If you’re looking for sun, sand and sea – you’ve got them but there’s so much more here.
Life in motion
There’s rarely a quiet time but here are some notable events on the annual calendar. Visit: www.fuengirola.es Semana Santa (Easter) a great time to check out the traditional parades. Recinto Ferial – The Fairground. A notable landmark in town with numerous Peñas and the location of the town’s largest theatre Palacio de La Luz. In May, the town hosts the Feria Internacional de Los Pueblos, a meeting point for different countries and cultures from around the world. In short, it’s a foodfest but don’t miss out on the parades. Bands and dance troops in national costume are out in force. The summer months – Parque del Castillo is home to Marenostrum Fuengirola. Check out their website for the full programme of outdoor concerts. Feria de la Virgen del Rosario, known locally as “Feria de Fuengirola” happens in October, lots of fun and tradition in spectacular colour. The Peñas come to life, offering live music & dancing throughout the afternoons & nights and once darkness sets in, the lights are spectacular. There’s usually a great programme of concerts in Palacio de La Paz. Recinto Ferial is also home to our markets on Tuesdays (regular) and Saturdays (second hand). Throughout the Christmas period (Navidad) nativity scenes can be found in the town’s squares and shop windows. The street decorations in themselves are a sight to see. Then we look forward to the night of the Three Kings (Epiphany) January 6th, the day dedicated to children. The Three Kings arrive in Fuengirola late afternoon and tour the town in a grand parade, gifting sweets to the throngs of folk, young and old, lining the streets!
Like art?
El Boquetillo is a neighbourhood in the western part of the town without boudaries. It’s home to some incredible ‘street art’. The buildings surrounding and indeed the Mercado Del Boquetilo itself, have been transformed into canvases for prestigious local artists Nesui, Kato, Lalone and Mon Devane. After appreciating the amazing murals, have a break in a churreria or cafeteria and grab some churros and chocolate, support the community.
Museo de la Cuidad
Deserves a mention. It’s a small space but showcases some great stuff, depending on your interests. To be found in Calle Maria Josefa Larrucea 3, next to the Town Hall. Currently home to ‘FAMA‘ Fotografas Artistas Malageuñas 8th March till 21st April 2024. A notable past exhibition, Art on Vinyl 2022, displayed Rock & Roll imagery by Antonio La Fuente Del Pozo and included 350 album covers from the 1940’s onwards – just to give you a flavour of what you might find and it’s free.
Let’s talk food
Plaza de la Constitucion is at the centre of the town and you’ll find restaurants & bars to suit every taste & budget in the surrounding streets. La Esqina de Chinorros offers what I’d describe as Spanish with some twists. Mercado La Galeria has something for everyone . Explore this square, but don´t limit yourself to it, get out into the neighborhoods, is my advice. Focusing on typical dishes – let’s start with breakfast. Why not try a ‘tostada con aceite y tomate‘ or, a personal favourite of mine, ‘pitufo catalan‘ those served at ‘Mi Cafe, Bar‘ in Calle Malaga are second to none and believe me, I’ve done plenty of testing! For ‘tapas‘, I recommend ‘En Tiempo de Maria Castaña‘, in Calle San Pancracio or a little further a field ‘Taberna la Abuela‘, in Los Boliches.
Foot note: for those who might want to catch a game, be it football, rugby, golf. ‘The Temple Bar‘ is a great spot.
Out & about
Head west along the Paseo Maritimo Rey de Española and you’ll arrive at the Puente de la Armada España spanning the river and opposite Parque del Castillo. Enjoy the views. Head east to Los Boliches and Carvajal just follow the paseo. The seafront is lined with chiringuitos, too numerous to mention, choose your own spot.
Come visit !
The infrastructure here is great for exploring. Numerous routes/destinations are on offer from the town’s busy bus station or you can use Malaga as a hub to widen your horizons.
Feedback & Sharing
If you visit any of the places I’ve recommended, I hope you have an enjoyable experience and please let them know, who led you, to their door. Muchas gracias.