Estepona, the beautiful Andalucian beachside town in the province of Malaga, has recently been named as one of the top 5 destinations in Spain by UK national newspaper The Telegraph. This recognition has been well-deserved, with Estepona offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities that make it an ideal place to live, visit, or invest in real estate.
Located on the Costa del Sol, the area is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and year-round sunny weather. Estepona is a municipality as well as a town, with its coastline stretching for more than 21 kilometres, offering a variety of beaches that cater to different tastes and preferences. From the lively and bustling La Rada beach to the peaceful El Cristo beach, there is a beach for everyone, with a traditional ‘chiringuito’, or beach restaurant, by the shores of almost all, offering beach-goers the chance to sample the freshest of fish and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Historic Old Town
Apart from its beaches, Estepona is also known for its picturesque Old Town, which delights with traditional Andalucian charm. The Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets, white-washed houses, and colourful flowerpots, which create a unique atmosphere that is both romantic and nostalgic. Here, visitors can find a variety of local shops, bars, and restaurants that serve traditional dishes and drinks, as well as a huge variety of international cuisine, reflecting the international melting-pot of its residents.
Another highlight of Estepona is its cultural heritage, which dates back to the Roman times. The town has a rich history that is reflected in its architecture, museums, and festivals. Some of the must-visit attractions in Estepona include the Castle of San Luis, the Nuestra Señora de los Remedios church, and the Paleontological Museum. Moreover, Estepona hosts several cultural events throughout the year, such as the San Isidro festival, the Holy Week processions, and the International Guitar Festival, which attract visitors from all over the world.
The flowering of Estepona
In recent years, Estepona has undergone a major transformation, with the municipality investing heavily in urban development and infrastructure. The ‘Garden of Andalucía’ project has seen the town literally blooming – it seems that every verge and pavement is planted with year-round splashes of colour of plants and shrubs, while walls in the Old Town are speckled with colourful plant pots sporting traditional bright red geraniums.
The three towering glass domes of the orchidarium in the town houses the largest collection of orchids in Spain and is well worth a visit. The climate is controlled for the exotic plants with waterfalls and a beautiful walkway meandering through the tropical vegetation.
Cultural heart
An exciting addition to Estepona’s urban landscape is the recently completed Mirador del Carmen building. This striking 13-storey edifice is a hub of cultural activity, housing the Mirador del Carmen Centre, and aims to provide a home for the cultural heart of Estepona.
The centre offers an array of amenities, including a library, a music conservatory, an auditorium for events, an exhibition hall, and an open-air lookout platform from which dazzling views of the Mediterranean, the town and the mountainous backdrop can be enjoyed.
The Mirador del Carmen project is a testament to Estepona’s commitment to urban development and cultural enrichment. It also offers an exhibition of 40 of Baroness Thyssen’s collection of artworks, further enhancing the town’s reputation as a centre for the arts and culture.
Estepona has also seen the construction of several new residential complexes, shopping centres, and a major new sports stadium, which have attracted both domestic and international investors. Moreover, Estepona has become a hub for luxury tourism, with several high-end hotels and resorts opening in the area.
All these factors have contributed to Estepona’s rising popularity as a holiday and real estate destination. Its reputation has risen substantially over the past few years, with a real estate offering to rival neighbouring Marbella. From seaside apartment complexes to huge luxury mansions, Estepona has something to offer anyone, whether it’s for a holiday home or permanent residence.
Our knowledgeable real estate professionals would love to chat about your options to buy in this beautiful area of Southern Spain, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.