Why This Underrated Spanish Town Stole My Heart?

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Discovering the Charm of Estepona: A Hidden Gem in Andalusia

Sandwiched between Marbella’s blinged-out boutiques and the millionaire’s playground of Sotogrande, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Estepona is one of Spain’s most exclusive resorts. But rather than leaning into the elite urbanization of its luxury neighbors, this humble town has preserved its identity as a traditional ‘Pueblos Blanco’ — one of the ‘White Towns of Andalusia’. Spanning a 21-kilometer stretch of golden coastline, Estepona is steeped in history.

What was once a site believed to have been occupied by the Romans is now a picturesque holiday spot, with a palm-lined promenade, traditional Spanish tapas bars, and a micro-climate that bathes the streets in 325 days of sunshine each year. Andalusia’s popularity is nothing new. In 2023, over 12 million international tourists flocked to the region, with most heading to hotspots such as Málaga, Marbella, Granada, and Seville.

However, only 253,376 – just over 2% – stopped in Estepona, despite it coming second in the European City of the Year awards last year. Now I know why I never had to fight for a sunbed.

Getting to Estepona: Travel Made Easy

Like the rest of the Costa del Sol, Estepona is easy to reach. I flew from Manchester to Málaga, where a return trip with easyJet came to just under €121 (£100). Budget airlines including Wizz and Ryanair also fly to Málaga from UK airports, with one-way trips costing as little as €25 (£21) in low season.

From Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, it’s a one-hour drive to Estepona. A taxi will set you back around €100 (£83), but if you’re on a budget, a direct bus also runs from the airport to Estepona Bus Station. Tickets cost between €8 (£6.60) and €14 (£11.50), with a journey time of 70 minutes. This service is limited to six buses throughout the day, so try to plan your flight around the transfer if possible.

A Stroll Through Estepona’s Beautiful Streets

I visited Estepona in May 2023, six months before it came second in the European City of the Year awards. The Andalusian gem was commended for improving quality of life through initiatives such as ‘Estepona, Garden of the Costa del Sol,’ and the pedestrianization of the Old Town. On the accessible walk from Playa de la Rada beach to Estepona’s blue and white marina, the roadside overflows with shrubs and palm trees.

The small whitewashed houses of the Old Town are decorated with bright pink flowers (Bougainvillea) and polka-dotted plant pots. The floral spectacle reaches a stunning crescendo in the Plaza de las Flores, a square in the center of town, where hundreds of flowers bloom around a Baroque fountain. It’s also where tourists flock for lunch to soak up the quintessential Andalusian vibe.

Culinary Delights: Tapas and More

There are four main tapas bars in the square, and it doesn’t matter which one you go to. All are almost always busy, and the waiters have a respectful camaraderie between them, whereby if they’re full, they’ll direct you next door and vice versa. We sat at La Sureña, a traditional tapas restaurant where buskers play flamenco music on guitars. We enjoyed a selection of Patatas Ali-oli, Pinchito de Pollo, Jamón Serrano, Salchichas al Vino, and Ensalada de Bocas for €12 (£9.90).

In hindsight, I should’ve ordered more considering the quality of the food and minuscule price. Due to the weather (in May, temperatures hit a comfortable 23°C), it would have been rude not to indulge in Sangria or two at a cost of just €9 (£7.40) per jug.

Exploring the Historic Old Town

Further into the Old Town, the narrow streets are filled with relics of Arab rule. Moorish control of the region lasted over five centuries, ending only in 1456 following a raid ordered by Henry IV of Castile. This historic quarter is where you’re more likely to find locals sipping on beers in smaller, casual tapas bars dotted on street corners. But don’t feel intimidated – they’re more than happy to welcome you while you take a shade break from the beating sun.

Beautiful Beaches Await

Perhaps the most famous feature of Estepona is its glorious 12-mile stretch of sandy beaches, which never get as busy as seasides in Puerto Banús or Marbella. Unspoiled and under-visited, you can sunbathe all day without being disturbed. Simply pay between €5 (£4.13) to €10 (£8.26) for a sunbed and lie back.

A day at the beach in Estepona is best broken up by a stop at one of its many beach bars. All are relatively casual and allow you to drink and dine in swimwear. Just make sure you cover up if you head inside to use the facilities. We piled into Havana Beach Bar, a quirky spot with turquoise interiors and upcycled surfboards. My sister and I shared grilled salmon straight from the BBQ and a couple of large beers as we drank in the view of the shimmering ocean.

Day Trips: Ronda and Beyond

Estepona is surrounded by some of Spain’s most spectacular natural wonders, which you can easily explore depending on how long you’ve got. I’d recommend a day trip to Ronda, one of the country’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. About an hour’s drive inland, you’ll find the mountaintop city set dramatically above a cavernous gorge.

It’s best to hire a car for the journey, as taxis can be expensive. But if you’re happy to shell out between €140 to €170 (£115 to £140) for a round trip, you won’t regret your choice. The gorge (El Tajo in Spanish) separates Ronda’s 15th-century ‘new’ town from its old town, which dates back to Moorish rule. The stone bridge (Puente Nuevo) allows walking access to both parts and is the perfect spot for photos.

Festivals: A Celebration of Tradition

Tradition is a serious business in Estepona, and none more so than its many festivals. During our visit, the San Isidro Labrador harvest celebration was in full swing. Locals gathered to visit the San Isidro shrine in the Los Pedregales Park, and farmers rode through the town in tractors decorated with hay, flowers, and seasonal fruit.

In true Spanish spirit, music is at the heart of these community events. Swarms of Flamenco guitarists were accompanied by traditional dancers, who encouraged locals and visitors to join in. Other traditional festivals include Los Reyes (the Three Kings at Christmastime) on January 5, where the ‘royal majesties’ parade through Estepona town with an entourage of locals waving from trucks. There’s also the ‘Feria,’ the annual summer fair during the first week of July. Here, you’ll see local women wearing traditional feria dress and men in ‘traje corto’.

Why Estepona Should Be Your Next Holiday Destination

No matter your holiday taste, Estepona has something for everyone. I fell in love with its charm and extraordinary culture. I only hope future Costa del Sol travelers take a chance on this less-frequented town, too. Estepona’s blend of historical richness, culinary delights, beautiful beaches, and vibrant festivals creates a quintessential Andalusian escape that should not be overlooked.

FAQs About Visiting Estepona

What is the best time to visit Estepona?

The best time to visit Estepona is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) months when temperatures are mild, and tourist crowds are smaller. These periods offer the perfect climate for exploring the town and enjoying outdoor activities.

Are there direct flights to Estepona?

While Estepona does not have its own airport, it is conveniently located just one hour’s drive from Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, which receives numerous direct flights from various international destinations.

What are some must-try dishes in Estepona?

When visiting Estepona, you must try traditional tapas such as Patatas Ali-oli, Jamón Serrano, and local seafood dishes. Don’t forget to enjoy a refreshing jug of Sangria while soaking up the sun.

How can I get around Estepona?

Estepona is a walkable town, especially in the Old Town area. However, if you want to explore beyond the town center, renting a car is advisable for greater flexibility. Public transportation options, including buses, are also available.

As you consider your next vacation destination, will you choose the captivating charm of Estepona, or will you stick to the more popular tourist spots? Experience the beauty and culture of this hidden gem and discover the authentic Andalusian lifestyle. #Estepona #TravelSpain #Andalusia

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