Mijas Costa on Spain’s Costa del Sol is a region primarily known for its sun, sea and sand. But if you dig a little deeper, you will discover a rich culture that appeals to any traveller looking to see the heart and soul of their destination whilst soaking up the sun. Mijas is comprised of the intriguing and beautiful Mijas Pueblo village, the 12km Mijas Costa coastal strip and a modern commercial district called Las Lagunas. There is also a handful of small, charming rural areas that can be interesting to explore and that can provide an alternative view of this popular destination.
In particular, the mountain village of Mijas Pueblo, known as the Andalucian White Village, is a fascinating area to explore, thanks to its cobbled streets, friendly locals and traditional Andalucian way of life. It is known for its artistic identity, which is evident everywhere you turn. It is also much quieter than the nearby, more commercial coastal towns, so it is ideal for those looking to escape and experience authentic Andalucía. There are many cultural attractions to visit here – here’s what a day trip to Mijas Pueblo could look like!
Culture
Museum of Miniatures
Prepare to be dazzled by an incredible 360-strong collection of intricate carvings in this amazing museum. Use a magnifying glass to see these fantastic miniatures, which have been carved from matchsticks, chalk, soap and even breadcrumbs. A few notable highlights include The Last Supper on a grain of rice and a ballet dancer carved from a toothpick – quite remarkable!
The Contemporary Arts Centre
Art lovers will adore this relatively new centre, which is situated in two stunning nineteenth-century townhouses. It features a permanent exhibition of 43 ceramic objects, as well as various other works by Picasso (who was born in Malaga) and a number of his contemporaries, including Salvador Dali.
Museum of Bullfighting
Bullfighting plays an important role in Spain’s history and culture, which can be uncovered in this fascinating museum. Here you can find photos of legendary bullfighters, see dazzling costumes up close, browse impressive posters and much more.
Wine Museum
No trip to Malaga is complete without sampling the fabulous local wine, and this is the best place to do it. In addition to tasting white, red and Cava, you can learn all about wine tasting and the basics of oenology – a great way to impress your friends at the next dinner party!
History
The Arab Wall & Gardens
The perfect place for a relaxing stroll in the sunshine, The Arab Wall and the gorgeous colourful gardens are incredibly peaceful and allow for stunning views of the Costa del Sol and the Med. On a clear day, you can even see the Rif Mountains in Morocco.
Sanctuary of the Virgin Rock
Excavated from solid rock in 1548, this mystical chapel is a must-see and one of the main attractions in Mijas Pueblo. Legend has it that two children saw a dove on the rock one day and, after one of the children told their father, he decided to dig into the rock. He found it to be hollow and discovered a number of religious objects and the image of the Virgin, who told him to build a chapel.
Museum of History and Ethnology
Found inside the former town hall, this museum features a collection of agricultural objects and working tools that reveal the intriguing history of the town.
How to Get There
Direct flights from the UK into Malaga Airport (AGP) take under three hours, and a number of flights are available via major carriers throughout the week. Upon arrival at Malaga Airport, the quickest and easiest way to reach Mijas Costa will be a private Shuttle Direct transfer. The travel time is around 30 minutes, and you can get dropped off directly at your hotel. Speaking of hotels…
Where to Stay
TRH Mijas – Perfectly located between the beach and the mountains, this traditional hotel is a great base for exploring, but also has plenty to keep you entertained on-site. This includes an outdoor pool, a tennis court, a sauna, fountains, gardens and a poolside terrace. It also features a restaurant and snack bar, but you are also only a five-minute stroll from a range of bars and restaurants. Previous guests have spoken highly of the great location and amazing views.
Eurostars Mijas Golf & Spa – Offering one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with stylish decor, a fully equipped kitchen and a private terrace, this is a terrific place for relaxing after a day of exploring. It also features a spa, fitness centre and an outdoor pool. The apartments are surrounded by beautiful golf courses, but you are also just a short trip away from the beach and the town centre.
Holiday Home Mijas Costa – A two-minute stroll away from the beach, this property boasts astonishing views of the sea and has a great location. It features an outdoor pool, and rooms come with a fully equipped kitchen, a television and private bathrooms.
About Shuttle Direct
At Shuttle Direct we pride ourselves on our reliable, comfortable and efficient transfer service. We can eliminate the stress of travel on your holiday by providing safe passage between airports, train stations, hotels and other areas of interest. Book now and leave the rest up to us.