The surroundings of Costa del Sol in Spain abound with picturesque towns and villages that captivate with their authenticity and beauty. From the charming white houses of Mijas Pueblo, through the historic bridges of Ronda, to the numerous monuments in Ojén – everyone will find something for themselves here. These Andalusian gems are worth seeing when you are in Marbella, to experience the true atmosphere of this magical region on the Spanish coast.
Charming Mijas Pueblo
Mijas Pueblo is one of the most charming places in Andalusia. Located just a 30-minute drive from the center of Marbella, it offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, the Costa del Sol, and the surrounding mountains. These can be admired from many points, but the most famous one is Mirador del Compás.
Perched on a hill, Mijas Pueblo is famous for its white houses, narrow, atmospheric streets, and flower-filled balconies. It is worth visiting the central square (Plaza de la Constitución) surrounded by numerous cafes, the old bullring (Plaza de Toros), and the chapel carved into the rock (Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña). The symbol of this place is Burro-Taxis, i.e., donkey taxis.
The attractions of Mijas Pueblo make it an appealing tourist destination, offering both historical monuments and beautiful landscapes. It’s the perfect place to feel the real Spanish vibe!
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Colorful Frigiliana
Casares, white village in Andalusia, Spain / Photo: Adobe Stock
Frigiliana is located about a 1.5-hour drive from Marbella. The town enchants with its narrow, cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowers and traditional Andalusian ceramics. It is worth visiting the old town, which features the ruins of a Moorish castle, as well as the Archaeological Museum. The town is also known for its local production of wine and honey, which can be tasted in local wineries. It is certainly worth seeing when on holiday on the Costa del Sol.
Ronda – The City on the Rock
This is one of the most picturesque towns in Spanish Andalusia, located just an hour’s drive from Marbella. The town is known for its impressive El Tajo gorge, which divides it into two parts – Ciudad (Old Town) and Mercadillo (New Town). Rising above the gorge is the Puente Nuevo bridge (one of the most recognizable landmarks in all of Spain), offering breathtaking views of both the town and its beautiful surroundings.
While here, it is worth visiting, among other places, the Plaza de Toros, the world-renowned bullring, the Palacio de Mondragón (Royal Palace with a beautiful garden) in the old part of town, or the Baños Árabes, the Arab baths, which are among the best-preserved in all of Spain. An interesting, though somewhat more challenging attraction, is also the Casa del Rey Moro (Palacio del Rey Moro), the Moorish King’s House, and the Water Mine (La Mina de Agua). The latter consists of a series of stairs leading down to the Guadalevín River.
Ronda – with its unique views, architecture, and history attracts numerous tourists. One of its most famous admirers was Ernest Hemingway. The city and its landscapes, particularly the El Tajo gorge, were an inspiration for several of his works, including For Whom the Bell Tolls. It was here that Hemingway described the gorge in Ronda as a place of execution during the Spanish Civil War.
In the mountain oasis of Ojén
A visit to Marbella is incomplete without a trip to Ojén. This is a small but charming village nestled in the Sierra de las Nieves mountains. It is only 10 km from Marbella. The village has retained its traditional Andalusian character with white houses and narrow streets, and its main attraction is Plaza de Andalucía – a famous square with a beautiful fountain and numerous cafes and restaurants. Don’t miss the Museo del Vino, the Wine Museum, where tourists can taste local drinks such as wines and liqueurs. Ojén is known, among other things, for aguardiente de Ojén (or: anís de Ojén) – an alcoholic beverage made from anise.
Nature lovers can opt for hiking in the surrounding mountains, which offer wonderful views and contact with wild nature. It’s a great idea to experience the Spanish coastal microclimate firsthand.
On the white hill in Casares
Casares is also one of the so-called white villages in the province of Malaga. Located about a 40-minute drive from Marbella, the town with its numerous historical sites is famous for its bright buildings that seem to climb the steep hillsides. The most important attraction is the Castillo de Casares (Casares Castle), from where you can admire the panoramic views of the area. Another interesting option is to take a trip to the Church of La Encarnación and the Roman Baths (Baños Romanos). Casares is also an excellent base for hiking in the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Casares, white village in Andalusia, Spain / Photo: Adobe Stock