Torremolinos

Torremolinis was once just a tiny fishing village and now it has grown into a huge, resort town, perhaps the most popular in the Mediterranean. It is located 8km from Malaga and has long sandy beaches and a whole host of shops, bars and restaurants. In the summer it becomes a bustling tourist resort but out of season it takes on a more Spanish atmosphere, more relaxing and welcoming.

Attractions

The beaches are where the main attraction lies, with the Playa de Bajondillo giving way to the beaches of Playamar and Los Alamos and the beach areas of La Carihuela and Montemar beyond Castillo de Santa Clara. The beaches are home to everything you would expect from a busy resort: sunbeds, watersport and beach side bars.

Paseo Maritimo, the seafront promenade extents along Playamar to La Carihuela and is a lovely walk with great sea views and some dramatic rock formations. The fishing village of La Carihuela has many of its original cottages and offers a more traditional atmosphere. There are some excellent seafood restaurants and beach bars (chiringuitos) here.

The central Plaza Costa del Sol is a good starting point for exploring the town. There are not many historical buildings left in Torremolinos but in the old part of town you can find the Church of Nuestra Señora del Carmen and the Casa de los Navaja. The most important symbol of the towns heritage is the Torre de Pimentel or Torre de los Molinos, a defensive tower which gives the city its name.

Away from the beach are several public gardens where you can take advantage of the shade and wander amongst the exotic plants. If you prefer to get out of town there are three forests on the outskirts with freshwater springs to explore.

Shopping

In the heart of town is the Calle San Miguel, a pedestrianised street lined with many shops and boutiques with a great variety of goods.

Nightlife and Eating Out

Several original fresh fish restaurants can be found right within the shopping area. For more restaurants and souvenir stalls head to the Cuesta del Tajo, at the end of San Miguel. You can take the steep steps down to the old fishing district of El Bajondillo. For a quiet night out head to El Calvario, to the north of the main road, where there are small streets with quieter bars. Try the local cuisine of pescaíto frito (fried fish).

Torremolinos is famed for its more lively nights out with spots like Pueblo Blanco or La Nogalera drawing visitors who want to party into the night amongst the glitzy bars, clubs and casinos.

Tourist Information

Tourist Office: Plaza de la Independencia, s/n - 29620 Torremolinos (Málaga)Tel. +34 952374231 Fax +34 952380166 www.torremolinos.com

Airport

Torremolinos is located 7km west of Málaga airport