FUENGIROLA
Fuengirola is located an easy 20 minute car journey from Malaga airport, with great links for bus and rail too. Another throwback from the package holiday era of the 60’s and 70’s, Fuengirola has suffered in the past, but is now an exciting holiday destination for young and old alike. The local Town Hall has, over recent years, done a lot to bring the resorts image up to scratch.
Whatever you look for in a holiday destination, from quiet evenings out or family orientated venues, to full on bars and clubs, Fuengirola has it all….and the shopping’s not bad either!!!
Fuengirola has a huge mix of nationalities that choose to holiday here, including many Spanish nationals who have holiday apartments in the town and it is because of this there is such an impressive choice of bars, restaurants and entertainment spread all over town. Some of the best restaurants are located in Calle Moncayo (dubiously known as Fish Alley), with its criss-cross alleyways and al fresco restaurant areas, all just a stones throw from the beach.
The main focal point for Fuengirola is the fantastic 7km stretch of white sandy beach that have their well earned blue flags flying. They can get very busy in the summer months, so those in the know head for the beach at Los Boliches which is where a lot of the local Spanish go and still has a local feel to it. There are great choices in the bars and restaurants beach side making for great days out. The recently finished promenade or Paseo stretches the whole length so those early evening strolls are easy under foot.
Whilst maybe not as notorious as the marinas in Puerto Banus or Benalmadena, Fuengirola Marina Deportivo plays host to a wide range of water sports from going game fishing or scuba diving to the rental of windsurfs and jet-skis. The Fuengirola Diving Centre is based here with daily dives to many local sites. They offer PADI open water diving courses for those who have not tried it before and even have a Bubble Club for little ones over 8 years old.
For further information call 952 588 312.
A great way to navigate your way around Fuengirola is by horse drawn carriage. This affords you the luxury to be able to see where things are at a steady pace.
From the beach area narrow alleys and lanes take you to the main shopping avenue, where the chance to pick up anything from great fashions to souvenirs is available. This is also where the train station is with rail links throughout Andalucia and Spain.
Next to the station is the indoor market area, open Monday to Saturday, which offers a great selection of fresh produce, fish and meat daily. Myramar Park located just 10 minutes from the town centre of Fuengirola is the all new, state-of-the-art shopping centre, with boutiques, shoe shops…in fact you name it, they’ve got it!! It also has its own hypermarket and 12 screen cinema complex showing "version original" movies.
Fuengirola has the biggest market on the coast, held on Tuesdays at the Marina; it does get very busy in the summer, so watch out for your bags!! There is also a smaller market here on a Sunday and a car boot sale at the feria ground on Saturdays. All markets are from 9am – 2pm.
If you fancy something other than the beach or pool, Fuengirola Zoo is a great day out. Located towards the west of town (it is well signposted) you will be amazed at the diversity of the animals that are here, and thanks to the recent re-furbishment, they are housed as naturally as possible. Opening times are from10.00am daily. Telephone: 952 666 301.
Staying on the westerly side of town is the magnificent Sohail Castle dating back to the 12th century. It has been recently re-furbished and is great to wander round and imagine battles of old!! It’s now used for a lot of local cultural events including concerts. Open 10.00am-2.00pm and 6.00pm – 9.00pm (closed Mondays) it is a good adventure!!
Fuengirola has a carnival week in February with great sights to be seen!! And the local town feria in October is the Feria del Rocio where the local fishermen make offerings into the sea. It is also a good excuse for street parties!!
Other useful information:
Tourist Office: Situated on Avenida Jesus Santo Rein on the east side of town. Telephone: 952 467 625
Taxis: 952 471 000
Rail Information: 902 240 202