Málaga

Inka discovers that there's more to the Costa del Sol than sun and sangría. Málaga is a bit of a Spanish secret. Most people fly into the airport and head straight out of town to the coast. But the heart of the town is full of hidden treasures.



Málaga's Cathedral is known as La Manquita, the one-armed lady, because it has only one tower. They never finished the other one. One of the best places to visit is Altarajanas, the market, where seafood is the order of the day.



For centuries Málaga was an influential and wealthy port. Merchants built their homes there on the profits made trading wine and fish.



Inka meets local writer Alfredo Taján at the Antigua Casa de Guardia, one of the most traditional wineries in town. He tells her of the unique sweetness of Málaga wine and the literary names all its varieties receive.



He also praises the virtues of light in Málaga. It has been an inspiration for all writers and painters who have created their works in the city.



The Costa del Sol is trying to improve its image by attracting a new kind of tourist.The combination of exclusive accommodation and an expensive marina are bringing the jetset to Benalmádena.



Not far from the coast, Inka is taken for a ride to the countryside by tour guide Pepe Prieto. He tells her the story behind El Caminito del Rey - the King's Little Path - at El Chorro.



Alfonso XII, the King of Spain between 1874-1885, ordered the building of the path to fully enjoy the view of the Gaitales Gorge and the channelling of water between reservoirs. He personally visited the path, and ever since it has been known as El Caminito del Rey.



Pepe points out that farmhouses in good condition are an exception in the area. 'Many,' he says, 'are in total ruins.' He thinks they should be restored for rural tourism.



Málaga - Local Links

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Junta de Andalucía's Department of Tourism: Official Website

Benalmádena

Rural tourism in Andalucía

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