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AsiaOne
6 days ago
- AsiaOne
First-timer's guide to Costa del Sol, Lifestyle News
Costa del Sol, literally meaning 'coast of the sun', presents itself as the ultimate escapade this season. Find endless shores to wander and pockets of coves to discover, as you write a new page of your voyages in Spain — this time, along the Mediterranean coastlines in the Andalusia region. Familiarise yourself with centuries-old culture and architecture that has stood the test of time, mirages reflecting white hinterland villages, local gastronomy, and so much more. Beaches for all occasions From Manilva to Nerja, Costa del Sol presents a treasure trove of beaches. So, put on your sombrero and lather yourself in sunscreen, for we are about to head to the beach! As its name suggests, Costa del Sol is dotted with picturesque beaches that echo with laughter and joy year-round. On the west coast, make your way to Malapesquera in Benalmádena, and Los Boliches in Fuengirola for the best of sun and sea. The beaches in Málaga city are conveniently close to the city centre, whereas those on the east coast feel like a portal to a magical kingdom, with mountain ranges, rugged cliffs typical of this area, and beautiful coves. Los Álamos One of the liveliest areas in Torremolinos, Los Álamos has the beach at its very heart. Whether you are dancing to beachside beats or dining al fresco at a chiringuito (beachside food stall), Los Álamos is a must-visit. Calahonda Beach Take your time to soak in the cool blues from the Balcón de Europa, then turn left and descend the intricately decorated mosaic-tiled stairs of the Boquete de Calahonda to reach Calahonda Beach. Nestled in the heart of Nerja, Calahonda is one of the most photographed beaches in the world, exuding vintage charm with its whitewashed walls, blue-doored warehouses, and fishermen casting their nets along the shore. Stroll across its soft, dark-hued sands and let the shimmering waves of the Mediterranean gently wash over your senses. If you walk along the coast, you will discover quiet little bays tucked between rocky outcrops, leading you all the way to the serene Carabeo Beach. Pedregalejo - Las Acacias Beach To saunter through Málaga city's oldest seaside promenades, make your way to Pedregalejo — Las Acacias Beach. Between building sandcastles, brushing grains off your feet, and drifting into an afternoon siesta in a beachside hammock-lulled by the rhythm of the waves — be sure to savour Málaga's legendary fried fish, especially the famous espeto de sardinas (sardine skewers). La Malagueta Beach La Malagueta is a favourite destination for both locals and tourists, right next to the city's old quarter. Located beside Spain's oldest yacht club, it also offers the perfect opportunity to go sailing with your loved ones. Torrox Seek out the coastal town of Torrox in the La Axarquía region to experience the magic of colour theory in real time. A Moorish town that still preserves its original layout and Roman roots, Torrox is a sun-drenched maze of whitewashed walls and winding lanes. Let the golden light guide your steps toward the nearby beaches of Ferrara, Peñoncillo and El Morche, where soft waves meet dark sandy shores in idyllic harmony. Explore art and cultural legacies Royal Cavalry of Ronda Originally created in 1573 to exercise cavalry for military purposes, the Royal Cavalry of Ronda is now considered a cradle for modern bullfighting. Today, it serves both a riding school, Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda, and an archival house, Plaza de Toros. Walk through the almost 500-year-old national heritage site of Plaza Museo de Toros to marvel at all the tangible and intangible cultural expressions. Whether it is the sandstone and wood columns coupled with the world-famous Arabic tile roof or the centuries-old archives of bullfighting, horse riding, travel literature, heraldry, genealogy, and the history of Ronda — a visit to the Royal Cavalry of Ronda shares the story of a prized Spanish heritage. Ronda Arab Baths Located in the San Miguel neighborhood, Ronda Arab Baths is one of the best-preserved Arab baths in the Iberian peninsula. Built by the Arab settlers of Al-Andalus, the iconic bathhouse features three distinct bathing rooms for different water temperatures — cold, warm, and hot. The baths are fed by water pouring down from the contiguous Las Culebras stream via a traditional Moorish water wheel. The largest room is a wonder to behold, with its brick and stone horseshoe arches supporting barrel-vaulted ceilings leading to star-shaped skylights. Teatro Romano de Málaga What better place to visit to appreciate the enduring gifts of history than this holy space of art and culture? The Teatro Romano de Málaga, or the Málaga Roman Theatre, was excavated in the 1950s, and it dates back to the first century AD during the reign of Emperor Augustus. One of the most important pieces of evidence of Roman rule in Spain remained hidden for centuries, but now you can stand at the orchestra stage — just as the audience of the past had stood — and admire ancient Roman columns and sculptures that bear the marks of time. Balcón de Europa Balcón de Europa, or the Balcony of Europe, sits perched upon a cliff overlooking the duo of beaches it connects — Calahonda and La Caletilla. Once used for military defence purposes, the Balcony was transformed into the inviting promenade everyone knows now under King Alfonso XII's reign. Strolling down the promenade, visitors can revel in the warm, salty breeze of the aquamarine sea and watch as the sun dips gently in the horizon. Real Collegiata de Santa María la Mayor One of Antequera's many important historical and cultural landmarks is the Real Collegiata de Santa María la Mayor or the Royal Collegiate Church of the Great St. Mary. It depicts a fusion of various architectural styles, including Gothic and Mannerist. Moreover, constructed in the early 1500s, it is considered one of Andalusia's first Renaissance churches. Museo Picasso Málaga It's not every day you get to experience a historic town through the eyes of an icon. The Museo Picasso Málaga is the crown jewel of a destination for anyone seeking to pay respect to the great artist. Housed at the Palacio de Buenavista, this museum offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the genius of Pablo Picasso, as it honors the artist's wish for his works to be exhibited in his hometown. Museo Automovilístico y de la Moda de Málaga Museo Automovilístico y de la Moda de Málaga, or Málaga Automobile and Fashion Museum, is a unique museum that showcases a thoroughly exclusive private collection of luxury cars. Each vehicle is adorned with opulent details such as ostrich and mink fur, a mother-of-pearl dashboard, ivory and silver handles, and more. Residing alongside the fancy cars are seven exhibitions that showcase the evolution of haute couture all year around. Treat yourself to luxe retail bliss Can you even say you've visited Spain, especially Costa del Sol, if you have not indulged in a little bit of high-end retail therapy? La Botavara Tienda Marinera Add a touch of nautical chic to your life by visiting La Botavara Tienda Marinera in Marbella. Discover clothing, accessories, and home decor in classic navy style from renowned names like Saint James, Henri Lloyd, and Marine Business, among many others. Segunda Época If you want to take home a bit of English-style crockery or are seeking inspiration for a home renovation, Segunda Época is the ideal place to go to in Málaga to bring a piece of Costa del Sol home. Ángel Palazuelos Alta Costura Whether you're preparing for your own wedding, attending a loved one's, or in need of a show-stopping gown for a black-tie affair, a visit to Ángel Palazuelos Alta Costura promises an unforgettable haute couture experience. El Corte Ingles Costa Marbella Just by the side of Puerto Banús Marina, El Corte Ingles Costa Marbella hosts some exclusive retail experiences like no other. Start the day at El Corte Ingles with a welcome drink and tapas, before browsing for exclusive deals from brands like Isabel Marant, Atelier Versace, Alexander McQueen, Dior, Chanel, Elie Saab, Fendi, Issey Miyake, just to name a few. Try the Xquisite Suite facility, a personal shopping experience tailored just for you, complete with stylists, concierges, and interpreters. Don the latest runway trends or add some Charlotte Tilbury Beauty makeup and skincare to your collection, curated by fashion and image experts. McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Málaga How wonderful would it be to enjoy generous discounts on exclusive products all year round? Well, when in Costa del Sol, make your way to McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Málaga — connected to the Malaga Costa del Sol airport — to experience just that. With a membership to their Privilege Club, you can enjoy a premium shopping experience, giving you access to over one hundred carefully selected luxury and premium fashion, sportswear, homeware, and beauty brands. Members enjoy year-round discounts of up to 70 per cent off on brands such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Coach Outlet, Claudie Pierlot, Gant, Columbia, Karl Lagerfeld, Levi's, and L'OCCITANE en Provence, among others. There are also a variety of cafes and restaurants like Sabor a España, Santo Cielo, Lindt, and La Pecera located within the heart of the outlet to fuel your break. Seek thrilling adventures Monumento Natural Cañón de las Buitreras Cañón de las Buitreras, or the Buitreras Canyon Natural Monument, is a canyon with a gorge that cuts through the postcard-esque quaint towns of Benalauría, Benarrabá and Cortes de Frontera. Located on the eastern outskirts of the Alcornocales Natural Park, visiting the national monument will give you a peek at 2 m-long fan palm trees and various colonies of birds, including Bonelli's eagles, kestrels, doves, swifts and bats. Paraje Natural Desfiladero de los Gaitanes y Caminito del Rey [embed] Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, or the Gaitanes Gorge, is a spectacle to behold. The gorge runs for a couple of miles, with walls reaching up to 300 meters high. The Caminito del Rey trail is intertwined with the gorge's wall, offering panoramic views from its narrow elevated walkway. There are twenty caves in this area with cave art dating back to the Upper Palaeolithic era. El Torcal de Antequera El Torcal de Antequera, or Torcal de Antequera Natural Park, is a Unesco World Heritage Site that offers a magical world of nature at your beck and call. The area has been shaped for epochs by esoteric rocks formed due to carbonate sedimentation. El Tornillo de El Torcal, a rock formation resembling a screw, is one of the most famous torcals in the area. Torcal de Antequera also shelters 116 species of vertebrates, including foxes, rabbits, black-eared wheatears, and eagle owls. Cueva de Nerja [embed] A visit to the Cueva de Nerja or the Nerja Caves will allow you to admire nature's artistry, formed over 800,000 years ago. In the Torca Chamber, you will also be accompanied by the flair of our distant ancestors up to the Neolithic era. Hailed as a Spanish Historical Heritage and Cultural Interest Site, the Nerja Cave features in its lists of stranger things — the Chamber of Ghosts featuring animal representations, the Lobby that reminds you just how far we have come with regards to human remains, ceramics and tools, the Bethlem Burial chamber from 6300 BC, and more. Indulge in the tastiest gastronomy The gastronomy of the Costa del Sol is as diverse and rich as its culture and landscapes. With the arrival of summer, fresh and light dishes become the protagonists, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy authentic Malaga flavours under the warm sun of the Costa del Sol. Main typical Malaga dishes for the summer From the iconic sardine skewer to the refreshing Malaga salad, these dishes are perfect to enjoy on hot days, whether in a beach bar or in a traditional restaurant. So take note of all the summer meal ideas and try them on your next visit! Sardine skewer [embed] One of the icons of Malaga's gastronomy is, without a doubt, the sardine skewer. This dish is prepared by threading the sardines on a reed and grilling them over olive wood, usually on the beach. The result is a juicy fish full of sea flavour, perfect to enjoy by the water. Ajoblanco Ajoblanco is a cold soup that is made with almonds, garlic, bread, olive oil, vinegar and water. This dish is especially refreshing and nutritious, ideal for hot summer days. It is usually served with fresh grapes or melon, providing a contrast of flavours that makes it even more delicious. Malaga salad Malaga salad is one of the cold summer dishes par excellence, combining fresh and local ingredients. This salad is prepared with boiled potatoes, shredded cod, oranges, spring onions, olives, and a dressing of extra-virgin olive oil. The mix of sweet and savoury flavours, along with the freshness of the oranges, makes this salad a perfect choice to beat the summer heat. Gazpachuelo Gazpachuelo is a traditional soup from Malaga that is served cold in summer. Unlike gazpacho, gazpachuelo is made from fish broth, potatoes and mayonnaise, creating a creamy texture and a mild flavour. White fish and seafood can be added to enrich the dish. Anchovies in vinegar Anchovies in vinegar are a classic tapa in the bars and beach bars of Malaga. This dish consists of fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar, garlic and parsley, served cold. The vinegar lightly cooks the fish, giving it a tangy, fresh flavour. Malaga frying [embed] The fritura malagueña is a dish that combines various fish and seafood, fried in olive oil, and is usually served with lemon. This dish is a perfect display of the abundance of fresh seafood, including calamari, anchovies, prawns, and rosada. Malaga's fried food is crispy and delicious, perfect for sharing with friends and family by the sea. Dried cod in pipirrana Dried cod in pipirrana is a fresh and crunchy salad made with tomatoes, peppers, onion, cucumber and the special touch of cod, all finely chopped and seasoned with olive oil, vinegar and salt. In some variants, tuna or hard-boiled egg is added. Enjoy the typical dishes of the province of Malaga in summer The gastronomy of the Costa del Sol in summer offers a rich variety of dishes that combine freshness, flavour and tradition. The Costa del Sol is a paradise not only for its beaches and climate, but also for its culinary offerings that delight all visitors. [[nid:717650]] Michelin Star Restaurants The Costa del Sol offers a vast array of wonders, including its exceptional cuisine. Traditional and avant-garde restaurants offer a veritable culinary cornucopia that is bound to tantalize the taste buds of any food connoisseur, as will the restaurants singled out by the prestigious Michelin guide: ten in total, which make the province of Malaga an absolute haven for foodies. Back Restaurante * (Marbella) Back Restaurante, located in Marbella, recently earned its first star in November 2023, making its debut in the Michelin Guide 2024. David Olivas, its chef, is committed to giving a contemporary interpretation of traditional Andalusian cuisine, focusing on the use of local products from Andalusia, with subtle influences from other culinary cultures. It's a unique experience! Restaurante Skina ** (Marbella) After receiving its second Michelin star in 2020, Skina, which also boasts two Repsol Suns, is one of the top restaurants in Marbella. Its creator, Marcos Granda, together with his team, led by head chef Mario Cachinero, has developed an original proposal of Mediterranean cuisine based on the highest-quality seasonal produce, with subtle avant-garde touches. An exquisite blend that honours traditional Andalusian flavours. Messina * (Marbella) Headed up by Argentine chef Mauricio Giovanini, Restaurante Messina has one Michelin Star and one Repsol Sun. It is a small, but very cosy place with an exquisite tasting menu as its star product. They offer fresh dishes and an abundance of overwhelming positive energy that customers cannot help but be moved by the whole experience. Nintai * (Marbella) With clean lines and large picture windows, Nintai, in Marbella, owned by Marcos Granda and led by head chef Manuel de Bedoya, has several private spaces and a sushi bar with a small number of seats for greater exclusivity. Sitting around this bar, you can see the chef at work, creating and improvising like an "itamae" master sushi chef (literally means 'in front of the board'). Here, everything creates a feeling of peace and tranquillity, the ideal state to savour the dishes served here, based on two tasting menus of different lengths, which vary according to the best seasonal produce available: Omakase (lunch only) and Nintai. Restaurante Bardal ** (Ronda) In a very short space of time, chef Benito Gómez and his team have achieved no fewer than two Michelin stars. The cuisine applies avant-garde techniques to the purest foundations of local cuisine. Bardal uses local, seasonal products, especially from the area of Ronda, promoting the wonderful cuisine produced by the province of Malaga. Restaurante Jose Carlos García * (Málaga) The restaurant Jose Carlos Garcia won the first Michelin star in the city of Malaga. Located on the bustling Muelle Uno, in the heart of the Port of Malaga, the chef, considered the "haute cuisine genius of Malaga", offers a fusion of local products with the most avant-garde techniques. The restaurant has just a few tables to guarantee diners a unique, intimate and highly personalised experience. Also, as an interesting feature, the kitchen is behind glass walls, allowing customers to see the food being prepared at all times. Kaleja * (Málaga) Located in the centre of Malaga, Kaleja received its first Michelin star in 2022. The first thing you will notice here is the subtle smell of smoke, an essential element in the restaurant's distinctive proposal, since its chef, Dani Carnero, gives us a contemporary take on traditional culinary techniques, working directly over the flames with slow cooking methods (what he refers to as "candle cooking") to bring back the flavours of his childhood. The restaurant serves two tasting menus (Memoria and Gran Menú Memoria). As the Michelin Guide inspectors themselves note, in Kaleja "all the dishes have potency, flavour and a great story". Blossom Restaurant * (Málaga) In November 2024, Blossom Restaurant was awarded its first Michelin Star. Located in the heart of Málaga's historic centre, in the pedestrian area near the Cathedral, Blossom is an excellent choice if you're looking for a unique culinary experience. Chef Emi Schobert offers a modern fusion cuisine, blending techniques and flavours from diverse cultures. The tasting menu stands out for its use of high-quality Mediterranean ingredients, and the dishes are renowned for their creativity, design, and strong personality. Sollo Restaurante * (Fuengirola) Known as "The Caviar Chef", Diego Gallegos, chef at Sollo Restaurante, also heads up the kitchen at this restaurant in Fuengirola. This gastronomic investigator has achieved the prestigious Michelin star, a Green Star and a Repsol Sun. His cuisine is based on the choice of raw ingredients, governed by a strict awareness of the environment and aquaculture. The star ingredient at Sollo is caviar and, in fact, the restaurant organises tastings of its three Riofrío caviars: Russian, Iranian and organic. As if this were not enough, during the summer months, they regularly run guided tours of their fish farm in Riofrío by appointment only. [[nid:717984]] This article was first published in Wego .
Economist
12-06-2025
- Business
- Economist
Picasso's home town is thriving
O weekday in early spring Málaga is thronged with tourists, clambering over the Moorish castle that overlooks the port, carousing at the pavement bars or queuing for one of half-a-dozen art museums. It wasn't always thus. Until the turn of the century tourists heading for the resorts of the Costa del Sol shunned what was then a drab former industrial town. Today Málaga, Spain's sixth city, is booming, powered not just by tourism but also by a burgeoning tech industry. Its economy has outpaced the rest of the Andalucía region for most of the past decade. It is held up by some as a model for other Spanish cities, but some locals fear it may fall victim to its own success.
Scottish Sun
10-06-2025
- Business
- Scottish Sun
First look inside stunning new spa at Scots hotel after multi-million pound revamp including a jet black pool room
The new look spa features the UK's largest outdoor sauna REVITALISED First look inside stunning new spa at Scots hotel after multi-million pound revamp including a jet black pool room Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AN iconic resort hotel is unveiling a revamped new spa this month after spending millions on the glow-up. And the stunning relaxation destination has some seriously cool features - including a jet black pool room. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 8 There's a super cool, jet black pool room 8 The spa will be a 'decadent tribute to the grandeur of a bygone age' 8 It will have the UK's largest outdoor sauna 8 The Imperia Spa opens this month Gleddoch Hotel & Spa Resort, one of Scotland's most beautiful, privately-owned estates, is poised to open the Imperia Spa. Set across 350 acres of rolling countryside, just 20 minutes from Glasgow, the multi-million-pound development will be a 'decadent tribute to the grandeur of a bygone age', according to hotel insiders. Inspired by Gleddoch's heritage as the stately home of shipbuilding magnate, Baron Lithgow, and by the majestic salons of Europe's grand imperial hotels, the Imperia Spa is all about elegance and excess. The wellness venue is drenched in gold, obsidian black and marble, and adorned with quilted upholstery and fluted crystal - giving all the hallmarks of old-world luxury. Announcing the development, Gleddoch's General Manager James Anderson said:"The Imperia Spa is the culmination of a vision: to create a destination that transcends trends and defines its own standard of luxury. "Every moment, every detail has been carefully considered and is designed to delight and transport our guests to another world. "We are proud to introduce a spa experience that will not only elevate Gleddoch but further position Scotland among the world's most distinguished spa destinations." Phase one of the development, opening this month, introduces a stunning collection of artistic features inspired by the distant shores once visited by the ships of Baron Lithgow. Highlights include a breathtaking antique gold and obsidian black indoor pool, the exotic Palm Room orangery filled with rare palms and the grand Veranda, an open-air lounge infused with the intricate elegance of Moorish design. Designed to surprise and delight at every turn, The Imperia Spa promises guests a series of curated 'moments of delight', from the soft strains of Chopin, cooling fresh mint towels and the scent of Persian jasmine on arrival, to bespoke spa rituals tailored precisely to each guest's desires. W Edinburgh Crowned Scotland's Hotel of the Year 2025 For indulgence and relaxation, Imperia Spa will feature the UK's largest outdoor sauna with panoramic views over the Clyde Estuary and rolling Renfrewshire hills to Ben Lomond. Guests will also discover a full range of thermal facilities including a pink Himalayan salt sauna, aroma steam room, salt steam room, ice fountain, heated loungers, hydrotherapy pool and cold plunge. In addition, the spa will offer a serene spa restaurant, a wellbeing studio, a state-of-the-art fitness suite, seven luxurious treatment rooms and dedicated sanctuaries for pre and post-treatment relaxation. Signature treatments will be provided using product partners including Natura Bissé, Elemis, Temple Spa and Ayurvedic specialists, Tri-Dosha. 8 Gleddoch is 20 minutes outside Glasgow 8 The pool has black and gold features 8 Gleddoch looks over the Clyde Estuary
Scottish Sun
09-06-2025
- Scottish Sun
Tiny ‘Bali of Europe' town right by Africa has beautiful beaches and £20 flights from the UK
And the easy way to get there by flight or by ferry SANDS NICE Tiny 'Bali of Europe' town right by Africa has beautiful beaches and £20 flights from the UK Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A BEACH town in the south of Spain has been compared to Bali thanks to its beautiful beaches and laid-back vibes. Tarifa is the most southerly town in mainland Europe, being less than nine miles from Africa. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 Tarifa is one of the most southerly towns in mainland Europe Credit: Getty 6 It is often compared to Bali (pictured) for its beautiful beaches and laid-back vibes Credit: Alamy 6 The area is popular with kite-surfers and wind-surfers due to the windy nature Credit: Alamy It is often named the kite-surfing capital of Europe thanks to its strong winds making it a popular sport there. Travel influencer Scarlett compared the vibe to being "Santa Cruz in California". However, it is also often called the Bali of Europe thanks to its huge sandy beaches. Another influencer, Travel with Rafa, sad: "It feels like a tropical paradise in the middle of the Mediterranean. It feels like the Bali of Europe!" Playa de Bologna beach is one of the popular beaches where you can also go hiking as well. Otherwise there is also Playa de Los Lances which is where you will spot most of the kitesurfers and windsurfers. Or the Bali-like beach is Playa de Valdevaqueros, which is home to the surfer-style Tumbao Beach Bar. Tourists also head to Waikiki beach bar, with Bali-like thatched umbrellas, or Aloha Bar for €3 cocktails. Near this is also the Baelo Claudia, a 2,000 year old Roman town now ruins. If you want to explore the Old Town, it is home to beautiful tapas bars, nightclubs and local shops. Exploring the Beautiful Costa de la Luz This is where the nightlife is as well, with many of the streets filled with both tourists and locals. But while it is very Spanish in its atmosphere, it is also easy to see Moroccan influences as well with Moorish architecture. Puera de Jerez is the ancient entrance of the walled town, and where you can also visit the 800-year-old Castle of Tarifa. On a long walkway is also Isla de Tarifa which has some of the best views of the town as well. 6 It is so close to Morocco, there are views of Tangier Credit: Alamy 6 It is around one hour from Gibraltar Credit: Alamy While there are a number of hotels and B&Bs to choose from there are also a number of campsites and caravan sites. For example, there is Via Villagio Tarifa, which has glamping pods right on the beach or Dunas Tarifa with palm tree cabanas and safari lodges. Tarifa is also easy to get to, being around an hour from Gibraltar by car. Or, if in Morocco, it is around one hour by ferry from Tangier which you can fly to from the UK for £20 with Ryanair. Here is why you should visit the city of Tangier as well, which named a top holiday spot by Vogue last year. Not only are new luxury hotels popping up, but it has even been used to film Jason Bourne, Mission Impossible and James Bond. What is a holiday in Tarifa like? Here's what one writer thought after visiting. Old town Tarifa after 11pm turns in to what, in Britain, we might class as a street party. There is a courtyard with bars all around it and seating in the middle which is so lively it almost has festival vibes. Poniente's lazy start to the day looks even better when you learn that the clubs don't even open until 2am so you'll be needing that lie-in. So if you go to Tarifa and find kitesurfing really isn't for you then you won't be short of things to do. They say if you can kite in Tarifa, you can kite anywhere. In the mean time, here is another Spanish island off the coast of Africa. And a £5.1billion underwater tunnel could connect Spain and Morocco.
The Irish Sun
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
I stayed in a floating yacht hotel in Europe – we had champagne breakfasts on a budget and even spotted celebs
DAVID WALLIAMS was sitting at the next table offering to massage a newlywed couple. First morning aboard the Sunborn floating hotel in Gibraltar and the professional extrovert was in full character, engaging with star-struck holidaymakers as only he can, with a twinkle in his eye. Advertisement 6 Gibraltar has for so long been pigeonholed as a stopover for day trippers - but why not stay for longer? Credit: Shutterstock 6 David Walliams as in full character, engaging with star-struck holidaymakers as only he can, with a twinkle in his eye Credit: Instagram 6 Get to the top of the Rock via the scenic cable car Credit: Getty We arrived too late the night before to catch the Little Britain comic's one-man show at a sports centre but apparently it went down a storm. He has already asked to return for November's literary festival, and it's no surprise. It's a trend the local tourist board is working hard to reverse. They want travellers to take more time fully taking in the surprisingly large number of things to do on a tiny sun-kissed slab of Britain at the mouth of the Med. Advertisement And when beer is just £3.75 a pint, why not stay longer to enjoy? Secret bunker Gibraltar's gripping history has a deep association with our Armed Forces. The Royal Engineers were founded here in the 18th century and practically built the place. The honeycomb of tunnels dug by clever sappers during World War Two offers a fascinating insight into the work of our determined Armed Forces and the strategic importance of Gibraltar during the conflict. In one cavern hangs a full-size replica of a legendary Spitfire fighter plane. There is also the spine-chilling story of the Stay Behind Cave — the once secret bunker carved into the heart of the mountain, complete with provisions for a year and a bicycle generator. Advertisement Most read in News Travel An elite group of patriotic volunteers agreed to be sealed off from the outside world for a year and spy on the Axis powers, should Gibraltar get overrun — the ultimate one-way ticket in the line of duty . From the exotic Moorish times, through the centuries of the British Empire and beyond, there are tours to take and a bloody back story to hear in the name of entertainment. Strait of Gibraltar Tunnel: A New Bridge Between Continents My wife and I stayed four nights on the permanently moored Sunborn yacht hotel, anchored flush against the dockside of Gibraltar's Ocean Village. It's a 5H joint, and the food and service reflects that. Yet even in high season, a spacious double room with a large window can be yours for £185 a night, including champagne breakfast. Advertisement Step ashore and you can be seated in one of many lively bars with giant outdoor screens beaming major sports from back home. If that's not for you, just 50 yards away is Little Bay Restaurant — a vibrant Indian fusion eaterie where bubbly manager Kelly welcomes you with warm cockney charm, before delicately blended curries combined with zingy cocktails top off an early summer evening. Gibraltar's biggest attraction in every sense is the looming mound of limestone that dominates everything here. Get to the top via the scenic cable car and peer down from the stomach-churning Skywalk 1,400 feet above the sparkling sea — opened by Luke Skywalker, aka Mark Hamill, himself. Advertisement Take in the view across the Straits, a 15-mile- wide blue chasm separating Europe from North Africa — which David Walliams heroically swam in aid of Sport Relief in 2008. The Northern Defences are also worth a visit. This Our guide, Karl Viagas, is steadfastly uncovering more historical treasures underground that will be spectacular when fully open. 6 You can peer down from the stomach-churning Skywalk 1,400 feet above the sparkling sea — opened by Luke Skywalker, aka Mark Hamill, himself Credit: InfoGibraltar Advertisement 6 Soldiers in traditional uniform Credit: Supplied 6 The view of Gibraltar from the top of the Rock Credit: Getty James Bond creator Ian Fleming was stationed here with Naval Intelligence, and daring undersea attacks on the Allied fleet by Italian scubamen in the war fuelled his already vivid imagination for future books and movies. And in true 007 style, we were accompanied by a glamorous former Miss World who would grace any Bond movie. Kaiane Aldorino, former Mayor of Gibraltar, is now an ambassador for the territory. Advertisement Sunshine, cheap beer and a beauty queen for company — plus you can spend British pounds. But like many places, travel and the natural world can often rub each other up the wrong way. Gibraltar's playful macaque monkeys are funny to watch for a time but have become a way for taxi drivers to make a few easy quid. The roads at the top of the rock were clogged with cabbies queuing to feed junk food to these wild animals in return for them doing tricks. Advertisement Far better to join Brian Gomila on his Monkey Talk tour in the kinder environment of the surrounding trees. And if you really want to go green, join Stuart at EBike-Gibraltar. Power-assisted cycling on a lap around the base of the rock is easy on the legs and the eyes as you stop off at small fishing villages with inviting beaches. Read more on the Irish Sun There's a lot of fun to be had too. A dizzying gin-tasting session at the Spirit Of The Rock distillery was as enlightening as it was alcoholic. David Walliams might agree, it's Little Britain — but with Spanish style and weather. Advertisement GO: GIBRALTAR GETTING THERE: easyJet flies to Gibraltar from Gatwick, Manchester, Bristol and Birmingham, with fares from £26.99 return in October. See STAYING THERE : Double rooms at the Sunborn Gibraltar start from £175 per night. See OUT & ABOUT : Gibraltar Upper Rock Nature Reserve – and all attractions including the tunnels – tickets from £30 per adult. See Ebike tour with guide, from £84. See ebike-gibraltar. com. Gin tasting session, from £25, see MORE INFO : See
