• The ‘Burrotaxi’ (Donkey Taxi) is traditional transport in Mijas |
If you’re a foodie, you will love the wide range of tapas bars and restaurants on offer. Try to steer clear of the tourist haunts and head into the backstreets for authentic dishes, great with a glass or two of Rioja. The local speciality is gazpachuelo (an egg soup) – you’ll either love it or hate it – and be sure to check out the locally made bread, traditional almond cakes, called bunuelos and homazos, and the delicious honey.
Mijas is an upmarket and relatively quiet resort, so don’t expect night discos and karaoke bars. The village is ideal for a relaxed short break. The local population seems to have got it right – life follows a pattern of relaxed mornings, a good long lunch, siesta, an early evening stroll, then dinner in the local bars and restaurants till the wee, small hours. If you fancy a wilder night out, head for the big coastal resorts a short distance away. Highlights include Fuengirola, a bustling town and popular holiday resort for tourists and Spaniards alike. At night, the town steps up a gear as Fuengirola’s many bars and discos open their doors.
Finally, it’s easy to overlook Malaga, but, rather like Faro, there’s more to the city than the airport! Exploring the honeycomb of Malaga’s back streets and discovering an intriguing choice of shops, restaurants and tapas bars can add to up to a great night out.
PDM verdict: With its magical atmosphere and relaxed attitude to life, Mijas offers the perfect base for anyone wanting to explore the Costa del Sol.
Hotel accommodation
From cost effective villa rentals to luxury hotel accommodation, PDM offers a wide range of options in Mijas and the other resorts mentioned in this article, so call us for more information.
Climate information
With its year-round sun, you’re practically guaranteed good weather in Mijas and in the Costa del Sol generally. It can get very hot by the coast in the summer months, but, in Mijas, you benefit from the sea breeze, which takes the sting out of the midday sun. Best times to visit are May-June and September-October.