| www.costadelsolinfo.net Torremolinos has thankfully long outgrown its Monty Python spam and chips image and, over recent years, has evolved as an attractive and appealing resort noted for its clean sandy beaches, wide choice of hotels and restaurants and unparalleled variety of entertainment, activities and nightlife available. While it's hard to believe that a mere forty years ago Torremolinos was little more than a sleepy village, still today the town reflects its heritage with several of the original fresh fish bars located right in the shopping centre, incongruously flanked by exclusive boutiques and gift shops.
In general, however, the wave of tourists who descended on the town in the fifties and sixties changed the face of Torremolinos for ever. Bars and restaurants opened by the dozen and visitors came from all over the world and included well known writers and artists, as well as starlets, aristocrats and seasoned travellers. Packed with tantalising shops, thronging with people of every nationality and located right at the heart of the town is the pedestrian only Calle San Miguel which is, without a doubt, the best known and representative street; a people watchers' paradise where buskers, street vendors, sophisticated shops and ice-cream salesmen converge to create a ambience uniquely memorable - uniquely 'Torremolinos'. From throbbing discos to throngs of tourists to the quiet back streets with their chirruping canaries and narrow cobbled streets. The old part of the town has mercifully survived the passage of time and is recommended for those who seek a slice of real Spain. No Guinness on tap here, try the tapas instead at one of the typical inexpensive bars located near the Casa de Cultura and brand new town hall.
Next, head for La Carihuela, the original fisherman's district of Torremolinos and just west of the town centre and sample some of the best seafood available in the entire region. There's a smart new promenade here which extends as far as the Puerto Deportivo in Benalmadena and which, to the east, connects La Carihuela with Playamar beach area past the rocky peninsula of Santa Clara. So those who seek a little gentle exercise can stroll beachside all the way from Torremolinos to Benalmadena, stopping for a little refreshment en route at one of the numerous beach bars and cafes. Although the town has, perhaps, an overabundance of concrete high-rises, this is offset by the recent emergence of numerous public gardens. More than one thousand species of trees have been planted in the town, ranging from the exotic magnolia and banana tree to vibrantly colourful beds of roses and azaleas. On the outskirts of the town there are three forests with freshwater springs and barbecue facilities and highly recommended for those seeking a little reprieve from the bucket and spade scenario on the coast. At the same time, if it's family fun you want, Torremolinos is hard to beat with seasonal seasports including windsurfing, paragliding, water skiing and pedal boats. If this sounds all just too energetic however, then of course there is the sunlounger alternative or plenty of places where you can while away the hours sitting in picturesque surrounds, sipping a glass of sangria and simply watching the world go by. The old La Carihuela fishermans quarter still exists. Many of the streets have been pedestrianised making a pleasant walk. Many of the original cottages still exist and not all have been turned into bars or shops. Some have stood still in time. Wander around the area early one morning before the tourists wake up and see a different world. La Carihuela and Bajondillo beaches hold European blue flags. Their promenades are now linked together to make a pleasant walk around the headland. Restaurantes. Restaurante
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