Seven things not to miss this summer during a visit to Estepona

It has a connection to traditional fishing, with one of the most important ports on the Malaga coast, but also due to its relationship with agriculture. Estepona, located at the foot of Sierra Bermeja, is one of the privileged towns that can boast of having its territory next to the sea, but also on one of the most unique mountains in Spain.

In summer, there is plenty of leisure, gastronomy, and beaches, but also history, art, and even thrilling adventures.

It is impossible to go unnoticed due to its height right on the beachfront, but also because it is an innovative bet where culture, art, traditional sea culture, and the Mediterranean itself come together. The cultural center of Mirador del Carmen shines next to the grand boulevard that the Estepona seafront promenade and the Avenue of Spain have become for more than a year.

Inside the Mirador del Carmen, there is much to do: From a library to a music conservatory or an auditorium. It also has an exhibition room where works belonging to the Thyssen Museum collection can be seen.

Estepona has known how to revitalize itself in its heart for several years now, with colorful flowerpots, many pedestrianized sections, and well-kept streets thanks also to the involvement of many residents.

Today it is known as the Garden of the Costa del Sol, which includes spaces such as the Plaza de las Flores, but also monuments and symbols of the center, such as the Clock Tower, the Church of Our Lady of Remedies, or what remains of the Castle of San Luis.

Among so many flowers and pots, there is also room for poetry, thanks to some verses collected in tile mosaics. A good plan for the early afternoon or early morning.

If the Garden of the Costa del Sol shines in the historic center, on its perimeter shines the Route of the Murals.

Many are provocative and imaginative in spaces that were previously a boring white. Sculptures have also been incorporated, proposing another possible route through its streets.

In addition to what its urban area or its mountains offer, Estepona has its sights set on the sea. There lies a large part of its tourist attractions, with beaches of different kinds, from the most urban to the most wild.

Secluded and quiet coves, alternative beach bars, a wide seafront promenade, or a marina with plenty of leisure are some of the proposals of this coastal strip, which can be explored on foot or by bicycle through the Coastal Path.

The wildest nature awaits at Selwo Aventura, a theme park where the most exotic fauna coexists. Considered the largest animal park in Andalusia, it is a must-visit even in summer when visiting Estepona.

There, over two thousand animals from around the world live in conditions similar to their natural habitat, such as Bengal tigers, giraffes, white rhinoceroses, lions, or the only Asian elephant born in Spain. In this case, the visitor observes the fauna very closely on a tour done on foot and in all-terrain trucks.

Estepona also looks towards its mountains, included within the reddish Sierra Bermeja. In summer, there await rivers known for their spectacular pools. Especially visible in the Castor and Padrón rivers, where there are thrilling amphibious routes that, however, are not suitable for everyone due to the difficulty of their paths among the rivers and areas with abundant rocks.

This year marks the tenth anniversary, but it could seem like it has been celebrated for decades. The Popi Ciudad de Estepona Ham Fair, which this edition is held between August 8 and 17, has become one of the great gastronomic events of the year.

On the Estepona seafront promenade, for ten days, there will be 65 exhibitors and more than 200 professional ham cutters. This is complemented by a program of musical performances with nationally renowned artists.