A trip to the backcountry of Malaga can be recommended as a worthwhile excursion. Around 40 kilometres north of town is the El Torcal nature park and more to the west is a spectacular canyon, the Garganta Del Chorro.
CENTRE OF THE COSTA DEL SOL
The provincial capital Malaga, with more than half a million inhabitants, is the second largest city of Andalucía and is also the economic and cultural centre of the Costa del Sol. The city is situated directly on the Mediterranean, fortunate to have a very mild climate. The sun shines for nearly 300 days a year and even in the winter the temperature often climbs above 20o C. Since antiquity, the port has been an important connecting point to North Africa. Malaga is visibly divided into two zones by the Rio Guadalmedina. The west side of the city has a new district with multi-storied apartments, administration buildings and heavy traffic; the east has many bars, restaurants and the cathedral in the centre. There is an excellent view of the old-town and the harbour quarters from the top of the Gilbralfaro Hill. Malaga does not offer many attractions, contrary to the popular travel destinations like Cordoba, Granada or Seville. The town nevertheless has its own unmistakable character and charm. The everyday hustle and bustle of a large port city, the lively temperament of southern Spain, and friendly and helpful people turn a stay in Malaga into a memorable experience. The many parks in the centre of the city are definitely a positive aspect. In some parts of the city older houses with generous gardens present an imposing sight. West of Malaga is the fertile Vega de Malaga where oranges, figs, bananas, sugar cane, cotton and grapes for the sweet Malaga wine are grown.
