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GARDEN OF EDEN

Estepona has been transformed over the past decade from sleepy seaside town to the Garden of the Costa del Sol, writes Walter Finch

ONCE a bit of a backwater, Estepona has morphed into a thriving metropolis that rivals Marbella, all while retaining its authentic Andalusian charm.

The town has seen more than €100 million invested in public works since 2011. From new car parks and an athletics stadium to an art gallery and even a skyscraper, the town’s development has been nothing short of ambitious. Now, plans for a retail park and a mega-park promise to take Estepona’s evolution even further.

A modest municipal population of 48,000 in 2003 has exploded to, officially, 75,000 in 2022, a population increase of 56%, and it is likely to be far higher in reality - and it’s definitely still growing. Marbella, in comparison, has grown by just 29% in the same period.

Over a quarter of Estepona’s population (19,000) is foreign, Brits Germans and Scandinavians to the fore.

Estepona is one of the fastest-growing towns in Andalucia for population. Its GDP per capita has spiralled and, it’s clear, the quality of its restaurants and hotels has kept up.

There is a distinct change about the place, in particular, with its emphasis on pedestrians and the demographic of its residents shows a real shift towards the Scandinavian countries.

Like the Vikings, Estepona has rarely stood still. Indeed, since the days of the seafaring Phoenicians - who sailed in and established a colony nearly 3,000 years ago - it has seen numerous influxes of migrants.

Be it the Romans, the Vandals or the Moors - or the Catholic reconquest or pirate raids from Africa in the 18th century - the town has frequently been in a state of flux.

This latest incarnation is driven by wealthy international visitors flocking in all-year round.

The formerly car-clogged roads have been replaced by idyllic outdoor spaces and the colourful flower-filled streets have allowed the resort to retain its image as one of the last ‘authentically’ Spanish resorts left on the costas.

Yet the beauty belies the massive population spurt it has seen, driven by constant the construction of new homes and expansion of the town’s limits.

Continues on next page

Photo credit: Jon Clarke

UNSPOILT: The Estepona coastline as seen from the Torre de Casasola, while (inset) two town centre snapshots

From front page

Estepona

TRANSFORMATION TOWN

The arrival of the foreigners has gone hand in hand with the PP ayuntamiento’s ambitions to transform the town - often to the grumbles of the locals.

The greatest recent transformation has been the total redesign of the old N340 highway which went along the beach promenade.

It is now completely cut off with traffic redirected in a, frequently, 15-minute detour around the centre.

It has made for an almost car-free centre, with the final paving stones and flower beds between Avenida de Andalucía and Calle Terraza laid just last month.

The cutting of the ribbon on the new paseo maritimo (or beachfront prom enade) makes it one of the longest in Spain at one and a half ki lometres.

The next phase of the transforma tion is equally ambitious, with the brand new Park Cen tral Boulevard with hundreds of new trees and thousands more plants.

The popular San Lorenzo car park will go, exac erbating the chronic parking problem in the town. However, the town hall in sists this will be remedied by the construction of a new network of underground car parks

across the town costing just one euro a day.

The PP town hall has overseen the transformation, and while it is often viewed as controversial it has certainly made the town into a green paradise as part of the ongoing ‘Estepona, Garden of the Costa del Sol’ project.

Anyone who hasn’t visited for a decade will be forgiven for rubbing their eyes at the sheer number of plants and trees that line the streets.

There are tens of thousands, in fact, probably hundreds of thousands, of flowers bedecking almost every available surface, including the central reservations.

Meanwhile, thousands of potted plants have gone in on every street in the old

The profusion is hard to ignore and very impressive. There have been two new additions to the city’s skyline with a modern and sustainable town hall, and a new 45 metre-high mirador near the port, with an art gallery below.

While the Mirador claims to boast a restaurant and museum, neither is currently in operation, leaving just the view from the top to show for its construction.

Somewhat suspiciously, the building was built by a company called Bonifacio

Solis, whose director of operations is none other than the mayor’s son, Pablo Garcia.

But the allegations of nepotism have never really stuck on his dad Jose Maria Garcia Urbano, who has serenely glided through all the slings and arrows and was comfortably reelected mayor in the most recent elections.

Eyebrows however, do continue to be raised on the mayor’s selection of racy statues (left) that have gone up all around the resort… the most suspicious being an expensive golden one of a couple having sex on a roundabout.

A sculpture park on the outskirts meanwhile, includes a naked woman in the throes of passion.

That said, the once traffic-heavy Avenida España along the beachfront has been subsumed into the newly sedate promenade, dotted with new restaurants, cafes and shops.

Next to it, is easily one of the nicest city beaches in Spain, Playa de la Rada stretching for over 2 kilometres.

Known for its clean, soft sand, crystal-clear waters and excellent facilitiesit has good views towards Gibraltar and Africa on clear days… not to mention numerous beach chiringuitos.

Looking for nightlife, the bright young things flock to the bars and clubs in the port on weekends, where bartenders free-pour drinks according to the ye old Spanish ‘say when’ system.

Louie Louie’s is the perfect spot for a live music set and an enthusiastic crowd getting down.

Or, if you prefer to watch, the Peña Flamenca in the old town puts on fortnightly flamenco shows with renowned performers who come from all over Andalucia. No trip to Estepona would be complete without a visit to the aptly-named, Plaza de las Flores (Flowers Square).

kinds of excursions, including a murals tour (more of which later) and a host of reasonably-priced restaurants and cafes.

Also nestled among the flowers, and spilling out onto Calle Terraza, are a handful of stylish clothes shops, mixing independent and quirky with more famous brands such as Mango.

In this charming hive of activity you will find the tourism office, with maps for all

UPGRADE: The promenade has been much spruced up while the church and

thought to be among the largest in Europe - painted with incredible skill and daring will take you aback.

It’s one of a kind – the only asymmetrical bullring in the world

Strolling around, you won’t help but notice that a number of buildings are decorated with incredible street art, bringing the façade - and the surrounding streets - to life.

Murals as high as the buildings - some

The largest one, by artist Jose Fernández Ríos, depicts a fish on a line covering six separate building façades and measuring almost 100,000 metres squared. Further into the town, past its historic centre head for the exotic glassdomed orchidarium - the largest in Europe.

The futuristic greenhouse is home to more than 8,000 species of orchids, three waterfalls, streams and a butterfly house.

Staff care lovingly for these delicate and beautiful plants, watching them bloom and flower and then fade away every three months, to start the cycle anew.

Another spot worth seeking out, near the port, is the Plaza de Toros, which isn’t the oldest, biggest or best in Spain but it’s one of a kind – the only asymmetrical bullring in the world. Its clever shape was designed to offer spectators more seating in

PORT: The marina area gets lively at night

orchidarium are must visits

the shade than under the hot Spanish sun, and it has hosted numerous sport and cultural events since it opened in 1972.

Just a short hop from the bullring you will find the 20-metre tall Punta Doncella lighthouse, which has been blinking away its light to ships and boats up and down the coast in its present incarnation since 1922.

Oh, and if you are looking for nature

and green spaces, there are plenty of other beaches up along the coast, not to mention excellent tennis clubs, like Forest Hills, plus great golf courses, including El Paraiso, now 50 years old. Back to history, Estepona was officially founded during the golden age of the Caliphate of Cordoba in the 10th century. Destroyed by the conquering Christians in the 15th century and rebuilt by Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand

almost a century later, King Philip V granted the town a charter for 600 families in 1728. Compare that to the ever-growing number of residents today, plus the visitors that see the population triple in summer months. And rentals do fill up quickly at this time of year, so book early if you want to discover why Estepona should be number one on your Costa del Sol bucket list.

Estepona

Estepona’s seafaring tradition is the salt adding seasoning to its tourist offer

STILL a working fishing town, much of Estepona’s cash flow surges from the port.

The importance of the maritime trade is obvious at the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases the ancient craft of boat making and the cornucopia of marine life living off this golden coast. Museum guide Mariano Jobreas, who

VINTAGE: Estepona was once a quaint fishing village

moved to the town from Madrid, shows off a wall displaying dozens of complicated knots.

“To become a fisherman you have to learn to tie every single one of these.

“You have to be prepared for all eventualities out at sea,” he says gravely.

The models of fishing boats still in use look so real, he jestingly assures me that the working vessels are much bigger. On a trip to the

HUB: The port is still a hive for fishermen, but also offers a melting-pot of bars and restaurants these days

port Miguel Ferrer Gonzalez explains his boat trips.

“I came here because Estepona is more of a family town,” he beams, explaining that he spends his days sailing around in search of dolphins. It sounds like money for old rope as dolphins aren’t hard to find - beach goers often spot shoals of them frolicking offshore.

“It’s not an office job, and if you like the sea, this is the job for you,” agrees Miguel.

If you’d like a turn at the helm yourself,

the Real Club Nautico houses a sailing and kayak school with a dry dock for sailboats and a nautically-themed restaurant for hungry sailors returning home from the sea.

Estepona is still home to hundreds of working fishing families whose ancestors have been casting their nets here for centuries. Now this great maritime tradition is continued by their offspring who brave the elements to this day to put fresh fish on local dining tables.

HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY (HBOT) AS A KEY TOOL IN POSTOPERATIVE RECOVERY

BENEFITS

• Compensates for poor microcirculation

• Improves immune system

• Reduces inflammation

• Improves healing

• Activates deep repair mechanisms

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is an essential tool in postoperative recovery, especially fordiabetic patients and smokers, who often face serious complications due to poor circulation and a weakened immune system. This therapy, based on inhaling pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, alters the body’s internal conditions, facilitating a faster and safer recovery after surgery.

One of the greatest benefits of HBOT is its ability to compensate for the poor microcirculation commonly found in these patients. The therapy enhances cellular oxygenation by allowing oxygen to reach affected areas more effectively, promoting the healing of damaged tissues.

Additionally, HBOT strengthens the immune system by activating leukocytes and macrophages, reducing the risk of postoperative infections – a crucial factor for the success of any surgical procedure.

HBOT is also key in inflammation modulation, helping to prevent issues such as fibrosis and seroma formation, which is essential for the proper integration of grafts and other implants. Moreover, it improves skin healing, even in high-risk areas, by stimulating collagen production and promoting angiogenesis, the formation of new capillaries.

In cases like osteomyelitis, HBOT increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, improving tissue oxygenation even in areas with poor circulation. It also enhances the effectiveness of antibiotics and improves white blood cell function, facilitating the elimination of resistant bacteria while reducing inflammation and pain.

In summary, hyperbaric oxygen therapy offers multiple advantages in the postoperative recovery of diabetics and smokers, improving oxygenation, strengthening the immune system, and promoting effective wound healing.

Don’t miss the opportunity to access the best technology and results. Your health deserves the best and at HMCE they have it for you.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Christian Keller

Communications Department HMCE Avda España, 242-29680 Estepona Málaga

tel: 952 806 796 WhatsApp: 663 418 023 comunicacion@centrohiperbarico.com centrohiperbarico.com

OLDEN DAYS: Estepona seafront has changed dramatically

SPILER BEACH CLUB

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Kempinski Hotel Bahia

Autovía del Mediterráneo A-7, Km. 1066, Estepona, 29680, Spain

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Estepona

HOME FROM HOME

Spain is the furthest you can get from New Zealand, but I’m excited to call Estepona my new home for the year, writes new Olive Press journalist and Kiwi Samantha Mythen (right)

ARRIVING on the Costa del Sol during the rainiest March the province had seen in decades had me questioning my decision to move to Spain.

I had just spent the last two months travelling through the endless sunshine days of South East Asia.

It was 35 degrees in Cambodia but only five degrees in Granada where I began the few two weeks of my year in Spain. I moved so far from home to stay here on a working holiday visa, my main goal being to learn Spanish.

I’d studied the romance language for a year at university but all I could really do confidently was sing the lyrics of Shakira songs. I knew the best place to learn would be here, surrounded by Spanish voices every day.

A journalist by profession, I was keen to continue storytelling, and you’ll be able to find a lot of my stories here at the Olive Press. With a job in hand, I needed a place to call home.

The flat hunt started on Idealista and I joined the local community groups on Facebook.

Estepona stood out to me. Although a quarter of its residents are now foreign, the whitewashed walls of the old town centre felt like Spain was still alive and beating in the fishing village. I came to Spain of course to learn Spanish, not to improve my English. The town has a lingering history of migrants. More than 3000 years ago, the Phoenicians - renowned seafaring traders of the Mediterranean, founded nearby Malaga. There’s evidence they mixed with local tribes. Roman relics, such as Villa Romana de las Torres reveal the later influence from one of the world’s greatest empires. By the 20th century, Estepona had settled into a village made of farmers, weavers and fisherpeople. Now, there’s more than 70,000 inhabitants. Add to that me, a Kiwi migrant, who has travelled here from the opposite side of the world.

The antipode to Estepona is the san-

AROUND THE ESTEPONA AREA

dy-shored Kawau Island in the Hauraki Gulf of Aotearoa New Zealand. Like Estepona, it’s a popular tourist destination with visitors taking a 30 minute ferry ride over from the mainland. Approximately 80 people live there permanently. Growing up on an island nation, I spent almost every holiday camping at the beach.

My family and I would spend Christmas (summer in New Zealand) at a place called Matauri Bay, not far from Kawau Island. My dad would spend the day fishing and diving and then my mum would turn the fresh seafood into dinner for us.

Even long weekends were spent at the beach. My flat last year in New Zealand’s capital city Pōneke Wellington was a ten minute walk from the sea, and I’d even go for an icy dip in the winter months.

I didn’t realise just how important the ocean was to me until I left the towering historic buildings of Granada and drove over to Estepona to view a few potential flats. As the car rounded over the highway bend and the seaside town, I felt like I could finally breathe easy again, with the endless azure blue horizon stretching out before me. I needed to live by the ocean.

A change from the past few weeks of the grey roofed-sky and continuous rainfall, Estepona was bathed in sunshine. It felt that it was meant to be, like it was showing off its best side just for me.

I spent my first morning wandering through Old Town. I absolutely adore historical architecture, something you do not see a lot of in New Zealand. My country is one of the newest countries in the world, with the oldest surviving European building, the colonial Kemp House, only built in 1822.

Our local indigenous population Māori, pre-colonisation, traditionally lived in wharepuni (sleeping houses) made of timber, rushes and ferns with thatched roofs and earthen floors. These natural buildings fell away as victims of time.

The first thing that struck me about Estepona was how clean the streets were. I was instantly impressed. It felt like those who lived here really cared about their town. They tend to its streets like tending to an abuela, with love, care and attention.

dreamed about sitting on a bench in the sunshine and reading a novel. On some walls I noticed historical notices and poetry written, of course, in Spanish. It´s now my goal to be able to wander those streets again in a year and actually be able to read what they say. Watch this space.

I stopped for a cappuccino at Art Bakery at the Goya and there I met Jakub, the talented barista who is also fairly new to Estepona. He moved to the seaside town from Poland six months ago. The Google reviews for the little bakery nook all mention how friendly he is. He shared some Estepona living ‘secrets’ with me, such as the best grocery shop and some dinner spots to save for later. We ended up chatting for an hour or so as thunder clouds rolled in and back came the rain keeping me huddling inside.

Once the rain had passed, I strolled along the esplanade, a spinach empanada in hand, looking out across the ocean. I screwed my eyes up tight and searched for any sight of Africa. I’m excited to learn more about the Arabic influence on Spain’s southern coast and hopefully will take the ferry over to Morocco for one weekend too.

They tend to its streets like tending to a well-loved abuela

The one piece of plastic I saw blowing down the road, I quickly cleared away into the bin. Workers were strolling the streets with me, either wielding a leaf-blower or rubbish grabber in their hands.

My favourite part about the Old Town were the colourful pots lining the whitewashed walls, with blooming flowers spilling over the sides. As I ambled through one plaza after another, I day

This is my first time in Andalucia. The first time I ever stepped foot in Spain was in 2022. I spent a week in Barcelona in hot sticky July, and then an autumn weekend in the Basque country, visiting my Kiwi friend who was teaching English in Bilbao. It feels good to be back, to be chasing down a bucket list dream to learn Spanish and experience all the seasons here.

Even the rain couldn’t take away Estepona’s charm. That evening, I stopped by Restaurante Asiatico Long, a local restaurant run by a sweet family originally from China. Their ten-year-old son practiced English with me and I practiced my Spanish with him. They served mapo tofu, a favourite dish of mine that originated from China’s Sichuan province, a place notoriously known for its spice. It felt homely to have dinner with migrants also from the other side of the world. I wondered what it was like to live

in Spain so different in culture and language to China. After dinner, I walked back over to the esplanade and found a seat outside to relax in the evening air and sipped on tinto de verano for dessert. As the days get lighter, longer and warmer with summer on its way, I cannot wait to swim in the ocean’s arms. While friends back home are buying houses and settling down, I feel pretty lucky to be able to hang out in Spain. Who knows when I’d get the chance to do something like this the older I get. Estepona definitely feels like a place I could call home for the year.

HISTORY: The tower in Guadalmansa and next door Roman villa

PRIDE: The locals really look after their streets

BACK ON THE BEACH: Samantha loves living by Estepona’s La Rada beach

Credit: Walter Finch

GIVE IT A GOGH!

Immersive art show set to wow crowds this summer!

By Dilip Kuner

ART lovers, get ready for a spectacular Van Gogh extravaganza which is set to take over Estepona this summer.

The Van Gogh: Greatest Hits immersive exhibition will light up the Palacio de Congresos from June 5 to September 21, offering visitors the chance to step right inside the world of the tortured Dutch genius.

With 40 projectors, a multi-screen digital setup and cutting-edge tech, this isn’t just an art show – it’s a sensory adventure.

Images of Van Gogh’s masterpieces will burst into motion, towering up to six metres high and surrounding

visitors in a 360-degree explosion of colour and sound.

Night shimmering around you, Sunflowers blooming before your eyes, and Van Gogh’s famous self-portrait staring right back at you. Using state-ofthe-art holographics, kinetic visuals, and morphing 3D effects, this spectacle breathes

new life into the Dutch master’s work, making the experience as electrifying as it is emotional. It’s not just about pretty pictures, either – Van Gogh: Greatest Hits delves deep into the artist’s tormented soul, offering fascinating insights into his tragic life.

Penniless

Fans will learn how this once-ignored painter, who struggled with mental illness and died penniless, went on to create some of the world’s most expensive and beloved artworks.

For more details and ticket sales head to www.van-gogh.es

DESIGNS - RE-MODELLING - CREATIONS

After working for many years in Paris (France) for high-end jewellery brands, they move to Estepona where they have opened their own jewellery store and workshop. They can fix all kinds of jewellery, design your ideas and make exclusive jewellery for you. If you are looking for a reliable jeweller, do not hesitate, they are what you are looking for.

DISEÑOS - FABRICACIONES - CREACIONES

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Castillo 9, Estepona, Málaga

Think Starry

OLD BUT GOLD

BACK in 2018, a group of football-loving expats found themselves playing with another club - but something just didn’t click.

Determined to take the beautiful game into their own hands, they decided to form a team built on friendship, passion, and a shared love for football.

And so, Estepona Old Boys was born.

One of the players stepped up to take on the role of manager, and with everyone united behind the vision, the club began to grow rapidly.

Word spread, new faces joined, and before long, they had enough players to create not one, but two full teams. Today, the Estepona Old Boys are thriving, with two dedicated squads - an over 35s team and an over 50s team, fondly nicknamed ‘The Codgers’.

At the heart of the club is a strong sense of camaraderie and community.

Matches are held at least once a week, often mixing the two squads, and the team loves welcoming visiting sides from the UK, Portugal, and the Netherlands for friendly fixtures.

The Codgers are especially well-travelled, heading out on biannual tours, the most recent of which saw them return from the Algarve with a trophy in hand.

More than just a football club, the Estepona Old Boys is a hub of fun, friendship, and unforgettable memories. Whether it’s a kickabout on a sunny afternoon or a weekend away competing abroad, the team always has its eyes on the next adventure.

Pollo de la Mar Tel: +34 623 74 11 81

Avenida Braille, Local 30, Estepona

BARDS OF ESTEPONA

INTERNATIONAL poetry competition Ciudad de Estepona has smashed records in its fifth edition, with 2,321 entries – nearly 300 more than last year.

In just a few years the competition has already cemented itself as one of the most prestigious literary contests in Spain.

This flood of entries highlights its growing status and popularity among poets worldwide.

The contest, which was launched by Estepona Town Hall in 2021, continues to attract submissions from across Spain, Latin America, and Europe.

With a cash prize of €7,000, the competition has become a coveted accolade for Span-

Call us to reserve your chicken!

Poetry festival breaks record as it gets bigger and bigger

ish-language poets. But the real jewel in the crown? The winning work will be published by the prestigious Pre-Textos publishing house, which boasts literary heavyweights such as Francisco Brines (Cervantes Prize 2020), Anne Carson (pectured left, Princess of Asturias Award for Literature 2020), and Nobel laureate Louise Glück among its authors.

Estepona’s mayor, Jose Maria GarcIa Urbano, said: “We are proud to support the literary arts and provide a platform for creative talent.”

Meanwhile, the competition’s director, poet and writer Alejandro Simon Partal, called it ‘one of the most sought-after poetry prizes for Spanish-language writers across the globe’.

He added that the award goes beyond the prize itself, as the city hosts educational

activities and literary events to bring poetry to the streets and encourage reading.

With submissions now closed, the judging panel will begin the challenging task of selecting a winner, who will be announced on May 8 at the Felipe VI Auditorium.

and composer

Free tickets will be available from April 21 at the

TOpen everyday 12:00 - 22:00

TUESDAYS

seekers and climbing enthusiasts flock to Estepona to tackle what is Spain's largest outdoor climbing wall, the Rocodromo Located within the Parque Ferial, Deportivo y de Ocio Permanente, this state-of-theart facility caters to every type of climber, from complete beginners to seasoned pros.

Whether you are looking to test your speed, tackle a challenging climb, or try your hand at bouldering, this place has it all!

Spanning an enormous 662 square me tres, the Rocodromo is divided into spe cialised zones: 115 m² for speed climbing, 363 m² for more challenging ascents, and 184 m² dedicated to bouldering. Its impressive design makes it the perfect venue for both casual climbers and elite athletes, even hosting national and in ternational competitions.

The structure is a 3D-modelled, high-pressure wall, supported by a massive 130-ton steel framework,

Aiming for the

which provides an authentic rock-climbing experience in a safe and controlled environment.

Climbing sessions at the Rocodromo are run by the Grupo de Montana de Estepona (GRUME), which offers courses and workshops for all levels.

Whether you are a total beginner or looking to refine your skills,

The event will feature a special performance of La Travesía by renowned artist Martirio, accompanied by musician

Raúl Rodríguez.

Centro Cultural Mirador del Carmen.

POET OF ESTEPONA: Alejandro Simon Partal (left), while Luis Alberto de Cuenca is one of the famous writers published by Pre-Textos

POETRY IN ACTION: Martirio and Raul Rodriguez will perform

HRILL

Estepona Old Boys: United by Football, Driven by Fun

Great experience

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Estepona

A rising star on the Costa del Sol

ONCE a quiet fishing village, Estepona has transformed into a thriving cultural and travel hub. With a population nearing 79,000 in 2024, the city has retained its Andalucian charm while embracing modernisation through strategic infrastructure upgrades, cultural projects, and beautification efforts.

Estepona’s leadership has spearheaded significant urban renewal projects, including the pedestrianization of over 130 streets in the Old Town and waterfront areas. These efforts have enhanced the city’s appeal with potted flowers, shaded walkways, and improved public spaces. Two major revitalization projects are underway: the remodeling of Calle Terraza and the transformation of San Lorenzo Boulevard into a 22,000-square-meter pedestrian zone connected to the Old Town.

Cultural initiatives have also flourished. Estepona boasts a Poetry Walk and Murals Walk featuring over 60 large-scale artworks. The Mirador del Carmen Arts and

Property Insider Adam Neale casts his eye on Estepona with his latest market report

Cultural Centre is already enriching the city’s cultural landscape, while the forthcoming Starlite Music World—a €286 million project—will host up to 15,000 attendees at year-round events.

Estepona’s efforts were recognised in 2023 when it was named Europe’s second-best city by the Academy of Urbanism.

TOURISM BOOM: HOTELS, DINING, AND FESTIVALS

The city’s hospitality sector is thriving, with new luxury hotels such as Mett Hotel & Beach Resort, Hotel Silken Maravilla Palace, and The Old Town Boutique Hotel opening recently or under development. Estepona will also welcome two new Croma HM Hoteles properties and a $40 million luxury hotel project by Unicorn Royal Emirates. Globalia Group has proposed additional developments worth €780 million, including a 1,400-room hotel.

Estepona’s culinary scene is equally vibrant. The Michelin-recognized El Palangre Seafood Restaurant set a high standard for gourmet dining

in the city. In 2024, the Mercado de Abastos was transformed into a gastronomic hub under Michelin-starred chef Robin Hall. The upcoming Eva Estepona beach club promises to further elevate the dining expe rience in 2025. The city is also positioning itself as an entertainment destination with events like the Boombastic Music Festival in July and the World Ham Com petition in August.

as a favorite. The city enjoys an enviable Mediterranean climate with 325 sunny days annually and mild winters.

These qualities have made Estepona increasingly attractive to tourists and investors alike. Its real estate market is booming, with property prices rising by 16.54% in 2024 to an average of €4,017 per square metremore affordable than nearby Marbella but growing at a faster rate.

NATURAL BEAUTY MEETS MODERN APPEAL

Estepona’s natural assets include 17 beaches spanning 21 kilometers, with Playa de la Rada—a pristine Blue Flag beach - standing out

• Sunday Roasts

• 2 for 1 Fridays

• Menu del Día

• Party Nights

• Markets

REAL ESTATE MARKET TRENDS

Estepona is emerging from Marbella’s shadow as a luxury destination with its own unique identity. While Marbella remains synonymous with high-net-worth individuals purchasing lavish estates, Estepona appeals to those seeking quality investments at more accessible price points.

Rental prices have surged near-

The Property Insider

by Adam Neale

ly 80% since 2021, reaching €16.99 per square meter by late 2024. This trend reflects strong demand for both long-term rentals and lucrative vacation properties. However, prospective investors should be mindful of potential regulations on shortterm rentals.

Population growth further underscores Estepona’s dynamism. The city grew by approximately 4.6% annually in recent years, driven largely by foreign nationals who now make up 27% of its residents.

FUTURE PROSPECTS

With declining interest rates and reforms in Andalucia’s planning laws expected to spur construction activity, Estepona is poised for continued growth. New luxury developments like Tyrian beachfront villas and Rafael Nadal-backed Palya Invest projects highlight its rising status as a premier destination for second homes and investment properties. As Estepona continues to evolve with a blend of tradition and modernity, it offers compelling opportunities for residents, tourists, and investors alike - solidifying its place as one of the Costa del Sol’s most promising cities.

The Sun Inn is on the rise

Family-run restaurant known for offering great food at great prices is becoming a social hub

LOOKING for a fun, family-friendly spot to eat and enjoy some drinks? Look no further! Nestled in the hills just outside Estepona, you’ll find The Sun Inn El Padron.

The Sun Inn is a cozy, family-run restaurant known for offering great food at great prices. They want to become a hub for the local community, which is why they’re open year-round, with extended hours during the summer months.

“At the moment, we’re closed on Mondays, but our goal is to be open every day in the future,” says Kaydi, one of the owners. Planning to visit by car? Parking is no problem, as there’s a spacious car park right out front. The restaurant also boasts a large terrace, plenty of outdoor seating, and a kids’ playground. Don’t miss the threecourse Menu del Día,

which includes bread and a beverage for just €13. The menu changes weekly, so there’s always something new to try.

The Sun Inn frequently hosts special events. For example, on April 12, they’re throwing a 70’s & 80’s party - but act fast, as tables are limited.

On Saturday, April 26, they’ll host a Charity Fun Day to support Asociación Gatos y Amigos for helping local cats in need.

The Charity Fun Day will feature pony rides, Easter-themed kids’ hunts with prizes, market stalls selling unique products, BBQ, and, of course, plenty of great food, drinks, and music.

To stay updated on upcoming events, be sure to follow The Sun Inn on Facebook and Instagram @thesuninnelpadron.

The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday, with a special menu available every Sunday. Happy Hour is every Friday from 4pm to 6pm, followed by a two-for-one offer on special menus from 6pm to 9pm.

Find The Sun Inn El Padron at Camino de Montesol in Estepona. Set your GPS and get ready for a fantastic experience!

EXTRAVAGANZA

Strolling along the cobble-stoned streets of Estepona is like visiting a fairytale seaside village. The whitewashed walls of the old town are adorned with colourful pots blooming with spring flowers.

Cosy plazas feature perfect places to sit and people watch in the sunshine, the air filled with the zesty scent of the citrus trees, which line the squares.

This lively pueblo has many cultural and social events running throughout the year. Here are some events to mark in your calendar:

There is so much going on in Estepona around the year

TRADITIONAL SPANISH FESTIVALS

Semana Santa Holy Week, is celebrated over Easter. Expect to see a pro cession of two different floats over the five days,

accompanied by live mu-

On the first weekend of May is Las Cruces de Mayo where tall crosses are decorated throughout the pueblo. Expect lots of food, drink, dancing, music and more merriment. The City Council has organised a competition for the best decoration of the May Cross. Register before April 12. You can get an official timetable for the event from the Tourist Office in the Plaza de las

For several days leading up to May 15, images of San Isidro, Estepona´s male Patron Saint, and of Nuestra Senora

del Carmen, Queen of the Sea will be paraded down the streets and up to the Fairground. Admire altars to the ploughman saint set up in Old Town with locals competing for

‘Best Decorated Altar’ prizes. Bonfires will light up the beach on June 23 as the longest day of the year, San Juan is celebrated with summer begin ning. The local fish ermen of the vil lage will celebrate their patron saint Virgen del Carmen on July 16. The ceremony centres around the Saint´s main church, while down by the fishing port, the community gathers for games.

Boombastic Costa

Del Sol is a three day music festi val being held at Parque Ferial de Estepona from July 24-26. The line up features artists Melendi, Steve Aoki, Maria Becerra and

HAM OFF THE BONE

restaurant. Andy flows at the Statue Park and Zinzi Yoga hosts lessons at Paseo Maritimo or Playa del Cristo.

LEARN ABOUT THE HUMAN BODY

See young people scrambling along a greasy fishing pole above the sea, attempting to grab hold of the Anda lucian flag at the end.

SUMMER FAIR

The annual Estepona summer fair takes place in the first week of July featuring day and night activities at Parque Ferial de Estepo na. You will see some locals dolled up in traditional garb.

Estepona is home to the prestigious world ham contest where more than 100 ham carvers from around the world descend on the village in early August.

It’s a great time to plan a picnic lunch paired with a ham and cheese sandwich.

Enjoy moving meditation by the seaside with many instructors holding morning classes in the village. Didem from Arching Cat Yoga hosts classes by Tikitano

From April 11 until May 11, learn how the nervous, muscular, skeletal, circulatory, digestive, reproductive, and respiratory systems work at this global exhibition which has made its way to Estepona. See real bodies preserved with cutting-edge technology.