What to See and Do in Estepona
Estepona, located on the Costa del Sol, is a town between Malaga and Cadiz, surrounded by vibrant places such as Marbella and Ronda. In recent years, Estepona has evolved while maintaining its traditional lifestyle alongside modern attractions, making it an increasingly popular destination and a preferred place to live. The improvement of the promenade, its historic center streets and squares, buildings, urban art, museums such as the Thyssen, the sculpture and poetry routes, and many other attractions are positioning it as one of the main towns on the Costa del Sol and a must-visit destination.
Estepona Old Town
The Old Town of Estepona is one of the most charming corners of the Costa del Sol, a place that invites you to wander through its cobbled streets, historic squares, and traditional house facades adorned with flowers. Explore and discover:
- Plaza de las Flores and Torre del Reloj, monuments reflecting the local history.
- Do not miss the Church of Los Remedios and the ruins of San Luis Castle, dating back to the 15th century.
- Discover the poetry route.
- Explore urban art through the mural route.
- Enjoy the cultural offerings of its sculptures.
Without a doubt, walking through Estepona Old Town is a refreshing experience that will continue to surprise you.
Estepona Mural Route
Estepona is known for its impressive Mural Route, an urban art exhibition that modernizes the city without losing its identity. With more than 45 murals spread throughout the town, you will be amazed by the creativity filling its streets. The most famous one is Dia de Pesca, covering 1,000 square meters across six facades.
The Orchid Garden
One of the most special places in Estepona is the Orchidarium, a modern greenhouse with more than 1,300 species of orchids. The building is impressive due to its glass structure and domes, housing one of the largest collections in Europe.
Estepona Archaeological Museum
If you love history, you cannot miss the Archaeological Museum. Here, you will find valuable pieces such as the Venus of Estepona, which is over 5,000 years old. Plus, admission is free.
Beaches and Promenade of Estepona
Make the most of your stay in Estepona by taking a trip to Gibraltar or enjoying a shopping day. You can also take themed tours around the town, such as the Poetry Route, which features verses from national and international authors.
Leisure and Nightlife in Estepona
Estepona nightlife comes alive with its beachfront bars and clubs. Enjoy live music and DJs at the beach bars or explore the lively Puerto Deportivo area, which is vibrant both day and night. Do not miss the summer cinema at Plaza de Toros during the warmer months.
Excursions
Estepona beaches are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the good weather. The most famous is Playa de la Rada, which offers all the services you need for a perfect day: showers, volleyball nets, umbrellas, and sunbeds.
If you prefer a quieter beach, visit Playa del Cristo, ideal for spending the day with friends.
The promenade is the perfect place for a walk by the sea, with bars and beach clubs where you can refresh yourself while enjoying the views.
The Origins of Estepona
Al-Estebunna: The Muslim Era:
In the Middle Ages, Estepona was known as Al-Estebunna under Muslim rule. This fortress was first mentioned in 1342 during the campaigns of the Battle of the Strait. In 1344, Estepona became the westernmost limit of the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada, a frontier territory reflecting the tense relationship between Christian and Muslim kingdoms.
Integration into the Kingdom of Castile:
The year 1456 marked a turning point in Estepona history. The townspeople refused to pay taxes to King Henry IV of Castile, leading to a Christian incursion that resulted in Estepona integration into the domain of Juan Pacheco, Marquis of Villena. During the Granada War in 1485, the conquest of Ronda, Casares, and Marbella solidified Estepona integration into Marbellas jurisdiction.
The Construction of Defensive Towers
Coastal insecurity due to Berber pirate raids led to the construction of defensive towers in the 16th century, such as Torre de Guadalmansa and Torre Vaqueros. These structures protected the regions rich agricultural estates and farmhouses, which belonged to influential families from Marbella and Casares.
Independence from Marbella and Agricultural Boom:
In 1729, Estepona gained independence from Marbella by obtaining the Carta de Villazgo, a historic document preserved in the Municipal Historical Archive. By the late 19th century, Estepona thrived on abundant sardine and anchovy fishing and the development of the forestry industry in Sierra Bermeja. The foundation of the Agricultural Colony of San Pedro Alcantara marked the beginning of agricultural exploitation in the fertile valleys of the Guadalmansa and Guadalmina rivers.
The Prehistoric Origins of the Town
Nestled on the Costa del Sol, Estepona is a historical gem that has evolved from ancient times into a vibrant and charming tourist destination. Remnants of its rich history can be found throughout the town, starting with the ancient megalithic tombs of Corominas, discovered between the Vaquero and Enmedio streams. These findings, dating back to the Late Bronze Age, take us to a time when life revolved around flint tools and ceramics, testifying to a civilization that flourished in these lands.
Salduba, Estepona
The history of Estepona continues with Salduba, an Iberian oppidum that had a natural port on the Guadalmansa River. This settlement thrived under Phoenician and Roman influences, and its remains still speak of a Roman villa with industrial and defensive functions. Roman coins, such as a gold aureus of Honorius from the 5th century, discovered at the Cortijo de Cortes, reflect the splendor of that era.