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Torremolinos
is probably one of the best-known holiday resorts in Spain.
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 its 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 travelers.
Packed with tantalizing 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 colorful 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 its family fun you want,
Torremolinos is hard to beat with seasonal sea sports including
windsurfing, paragliding, water skiing and pedal boats.
If this sounds all just too energetic however, then of course
there is the sun lounger 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. La Carihuela and Bajondillo beaches hold European blue flags.
Their promenades are now linked together to make a pleasant
walk around the headland.
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