Fuengirola is one of the most popular destinations for beach holidays in Costa del Sol. There are over 8km of beaches and plenty of tourist facilities to make your stay an enjoyable one. Easily accessible from the airport and other major tourist centres along this coastline, Fuengirola enjoys an enviable position. What is more, with a number of historic and other attractions in the area, this is a holiday destination that will suit those who want more than just beach holidays in the Costa del Sol.
History
In the vicinity of modern Fuengirola there is evidence of settlement here right back to ancient times. Remains have been found dating from the times of the Phoenicians, Romans and Arabs. In the foothills of the mountains behind the town, the remains of the ancient settlement of Suel have been found. The name had changed to Suhayl by the Moorish era and the place had become a fairly large settlement. In the Mediaeval period, the town was set on fire and left in ruins. The name of the ruined settlement became Font-Girola – a name that can from a spring at the foot of the castle. The area was re-settled in the 17th Century and locals engaged primarily in fishing and agriculture for centuries until, in the 1960s, the area saw the abrupt rise in tourism and rapid development.
Attractions
The main attractions of Fuengirola, aside, of course, from the beaches, are the Arabic castle, Sohail Castle, which dates from the mid 10th Century and the historic harbour, still in use by local Spanish fishermen. Other attractions include the Plaza de Toros (bull ring), Bioparc Fuengirola, a zoo, some Roman ruins and a fascinating town museum with many artefacts from different periods of the region’s past. The Sohail Castle is the venue for many cultural activities and events during the summer months and Fuengirola enjoys a range of festivals throughout the year, meaning this could be a good options for holidays in Costa del Sol at any time of year.
Shopping
If you like to shop, you may be glad to know that Fuengirola is a shopper’s paradise. On and around the main square of Plaza de la Constitucion you will find a range of designer stores and boutiques and the city also has a wide range of international high street shops, both in the town centre and at the large Miramar Shopping Centre close to Sohail Castle that was opened in 2004, or at another out of town shopping centre. Looking for something a little more unique – be sure to check out the bargains at the Fuengirola street market – one of the largest markets of its kind in Spain.
Food and Drink
Of course, in a tourist town as well equipped as this one, it is easy to find a range of places to eat and drink, whatever sort of food you are in the mood for. You can find both traditional food, typical of holidays in Costa del Sol, or international fare, whatever you want. Then of course, there is a lively nightlife to enjoy.