Mijas · Spain

Population - 42,283
Distance from Malaga airport: 15 Miles (24KM)

Mijas Tourist Office (www.mijas.es)

One of the jewels of the Costa del Sol is the beautiful little village of Mijas, which nestles comfortably in the mountainside at 428 meters above sea level; it is a superb choice for either holiday or full time living.

Often grouped with the more famous White Towns (Villa Blanca) further north the once tranquil hill town of Mijas, a winding eight-kilometre climb into the hills above Fuengirola from where it is served by frequent buses, is sited a little too close to the Costa del Sol for its own good, making it an obvious target for bus tours in search of the "typical" Andalucian village. However, despite a host of tacky gift shops and the numbered burro (Donkey) taxis that transport visitors around the main square, the village retains some of its original character, and there are fine views towards the coast. The ancient Plaza de Toros which claims - wrongly - to be Andalucia's only rectangular bullring and is worth a visit and if you feel inclined there are bullfights on Sundays.

Above the square, Carromato de Max a museum of the world's tiniest thinga, including a copy of the Last Supper painted on a grain of rice and some fully clothed fleas! The town also boasts thriving arts and crafts scene, which offers a better class of souvenir than those you can find on the coast.

The village is split into several levels that are connected by narrow roads and wonderful walkways. Plaza de la Paz (Peace Square) keeps up to its name as you sit in one of the street bars and soak up the atmosphere. This plaza is marked by a white statue of a hand and a dove. La Plaza de la Constitucion is in the heart of the village and in the centre of the square is a beautiful fountain from which the birds drink. This fountain was carved by Galiano. The square is surrounded by cafes and shops.

You are confronted with so many oportunities to see the history of this sweet, little village, such as the Santuario de la Virgen de la Pena, carved out of solid rock and a tribute to the patron saint of Mijas. The shrine dates back to 1586 when an image of the Virgin miraculously appeared there. Subsequently an image of the Virgin was found concealed in a recess in the tower where it had been hidden for 500 years.

Perched high on the hillside, above the village is the Shrine of the Calvario, built in 1710. It can be seen for miles, peacefuly watching over the village. From here wonderful panoramic views can be had. Access is gained by means of a winding path from the village. The interior of the shrine is only open on easter Friday but the views are worth the long walk at any time of year.

Where to eat & drink in Mijas

The village has plenty of places to eat and drink. For tapas try Bar González or Casa Pepe on Avenida Virgen de la Peña, actually the main square. More elaborate meals are on offer at the Basque restaurant El Mirlo Blanco, Plaza Constitución. Restaurante La Alcazaba - (www.rest-laalcazabademijas.com) on the same square has great views from its terrace, while restaurant El Castillo, Pasaje los Pescadores, with terrace, and El Padastro are also worth a try. Bar La Gamba is good for mariscos and paellas and its signature dish conejo (rabbit) sierra de Mijas. Finally, restaurant Alarcón near the church of Santa Ana in the Barrio Santana in the older part of the village, is an excellent value little place, worth seeking out for the superb traditional cooking and pleasant roof terrace with fine views.

Where to stay in Mijas

• Hostal La Posada
• Casa El Escudo Mijas - www.el-escudo.com
• Hotel Club Puerto del Sol Mijas - www.hotelclubpuertadelsol.com