Mijas
The mountain village of Mijas combines harmoniously with the major tourist zone of Mijas Costa, which incorporates the villages and urbanizations of La Cala de Mijas, Riviera, Miraflores and Calahonda, incorporating 12 kilometres of golden sandy beaches.
The pueblo itself, is nestled into the mountain landscape, the whitewashed streets of the historic old quarter, have a distinctly Moorish style. There are many buildings and monuments of historical interest, including the local churches and hermitages.
History
The surrounding mountainous environment has well preserved some archaeological sites, testimony to the town’s rich prehistoric past.
The pueblo itself is typically Andalusian, steeped in culture and full of charming alleys and nooks, where you will feel like you have been taken back in time.
The bullring, with its unusual quadrangular exterior, the sanctuary of the Virgen de la Peña (17th century) and the church of la Concepción (16th century) are some of the principal monuments of the village.
Around town
The old quarter sits into the mountainside like a huge overhanging balcony overlooking the Mediterranean. A tour through the lively streets of Mijas reveal a typically Andalusian town, which has become ever popular with visitors to the Costa del Sol; the town is also populated with many foreigners who come to live here to combine an Andalusian way of life with the pleasure of the coast. The Mijas Town Hall has a Foreigners Department are caters fantastically for both foreign residents and tourists.
There are a host of craft shops and galleries selling affordable works from local artists, perfect and unique souvenirs.
It is also worthwhile visiting the Auditorium and taking a quiet stroll along the wall and around the gardens and balconies, which provide exceptional views of the Costa del Sol. There are also the charming donkey-taxis, which offer trips around the centre and the outskirts of the village.
Mijas Costa
Mijas town, Las Lagunas, La Cala de Mijas, Riviera del Sol, Miraflores and Calahonda, all come within the Municipality of Mijas, and all attractive tourist destinations on the Costa del Sol.
Holidaymakers can combine all the facilities, beaches and attractions of these seaside towns with trips up to see the original Mijas Pueblo and all the cultural attractions and traditions that it has to offer.
Places to visit
Mijas provides easy access to all major tourist attractions and towns on the Costa del Sol, including the cultural capital city of Malaga, the tourist towns of Torremolinos, Benalmádena and Fuengirola and the upmarket resorts of Marbella and Puerto Banus.
Within easy reach are the Inland towns and villages of Alhaurín el Grande, Alhaurin de la Torre and Coín.
Golf
Mijas is a golfers paradise, as is much of the Costa del Sol. It offers some of the best courses and is a highly recommended destination for keen golfers: Mijas Golf Internatioal, Miraflores, Golf, La Cala Resort Golf, La Siesta Golf, La Noria and Santana Golf & Country Club are all situated within the Mijas Municipality. Miraflores is also home to a bowls club.
Beaches
The all-year round excellent Mediterranean climate provides Mijas with the perfect environment for both summer and winter sun beach holidays. The municipality boasts 12 kilometres of golden sandy beaches with the best facilities, excellent beach-side dining options and heaps of activities from water sports, to beachside gym equipment, to children’s attractions and beach yoga.
The excellent beach at La Cala de Mijas has been awarded a blue flag for cleanliness, beware it can get quite windy at times. The beaches of El Faro de Calaburras, El Charcon and Calahonda beach are all excellent options. Straight down from Mijas Pueblo itself, you will arrive at Fuengirola and the town’s beaches, which offer excellent facilities, clean sands and calm waters.
Natural Surroundings
Hiking lovers can enjoy numerous rural paths which run inland through pine groves and around peaks. The tracks which lead to the hermitage of the Way of the Cross (19th century) or the old marble quarry are just some of the enticing options which await the visitor.
Cuisine
Mijas has its own regional cuisine style, with well-known and delicious dishes such as garlic soup, Ccachorreñas (potatoes, cod and "cachorreña" orange juice), Maimones (bread, garlic and oil) and its own version of tomato soup. You also must try the famous Gazpachuelo, a soup of potatoes, bread and mayonnaise.
Festival
The Mijas Feria is an event that many neighbouring towns and villages attend. Each year between 7 and 12 September, the village is lavishly decked out to celebrate its annual feria. The whole village, both Spanish and residents alike, participate in the festivities in honour of the town’s patron, the Virgen de la Peña. The festivals of Las Lagunas and La Cala (25 July) are also well attended and lots of fun!
Climate
Mijas like the rest of its counterparts on the Costa del Sol enjoys a sub-tropical Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and warm winters. Cooling breezes from the sea make the summer heat manageable, temperatures are an average of 32 ºC in summer.