Benalmadena is well known as highly urbanized municipality. It is appreciated by many for the wide range of entertainment, activities and services it offers for international tourists and residents. There is much to offer in terms of lifestyle, attractions, dining, water sports and beach activities. As a popular, lively and cosmopolitan metropolis it attracts thousands upon thousands of visitors every month of the year.
It may be one of the largest and well established resorts on the Costal del Sol, but what many do not realise is that there is a more peaceful side to this exciting and lively town. There are an abundance of natural areas and green zones surrounding the commercial and residential areas. There is a hidden side to Benalmadena, which isn’t hard to find, if you look closely enough.
If you are looking for a destination on the Costa del Sol, which offers the right balance of urban, cosmopolitan, natural and outdoors then Benalmadena fits the bill. If you are looking for an alternative to a day spent by the beach or pool, there is plenty to consider. If you are a family with dogs, there are some great outdoor trails for them to run free.
Get off the beaten track, and enjoy being at one with nature. Take in the incredible views that some of the local summits have to offer. Be active and get your pulse racing out in the open air. Enjoy a different side to Benalmadena.
Paloma Park
This is a fantastic urban park in the epicentre of Benalmadena Costa and Arroyo de la Miel. It boasts more than 200,000m2 of gardens and green spaces but is less than 300m from the coast. Walking around Paloma park feels as if you are a world away from the beaches and the coastal tourist trappings. Children and families in particular, will have a great time visiting.
Since its inaugaration in the 1990’s the park has become a favorite place for evening walks, weekend picnics and romantic strolls. It’s a great place to get away from it all and to seek some peace and quiet. Particularly on long summer evenings. It features a animal sanctuary and something of a petting zoo with rabbits, peacocks, emus and donkeys which the younger members of the family absolutely love. In addition there are children’s play areas, cafes and kiosks. There are several lakes with ducks, swans and turtles, as well as an ornamental Cactus Garden.
Its hard to believe that this green Oasis exists in the middle of a bustling resort, but we promise it will become a firm family favourite if you find yourself visiting or living in Benalmadena.
Calamorro Mountain
Calamorro Mountain provides a stunning backdrop to the bay and offers spectacular views of the town of Benalmádena. A range of outdoors activities are organised at the mountain. There is a network of 2,800 metres of footpaths and a viewpoint from which visitors can see all of Fuengirola, Torremolinos and Malaga and at times Gibraltar, the North Coast of Africa and the peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range. It is home to the Cueva del Toro cave, known for its archaeological remains and cave paintings. The recreational area also offers a range of leisure activities, with falconry displays, restaurants, viewpoints, a stargazing area, hiking trails and horse rides.
Calamorro Mountain can be accessed from the Benalmádena cable car, which runs from the Arroyo de la Miel hub to the summit of the mountain. Alternatively, for the more active, there are numerous walking trails meandering up to the summit.
Countryside Pursuits
Although better known as a sun and beach holiday destination, Benalmadena also offers many options out in the open countryside. Activities such as walking, hiking and cycling are especially enjoyable in the cooler quieter winter months. There is plenty to explore and enjoy in the surrounding natural parks. There is an impressive network of natural walking and cycling routes and trails from which you can experience unbelievable views of the Costa del Sol and beyond.
These routes are spread over the Municipality’s vast expanse which stretches into the hills and mountains behind Benalmadena Pueblo and Arroyo de la Miel. There are 6 recommended routes, which range in duration and difficulty.
The peak has a series of perfectly signed paths which take visitors to different viewing points that offer exclusive views of the Costa del Sol.
Route 1: Arroyo de los Muertos
Distance: 3.5km
Difficulty: Low
Route 2: Los Leñadores
Distance: 2.5km
Difficulty: Medium
Route 3: El Quejigal
Distance: 3km
Difficulty: Low
Route 4: Tajo de la Sabia
Distance: 3.5km
Difficulty: Medium
Route 5: Mina de la Trinidad
Distance: 6km
Difficulty: Medium
Route 6: Los Cazadores
Distance: 6km
Difficulty: Low
