Natural beauty spots near Marbella
The Costa del Sol has become so popular not just because of its sunny climate, but also thanks to its beautiful coastline and natural setting. Much of the focus has always been on the region’s beaches, Mediterranean views and the activity in the coastal areas, but for those who visit and live in and around Marbella, there are also many natural beauty spots right on their doorstep that are well worth exploring. Here is a selection of some of our favourites:
Lakes
There are many lakes and reservoirs in the area that offer beautiful, peaceful spots along which to go for walks, have a lakeside picnic or just relax and enjoy nature. Some allow swimming, water sports, fishing and boating, but in all cases they are beauty spots very close to home, often complete with stunning mountain and sea views. Among the best-known are the large Istán reservoir and the pretty little Turtle Lake close to the heart of Nueva Andalucía.
Mountain ranges
The mountain ranges of the area form a curtain of sierras some kilometres from the coast that help to shelter the Costa del Sol from harsher winds and create the wonderful local micro-climate. They include the Sierra Bermeja, Sierra Blanca and also the nature reserve of the Sierra de la Nieves, but among the most popular mountain ranges in which to hike, mountain bike and climb is the Sierra Blanca, home to both the La Concha Mountain that towers over Marbella – and affords climbers awe-inspiring views – and the Refugio de Juanar natural park that’s popular for walks in nature, hiking and park area barbecues.
Natural rock pools
The countryside close to Marbella offers some lovely natural rock pools where you can swim, canyon and relax in a very different setting to the more usual beach life. Among the best are the Benahavis gorge, some six kilometres inland from the coastal road near San Pedro Alcántara, and the rock pools of El Padrón, a rustic area close to Estepona.
Hiking, biking and horse riding trails
The hills surrounding Marbella, Benahavis, Istán, Estepona and Ojén provide a wonderful area for country walks, mountain biking and horse riding along trails that take you past farmland areas, through shepherd pastures, rocky ascents, wooded groves and beautiful green valleys. You’ll spot eagles and other birds overhead, as well as grazing goats and the occasional rabbit, squirrel or even deer. There really is a lot of nature close by, so be sure to enjoy it with an outdoor experience.
