Guadalmina Info on the Costa del Sol in Spain

Guadalmina Info

Guadalmina is in an excellent situation, just 10 kilometres west of all the lights and glamour of Marbella, yet only a few minutes drive from the natural beauty of the Sierra de Ronda mountain range and 20 km from the town of Estepona. Guadalmina used to be an ancient farming community, once famous for sugar cane, today it is a refreshingly unspoilt pueblo town with an appeal all of its own.

Be sure to visit the central plaza nearby in San Pedro with its gracious parish churches and narrow whitewashed streets, which are packed with small shops, sidewalk cafes and bars. Thursday is the day of the street market, with all the bargain, hustle and bustle, a veritable shopper's paradise.

The name of San Pedro, next to Guadalmina, has two sources. It was founded by Manuel Gitiennez de la Concha who, in the 19th century, founded an agricultural colony where the town today stands. His family was devoted to Extremadura's Saint Pedro, and Manuel's mother, Petra de Alcántara, who provided the second part of the name.

The land was drained and made suitable for intense farming, with over 10,000 hectares cultivated. A village centre was constructed for the population, such as Guadalmina and Cancelada, which was used as dormitory towns for the agricultural labourers.

The town retained its farming origins until the the early 1920s, when the land was divided and sold. Tourism began in the early seventies, after Franco's death, which notably increased Spain's popularity. Until then the town remained fairly rustic in style, but transit systems and telephone lines were quickly installed, forcing San Pedro and Guadalmina into the age of technology!

San Pedro and Guadalmina also has the last summer fair in Andalucia, which takes place in the second week in October. The Church Square is the place where everyone seems to meet and the place is alive with history. Sit amongst the locals, who will make you feel very welcome, and then maybe explore the narrow streets which surround you. Packed with intrigue and all very unique, you won´t be able to resist the restaurants and shops here. Why not have a coffee, cafe con leche, at one of the many cafes or bars. If you really want to pick up a bargain, visit the Thursday Market.

History buffs will enjoy the Paleochritian Balisilica Church by the sea and the third century Roman Baths, Las Bovedas.

The Paleochritian Balisilica Church and Necropolis is located in the woods next to the Bora Bora Beach Club which is on the sea front directly infront of the town. A little further west along the beach to Guadalmina is are the restored remains of the Roman Baths. If you are driving, leave San Pedro and travel westward towards Estepona. Stop at the tourist office in the Arch for the keys. After passing under the Marbella Arch, turn right and double back under the road tunnel.

A pleasant walk is from the centre of town to the beachfront along the Avenida del Marques del Duero which is an attractive wide avenue, flanked by palm trees. And the modern wide promenade which is ideal for continuing your stroll, or skateboarding, with several excellent chiringuito beachside restaurants, that specialise in fish dishes. Visit Bora Bora if only for a drink at the bar. It is one of the best beach clubs on the coast, with a superb restaurant and all the usual beach facilities. A tropical paradise.

The lifestyle here is that of a very traditional Spanish Pueblo, in which you can escape and become part of a unique culture. Don´t let it pass you by in Guadalmina!