Estepona overview
A truly unique small town on the western Costa del Sol, Estepona enjoys the classic Mediterranean climate – moderate summers and warm winters – along with a historical and cultural background that places it in the forefront of the tourism industry along this part of the coastline. Although it has many popular attractions and is gaining a growing popularity, it is still relatively unspoiled, and thus remains an inexpensive place to visit and live.
Originating as a small fishing village, Estepona is one of a mere handful of towns on the coast that have retained its Spanish charm and character in the overwhelming influx of tourism.
As you would expect, Spanish is widely spoken and English has not yet taken over as the language of choice. If you plan to move to Estepona you would definitely benefit from speaking some Spanish and there are many local language schools if you haven't yet started to learn. From a business point of view, learning Spanish is a huge advantage and there are always informal opportunities to practise what you have learned. If you need more urgent assistance in communicating from one language to another, you may find it useful to enlist the services of a translation company and know your agencia traducción (Spanish) from your agence traduction (French).
With narrow cobbled streets and a ritual morning fish auction that occurs when the fishing fleets return to sell their catch from the night before, there are few places you can go that feel so authentically Spanish. Unusual shops and markets line the streets, and cafes and restaurants abound, offering everything from traditional local fare to international cuisine and fine dining.
All told, although maintaining the characteristic accents and feel of a costal Spanish town, Estepona has that feeling of coming from a different time period, with friendly locals, exciting nightlife, and tons of attractions to draw many interesting visitors year round.
Location of the Estepona on the Costa del Sol
Situated on the coast of south eastern Spain, Estepona lies simultaneously on the coast and in the foothills of the mountains of southern Spain. It lies about 40 minutes away from the Malaga airport, Estepona is located near the recently built and well maintained A7 motorway. This proximity to the motorway allows easy access to other nearby coastal towns, including San Pedro, Marbella, and Gibraltar.
There is a good infrastructure around Estepona and it is convenient to reach most major tourist attractions and destinations from Malaga all the way down to the eastern end of the Costa del Sol. Good roads in Spain mean it is easy enough to reach the airport as well as areas such as Antequera, just north of Malaga where you will find El Chorro lakes, Spain's take on the Lake District. Comprising 3 massive lakes, the area is in complete contrast to that of the beaches of the coastline and offer a surprising complement to the area. If you enjoy holidaying in Lake District cottages but also enjoy the Spanish lifestyle and culture then Estepona is perfectly located for you to enjoy a bit of both.
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