Alhaurin el Grande lies inland from Fuengirola and Mijas in southern Spain. It is a beautiful town surrounded by mountains and is only thirty kilometres from Malaga. The town has had a long and turbulent history having had a variety of invaders throughout the ages, as well as plagues and earthquakes. Alhaurin el Grande is situated at the head of a fertile valley overflowing with citrus groves, orchards and vegetable fields. It benefits from a short transfer time from Malaga airport and is within easy reach of the coastal resort of Marbella.
An Alhaurin el Grande holiday offers a relaxing break in very picturesque surroundings. It lies away from the bustle of the popular coastal resorts, yet is close enough for those who would like a day by the seaside. Recreational activities include golf, rambling and hill walking, horse riding and clay pigeon shooting. Alhaurin el Grande has many sightseeing opportunities as it has interesting ruins from various periods of history. The town is also close enough to the coast to enjoy the beaches with their golden sands, warm water and provision of water sports.
An Alhaurin el Grande holiday appeals to a variety of ages and interests with the exception of young singles looking for lively evenings, and families with small children who usually prefer to be closer to the sandy beaches of the Costa del Sol. Golfers have a choice of two excellent courses; ramblers can enjoy many beautiful walking trails; those with an interest in the past can explore the many historic sites littering the area.
Although Alhaurin el Grande is a year round holiday venue, the summer holiday period is probably the most popular time to go, with guaranteed sunshine and warm seas. However, it is also a good place to escape from the damp British winter and enjoy a round or two of golf.
An Alhaurin el Grande holiday is perfect for those wishing for a peaceful retreat in an area of great natural beauty. Sitting at the foot of the Sierra de Mijas, it looks out onto the fertile Guadalhorce Valley laden with olive and citrus groves, orchards and vineyards. The town has had a long history, evidence of which is seen in the ancient sites scattered around the town and the surrounding hills.
Andalucía, in southern Spain is a beautiful area with many charming inland villages and Alhaurin el Grande is one of the jewels in its crown. The narrow cobbled streets are lined with white washed houses which open onto peaceful squares. Notable buildings include the Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation which dates from the sixteenth century, the seventeenth century chapels of St Sebastian and Vera Cruz, the remains of fort from the time of the Moors, the Ubrique watchtower as well as numerous Roman ruins.
Alhaurin el Grande has excellent accommodation with many villas with pools. Its restaurants provide wonderful traditional country fare and there are shops for essentials as well as gifts and souvenirs.
Golfers will be delighted by the Alhaurin Golf and Country Club which has a superb course and is very close to the village. There are three other golf courses in the vicinity.
Alhaurin el Grande is an ideal base for walkers with many mountain and woodland trails offering stunning views.
Alhaurin el Grande offers a tranquil holiday in idyllic surroundings where you can relax in the sunshine and enjoy the friendly hospitality of the local people.
Alhaurin el Grande nightlife is very low key with evenings spent wandering the charming streets and alleyways and enjoying local hospitality in the company of friends. There are some excellent restaurants serving mainly traditional food.
Alhaurin el Grande shopping is very different from the usual tourist shops found in coastal resorts. Some shoppers may find this too limiting but Marbella with its Golden Mile, filled with boutiques and specialist shops is only a short ride away. Popular buys include traditional handmade items such as hand carved kitchen utensils, pottery and leather goods.
Alhaurin el Grande has some fine restaurants serving mainly traditional Spanish cuisine. Menus include traditional local dishes such as paella, tortillas, tapas and chorizo, as well as a choice of international cuisine. A good way to try Spanish food is to order a plate of tapas which consists of a medley of bite-sized dishes. Tapas are also ideal for filling the sometimes long gap between lunch and dinner, which is served later in Spain than at home. Spanish wines are pleasant and inexpensive.
