ESTEPONA
Estepona is thought to have been a place of some importance before the Arabs came but its origins are something of a mystery. It's name is probably derived from the Moorish Astabbuna. It entered the twentieth century as a village of 9,000 farmers and fisherman and only in the 1970s did it start down the tourist route in ernest.
The town itself is on the beach and home to some of the best kept beaches along the Costa del Sol. La Rada is right in the centre and there is an impressive sea front promenade running for 2.6 kms. Beach bars are located regularly along its route and there are numerous restaurants and bars along its length. To "promenade " or "paseo" in the evening is a Spanish pastime in which you are encouraged to indulge!
El Padron is a little to the east of Estepona close to the Kempinski Hotel and you will find car parking and beach bars. El Cristo is to the west and is a pretty little bay with beach bars and parking and close to the Marina.
The town itself is probably my favourite with its many squares and paved areas. Stubbornly Spanish it remains which is part of its attraction. A warm welcome is extended to visitors and if you want something but don't know the Spanish for it, just draw it or point to it! In a very short time the whole shop and the other customers will be trying to help you buy it!
Shopping is very good but don't expect all the shops to be together. There is a large pedestrianised shopping area but do walk around as there are many shops in other streets and there is always a square to sit in and a coffee to keep you going. Market day is on a Wednesday and there is a lot of it so take your time!
Estepona Marina is to the west of the town and is a sort of mini Puerto Banus. The yachts moored are looking bigger and more expensive these days which is a sign that the rich and famous are starting to move a little further down the Coast. There is a wide range of eateries and a thriving Sunday Market. After dark the Marina takes on a different life when the night clubs and discos come to life and you can while away the hours until dawn.
The Marina is also a working fishing Port and you can watch the boats come and go and the catch being landed. The fish is not for sale but is bought by local suppliers and may well be on your table next time you dine out!
The future......
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LET'S TRY SPAIN LTD
19 Claremont Avenue, Camberley, Surrey. GU15 2DR
Tel / Fax / Answerphone: 01276 61208 - Tel / Fax / Answerphone: +34 95 2894067
