Fuengirola

Lively, popular and always buzzing - the resort of Fuengirola has come a long way from its days as a simple Spanish fishing village. Today it's a fascinating mix of local Spanish residents and international visitors, many of whom have made their permanent home in the urbanisation housing complexes that stretch up into the hills. Lying to the east of Marbella it is a bustling little town during the height of the tourist season. The town is full of bars and nightclubs, offering something for most tastes.

The castle has become the towns symbol; situated outside the town on a hill it commands an impressive view over Fuengirola and the sea. Although the castle may be the town's symbol it is probably better known for its beaches.

Fuengirola's amazing beach is overlooked by one of the longest promenades in the Mediterranean and takes just a little over two hours to walk from one end to the other. From the walkways gently swaying palm trees it's only a short stroll to one of the resort's oldest areas, the Santa Fe quarter where fishermen once worked and lived. Today this is an attractive alternative to Fuengirola's modern face, a maze of white washed buildings and narrow streets, where the restaurants are some of the best in town. Try some of those surrounding the Plaza de la Constitucion or the Calle Moncayo and soak in the atmosphere.

There's literally tons of watery fun on offer at the spectacular Parque Aquatico Mijas waterpark - easy to reach from Fuengirola bus station via a 10-minute shuttle bus service. Open daily from May-September.

Parklandia at Puerto Deportivo, Paseo Maritimo means you can stay on dry land while the kids take their pick from countless swings, slides, frames. There's even a bouncy castle and mini-karting. There are excellent views from Fuengirola's castle, perched high on a hill to the west side of town.

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