Marbella

Marbella is a stylish, cosmopolitan resort that has long attracted the rich and famous, alongside thousands of ordinary holidaymakers seduced by its beautiful landscaping and unspoilt hidden corners. Along with the long sandy beach its main focus is the Old Town (the Casco Antiguo) where the bougainvillaea floods the whitewashed buildings in dazzling colour. Check out the Plaza de Los Naranjos for some Old Marbella atmosphere - home to the 16th century town hall and a handy tourist information office, not to mention bars and bistros. Avda Ricardo de Soviano, with its designer boutiques meanwhile, is the epicentre of modern Marbella.

One of the prettiest places is the fabled 'Orange Square', which is located just off the main street in the older district and also home to the 16th century town hall, and tourist office where you can pick up a detailed map and any additional information.

The plaza is lined with stately buildings, small shops, art galleries, bars and bistros and is a hub of activity day and night. Depending on the time of year, of course, the colours here are truly dramatic and vibrant with the trees and exotic tropical plants set against a backdrop of dazzling white buildings and a deep blue sky.

You can take your pick from more than 26km of clean, well maintained beaches as well as water sports such as jet-skiing in Marbella and sailing at Puerto Banus. For an action-packed time, visit Funny Beach - there's as much going on out of the water as on it here, including jet-skis, water-slides, go-carting, paintball shooting and giant Scalextric. Just off Marbella's promenade is a large family beach with lots of activities. Playa del Duque near Puerto Banus offers a quieter beachside experience.

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