For many, the Costa del Sol is synonymous with sun-drenched beaches and bustling resorts. But to truly understand this region, you need to venture inland. The real magic, the authentic soul of southern Spain, is found in the enchanting pueblos Costa del Sol. These are the whitewashed villages clinging to mountainsides and watching over the Mediterranean. This is your sign to forget the well-trodden paths for a moment. We’re going to explore the heart of the province, revealing the towns on the Costa del Sol that deserve a spot on your itinerary.
Most beautiful towns on the Costa del Sol
Mijas Pueblo
Perched on a mountainside some 430 metres above sea level, Mijas Pueblo is the picture-postcard white village you’ve been dreaming of. Its labyrinthine, flower-adorned streets are impeccably maintained. While visitors crowd the main square, take a moment to wander quieter backstreets like Calle Lasta, Calle Cantera and Callejón de los Gitanos. This is where the true charm reveals itself.
For the best views, skip the crowded viewpoints and head to the gardens of the Virgen de la Peña chapel, carved directly into the rock by a devoted monk. The air is noticeably cooler here, a welcome respite in the summer months.
Local tip: Avoid the “Burro-Taxis” (donkey taxis) in Mijas Pueblo. Instead, opt for a truly heart-warming experience and visit Donkey Dreamland in nearby La Cala de Mijas. It’s a rescue sanctuary for mistreated donkeys, many of whom have been given a second chance at life.
Frigiliana
Often cited as one of the prettiest villages in all of Spain, Frigiliana, in the Axarquía region, is more than just a pretty face. Its historic Moorish quarter, the Barribarto, is a maze of steep, cobbled streets lined with white houses bursting with colorful geraniums. The architectural details are a direct legacy of its Morisco past. What sets it apart is its atmosphere; it feels both pristine and genuinely lived-in. Make sure to try the local miel de caña (sugarcane honey) produced in the village, a unique product you won’t find elsewhere. What’s more, even though you’re in the mountains, the closest Frigiliana beach is only a 15-minute drive away.
Casares
If you’re looking for a dramatic entrance, Casares delivers. Approaching from the coast, you’ll see it from miles away: a stunning cascade of white cubist houses tumbling down a rugged mountainside, crowned by the ruins of a medieval castle. This is one of the definitive beautiful towns in Malaga. The climb up to the castle is steep but the panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and to the Rock of Gibraltar are unparalleled. Casares is also the birthplace of Blas Infante, the father of Andalusian nationalism, adding a layer of historical significance to its striking beauty.
Charming places in the province of Málaga
Ronda
No list of towns in Malaga is complete without Ronda. Its world-famous Puente Nuevo, bridging the 100-metre-deep El Tajo gorge, is an engineering marvel. But there’s more to Ronda than the bridge. Explore the Mondragón Palace with its beautiful gardens, visit one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, and walk the city walls for breathtaking vistas. The journey to Ronda itself is part of the experience, winding through landscapes of rolling hills and pueblos blancos.
Setenil de las Bodegas
While many towns are on hills, Setenil is in one. This is perhaps the most unusual of the towns on the Costa del Sol. Its houses are built directly into the overhanging shelves of a river gorge, creating streets that are effectively caves. The main thoroughfares, like Calle Cuevas del Sol (Caves of the Sun Street), are a remarkable sight. The town is famous for its bars and restaurants situated in these natural rock caves, offering a uniquely cool dining experience even on the hottest days.
Gaucín
For those seeking a quieter, more authentic charm, Gaucín is a gem. Located 35 kilometres inland, it offers staggering views from its position under the ruins of the Castillo del Águila (Eagle’s Castle). The air is fresh and scented with pine and rosemary. It’s a place for walking, painting, and simply soaking in the atmosphere. The narrow streets are a delight to explore without the crowds, revealing hidden plazas and traditional forge fronts.
What to see and do in these towns
Your exploration should go beyond a simple stroll. Here are our top recommendations for each of the pueblos Costa del Sol:
In Mijas Pueblo, visit the quirky Carromato de Mijas, a museum of miniatures, and the nearby Contemporary Art Centre.
In Frigiliana, dedicate time to simply getting lost in the Barribarto; follow the ceramic tile story trail that recounts the village’s history.
In Casares, the hike up to the castle ruins is essential, and afterwards, sample local game dishes at a venta in the valley below.
In Ronda, pre-book a guided tour to understand the full history of the Puente Nuevo and the old town. Wine enthusiasts should visit one of the wineries in the surrounding Serranía de Ronda.
In Setenil, your main activity is to walk the two main cave streets and then stop for tapas – the local chorizo al infierno (chorizo cooked in wine) is a must-try.
In Gaucín, the walk up to the castle is rewarding, and the town is a known hub for artists, so keep an eye out for small galleries.
Recommended excursions from Malaga city
Malaga city is the perfect hub for exploring these inland treasures. A trip west to Mijas Pueblo and a stop at Donkey Dreamland makes for a perfect, manageable half-day trip. For a full day, a combined tour of Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas is highly recommended, though driving the mountain roads requires confidence.
For a deeper dive into the Axarquía region to the east, pair a visit to Frigiliana with a trip to the coastal town of Nerja to see its famous Balcony of Europe. Another excellent full-day excursion is the route of the White Towns (Pueblos Blancos), heading north from the coast to explore villages like Gaucín, Casares, and Jimera de Líbar. For a multi-day trip, consider basing yourself in Ronda to explore the surrounding natural parks and prehistoric cave paintings at Cueva de la Pileta.
Come and explore the pueblos Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol’s coastline is fantastic, but its soul is undeniably rooted in the hills and valleys of its interior. Exploring the diverse pueblos Costa del Sol offers a richer, more profound understanding of Andalusian culture, history, and landscape. From the iconic beauty of Ronda to the unique architecture of Setenil, these towns in Malaga promise memories that last long after the tan has faded.
Ready to discover them for yourself? At Home offers a curated selection of private villas and holiday apartments, providing the perfect, comfortable base for your exploration of these incredible beautiful towns in Malaga.
Find your ideal At Home accommodation and start planning your authentic Costa del Sol adventure today.
