The thoroughly updated fifth edition of M�laga and Costa del Sol celebrates a popular Spanish region that offers a compelling combination of rich cultural heritage and some of Europe's most dependable sunshine (300 days a year!), making it a year-round destination. Stretching along the Mediterranean coast of Andaluc�a, this diverse region is renowned for its beachfront towns, Moorish palaces, whitewashed mountain villages (pueblos blancos), gastronomy and dramatic inland sierras. Few European regions offer such a seamless blend of sun, cultural authenticity, comfort and character. Once considered merely a gateway, M�laga city - to which ever more US airlines are flying directly - has emerged as a destination in its own right, home to world-class modern art museums (including the Picasso Museum, dedicated to the city's most famous son), the Centre Pompidou M�laga, the beautiful Moorish Alcazaba, a revitalised port and surprisingly good urban beaches. Beyond M�laga, the coast ranges from the glitz of Marbella to the relaxed charm of Nerja, where secluded coves are frequented by knowing sun-worshippers who mark sunset by eating espetos - sardines skewered and roasted over open fires in fishing boats buried in sand. Inland there is easy access to nature. In mountainous La Axarqu�a, you'll find olive groves, traditional villages and scenic hiking trails such as the Caminito del Rey, a once-deadly gorge-side path near Ardales that is now one of Spain's most thrilling hikes, offering jaw-dropping canyon views. The hinterland also grants entry to Andaluc�a's fascinating past via historic towns such Antequera (which has UNESCO-listed prehistoric dolmens - burial sites older than Egypt's pyramids) and Ronda (perched above El Tajo gorge, with its iconic Puente Nuevo bridge and dramatic clifftop views). New elements of this edition include expanded content on central M�laga, new attractions such as a Moorish-style hammam and the Video Games Museum, a section on the redeveloped port area and coverage of the city's beaches. Whether you're flying into M�laga for a cultural city break, road-tripping along the coast or hiking in the hills, Bradt's compact M�laga and Costa del Sol guidebook is packed with the detailed information and practical tips needed for a rewarding holiday.
James Taylor (jamestaylortravelwriter.com) is a freelance travel writer from Canberra, Australia, with almost a decade of experience working as a travel journalist. Now based in northern Spain, he contributes guidebook content and travel features to publishers and publications including Bradt Guides (for whom he has updated four guidebooks), DK Eyewitness, Viator, National Geographic Traveller and EasyJet Traveller. Blending thoughtful research with engaging storytelling, his writing prioritises local insight, venues with an interesting tale, and meaningful experience over box-ticking tourism. His interests - particularly focused on culture and adventure - have taken him to unexpected places: he has unravelled the complex secrets of olive oil in Spain, while in Iceland he trekked across glaciers to reach remote ice caves. Indulging a particular passion for the Iberian Peninsula, Taylor has spent nearly seven years exploring Spain, drawn to the different cities as well as the stunning landscapes found all over.
