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Nestled in the foothills of the mountain range, Mijas is a typical Andalucian village, perched high above Fuengirola . The town has spectacular views of the coast and surrounding lush and woody mountains and enjoys a uniquely mild microclimate. Such ideal characteristics have driven the pueblo to become one that is wholly devoted to tourism. With its outstanding infrastructure, Mijas is now surrounded by over 100 urban establishments, golf clubs, hotels, an exciting water park, and other facilities.
The municipality of Mijas covers an impressive 148 sq kilometers and includes two major urbanizations, Calahonda and Riviera del Sol . The former is known as the English village in Spain and the place to go to for karaoke, secondhand and thrift shops, British doctors and dentists, Indian restaurants, imported foods. Naturally enough, one will never run out of choices here when it comes to pubs and bars. Meanwhile, the nearby Riviera del Sol is similarly inviting and popular among foreigners, particularly the large commercial center that has a bar, telephone booths and grocery store combined. There s also a well equipped sports center that also features an 18-hole golf course and tennis club.
One of the most interesting structures in Mijas is the hermitage of El Puerto which can be seen just about everywhere in the village, and suitably enough, halfway up a mountain. Also look out for the mineral water spring found at the entrance to the village.
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As you make your way up the winding road that narrows as you enter towards the village, you get a glimpse of the quaint, white-washed houses - nestled on the hilltop and arranged in rows on various levels. Mijas, in spite of its popularity with the tourists, has managed to preserve its distinct Spanish style and appeal. The town council has fully utilized the village's charm and attractiveness by actively developing Mijas’ tourism. Thousands of tourists flock the village in the summer and it is ensured that their needs and cravings are addressed. All over the village are panoramic viewpoints and resting spots, one of the finest being the Muralla Gardens, where flowers are in bloom all year round. Another place to sit and relax in is the Plaza de la Virgen de la Pena, with a bandstand in its center.
Within Mijas are so many picturesque streets that the tourist simply must see, and it would be fair to say that missing out on them is a true shame. Tiny shops line most of these lovely lanes, many of them offering interesting local wares such as leatherworks, jewelry, ceramics, paintings and other crafts. One of the ideal ways to appreciate the village is by means of the local taxi service. It’s not your typical yellow colored, engine driven ride. It’s a quaint, typical Spanish donkey that’s sure to capture your heart because of its old-world uniqueness, as it takes you around the village. For 6€ you can enjoy this donkey service, and journey around the streets, or indulge in luxury and spend 12€ for a small cart pulled by a donkey. Horse and carriages are available during the summer months and can be found in Plaza de Pina.
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The village is divided into a number of levels, each being linked by narrow roads and lovely pathways. Marked by a white statue of a hand and a dove, Plaza de la Paz or Peace Square is not called such for nothing. Sit in one of the street bars and soak up the relaxing atmosphere - you’re sure to feel nothing but peace. La Plaza de la Constitucion meanwhile is in the heart of the village. In the center of the square is a wonderful water fountain carved by Galiano, from which the birds gather to drink. The square is surrounded by interesting cafés and shops. Also located here is the Farmacia.
You are offered many opportunities to witness the history of this small, interesting town. One example is the Santuario de la Virgen de la Pena, a tribute to the patron saint of Mijas carved out of pure rock. The shrine dates back to 1586 when an image of the Virgin Mary miraculously manifested there. Soon after, an image of the Virgin was discovered, hidden for 500 years in a recess in the tower.
Mijas is located on a hilltop, thus blessing the village with spectacular scenery all around. To enjoy only the best, go to the church on the hill or from the park at the pinnacle of the village. If arriving by coach, the coach park is in the center of the village and you will have to go up the steps to the main town and main square. The square is abound with fascinating tourist shops, several restaurants of good quality and a couple of museums. The folk museum shows the history of the village and trades of years past. There is a one of a kind miniature museum established in 1972 by a well known hypnotist. Located in a caravan, the museum displays items from 50 nations. The Town Hall is also an remarkable building that dates back 1987. It also houses the tourist information office. The Town Hall is open from Monday to Friday, 9am - 3pm.
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Mijas village is the perfect combination of serenity, tradition and culture, while Mijas Costa equals that magic blend of endless sun, soft sand and exciting water sports. The beaches at La Cala have been awarded the "Blue Flag" as among the best in the province. These resorts are certainly geared to provide action with the availability of jet skis, water skiing, paragliding and other sea sports and activities. While in the vicinity, be sure not to miss the chiringuito charm here as well. Sample a variety of Spanish seafood eaten with the favorite holiday drink, tinto verano : ordinary red wine topped with casera (lemonade).
Beginning in the sixties when this village was first discovered, nearly 60 nationalities have made the town their home. The effect can be seen and appreciated through the international cuisines, cosmopolitan clubs and organizations and, in general, the influence of foreign culture and various arts.
Fortunately, however, the village has still managed to preserve some of its quaint customs, one of the most unusual being the donkey-taxis which are found in the central plaza. The village actually dates back to long ago, and there are two Mudejar churches here to prove it, as well as the sanctuary of the patron saint of Mijas that goes back from the year 850.
During the month of January, Mijas celebrates the festival of San Anton which is observed with an open air party called romeria, at the holy hermitage and reached in carriages and on carts piled high with food and flowers.
There is a thriving arts and crafts movement in Mijas , particularly linen and wicker items and the locally made bread and honey is definitely worth trying Still on a culinary note, the traditional local fare includes gazpachuelo (an egg soup) and for those with a sweeter tooth, there are the typical cakes made with almonds, called bunuelos and homazos.
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