Spain
Malaga, the Perfect Andalusia Vacation Destination
Article and photography by Michael Morcos
The locals know it, returning visitors love it, and so did I. Malaga is an Andalusian gem by the sea with lots to see, do and experience. So perfect is this magnificent city, that it felt like it was created by a Hollywood set designer. Imagine this to start: the location is on the beautiful Costa del Sol in Mediterranean with sandy beaches, near perfect weather including 300 sunny days per year, many centuries of interesting history. Fabulous architecture including a Roman theatre, an incredible Moorish fortress, world-class museums, a friendly and walk able pedestrian only city center, clean streets and lanes, historic churches and beautiful Cathedral, wonderful choices of restaurants and gastronomy, fashion boutiques, and its most famous resident was none other than Pablo Picasso.
NH Hotel Málaga
First impressions mean a lot and I knew by my short drive from the international airport through town to my hotel, I could see this was a beautiful city with little traffic, wonderful parks, and unique buildings. My stay would be at the NH Hotel Malaga, a Spanish hotel chain I had stayed with many times on many trips to Spain. The service was always friendly and courteous, their properties are well located, clean, and perfectly decorated to reflect the surroundings. My room was rather modern and spacious with a wonderful balcony that gave view to a courtyard. Behind the walls of a historic building across from my room I could hear enchanting Spanish music, listening in I figured it must have been a Flamingo dance school. I would taste mouth-watering local pastries, while being absorbed by the sounds of Spanish singers and shoe tapping. Just one great moment to start my fantastic Malaga visit.
The Mercado
Stepping out to discover Malaga, I would be surprised to find the Malaga Atarazanas Food Market was only two short blocks away from the hotel. The historic and fascinating building entrance was of Moorish style and the interior was iron beams and grids. When inside, the dominating smell was of freshly caught fish and its best to visit in the morning when the fisherman unload their catches. Beyond that was a fully stocked market of fruits, vegetables, olives, meats and wonderful delicacies to discover. This was just one dimension among many I was to visit.
The Malaga Port
What a wonderful job the city of Malaga has done to revitalize the port. It was artistic, modern and easily accessible in the center of town. All along the waterfront were parks, statues, restaurants, shops, and a dock that welcomed luxury cruise-liners, personal watercrafts and working ships of every size and dimension. To better discover the port and Malaga Bay, the beaches and outlying Shores, I would board a three level sightseeing boat. The cool ocean breeze and gentle rocking of the ship made us ever so comfortable and relaxed on this hot and sunny day. The Seagulls guided us all along the way and we enjoyed the magnificent scenery of the city, Costa del Sol beaches and suburbs while we would cross many other ships along the way.
A very Picasso day
Spain’s most famous artist is also Malaga’s most famous resident. Having been born and lived his early years here, you can find traces of this worldwide known artists everywhere. We would start our journey of discovery at the Picasso family house and find that he lived a good and privileged life in a rather richly decorated property in the center of the city. We followed by a visit to the Santiago church, where he was baptized and finish off at the fantastic Museum Picasso Malaga. This museum is very popular attraction, well laid out in a modern looking building and full of so many of his original artworks that it would need lots of time to fully take in. The Picasso collection here is only second to those found in Madrid and a real treat to have a chance to see such amazing and detailed mastery in person!
Centro Malaga
In my many decades of travel, I could not remember a city packing so much into such small area. The centre of Malaga is easily walkable through its pedestrian only streets and the attractions are just minutes away from each other. On a particularly packed day, I would take in the well-appointed Calle Marqués de Larios for some shopping then visit the remarkably beautiful Plaza de la Constitución and marvel at the buildings, statues, and fountains. Moving on, I walked to the Plaza del Obispo to visit the magnificent Catedral de la Encarnación de Málaga and appreciate its richly decorated interior and then was truly delighted at the centuries old Moorish castle of Alcazaba with its beautiful gardens and spectacular 360° view of the city and sea. I finished my day with the relaxing time at the Hammam Al Ándalus baths in a well-kept historic building that has original artwork throughout.
On another charged day, I would stroll by the city gardens and school district and visit the Malagueta Bullring, this beautiful arena is not frequently used, but during bull fighting season it is a highlight of the city and faithful fans pack the seats. A short distance away is the remarkable Centre Pompidou, with only two with such names, it is the little sister of the renown Parisian landmark. This museum was artistic and ultra-modern looking, the artwork inside was both beautiful, fascinating, intriguing and something to expand the mind. To end the day I would take a walk along the beautiful beach, enjoying the sun’s rays, cool sand under my feet and admired the upscale residential area set by the seashore.
Spanish gastronomy galore
Spanish cuisine is one of my favourites as it varies from region to region and is always delicious and nutritious. Malaga sure has its abundance of restaurants serving local speclities such as gazpacho, pescaíto frito, and espetos de sardinas as well as Spanish favourites, and even international cuisine. I would try many different eateries, all great and made unique by their location, decoration, themes, and wonderful dishes including: the Tercer Acto restaurant, Los Patios de Beatas, restaurant Kaleido, Doña Inés and La Sole del Pimpi, a place that I would find the most fascinating restaurant in El Pimpi. This extremely popular Malaga restaurant is partially owned by the other most famous Malagueños, Antonio Banderas. Guest here have included celebrities, diplomats, and even royalty. Getting in is a challenge as the line-ups stretch out from two different entrances for people not just waiting to be seated, but waiting to make reservations. The charming old style looking Taverna served beautiful local wines and the large portions of mouth water dishes that pleased the palate and hit the spot. A great meal with lots of ambiance made for a memorable night and visit.
Adios beautiful Malaga
Before my visit, I thought to myself, what could I possibly do for four days in Malaga, but believe me, four days is only an orientation of this wonderful city and I actually found myself having to discipline my stay by highlighting what I wanted to do most. I would rush from one place to another just so to absorb a little of the most popular sites and attractions. Malaga is truly an Andalusian gem in a region that has so many sites that needs time to be discovered and enjoyed, including just even relaxing by the beach or a café, and take in the best of its people and offerings.
