Costa del Sol: unexpected adventures in Benalmadena

Credit for the cover picture @ Victoria Shelest

You have probably never heard a word about Benalmádena, as it is one of the least known places on the Costa del Sol. And that is in fact the main reason why it deserves an entire article dedicated to exploring its wonders. Located between Fuengirola and Torremolinos, and only a 20-minute drive away from Málaga, Benalmádena has a great deal of amazing adventures waiting for you to discover, such as the amazing Butterfly-Park I wrote about in my prior article.

But don't think it ends there. Leaving aside its marvelous coastline and restaurants, I will now be writing about three surprising places that will leave you amazed, and that you should definitely consider visiting if you're around the region.

The Benalmádena Cable-Car

Benalmádena Cable Car

29630 Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain

Credits for the picture @ Neonyn (iStock)

There's quite a good number of reasons why I would suggest you take the cable car in Benalmádena. First, it's a great experience on its own. If you're like me, and you're scared of heights, it will give you an awesome adrenaline boost (the cable car connects the city to the top of a nearby mountain, its a 15-minute-long ride and an ascent of nearly 1000m)! But jokes aside, you will be able to enjoy some of the most beautiful views of the Andalusian coastline on your way up, and also at the very top of the mountain. The cable car will leave you at a sort of camping lot with loads of trekking routes starting off or passing by there, giving you the possibility to discover the mountainous side of the coast while enjoying the panorama. It's also a great opportunity to do some exercise. And, last but not least! You would never guess, but at the very top, just 100m away from where the cable car will leave you, there's a falconry display show, undoubtedly one of the most amazing things I've seen at the Costa del Sol. Spectators will sit in a small improvised theater while a group of three expert handlers show you the incredible skills of their magnificent owls, vultures, hawks and bald eagles. I can guarantee it will not disappoint you.

Tivoli World Benalmádena

Tivoli World Benalmádena

Av. del Tivoli, 29631 Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain

Credits for the picture @ JL Hidalgo

On your way down from the falconry show (this one is especially meant for you if you're travelling with children), right next to the cable-car's entrance you will find a big amusement-park called Tivoli World, where for a 15-Euro entrance your children will be able to enjoy all kinds of crazy rides: from roller coasters to water attractions, a 60-metre high free-fall tower, bumper-cars, a mini karting circuit, and much more. It might not be the most typical Andalusian way to enjoy your trip, but I guarantee your children will have an epic experience they shall never forget. I still remember how much fun I had there as a 12-13 years-old.

Buddhist Temple in Benalmádena

Buddhist Temple Benalmádena

Av. de Retamar, Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain

Credits for the picture: pabkov (iStock)

I told you Benalmádena was full of unexpected surprises! Near the motorway and very close from the Butterfly-Park too, you will find in Benalmádena a beautiful and charming Buddhist Temple that is notorious in the whole region. Perfect for you if you want a little peace and meditation! But not only that: it is also right behind one of the most beautiful miradores around (that means viewpoint, in Spanish), as the temple was built near a mountain that circles Benalmádena (see picture right below. The snowy mountains you see far away is the Sierra Nevada range, near Granada, 200km away!!)

Consider the "Templo Buda" as the perfect chance to enjoy the asian side of the Costa del Sol, encompassing it with the Thai Temple where the Butterfly-Park is at and the great scenery of the place. It will make a great spiritual experience!

Credits for the picture:JL Hidalgo