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Soak Up Slow Travel In An Undiscovered Corner Of The Costa Del Sol
//travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. an-undiscovered-corner-of-the-costa-del-sol.html
Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, July 29th 2025 at 3:06 GMT by Forbes🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Fairmont La Hacienda, is capturing the essence of quiet travel to offer holidays with a difference.
Soak Up Slow Travel in an Undiscovered Corner of the Costa del Sol
Nestled along the sun-drenched shores of southern Spain, the Costa del Sol has long been synonymous with glamorous beach resorts, bustling marinas, and a jet-set lifestyle that draws millions of visitors each year. Places like Marbella and Puerto Banús evoke images of luxury yachts, high-end shopping, and vibrant nightlife. Yet, beyond these well-trodden paths lies a quieter, more authentic side of this Andalusian paradise—an undiscovered corner where the pace slows to a gentle rhythm, inviting travelers to embrace the art of slow travel. Here, in the lesser-known enclaves around towns like Casares, Manilva, and the inland hills of the Serranía de Ronda, the focus shifts from hurried itineraries to meaningful immersion in local culture, nature, and sustainable living. This is where the true essence of the Costa del Sol reveals itself, far from the crowds, offering a sanctuary for those seeking respite and genuine connection.
Slow travel, a growing movement in the post-pandemic world, emphasizes quality over quantity. It's about lingering in one place, savoring experiences, and minimizing environmental impact. In this hidden pocket of the Costa del Sol, that philosophy comes alive. Imagine waking up in a boutique finca (traditional farmhouse) surrounded by olive groves and cork oaks, the air scented with wild rosemary and thyme. Instead of rushing to tick off tourist sites, you might spend the morning foraging for herbs with a local guide, learning about the region's Moorish heritage, or simply wandering cobblestone streets that have stood unchanged for centuries. This approach not only reduces carbon footprints—by encouraging longer stays and local transportation—but also fosters deeper bonds with communities that have preserved their way of life amid the encroachment of mass tourism.
One of the crown jewels of this undiscovered area is the whitewashed village of Casares, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Mediterranean. Often called one of Spain's most beautiful pueblos blancos (white villages), Casares feels like a step back in time. Its narrow alleys wind up to the ruins of a 13th-century Arab castle, where panoramic views stretch from the Strait of Gibraltar to the African coastline on clear days. Unlike the commercialized beaches further east, the coastline here is rugged and unspoiled, with hidden coves like Playa Ancha, accessible only by footpaths that meander through pine forests and wildflower meadows. Slow travelers can hike these trails at leisure, perhaps packing a picnic of local specialties: jamón ibérico from nearby farms, fresh goat cheese, and sun-ripened tomatoes drizzled with olive oil pressed in the village mill.
The appeal of slow travel in this region extends to its culinary scene, which is deeply rooted in seasonal, farm-to-table traditions. In Manilva, a coastal town just a stone's throw from Casares, vineyards cascade down terraced hillsides, producing sweet Moscatel wines that have been crafted here since Roman times. Visitors can join small-group tours of family-run bodegas, where winemakers share stories of generations tending the vines. A slow afternoon might involve a leisurely lunch at a seaside chiringuito (beach bar), feasting on espeto de sardinas—sardines skewered and grilled over olive wood fires—paired with a chilled glass of local vino. These experiences highlight the region's commitment to sustainability; many producers adhere to organic practices, preserving the fertile soil and biodiversity of the area. For those interested in hands-on immersion, cooking classes in restored cortijos (country estates) teach how to prepare paella using ingredients sourced from the morning market, emphasizing the slow, mindful preparation that defines Andalusian cuisine.
Accommodations in this corner of the Costa del Sol cater perfectly to the slow travel ethos. Forget the mega-resorts; instead, opt for eco-friendly boutique hotels and rural retreats that blend seamlessly with the landscape. Take Finca Cortesín, a luxurious yet understated haven near Casares, where Moroccan-inspired architecture meets modern sustainability. Guests can unwind in infinity pools overlooking the sea, practice yoga in olive-shaded gardens, or indulge in spa treatments using essential oils distilled from local plants. Further inland, in the hills of Gaucín, properties like La Almoraima offer a more rustic charm, with rooms in converted monasteries surrounded by ancient cork forests. These spots encourage extended stays, with packages that include guided nature walks, birdwatching excursions (the area is a haven for migratory species like eagles and vultures), and even volunteer opportunities in reforestation projects. By choosing such lodgings, travelers support local economies and contribute to conservation efforts, aligning with the principles of responsible tourism.
History buffs will find endless fascination in the layers of culture that define this region. The Costa del Sol's undiscovered corners are steeped in a rich tapestry of influences—from prehistoric cave paintings in the nearby Pileta Cave to Roman ruins at Baelo Claudia, an ancient city on the beach near Tarifa. In Casares itself, the legacy of Blas Infante, the father of Andalusian nationalism, is palpable; his birthplace is now a museum dedicated to the region's fight for identity. Slow travel allows time to delve into these stories, perhaps through private tours led by historians who reveal hidden gems like forgotten hermitages or abandoned watchtowers from the Reconquista era. This unhurried exploration fosters a profound appreciation for how the past shapes the present, contrasting sharply with the superficial visits common in more tourist-heavy areas.
Nature plays a starring role in the allure of slow travel here. The Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve just a short drive inland, offers a wilderness of jagged peaks, deep gorges, and crystalline rivers. Hikers can embark on multi-day treks along the Gran Senda de Málaga, a network of paths that connect coastal villages to mountain hamlets, stopping at refugios for simple meals and stargazing under pollution-free skies. For a gentler pace, cycling tours wind through almond orchards and avocado plantations, where farmers share insights into regenerative agriculture. In spring, the hills burst into color with poppies and lavender, while autumn brings the olive harvest—a communal event where visitors can join in pressing the fruit, learning about the "liquid gold" that fuels the local economy. These activities not only promote physical well-being but also mental rejuvenation, as the serene environment encourages mindfulness and disconnection from digital distractions.
What sets this undiscovered corner apart is its authenticity, preserved by a community wary of overdevelopment. Locals, many of whom trace their roots back centuries, are eager to share their traditions without the commercialization seen elsewhere. Festivals like the Feria de Casares in August feature flamenco dancing, horse parades, and homemade tapas, providing an intimate glimpse into Andalusian life. Slow travelers might even participate in artisan workshops, crafting pottery or weaving esparto grass baskets, skills passed down through generations. This cultural exchange builds bridges, fostering mutual respect and ensuring that tourism benefits residents rather than exploiting them.
For those planning a trip, accessibility is a plus. Malaga Airport, a major hub, is just an hour's drive away, with rental cars or eco-friendly shuttles making the journey straightforward. The best times to visit are spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when temperatures are mild, crowds are thin, and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Budget for at least a week to truly embrace slow travel—rushing defeats the purpose. Costs are reasonable compared to Marbella; a night in a boutique finca starts at around €150, with meals emphasizing affordable, local produce.
In an era where overtourism threatens fragile destinations, this hidden slice of the Costa del Sol stands as a beacon for mindful exploration. By choosing slow travel here, visitors not only recharge their own spirits but also help safeguard a way of life that's as enduring as the rugged coastline itself. It's a reminder that sometimes, the greatest luxuries are found in simplicity: a sunset over the sea, a conversation with a stranger, or the quiet joy of being present in a place that time forgot. As the world speeds up, this undiscovered corner invites us to slow down, savor, and rediscover the art of truly living.
(Word count: 1,248)
Read the Full Forbes Article at:
[ https://www.forbes.com/sites/angelinavillaclarke/2025/07/29/soak-up-slow-travel-in-an-undiscovered-corner-of-the-costa-del-sol/ ]
