8 quiet places on the Costa del Sol

1. Torrox

Built on a steep hill in the Axarquía region, less than an hour’s drive east of Málaga, the lovely, whitewashed village of Torrox makes a perfect base for a holiday on the Costa del Sol. Not only do you get beautiful, sandy beaches but plenty of things to see and do too.

While away lazy afternoons in the village sipping a sangria in the central town square, lose yourself amidst the narrow, cobbled streets, or visit the local Miniatures Museum.

If you’re craving the beach, you’ll find no less than seven, wonderfully sandy Blue Flag beaches only 15 minutes’ drive away in Torrox Costa.

Where to stay in Torrox

The top-reviewed Hotel La Casa and Casa Alta B&B are good local choices, and both have terraces with lovely views across the mountains. In Torrox Costa, the four-star Iberostar Málaga Playa is a lovely, laidback all-inclusive right on the beach.

2. Frigiliana

The gorgeous, whitewashed mountain village of Frigiliana is another great Costa del Sol choice. Just 15 minutes’ drive north of Nerja and its beaches, you’re far enough away from the hubbub to feel like you’ve got away from it all, but near enough for a stroll along the seafront promenade.

Wander through the town’s fantastically photogenic, steep, cobbled streets, past burbling fountains, black-iron balconies laden with pretty pot plants and geranium-filled hanging baskets.

If you don’t mind a climb, the ruined Moorish castle above the town is the place to visit for spectacular views. Otherwise, the Sierra Tejeda y Almijara National Park is on your doorstep for scenic walks and cycle rides.

Where to stay in Frigiliana

There are some lovely villas in the countryside surrounding Frigiliana for a truly off-the-beaten-track feel. If you prefer to stay in town, Hotel Villa Frigiliana has a pool and rooms with balconies, while Miller’s of Frigiliana boasts a sunny rooftop terrace and both couples’ and family suites.

3. Benajarafe

The Costa del Sol might seem like the last place on earth you’d find an almost virgin beach but at Benajarafe you’re not far off.

The eastern part of this long stretch of dark sand feels so secluded you’d never believe that just a few yards away, the more western part of this Blue Flag beach has chiringuitos and restaurants as well as a children’s playground.

There’s plenty to see and do nearby, from golf courses to walking routes to an 18th-century watchtower – the Torre Moya (also known as Torre Gordo). The towns of Velez-Málaga and Torre del Mar are both within 20 minutes’ drive.

Where to stay in Benajarafe

The Hostal Esperanza hotel just behind the beach has excellent value rooms as well as a lounger-lined pool. For more of a countryside vibe, Casa Rural Paloma is a quiet spot just ten minutes from the beach with its own outdoor pool and Jacuzzi.

4. Manilva

If you want somewhere that feels a little more authentically Spanish than the better-known resorts without giving up blissful beaches and whitewashed villages that you’d expect from the Costa del Sol, Manilva could be just the ticket.

Just a few minutes’ drive west of Estepona, Manilva has several beaches, from broad, sandy stretches like Blue Flag Sabinillas to more private, rocky coves.

The low-rise village just behind the beach is a world away from the high rises you’ll find in some other resorts but there’s no shortage of shops, restaurants, tapas bars or supermarkets.

Golfers will love the choice of nearby courses and there are plenty of scenic countryside trails, too.

Where to stay in Manilva

Hotel Apartamentos Manilva Sun has an outdoor pool and family rooms, as well as its own restaurant. Otherwise, there’s a good choice of local apartments to rent such as Brisa House or Splendide Appartement Deluxe, both which have shared pools.

5. Ojén

Situated close to Marbella but seemingly a world away from the beach clubs and bars, Ojén is a picturesque whitewashed town nestled among the Sierra Blanca and the Sierra Alpujata mountain ranges.

The town has a number of small caves to visit, like the Cueva des las Columnas, which offer gorgeous sweeping views across the valley and Costa del Sol.

There’s also a fascinating Olive Oil Museum, while keen walkers will have a selection of scenic trails to explore in the nearby mountains, where yet more stunning vistas await.

The town itself has a traditional, peaceful ambience, with steep, narrow streets leading to a market square lined with delightful, affordable tapas bars and restaurants.

Where to stay in Ojén

Ojén is dotted with beautiful accommodation, with the centrally located La Posada del Ángel hotel among the highest rated for its relaxing courtyard, quaint swimming pool and lovely rooftop terrace. If you’re seeking a self-catering apartment, Alojamientos Monteverde is a great pick - with its breathtaking views and spacious rooms a reward for the steep walk to the front door.

6. Rincón de la Victoria

Amazingly, given it’s only half an hour’s drive of Malaga, the slightly under the radar Rincón de la Victoria feels a world away from the Costa del Sol’s better-known, more hectic resorts.

That doesn’t mean, however, that it hasn’t got fabulous beaches. A popular choice with Spanish families, there are no less than four sandy beaches, as well as a town centre that’s laidback but lively in the evenings.

If you feel like sightseeing, visit the Jurassic caves of El Tesoro, explore ancient watchtowers and fortresses or hit the green for a round of golf.

Where to stay in Rincón de la Victoria

Fancy staying within a pebble’s throw of the beach? Both the Hotel Rincón Sol and Fay Victoria Beach sit directly on the seafront promenade, where you’ll also find a handful of well-rated Airbnbs with lovely ocean views.

7. Riogordo

Surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and filled with walking and cycling routes, the countryside around the small, whitewashed pueblo blanco of Riogordo is as gorgeous as you could hope to find.

You won’t find beaches nearby, but this hilltop village in the midst of olive groves, named after the River Cueva that runs through it, makes a perfect base for a walking or cycling holiday.

As you wander through the village’s narrow, orange-tree-filled streets and alleys, stop at one of the bars or restaurants. Or, lace up those walking boots and head for one of the other villages nearby including Colmenar, famous for its food and honey. Don’t miss the breathtaking views across the sierras at sunset.

Where to stay in Riogordo

To stay in the village itself, Casa La Liebrecilla, which has an outdoor pool and spacious gardens, is one of the few options, along with the Hostal Mesón La Era, a more suitable pick for budget travellers. The Cortijo Rancho Verde in neighbouring Colmenar is another highly rated pick.

8. Vélez-Málaga

Despite being the capital of the Axarquía region, Vélez-Málaga largely coasts under the tourist radar. Visit and you’ll be rewarded with a charming town steeped in history and filled with architectural wonders.

See the best of it in the old quarter. Encased within two sets of city walls, narrow, cobbled streets will lead you to the grand Palacio Marques de Beniel, the 16th-century Church of Santa María la Mayor and the Casa Cervantes – a museum dedicated to Spain’s greatest writer.

Out of town, the Sierras de Tejeda foothills provide ample countryside rambles, or you can head down to sister resort Caleta de Vélez on the coast to add beach time to your itinerary.

Where to stay in Vélez-Málaga

A converted 300-year-old Moorish monastery, Hotel Palacio Blanco has nine beautiful boutique rooms in the heart of the old quarter. Hotel Velis is equally well located and a more affordable option.