The Blue Village of Juzcar in the province of Malaga.

It’s an Andalusian destination in which a Wine Route takes you through the coast with a glass of Muscatel in hand, where history interlinks with modernity, and every day is a new adventure. Read on and find yourself on the Costa del Sol. Hugging the southern shores of Spain, where the sun never fails to show, this region is more than its ancient Roman villas or exciting ferias- it's a boiling cauldron of unique experiences waiting to be uncovered. Here are eight lesser-known facts about the Costa del Sol that make it an unmatched destination for the ultimate lifestyle.

  1. Largest Buddhist Stupa in Europe

This Benalmádena Stupa is 33 meters in height making it the tallest Buddhist stupa in Europe. It is the symbol of peace, prosperity, and harmony. This place can be used not only for meditation but also for reflection, and it has a view of the entire Mediterranean coastline, giving the coastal area a spiritual retreat.

  1. The Butterfly Park of Benalmádena

Right beside the stupa, Mariposario de Benalmádena is in Europe, a butterfly park and one of the biggest in the world, exhibiting more than 1,500 exotic butterflies from all over the globe. Here, visitors visit the enclosed tropical environment where these delicate creatures fly about. This is one haven that shows off the region's appeal when it comes to natural beauty and wonder.

  1. Estepona's Orchid Paradise

On the other end of the spectrum, on the southern edge of the Costa del Sol, you will find the magnificent Estepona Orchidarium, a modern botanical garden hosting over 1,300 species of orchids. With its avant-garde glass structure and indoor waterfalls, it's a secret haven for people with green thumbs and for those in search of a serene retreat from their daily routine.

  1. Júzcar: The Blue Village

Júzcar or La Aldea Azul, the very name evokes the colors of vibrant blue houses. This village was once painted blue by Sony Espana for the film promotion of the Smurfs movie but the town quickly adopted to this new identity and it remains blue. Dubbed as "Smurf Village," Júzcar offers quite an unorthodox experience with blue-painted buildings within the verdant patch of the Andalusian landscape. It's one of those offbeat destinations that contrasts with the traditional white villages of the region.

  1. Hedionda Roman Baths

Close to Manilva are the Baños de la Hedionda, ancient Roman sulphuric mineral baths-legend has it that Julius Caesar bathed here to cure a skin condition. Today, it's possible for visitors to bathe in this history-endowed water, bringing health and a touch of olden times.

Your glorious ride in Mijas.

6. Donkey Taxis of Mijas

The pretty village of Mijas revives all the memories of the past on the cobblestone streets with the Burro Taxis tradition. The donkey ride derives its origin from the early 1960s and it is an unconventional alternative for visitors to discover narrow lanes and whitewashed houses in the village in a traditional Andalusian style.

7. Caves of Nerja

Discovered by chance in 1959, the Nerja Caves are a staggering five kilometers in length underground. Accommodating some of the oldest prehistoric cave paintings to ever be uncovered by humankind, it is also home to the biggest stalactite in the world. Used as a venue for concerts, they serve as a natural amphitheater due to the acoustics and astounding geology.

A peek inside the Nerja Caves.

8. El Caminito del Rey

The Caminito del Rey is a walkway poised above the Gaitanes Gorge. Not so long ago, it was one of the most dangerous passages in the world. Recent renovations transformed it extensively to be reopened as a safe but exciting path offering stunning views of the cliffs and rivers surrounding it. It's quite an adventure for someone who wants adventure beyond the ordinary.

Live the Ultimate Lifestyle

The unique facets of the Costa del Sol tell the story of a region rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From spiritual landmarks and botanical wonders to historical sites and adventurous trails, there's a tremendous variety of experiences that literally give living here an extraordinary character.

At Ultimate Lifestyles, we understand that finding your perfect home is more than the property itself; it's embracing a lifestyle that resonates with your passions and desires. We offer a carefully selected listing of luxury homes situated at the heart of these incredible experiences.

Next Steps

Discover the Costa del Sol, where world-class amenities are in store for you. To begin your journey, visit our site www.ultimate-lifestyles.com.

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