Social Scene Costa del Sol 29 Aug – 4 Sept 2024 Issue 2043
SIMPLY THRIVING, the socially pro-active Costa del Sol group, is putting on a fundraiser dinner in aid of Alzheimer’s charity AFA, September 15. Organised by popular Costa del Sol entertainer Nathan Dean and with the help of performer, and keen charity supporter, Brian Piccolo, the event will take place on Sunday September 15 at 6.30pm.
The Late Summer Extravaganza is being held at the Bobby Jones & Spikes restaurant, Mira-
Queen vs Abba by Candlelight
flores Golf Club, Mijas and offers a welcome glass of cava, a three-course meal and drinks. Entertainment will be provided by Nathan Dean, Brian Piccolo and the talented and beautiful songstress Emma Prothero. Tickets are just €40 and €10 of which goes directly to AFA (Fuengirola - Mijas Costa Alzheimer and Dementia Association), a non-profit organisation which cares for families in the Fuengirola and Mijas Costa area. The impact
Simply Thriving Late Summer Extravaganza
of Alzheimer’s on the family is stress, depression and loneliness, and that is why families need help and understanding of this very sad situation.
All Simply Thriving events are fun, lively and hugely entertaining, and this looks to be no exception. Membership of Simply Thriving Group has increased two-fold in the last year, so be sure to get your tickets early. They are available from Brian or Val on 664 898 767.
A ROMANTIC nighttime concert by candlelight to Queen and Abba favourites played by a classical quartet in the beautiful surroundings of Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, Marbella.
Enjoy a spectacular Candlelight Concert at the Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, Benahavís, Marbella, the ideal setting for this event. The palace-inspired venue has an open-air amphitheatre where classical concerts are performed every week in summer. Sheltered under the most spectacular summer starry sky, the tributes to the best music of all time take on unique nuances.
The Candlelight group audiences are
encouraged to sing along to their instrumental numbers while they intersperse songs by telling amusing personal anecdotes to explain their choices for the tracklist played that evening, performed in an emotive and uplifting way. According to their consistently five-star reviews, expect a few tears of joy in the audience too.
The event will last 60 minutes and will open its doors 45 minutes before the start. Don’t miss classics like ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘We Will Rock You’, and ‘Mamma Mia’ in this unforgettable concert under the stars.
Candlelight Open Air - Queen vs ABBA takes place on Friday, August 30. Tickets are available from feverup.com
THE Pink Floyd tribute group, ‘Im-Pulse’ performs Friday, August 30 at Estepona Bullring. Friday, August 30 sees a tribute to the iconic British band in the spectacular setting of Estepona bullring. The Malaga-born band, Im-Pulse, lends its highly professional interpretation of the most legendary Prog band of all time. Offering up one of the most captivating performances with a dazzling light and sound show, the band will run through most of the most emblematic songs of the Floyd, taking everyone back to a time when mere musical performances were taken over by an audio visual feast for the senses.
Following the success of their tour of all the biggest Spanish cities, the band continues their second year of touring with an impressive concert in which they will relive the magic of
Pink Floyd’s music. An unforgettable experience with what is increasingly being considered by more and more people to be the best tribute to Pink Floyd in the country.
The concert starts at 10pm on Friday, August 30 at the Estepona bullring. Tickets cost €20, and can be purchased at tickentradas.com
Credit: Shutterstock
Adam Woodward
Credit: Brian Piccolo, Facebook
Swimming race honours local hero
THREE HUNDRED athletes will take part in the first ever ‘María de Valdés’ Swimming Crossing, which is being held Saturday, August 31, on the coast of Fuengirola.
Fuengirola mayor Ana Mula, together with the Olympic swimmer María de Valdés from Fuengirola herself at Fuengirola Town Hall explained that “it is a real source of pride for Fuengirola that María de Valdés always carries the name of our town wherever she goes. No less than a Fuengirola native who competed at the last Olympic Games in Paris.”
Saturday August 31, three events at different levels will be held at this
event: two of 300 and 800 metres, and a Spanish Cup race of 3,500 metres. Starting from San Francisco beach, the first being long distance starting at 9.30am, it will then head in the direction of Torreblanca, up to the height of Cerro del Toro, and return to the starting point. Then, between 10am and 11am, the more accessible events for the rest of the swimmers, will hear the starting pistol.
María de Valdés has expressed her “joy” that a race like this is being held in her town and in her name. She said she ‘loves the initiative’ and has been resting in Fuengirola for a few days before co-hosting the race. “For me it gives me great pride that a race of this nature, in my town, carries my name.”
Howlin’ Ramblers Rockabilly Sotogrande
THE cool Lemon Bay Chill Out Beach Bar, Sotogrande, is about to be rocked from its laid-back slumber with the arrival of the Howlin’ Ramblers. Howlin’ Ramblers open fire with a lot of rock with a lot of roll, an experienced swing and roots musical combo who draw on the likes of Charlie Feathers, Hank Williams and Elmore James.
They began their journey back in 2016. Their name is a tribute to the roots of rock’n’roll - blues (Howlin’ Wolf) and country (Hank ‘the Ramblin’ Man’ Williams). Over the years, this quintet from the south of Spain has developed its own sound that has been defined as raw and wild ‘Rocka-
billy-Stomp and Rockin ‘Blues-Bop’. A swinging blues-roots band doesn’t rely on repeating all the old standards, like so many others on the south coast. They are the real deal in this case, belting out original rock ’n’ roll in English with a Cadiz accent.
This is set to be the liveliest way to shrug off the post-summer blues, at an authentic beach shack chiringuito on the beach in Sotogrande. The artsy vibe at Bahia Limon provides a perfect and authentic weekend treat. See the Howlin’ Ramblers at Lemon Bay Chill Out Beach Bar, Sotogrande on Sunday September 1. Contact the venue for further details at bahialimonchirin gochill.com, or on 626 407 347.
Adam Woodward
Credit: Alicia Afanador, Facebook
Adam Woodward
SAID by some to be the hardest-working man in comedy, he certainly is when it comes to hosting UK comedy panel shows. The reigning king of the one-liners, Jimmy Carr, stops off for one night in Marbella this week, to make the Brits giggle, and the locals blush.
To call his gags offensive doesn’t give him enough credit, but there is an element of a teenage boy trying to impress his mates in the school playground about his spicy one-liners. One knows that nothing is off limits with Carr, and you know that’s
Jimmy Carr
in Marbella
what the audience is in for before they take their seats. Imagine suggesting a Jimmy Carr gig as a team building exercise for the Malaga software company you work for. You would be clearing your desk the Monday after the gig.
There can be no doubt that Carr is the best comedy panel show host ever. No one else has even come close. But his stand up act is an acquired taste, a little like coriander - some love it, some wince at the distastefulness. One gag about sexual abuse might get an awkward ‘heh’, but five in the same show? It’s a question of personal preference.
Jimmy Carr is Laughing Funny at the Marbella Arena on Saturday, August 31. Ticket prices start at €45.50 and are available from entradas.com
Everyone is Welcome Everyone is Welcome
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Discover Authentic Thai Flavours at Sala Thai Restaurant in Fuengirola
EXPERIENCE the vibrant taste of Thailand right in the heart of Fuengirola at the newly opened Sala Thai Restaurant. Founded by José and Lan, who recently returned from an immersive journey through Thailand, Sala Thai promises to deliver an authentic culinary experience that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Bangkok.
At Sala Thai, the star of the menu is the renowned Pad Thai, the national dish of Thailand. Lan, who José proudly describes as a ‘food artist’, has perfected his Pad Thai recipe, ensuring it’s one of the best you’ll ever taste. The menu is thoughtfully curated with a variety of dishes, including noodles, rice, and a selection of meat, chicken, and fish options, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Committed to quality, José and
Lan source their ingredients locally, guaranteeing freshness and flavour in every bite. Complement your meal with a selection from their extensive wine list, featuring affordable options from around the globe.
Whether you’re dining in or ordering takeaway, Sala Thai makes it easy to enjoy delicious Thai cuisine. Their comfortable outdoor terrace is perfect for gatherings, and they’re happy to cater to your upcoming party or event. The prices are just as appealing as the food, with a fantastic lunch special offering two courses and a drink for just €15.00. Sala Thai is open daily from 12:00 to 16:00 and 19:00 to 23:00. Come and savour the true essence of Thailand at Sala Thai Restaurant!
LA CALA DE MIJAS Lions Diabetic Support Group is holding its Autumn Bazaar on Saturday, September 7 from 11am to 3.30pm, in La Cala de Mijas. The Bazaar can be found at terraces alongside Snack Attack and Bar Tuta, La Cala Jardines Botanico in La Cala de Mijas with music, stalls, good food, raffles and all the fun of the fair. Lunch with quiz tickets are €10 and available from the Lions shop or Bar Tuta. Also, the Lions Diabetic
Support Group are gearing up for their biggest event of the year, the sixth World Diabetes Awareness Marathon and Market on November 3, and they are looking for supporters. They need sponsors, teams, and anyone who would like to help on the day in November. What better way to celebrate the arrival of the new season than with their Autumn Bazaar? Many of the goods on display will not be found in the high street. Resin items from key fobs and jewellery to handmade cand-
les, mugs, toys, fashion, preserves and chutneys, plants, china and glass, honey products, gift items, handbags, physiotherapy items, jewellery, magnetic objects, wooden handmade kitchen and gift items, CBD oil, and much more.
For Heaven’s Cakes! will be there and the Boys from ACE will be on parade too, so, if you would like to bring along some animal food for the ACE Rescue Centre then that will be gratefully received. For more information, message Anne on 607 879 450.
The International Theatre Studio is back
THE long established International Theatre Studio (ITS) of Marbella is back after the summer break with a full programme of events, starting on Wednesday, September 4.
Sue Hall will be leading a play reading evening at Keto Royale Kafe in San Pedro de Alcantara from 6.30pm, with the curtain up at 7pm. She has chosen a comedy murder-mystery play for everyone to enjoy with a cast of eight. So, there
will be plenty of chances for people to read a part and show their talents, or simply sit, listen, laugh and enjoy the fun.
Tickets are €9 for ITS members and €11 for non-members. The price includes nibbles and tapas, room hire and the play.
Tickets are available online from the ITS website, internationaltheatrestudio. org. There are only a few tickets left at present, so don’t wait too long before
booking. The play reading evenings are always well received so if you haven’t been to one before, now is your chance.
Upcoming events also include Abigail’s Party on October 11, 12 and 13; and rehearsed play readings at El Trapiche Cultural Centre, San Pedro de Alcantara on Wednesday, November 13. Info is already available on the website, and we will be publishing details here closer the time.
Credit: javi_indy, Freepik
Credit; La Cala de Mijas Lions
The Legend comedy show
Adam Woodward
SAN PEDRO Alcantara, as part of its Performing Arts Month, present a free outdoor concert by El Gran Dimitri, The Legend (Born to Fail) comedy show.
Dimitri, a stage genius (according to himself), although of dubious artistic reputation, faces his third solo work. After ‘nearly’ performing in prestigious festivals, B rooms of the best theatres and as well ‘almost’ winning some awards, Dimitri had an epi-
phany - “I was born to be a stage legend.” So he puts on a show where he goes so far as to risk his own life. In this, Dimitri’s new show, he risks life and limb one more time in the most ridiculous way possible.
El Gran Dimitri imagines that at any moment a call could come in, someone could discover him and offer him the contract of a lifetime - to perform for an audience of 100,000 people and be remembered as ‘a legend’. That is why, performance by perfor-
mance, he develops the show with which he will be remembered and loved, like a rock star. Thus Dimitri appears on stage, encouraged by his own madness and excessive pretension. It is the story of an antihero, of an idiot, of a loser who has the audacity to continue fighting for what he wants.
This silly show is free and lasts 50 minutes (as long as Dimitri does), at the Plaza de Istán, San Pedro de Alcantara on Friday, August 30 at 9pm.
MIjas fair about to kick off
MIJAS Pueblo is all set for its traditional village ‘Feria’ opening on Tuesday, September 3, and the council has just launched the official programme of events.
The official opening will be at 8pm on Tuesday 3 with a ceremony in Avenida Compás, the official switching on of the fair lights, and the presentation of the elected King and Queen of the fair. Just to get the kids back in the mood for returning to school, the first full day of celebrations on Wednes-
day 4 will be dedicated primarily to a ‘Children’s day’.
On Thursday 5 at 9pm, the traditional ‘Dinner of our elders’, a free meal in honour of the elderly living in Mijas, in which the Grandmother and Grandfather of the fair will be chosen. Also on the Thursday, the ‘Day Fair’ begins, so expect some disruption to services and parking limitations in Mijas.
The procession in honour of the Virgen de la Peña, the central mo-
ment of the fair, will be on September 8 starting at 9.30pm. As usual, the processional procession will begin in the parish of the Immaculate Conception, where the Patron Saint will be after having been transferred, on the night of August 29, from her hermitage.
As always, there will be a market and fairground rides, a procession of ‘Gigantes and Cabezudos’ (Giants and Bigheads), and a full programme of musical entertainment every night.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Mijas
Hash House charity ball
Adam Woodward
MIJAS Hash House Harriers are going to celebrate an end of Summer Charity Ball, and it looks to be a night of laughs and great entertainment.
Being held at Play restaurant, Playa Marina in Mijas, the idea is to celebrate a night of fun making memories and good company, and all in aid of ADIMI Plena In clusión, a charity crea ted in 1999 by a group of parents who had children with some type of intellectual disability and who were moved by a series of common concerns.
The evening includes a welcoming Cava, a three-course dinner, raffle and live music from Harvey James. One of the raffle prizes include, the Hash House Harriers boast, ‘chocolate-making, paddle boarding, a styling session, meals
loving walkers and runners who don’t take life too seriously and are dedicated to promoting fitness. Hash House Harrier roots extend back to the old English schoolboy game of ‘Hares and Hounds,’ in which some players, called ‘hounds,’ chased others, called ‘hares.’
The Charity Ball is on at Play restaurant, Playa Marina in Mijas on Friday September 6 at 7pm. Tickets cost €50 and are available from The Hash Harriers webmijash3.com
THE cosmopolitan personalty of Benalmadena, a town that welcomes and is home to all nationalities, lends itself perfectly to the international festivals it hosts, not least La Gaucha Fiesta, in this case, promoting Argentine culture, which is being celebrated this coming weekend in Castillo El Bil-Bil. Argentine crafts, gastronomy and music from 17 live acts will fill the grounds of the castle from 7pm until late. For three days, from Friday August 30 to Sunday September 1, visitors will be able to enjoy authentic Argentine barbecues, typical music and dance, and the vibrant energy of the gaucho cowboys.
The barbecue grills will no doubt play the protagonist in this passionate
party where skirt steak, suckling pig, whole racks of ribs and steaks will be cooked over wood and charcoal barbecues. Visitors can also sample an array of traditional Argentinian food specialties, including empanadas (spicy meat pasties), black pudding, chilli sauces, preserves and some of Argentina’s favourite beers.
In addition to various grill and drink stands that will be distributed around the castle, the event will feature Tango Show performances, an artistic expression that reflects the passion and rhythm of the southern hemisphere. It’s free to enter and absolutely everyone is welcome. The party starts at 7pm each night at Bil Bil Castle, Benalmadena, and goes on until late.
Credit: Mijas
HHH, Facebook
aucha fiesta Argentina, Benalmadena
Credit: Alexandr Vorobev - Shutterstock
The Orange House Boutique Hotel
BASED in the heart of La Cala de Mijas, The Orange House Boutique Hotel offers 20 individually designed en-suite rooms with three of the Penthouse Rooms boasting their own private terrace and beautiful sea views. Located just minutes from the beach and a wide choice of eateries, this brand new hotel is perfectly situated for all your needs.
In addition to its fabulous rooms and ideal location, The Orange House Boutique Hotel has a fabulous rooftop bar with stunning sea views. Located on the fifth floor,
Upstairs offers a wide range of drinks making it a popular hotspot for both locals and tourists visiting the area. Proud to be the only rooftop bar in La Cala de Mijas and non-smoking, non-vaping Upstairs is perfect for pre and post meal drinks with friends or family, or even a light breakfast where one can take in the beautiful sea views.
After living on the coast for over 17 years and owning various property rentals, the concept of The Orange House Boutique Hotel was founded by Jo and Paul, who as a family, run this cosy and peaceful boutique hotel. Their knowledge of the area along with their extreme dedication to the hotel itself has allowed their dream to turn into a reality as they offer their top-tier service to the public.
With 24-hour reception and easily contactable staff, The Orange House Boutique Hotel aims to give their guests the best experience thanks to their dedicated team. Not only that, but the hotel also provides a secure baggage drop service. Guests not staying at the hotel are welcome to store their luggage for a fee of € 20.00 per case. Convenient for those with early check outs who want to continue exploring the area without any extra stress.
Whether it be for a business trip, holiday or romantic getaway, The Orange House Boutique Hotel provides a selection of bedrooms, all individually designed, including interconnected rooms, perfectly suited for larger families. Located just 25 minutes from the airport, La Cala De Mijas is conveniently situated, providing a calm atmosphere whilst still being close to the cultural city of Malaga.
After opening its doors just three months ago,
The Orange House Boutique Hotel aims to provide a five-star service for its guests, with many already rebooking their next trip. As clients describe the hotel as a ‘unique jewel’ and ‘spectacular in all aspects’ it is clear that this boutique hotel is not one to be missed.
For prices, availability and to book your stay, visit our website www.theorangehouselacala.com Email: info@theorangehouselacala.com Call/WhatsApp +34 633 604 004
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The Garden Bar
Open 7 days a week 10.00am – 8.00pm
Rocas del Mar, Urb. El Juncal Sur, 34, km198, 29649 Las Lagunas de Mijas, Málaga
Credit: The Orange Hotel
AWARD-WINNING PAN-ASIAN CUISINE BY CHEF RICHARD SANDOVAL
WORLD renowned chef Richard Sandovel finally opened his innovative restaurant Zengo to the public on Thursday August 22, offering a flamboyant menu, fusing flavours from Latin America and Asia, creating a one of a kind dining experience. With locations already in Doha and Dubai, this new culinary concept is a must try for your summer bucket-list, as Sandoval takes guests on a gastronomic journey across the world, blending both Asian and Latin tradition and culture, creating an unforgettable menu.
With over 60 restaurants worldwide, award-winning chef Sandoval has become esteemed for his culinary masterpieces and revolutionary concepts and is now bringing his expertise to the Costa del Sol, ready to open his first restaurant in Spain, right on our doorstep. As a top pioneer for promoting Latin cuisi-
ne worldwide, as well as having written cookbooks and starring in various cooking programmes, Sandoval’s profound culinary knowledge and experience has evidently been implemented into Marbella’s newest hotspot restaurant, located within the luxury Hard Rock Hotel Marbella.
Using locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients, Zengo offers a range of Nikkei-inspired sushi and sashimi in addition to curries, grilled entrees and wok dishes, all of which have been curated with Latin influences in mind.
Popular highlights of the menu include the ‘AngryZengo’ incorporating spicy tuna, avocado, lemon and yuzukosho mayonnaise and the ‘Gambas Yuzu Maki’ blending prawn tempura, quinoa, spring onion and chipotle yuzu, all of which are hand-crafted dishes, bringing
an abundance of flavour to one’s unforgettable evening.
Alongside Zengo’s extensive menu, which blends a vast array of flavours and spices, the restaurant additionally offers a carefully curated range of sophisticated cocktails, ideal to enjoy at the personal bar or open-air terrace amongst the cool breeze. Combining distinctive oriental flavours such as hibiscus and jasmine, their signature cocktails are perfect to pair with one of their state of the art dishes.
Zengo, translating to ‘give and receive’ from Japanese, has been intricately designed, offering refined indoor and outdoor seating, exquisite for a romantic night out or dinner with friends. Situated amongst a myriad of tropical wildlife, the outdoor patio awaits for you to enjoy a lush meal under the stars.
Describing Zengo’s cuisine as ‘international, eclectic and sophisticated’, Sandoval feels as though it is a ‘dream come true’ to have a location in Marbella, as he appeals to both the Spanish and international clientele present along the Costa del Sol. With locations by the Richard Sandoval Hospitality Group across four continents, Sandoval is becoming a prominent sensation in the gastronomical world.
Hard Rock Hotel Marbella | C. las Malvas, 50 | Nueva Andalucía | 29660 | Marbella | 951 870 115 | info@zengomarbella.com | zengomarbella.com
‘A Brief Guide to Spain’s Liquid Gold’
OLIVE OIL is the backbone of Spanish cuisine, essential to countless dishes. As the world’s largest producer, accounting for over 30 per cent of global output, Spain is renowned for the quality, variety, and rich flavours of its olive oil. It’s more than just an ingredient; it’s the heart of Spanish cooking.
The production of olive oil is an intricate process. It begins with mashing ripe olives to extract their juice. For the best quality, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil is made with minimal or no additional heat or chemicals. This creates a paste, which is churned to break emulsions before being run through a centrifuge to separate the oil. Finally, the oil is filtered and bottled.
Understanding the Labels:
Extra Virgin Olive Oil:
The highest quality and most flavourful, with a maximum acidity of 0.8 per cent.
Virgin Olive Oil:
Similar to extra virgin, but slightly lower in quality, with an acidity of around 1.5 per cent.
Olive Oil:
A blend of virgin oils (15-20 per cent) and refined oils (around 75 per cent).
Light Olive Oil:
Despite its name, ‘light’ refers to flavour, not caloric content.
Nutritionally, olive oil is packed with healthy fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. It’s also rich in essential nutrients.
So, explore, taste, and enjoy Spain’s liquid gold for a healthier lifestyle!
Grape treading festival
THE ‘Vendimia’, or grape harvest of Manilva has been celebrated since the 16th century and forms an integral part of the traditions, culture and character of the town, and is one of the most important on the calendar in Manilva.
There are changes of date each year to coincide with the actual harvest.
Cala Pop festival, Mijas
THE intimate and underground music festival, Cala Pop Weekend, returns once more to El Charcón Beach (Mijas Costa).
Affectionately known as ‘the sound resistance’, the mini festival celebrates its 14th year on September 6 and 7 with an eclec-
tic mix of music on the beach. Eleven bands and seven DJs and the presentation of a new book titled ‘Anthology of the British Invasion’. As well as the beach venue, there will be other happenings at Café Teatro by Ocean Drive and the night will end at the
At dusk, there is always a procession - in this case, Nuestra Señora de los Dolores (I’d better not translate that to English), who watches over the vineyards, and also a ‘doma vaquera’, a horse riding parade.
After the procession, one of the most important moments takes place - the popular offering of the best bunches of grapes to the Virgin and the subsequent treading
Maxy Disco (Fuengirola).
On the lineup this year there’s American power pop and rock artist, Kurt Baker, original UK punk group The Wasps, the hip-swinging rockers from Italy, the Peawees, and a whole host of Indie-orientated bands certain to keep everyone dancing. For fans of Radio 3 (Spain) the MC for the proceedings will be Juan de Pa-
of the grapes to extract the first juice of the season, the methods for doing so have been passed down through scores of generations. Experienced or not, visitors should be prepared to get their shoes and socks off for the communal grape treading in Calle del Mar.
This harvest festival takes place in Manilva from Saturday, August 31 until September 2.
blos, the host of the hugely popular programme ‘Flor de Pasión’. The two-day mini fest is on at El Charcón Beach September 6 and 7 in aid of charity - PAD, the Mijas Costa Domestic Animal Protection Association and tickets are now available, €40 for advance tickets, €50 on the door, if still available. More information and ticket sales at calapop.com
Eat In Or Take Away
Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 6.00pm Friday Fish n Chip day from 1.00 pm Saturday from 6.00pm Closed Sunday. Parking – Takeaway
COSTA FOOD TOURS
Traditional Fish & Chips, Pies & Much More,
Jardin Botanico, La Cala de Mijas
Adam Woodward
Credit: Kristin
Credit: Cala Pop, Facebook
Tasting awardwinning cheeses
WHETHER fresh, semi-cured or cured, cheese is one of the Malaga Province’s star products, and an excellent accompaniment to Malaga wine.
One of the most celebrated is from the cheesemaker El Pastor del Valle in Alhaurin el Grande, who run guided tours of their little factory where visitors
can learn all about the step-by-step processes involved and have a little tasting session at the end.
This tour gives an insight into the homogenisation and pasteurisation process of goat’s milk, the curdling, the cutting and extracting of the whey, pressing, salting, ripening and cutting. A fascinating tour geared towards all ages, families and groups of friends.
At the most important part of the tour, the tasting, visitors learn all about how to really appreciate artisan cheeses, the ideal temperature, the rind, the touch, smell and taste, and how certain fortified wines (from Malaga, of course), combined with the cheeses, can give some wonderful harmonies in flavour.
The price per visit is €15, which includes the tour and a small tasting session at the end. The minimum required for the tour is five people, but if you are planning to go with less, it is possible they can add you to a group with others. Bookings can be made by calling 490 357, and the factory can be found at Calle Huerta Alta, 3, Alhaurin el Grande. Not recommended travelling without a car in the hot summer months.
Car rally
in the heart of the Sierra de las Nieves National Park, is holding its eighth Hill Climb rally on Saturday, August 31 to Sunday September 1.
After a summer break, rally driving is back on the sporting calendar in the Malaga Province and motor racing fans are delighted. Organised by the Venturi Auto Club, the president of the Andalucian Motoring Federation also called this section of the climb one of the most valued by Andalucian mountain drivers, while asking spectators and rally fans to be respectful of the areas delimited by the organisation and the environment as it is a national park.
Roads on the Saturday will be closed off to traffic, mostly the MA-5401, at 3pm, followed by practice runs starting at 4pm. The roads will remain closed for most of Sunday morning with races against the clock up until lunchtime. The trophy ceremony is planned for 3pm.
The starting point for cars is at Km 20.75 with the finishing line placed at Km 16.13. It’s a 4.29km hill climb race with a 290m rise with an average rise of 6.28 per cent, so expect some flying cars en route.
There are various categories including stock cars, single-seaters, and women’s, men’s and junior categories.
Adam Woodward
CASARABONELA
THE summer’s coming to an end, but it’s not all
Charity fun quiz
bad news because it’s pub quiz season again. Pit your wits and your best trivia knowledge against the rest on Tuesday, September 3 at the Pub Royal in Torreblanca. The Fun Quiz
isn’t to be taken too seriously though. It’s all in aid of charity and a little fun for the Costa del Sol community.
Team sizes are maximum of four, and it only costs €2 per person to enter. So, start thinking up your quiz team name. If you can, bring some friends because the main winner’s prize is a ‘buy one, get one free main meal and drink for up to six people.’ If you don’t have a team, there’s no problem as Alan Boardman will be on hand to introduce you to others looking to build a team. All money raised will go directly to SEARCH, the local charity that provides treatment and care for rescued horses, and seeks a loving new home for them to send them to.
So, pencil in your diary, ‘Fun Quiz’, The Pub Royal, Torreblanca (Fuengirola), 2.30pm, Tuesday September 3.
Adam Woodward
AUGUST is a perfect time of year to spot pink flamingos in the Malaga Province. The prehistoric-looking long-legged birds migrate to the region during the summer months to lay their eggs, before flying back to Africa with their young in September.
One of the best places to see them is Fuente de Piedra lake near Antequera. There, you can book a guided bird watching tour to take a look
at these magnificent birds as well as plenty of other hard-to-find water birds. Telescopes and binoculars are provided, and all you need is transport to get there.
The tour can be booked with an English-speaking guide who explains the ecosystem of Fuente de Piedra, as well as pointing out various interesting species, and letting visitors in on some little-known curiosities about the place.
Reservations for the
flamingo tour can be booked by calling 675 645 957. If you need an English-speaking tour, make sure to mention it on booking. The tour meets at the Plaza de la Constitución, in Fuente de Piedra village, from where you will have to follow the guides by car (15km) and then half approximately 500m to the hide. They advise you take food and water, comfortable clothes and shoes. Also, wear long trousers and bring mosquito repellant.
Credit: Murrr Photo, Shutterstock
Music by candlelight
Adam Woodward
ISTAN celebrates its benchmark musical and cultural festival of ‘La Vela’ on the nights of Friday, August 30 and Saturday 31.
The event of ‘lights and mysteries’ begins at 8.30pm on the Friday at Las Herrizas view point, overlooking La Concepción reservoir and the Rio Verde.
The oldest building in Istan, the Torre Escalente, is the venue of a performance by the Malaga Provincial Guitar Orchestra made up of guitarists from a variety of ensembles. In the Plaza del Pueblo, there will be a 15-piece Big Band Swing band paying Fusion, Blues and Swing. La Negra Mayté, a tribute to Andalucian rock, and a tribute concert to Amy
GET TACKED UP!
ARCH (The Andalucian Rescue Centre for Horses) is holding a Grand Tack Sale on Sunday September
Winehouse, one of the great voices of Soul music, are things to expect over the weekend at La Velá, as well as DJs from Pop FM playing the best in 80s tunes.
In El Altillo, one of the most idiosyncratic streets of the town, a concert is being held with a string quartet (two violins, viola and cello). The members of this instrumental group are graduates and members of the Conservatorio Superior de Música de Malaga, and the repertoire they cover includes both classical music and film music.
But what is really going to give atmosphere to this street party is the fact that the streets will be illuminated by candles instead of street lamps.
1 from 10.30am to 2pm. The charity is selling a wide variety of horse gear donated by supporters. A good deal of what is donated is not of immediate use to the rescue cases, for instance many cannot be ridden so saddles and bridles tend to remain
Arab Souk
BENALMADENA once again hosts an Arab Souk from Thursday, August 29 to September 1 with Arabic-themed market stalls, falconry and a concert.
The Arab Souk in Benalmadena Pueblo is bigger than ever this year with a concert from local band Ziryab, an area that transforms the village into a medieval Arab Souk and a space uniquely dedicated to falconry shows, tea tents, spice stalls, gastronomy and parades that will fill emblematic corners of Benalmadena Pueblo with the sounds, smells and tastes of a medieval Arabic town. “This Arab souk is already an unmissable event for many residents and visitors to Benalmadena Pueblo,” said the councillor for Com-
merce, Raúl Campos, at the presentation of the event.
As a change this year, the Arab Souk will take over the area from Calle Real to Plaza del Alguacil, extending its size. The Benalmadena Arab Souk “will unite the entire urban centre of Benalmadena Pueblo from one end to the other,” continued councillor for Commerce, Ramos.
According to the councillor, one of the highlights of this year’s event will be on Friday, August 30, at 10pm, with a performance by Ziryab, a local band that will pay tribute to Medina Azahara and Triana, along with their own songs to add an extra touch, always framed in the context of the Souk.
in the tack room. But they can be sold to raise funds for what is always needed, such as food and veterinary care. Many of these items are of very high quality so if you are a horse owner looking for a bargain then visit the Rescue Centre between Alhaurin El Grande and Coin, bring your cash or card and you can get rugged up before winter sets in! For more information and directions visit the website www.horserescuespain.org or Facebook page Centro Andalusi de Rescate de Caballos.
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