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Vol: 14
Issue 314
Mijas
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Auto Quick
C/ Fuengirola 2 (Bajo Gasolinera BP)
9am - 6pm Mon-Fri Tel: 952 493 997
29649 Mijas Costa www.autoquick.es
Service
March 2019
Pueblo Perfect Mijas is a suprisingly authentic village with a buzzing coastline, discovers Laurence Dollimore
I
F you’re looking for a typical Andalucian town to charm your socks off then look no further than white-washed Mijas. The classic hilltop town, just a stone’s throw from the Costa del Sol, is quintessentially Spanish and packed full of surprises. Discovered by the globe’s more bohemian artists and writers in the 1950s and 60s, it was immortalised in Ronald Fraser’s 1973 book, The Pueblo, and continues to cast a spell on visitors today. A recent €4.7 million renovation which saw the main square transformed beyond recognition has helped (and for that you can thank the EU, which coughed up 70% of the funding). If you are visiting on a clear day, don’t forget to enjoy the jaw-dropping views of the coast from the cliff-edge view point on the outskirts of the pueblo - although you might have to wait for snappy happy Instagram ‘influencers’ to end their posing session before you can Continues overleaf
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Opening times: 9am - 6pm Mon-Fri Tel: 952 493 997 Mob: 629 270 222 Email: info.autoquick@gmail.com C/ Fuengirola 2 (Bajo Gasolinera BP) 29649 Mijas Costa (Malaga) www.autoquick.es
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From Page 17
Mijas
take some pics of your own. Elsewhere, come rain or shine, the Ermita de la Virgen de la Pena is an endearingly unpretentious little chapel. Forget the checked tiles of Notre Dame or the Sagrada Familia’s spiky, bejewelled interior. The hermitage was hollowed out by a single Carmelite monk in the 17th century. Outside, a stone gargoyle spouts water into a grand font. Inside, the candle light, bumpy floor, six ornate gold benches, fresh flowers and a small exhibition are a real treat. Leaving the chapel, I see a pair of pale-skinned Japanese tourists huddled on a bench hollowed out of the rock, using an umbrella to protect themselves from freak 30C It maybe busy March heat. today but Mijas is It’s no wonder al fresco dining popular all year is the norm here, with round, just like usually - not a diamonds table free near the Mirador del Compas, where you can dine to the musical swoosh of water provided by the charming fountain, not Handel! “It may be busy today but Mijas is popular all year round, like diamonds,” confides Francisco, a nut seller who has lived in the town all his life. Rightly, he capitalises on the buzz to flog his delicious candied almonds which give me renewed strength to hit the ground running. Mijas is designed for its multicultural tourist scene – with around 20,000 foreign residents and many, many more visitors. Signs appear in English and there is even an impressive machine vending t-shirts, maps and guides after trading hours.
ON THE UP AND UP HISTORIC SCENES: From the charming churches to the local horseman come feria time
Welcome to the future, I chuckle. And yet the human reception is second to none. Carmen in the Tourist Office, who hai-
ls from Valencia, gives me the inside track on just about everything in immaculate English. In fact she offers maps and info in an incredi-
ble 16 languages! Let’s not forget the countryside. There are beautiful hiking trails waiting to be explored.
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19 March 27th - April 9th 2019
Mijas by numbers
27.5%
- Of Brits living in Malaga, reside in Mijas.
43
- Picasso’s ceramic works in the Contemporary Arts Centre Mijas (CAC Mijas), the second most important collection of this kind in the world.
50%
- ratio of male to female residents.
1,476
feet above ground - Mijas pueblo’s location ensures hot summers and mild winters.
VISTA: Down to coast, while (below) historic bullring
Sign up for ‘senderismo’ at the tourist office for any one (or all) of three weekly routes. Multilingual guides lead groups of up to 30 around paths of varying difficulty – an energetic and sociable affair. “The biggest reason Mijas draws people in is because we are close to the biggest Costa towns yet a typical Andalucian pueblo blanco which people love, complete with donkeys and mountains,” explains Carmen. “While the centre of town is beautifully preserved, we are moving forward and modernising on the outskirts within easy reach of the coast.” Get a free town walking map that emcompasses the key sites in a leisurely two hour stroll – providing you don’t make too many watering-hole stops. Several museums and plazas are worth a lookin, in particular, the oval-shaped bullring built in 1900 and the main town museum, adorned with speciality esparto products and fabulous photos. On top of this is the intriguing miniatures museum and the handsome town hall. Rest your weary legs in the tranquil Plaza de los Siete Canos and poke a nose inside the eighteenth-century Ermita de Nuestra Senora de los Remedios before circuiting back to central Plaza de la Libertad via Calle Larga del Palmar and Calle San Sebastian. The latter is ‘officially’ the pueblo’s prettiest
- hours of sunshine per year (243 days of solid sunshine)
11,000
Brits are registered as living in Mijas.
80,630 tion of Mijas.
- popula-
150,000
Japanese tourists visit Mijas each year.
street. that I’m reluctant to get back in the driving seat There are tapas haunts and restaurants to suit and head for the coast to the municipality’s every taste and budget in Mijas, while the ‘other half’ - Mijas Costa. open air auditorium becomes a great concert But the welcome in La Cala is equally warm – venue, often hosting tribute acts in restaurateurs, professionals and locals are all the summer. itching to tell me about their slice of paradise by Every local I meet seems to have the beach. lived here their whole life: sun-shri- Be it a Sauvignon Blanc in Olivia’s - run by TOWIE velled Antonio, who cannot remem- star Elliott Wright - or a pint of Guinness at Biddy ber his own age, clutches my arm Mulligan’s - run by Davey from Ireland - there is enthusiastically to lead me to the somewhere for everyone to sit back and unwind. art museum while telling me about But as Francisco the nut seller put it, multi-facehow the town has changed. ted Mijas is like diamonds - in demand year-round, We pass boutiques, delis and a ba- and everyone wants a piece of it. Bling it on! king dynasty that has been going since 1904, with grandson Francisco now in charge. It’s easy to fall in love with this enchanting pueblo. At CLINICA VETERINARIA a zapateria, fresh-faced shoe-seller Celia recalls how VETERINARY CLINIC her Liverpool mother met Nuno Moreira Rodrigues an Andalusian in Ibiza in the Veterinario 60s, married him, moved to Mijas and never left. Shoe Jardines de la Butiplaya Local 5 fetishist Nikki, who has pairs La Cala de Mijas, N340 Km202 of alpargatas (espadrilles) in 951 215 494 _ 678 368 441 more than 30 colours – the Butibamba.vet@gmail.com sign of a true española – was similarly smitten. “I went to Liverpool to study VET to HOME C/Fuengirola 6, 29649 languages as my mum did,” says the 37-year-old who La Cala Mijas Costa is a perfect example of the cosmopolitan population in Mijas. “But I came back here tel: 951 401 695 to raise my daughter; it is the mob: 639 727 188 most wonderful place.” Home Veterinary Visits/No call out charge A cool glass of tinto de verano www.joebayley.com Phone: +34 687 079290 later and I feel so welcomed joe@joebayley.com by Mijas Pueblo’s residents vettohome@gmail.com www.vettohome.com
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20 years of friendly swimming pool help and advice
Mijas
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T’S an amazing 20 years since Sammi and Paul Clueit opened their pool shop in Mijas... In that time they have built up a reliable and reputable company that gives quality service. Situated at the entrance to the Doña Pilar urbanisation, Splash Pools Mijas sits just below a Restaurant Valparaiso. From this nerve centre, a team of technicians, pool maintenance specialists and construction experts plan their weeks and months ahead. The company itself has been afloat since 1984 and has undertaken thousands of jobs along the coast and inland over the years, from building and renovating pools to installing heat pumps, automatic covers and taking care of pools. The one-stop shop stocks all types of chemicals, equipment and accessories – but if you do need a part replacing do try to bring it with you so the team can match it correctly. Should you need odd tiles to replace missing ones Splash Pools has a stock of spare ones plus underwater sealer so you do not need to drain the pool. It also offers a FREE test on your pool water to make sure it is healthy and can advise on any problems you are having - this can be done by just bringing them a small sample of the pool water. Meanwhile, the friendly team
If you thought you knew all there was to know about Mijas, these 15 fascinating facts could make you think twice By Pablo Balbontin
Splashing news have an excellent leak detecting service which pinpoints where your leak is – and saves you digging up lots of garden! And repairs and installation of replacement parts are carried out by a dedicated technician. The pool maintenance team who look after both community pools and private pools are also experienced in salt water pools. If you would like help or advice please call the numbers below, where the team will advise you or make an appointment for so-
Making an entrance: Visitors are often curious to know why there are two sculptures of the shrunken head, the seven world Roman God Hercules flanking wonders sculpted from a tooentrance to Mijas Ethnologi- thpick and Abraham Lincoln’s 20th Anniversary! – 20the serving youwere from portrait our Mijas calyears Museum of Mijas. They paintedShop on a pinhead. put there to symbolise the burden of responsibility of the old Melting pot: It’s well known Mijas political leaders. Clearly that thousands of foreigners rerestaurant they had a Herculean (just task.below theside in MijasValparaiso) but did you know there are 113 different nationaLarge shop and just off lities the Carretera Small world: The office Professor registeredde in Mijas the municipaEasy parking of chemicals Max Museum of Miniatures is afor collection lity, including some from exotic dinky-sized delight. Inside what far-flung countries like Bahrain, may be Spain’s quirkiest attracSri Lanka and the Extensive pool toys and games Mauritius, and equipment mebody to visit you. stock of pool accessories, tionatyou’ll find curiosities a a small Seychelles. Parking is available in front of water FREE test of pool the shop – just pop like in with sample the shop which makes collecProfessional maintenance service – tailored to suit your needsBuried | Pool Construction treasure: Traces of ting your chemicals very easy. Specialists in leak detection, repairs and renovations Punic-Phoenician temples have The shop and office are open been in only eight locaNew pool buildsfrom with8am 10 year andfound automatic covers Monday to Friday to guarantees | Installation of pool heaters tions throughout the Iberian Pe3.30 pm ninsula and Mijas is one. During excavations in 2013 two bronze Tel : 952 591 053 or pieces representing the Eyes of 667788291 or visit www. Astarte the goddess were found splashpoolsmijas.com for within the old city walls, suggesdirections. ting that the site was once a HERCULIAN TASK: At museum sanctuary to a healing cult.
Splash Pools Mijas S.L.
SANCTUARY: Virgin de la Peña Indian connection: In Moorish times a ‘green revolution’ saw farming become the economic engine of the area and the most successful produce by far was figs. The sticky fruit were in such demand that they were even shipped to India. Marble-ous Mijas: Who would guess there are pieces of Mijas all over Spain. Marble was its main export during the XVII and XVIII centuries when it was used to embellish many important places of worship, including the cathedrals of Malaga and Sevilla, San Pedro Church in Granada and Santa Tecla in Burgos. War heroes: In 1810 during the Napoleonic Wars not even the distinguished British General Blayney and his 2,000 soldiers were able to conquer Mijas. Un-
Open 8am to 4pm Mon to Fri - Tel: 952 591 053 / 667 788 291 For directions go to: www.splashpoolsmijas.com
20th Anniversary! – 20 years serving you from our Mijas Shop
Splash Pools Mijas S.L. (just below the restaurant Valparaiso) Large shop and office just off the Carretera de Mijas Easy parking for collection of chemicals Extensive stock of pool accessories, pool toys and games and equipment FREE test of pool water at the shop – just pop in with a small sample Professional maintenance service – tailored to suit your needs | Pool Construction Specialists in leak detection, repairs and renovations New pool builds with 10 year guarantees | Installation of pool heaters and automatic covers
Open 8am to 4pm Mon to Fri - Tel: 952 591 053 / 667 788 291 For directions go to: www.splashpoolsmijas.com
G S Hairdresser
21 March 27th - April 9th 2019 se to where the Mediterranean meets the Gibraltar Strait, a rich ocean habitat. Size matters: Although the pueblo is petite, the tourist slogan ‘Mijas Inmensa’ is no lie. With an 80,000 population and an area of 148km2 it’s the third biggest municipality in the province of Malaga, after Malaga City and Marbella.
LOCAL STARS: Brigitte Bardot with Mijas donkey and piglet der ferocious attack by sea and land, the defenders routed British and Spanish forces, captured Blayney and sent the troops scuttling north. It’s known as the Battle of Fuengirola but it was really Mijas as you’ll see below. Siamese twin: Once upon a time Fuengirola didn’t exist - it was all part of Mijas, including the castle on the coast. In 1841 the two towns were separated although one still merges into the other so that the difference is almost imperceptible, like iden-
BATTLE: In Mijas
tical twins. Shape-shifting: Most bullrings are round but Mijas has one of the few oval plazas de toros in Spain. Built in 1900 by popular demand, it’s not easy to pick out, so well is it camouflaged among the white village houses. Star turn: During the 1960s Mijas was a much sought-after backdrop for movie makers for its the typical Andalusian charm. Brigitte Bardot, Raquel Welch and the Spanish actress and singer Marisol respectively strolled its romantic streets in Les Bijoutiers du clair de lune (1958) Fathom (1967)” and Solos los dos (1968). Eco beach: Mijas Costa was declared a Community Interest Area (CIA) in 2006 for its valuable marine ecosystem. Scientists have found 170 different species of molluscs along its shoreline, clo-
Miraculous Mijas: One of the treasures of Mijas is the Virgen de la Peña sanctuary where, according to legend, the Madonna appeared to two shepherds. As a tribute, a hermitage was hollowed out in stone which has become a point of pilgrimage. The Mijas mole: During Franco’s dictatorship many opposition politicians went into hiding but no one had it worse than the last Republican Mayor of Mijas who was holed up behind a false wall under the stairs of his house for 30 years. The pueblo erected a monument to Manuel Cortes,(left) who lived in the dark from 1939 to 1960, not even emerging for his daughter’s wedding which he watched through a hole in the wall. Thai transport: Although burro taxis are iconic in Mijas, a form of transport more familiar to the streets of Bangkok is giving the donkeys a well-earned break: tuk tuks. This electric eco-transport whizzes you up and down the steep jigsaw puzzle streets on a 35-minute tour.
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4 Bed Detached Villa for sale in Mijas, Costa del Sol
3 Bed Terraced Townhouse for sale in Mijas, Costa del Sol
4 Bed Penthouse Apartment for sale in Mijas, Costa del Sol
995.00€ – TE7080392
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Bed: 4 Bath: 5 Build: 376m2 Terrace: 150m2
Bed: 3 Bath:2 Build: 90m2 Terrace: 20m2
Bed: 4 Bath:3 Build: 207m2 Terrace: 25m2
A stunning villa is located in Urbanization Valtocado set on a double plot. This large, private, and spacious villa is spread over 400 m2. This home consists of 3 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms in the main house, a beautiful and open living room space, dining room and kitchen all with amazing sea views!
Fabulous townhouse for sale in Mijas la Nueva. Amazing panoramic and unobstructed sea and mountain views. Very residential area to enjoy all year round in one of the most beautiful urbanizations with real Spanish character. Very private, a unique opportunity in the market today.
Unique opportunity, 4 bedroom penthouse on one level with 25m2 terrace with panoramic sea views located in the heart of Mijas Pueblo and enjoying a communal pool. A unique position and location, this property offers 4 bedrooms, two en-suite, large living room and a very spacious traditional kitchen.
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Luck of the Irish
I
RISH expats in Mijas can rejoice as one of the most popular supermarkets has begun stocking their home country’s biggest brands. Barry’s Tea, Miwadi cordials, Chefs sauces and Cidona are just some of the big names for sale after the Miraflores supermarket managed to land a game-changing deal with the companies. The products also include Club Orange, Club Rock Shandy and Odlums. “We’re very pleased to finally be able to offer the best brands from Ireland and at great prices,” the supermarket said. “We’ve been here for 14 years and just keep growing so thank you to all our loyal customers who keep returning to Miraflores. “Keep an eye out for special offers on our great selection of wines at truly unbeatable prices.” The supermarket, in Riviera del Sol at Centro Comercial Las Terrazas, stocks Torres, Faustino and more and is cheaper than ALL rival stores.
Culture hub I N one way it’s your typical whitewashed Andalucian village branded with the characteristics of Spanish culture known throughout the world - flamenco, religious festivals, artwork from iconic Spanish artists and affable locals. However Mijas likes to go its own way, too. One of the most striking presences in the pueblo is its defiantly rectangular bull ring, a circle squared to save space in this compact town.
Mijas is a living museum in microcosm, showcasing all the great Spanish traditions with a quirky spin that’s quintessentially its own
Geometry
Striking for its elevation as well as its non-conformist geometry, it can be seen from points throughout Mijas, granting stunning views of pastures sweeping down to Costa Fuengirola. Needless to say, bull fights rarely speckle the events calendar here. Colourful festivities, concerts and theatre productions fill the rest of it. Semana Santa is a sight to behold, with elaborate floats bedecked with religious figures illuminating the labyrinthine streets. And you’ll find no shortage of concerts taking place during the summer months. The open-air theatre Auditorio Municipal hosts dance festivals and tribute performances, along with the Spanish Theatre Festival in August where talented actors weave intricate stories under the stars.
its painstakingly microscopic artworks range from the astounding to the bizarre: faces carved into chickpeas, the last supper painted onto a grain of rice, fleas dissected and dressed, to name a few. For artwork you don’t have to squint to see, Cac Mijas Art Gallery has an important Picasso collection and two rooms of temporary exhibitions.
CULTURE: Picasso museum and bullring
Art on a smaller scale appears at the Miniatures Museum of Max Carromato. Founded 45 years ago by a hypnotist,
07:45-22:30
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ARDLY a month goes by without some kind of party animating the flower-pot strewn streets of Mijas Pueblo. And the residents have every reason to celebrate life in this quintessential Andalusian white village. Ingrained with southern Spanish traditions from a young age, the people of the pueblo celebrate with gusto, whether during the riot of Carnaval, the passion of Holy Week or their bizarre Feast of St. Anthony.
Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos - January 5 Mijas is a wonderful place to watch the Three Kings parade at high altitude. A tradition throughout Spain, sweets are thrown to children in the streets as the kings pass through on colourful floats. The procession is an exciting build-up to January 6th, traditionally the day when Spanish children receive their main Christmas presents.
Feast of St. Anthony January 17 The sisterhood of spinsters traditionally looked forward to this quirky fiesta, when single women are invited to hurl stones at the statue of St. Anthony to try and change their marital status. But they need a good aim as only those who manage to hit poor St. Anthony’s private nether regions will find love that year, according to legend. Those who miss can cheer themselves up at the feast (traditionally, stew, sugar cane and palm fruit) and bag themselves a dancing partner at the after-party.
Carnival - February
Celebrating excess before the frugal rigours of Lent, the Spanish version of mardi gras gives residents and visitors the chance to don fancy dress and get involved in an iconic celebration. Prizes are awarded for the best costumes and
there are other opportunities to join in the fun at La Cala and Las Lagunas, which hold their festivities over different weekends.
Easter - March/April Easter is one of the busiest times in Mijas,with a multitude of events in all zones. The hilltop village is undergoing extensive roadworks to ease the passage of the mobbed processions and extravagant golden thrones through its character streets.
International People’s Feria - May Mijas celebrates world cultures on this day every year by inviting local folk from more than 20 countries to set out their stalls with traditional food, drink, handicrafts and clothing. Many countries also stage music and dance performances, with everything from Brazilian beats to Irish dancing.
La Noche de San Juan - June 23 La Noche de San Juan sees coastal towns all over Spain lit up with beach bonfires to celebrate the longest night of the year. But landlocked Mijas Pueblo also gets in on the act, with a firework display and the burning of effigies held in Sebastian Street after sundown.
Flamenco dance festival - July This typically Andalusian art form is celebrated by Mijeños in July with a programme of flamenco guitar, singing and dancing by top local and national performers.
Party pueblo
March 27th - April 9th 2019
A calendar of colourful fiestas ramps up the movida in Mijas village year-round
Mijas Feria September Held around the first week of September, this is one of the highlights of Mijas’ packed cultural calendar. Held in honour of the town’s
patron saint with most of the action taking place in her eponymous square, Virgen de la Pena Plaza - the ladies get glammed up in flamenco dresses, Andalusian thoroughbred horses strut their carefullychoreographed stuff and the sherry flows into la madrugada.
Treasure hunting
M
IJAS Pueblo is a genuine arts and crafts hub. That could be because its narrow streets aren’t wide enough for huge delivery trucks but the town also attracts many creatives. Ceramics, leather goods, handmade jewellery, eco-cosmetics … there’s so much on offer for those who like to buy local and know exactly where their souvenirs are made. That’s not to say every item carries a Made in Mijas label but many of the products sold in its boutiques originated nearby. Saunter through the winding streets where the scent of
leather clings to the air before stepping into one of the many air-conditioned jewelry boutiques to browse dainty bracelets and necklaces inset with crystals excavated from nearby mountains. Check out artisan food stores touting Mijas honey and saffron biscuits to gain an insight into some of the province’s gastronomic delights. Also look out for the eco-cosmetics of local business dynamo Tho-
mas Weller, under the brand WE, sold in various shops. No trip to Mijas would be complete, however, without appreciating some of the town’s impressive ceramics. Many pieces are on display outside the shops, luring in visitors with their vivid colours and Gaudi-esque mosaic work which seem to take their inspiration from the pueblo’s beautiful natural surroundings.
Office: 951 407 604 Mobile: 664 229 455 Email: info@lacalasalesandrentals.com www.lacalasalesandrentals.com Located in the heart of La Cala for over 10 years, La Cala Sales and Rentals are the property specialists for the La Cala de Mijas and Mijas Costa area. Going that extra mile for our clients whether they are buying, selling or renting. We work hard to find your dream property so you don’t have too. Drop in and see us in our office on the beachfront next to the tower. La Cala Sales and Rentals
€599.000
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La Cala de Mijas
El Chaparral
Miraflores
La Cala de Mijas
Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2
Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 4
Build: 85m2 Terrace: 15m2
Very rare opportunity to purchase a luxurious 1st floor apartment located on this beachfront development in the centre of La Cala de Mijas. Set within a small complex of only 24 apartments with direct private access to the beach and popular promenade. A real gem of a property in a stunning location which is sure to attract plenty of interest. We suggest early viewings to avoid disappointment.
Build: 200m2 Plot: 1.054m2
For those of you looking for a villa with stunning sea-views then look no further. This charming property located in the ever popular El Chaparral area has wonderful views from its elevated position. Private pool and garden both low maintenance. Spacious and with lots of potential.
Studio apartment Bathrooms: 3
Build: 54m2 Terrace: 15m2
This top floor apartment has the perfect south west orientation and boast panoramic sea views. The property itself is generous in size and could be converted to a one bedroom apartment if required. The location is also ideal with the beach and facilities all within easy walking distance. The community is known for its wonderful gardens and pool area with the added benefit of an onsite restaurant.
Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2
Build: 85m2 Terrace: 35m2
South facing garden apartment located within the popular area of La Noria golf. Easy walking distance to La Cala removing the need for a car. Finished to a very high standard and comes complete with storeroom and underground garage space. The community grounds are superb and large pool with ample terrace.
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The aroma of
Expat dynamos Thomas Weller and Hugo German are set to diversify their already successful empire in Mijas Pueblo
I
T is hard to step foot in Mijas Pueblo these days without landing in one of Thomas Weller and Hugo German’s excellent restaurants or shops. Now you are just as likely to stay the night in one of their apartments. The pair of successful expats are launching a new side to their business branching out into accommodation. This month the first of five one and two bedroom apartments will come onstream in the historic heart of Mijas’ most evocative area. Each beautifully-appointed with high quality Egyptian cotton sheets and stylish furniture, they are expected to fill up quickly throughout the year. It is a natural addition to their empire, that already includes three shops and popular restaurants Aroma Cafe & Secret Garden, as well as Meguiñez and Latitud 36. “It is the most natural expansion,” explains Thomas. “I have had literally hundreds of people asking me where to stay in the centre of the village over
VARIETY: From the smart interior of Tapintxos to the stunning outdoor escape of the Aroma Cafe & Secret Garden the years and there has simply been rants at night,” he adds. tapas bar and teahouse called Aroma. so much pent up demand for it. It is truly around the world in a dozen The following year he had hooked up “It is the one sector that is completely flavours for the pair these days, with with Argentinian Hugo, 57, and the booming in Mijas these days.” dishes ranging from Argentinian pair quickly hit it off, with Hugo helTo manage the demand and expec- steaks to osso bucco and sushi to sea ping Thomas build and kit out a series ted new business he is converting a bass. of shops in the village. shop into a rental hub, which will also It all started in 1998 when Canadian An engineer by trade, father-of-three double as an estate agent and travel entrepreneur Thomas, 47, opened his Hugo moved from Buenos Aires during agent. first restaurant in Mijas; a sushi bar, the deep 1990s recession, looking to “It’s double bubble all round as more which was the first of its kind on the make a new life in Spain. people staying in the village will mean Costa del Sol. He certainly found his vocation with more clients coming to our restau- This followed in 2003 with a popular Thomas always looking for exciting
C/ San Sebastián, 8. Mijas Pueblo
Reservas / Bookings : 952 59 03 93
“Descubre nuestro gran secreto” “Discover our great secret” www.aromacafeandsecretgarden.com
HIDDEN: The Secret Garden must be seen for a new ventures, the best by far when in 2009 the pair opened their first restaurant together, after finding a hidden overgrown garden
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glass of wine, coffee, lunch or supper in the heart of the pueblo. Clearing out the brambles and rubbish, they shipped in tables and created an Argenti-
TOP TUCKER: At La Cucina di Nico nian-style bbq called Aroma Cafe & Secret Garden, which eventually started to make money. “It was a very tough few early years,” explains Hugo. “And it wasn’t until we got the concept right that things started to work. “Finally we created the bbq out of a recycled staircase and suddenly it went wild.” Since then they have invested more and more in the remarkable gardens,
which are a must-visit, if only for a glass of wine or coffee. “We wanted to create a sensation, something visual, not just a place to eat,” adds Thomas, who first arrived in Europe in the 1990s as a ski rep in the Swiss Alps. The pair now run three restaurants together, Aroma, Meguiñez and Latitud 36 tapas grill, while Thomas also owns Tapintxos and an Italian trattoria, called La Cucina di Nico, named
March 27th - April 9th 2019
GRILL KINGS: Hugo and chef lead the way after his son. It seems to be a winning formula,” he Hugo meanwhile has just opened a explains. restaurant in Fuengirola, called Tanit, “Mijas’ culinary scene is getting more with his son Simon. and more exciting all the time. As if not busy enough already, Thomas “When I arrived here over 20 years also runs an exciting eco-cosmetic ago, there were a lot of over-priced company, Weller Ecology, which sells places and very little quality. We have from his three shops in the town, as helped to change that.” well as another in Ronda. He puts his ability to run so many The shop sells a range of products, businesses in one place down to two including Spain’s only 100% organic things: being able to walk between CBD cosmetics line, he explains. them, and his excellent team. The group collectively employs around “I think it’s good to be involved with 60 to 115 local workers - the largest lots of very different projects, and to private employer in the village - and always be taking on something comThomas is constantly on the move, pletely different,” he says. looking to improve his products and “That way, if one thing starts to lapse restaurants. you can always rely on the others.” “All our places offer good food, good service and simple, good ingredients. www.aromacafeandsecretgarden.com
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IJAS Pueblo has had some changes over the years since Susanne Teres arrived in 1984 and started Mijas Properties & Holidays. However, the great thing is, so much of the Pueblo that she fell in love with, is still the same. The friendliness of the locals, the great climate, the typical white houses with flower pots, the churches, plazas, cafes and shops still bustling. Mijas Pueblo is so beautiful with sea and mountain views, tranquil developments settling in the hillsides, it continues to capture the hearts of new visitors every day. Mijas Properties & Holidays have a spacious office
The popularity of Mijas dates back to Greek and Roman times
Brexit? Who cares close to the Town Hall and offer a great portfolio of properties for sale in the area plus holiday and long term rentals. D e s p i te all the uncertainty of Brexit, British people are still buying along with other nationalities. The friendly, professional team all speak English and are the only
agents in the village to offer a safe purchase guarantee covering any kind of legality 20 years after purchase! Aftersales care and advice are always available. Susanne (pictured left) and her team are so proud and feel privileged to be selling and renting in their little piece of Paradise! Pop in to see them for a chat if you are thinking of selling or buying without any pressure, or check out their website www.mijasproperties.com. Mijas Properties and Holidays Tel: (34) 952 485 025 info@mijasproperties.com
I
TS whitewashed houses with low windows and tiny doorways are characteristically Moorish, typical of other Andalusian mountain villages. But Mijas Pueblo is a lot older than it looks. Founded in prehistoric times, it was previously occupied by Greeks and Romans who sought the area’s rich minerals and resources: marble and agate excavated in the mountains, esparto grown for weaving baskets, espadrilles and hats and nutrient-rich soil which produces some of the best olives in the region.
Harvest
You can learn all about it at the town’s Casa Museo ethnographic museum. “My family used to have five huge vats in our house,” says Carmen Escalona Vega, a volunteer at the museum. She tells us her father had a small farm where he used to harvest olives and produce oil to fill these huge containers, preserving it for up to a year. “Back then we didn’t have a fridge. We didn’t need one,” she says. A similar story rings true with many families in the area. Before the tourism boom of the 1950s and 60s, most people lived off the land and the donkeys which have become one of the village’s attractions had tougher
Donkeys, olives and more STREET SCENE: Typical whitewashed houses jobs, transporting produce and powering flour mills. Caves dug into the mountains were once used for storing to-
matoes. Now it’s the constant beat of tourist feet that feeds the town today.
Mijas Properties was established in 1984 by Susanne Terés. Specialists in Mijas Pueblo and surrounding area for over 35 years! Sales Short / Long Term Rentals
Ref: V2365ATA
Price: 195,000€
Lovely detached country House close to Mijas! 2 Beds * 1 Bath *
Ref: V2189QUE
Price:220,000€
Beautiful Townhouse In Mijas la Nueva ! 2 beds * 2 baths * views
Ref: V2030TAB
Price: 725,000€
Stunning villa, pool & garden 5 beds * 3 baths Fantastic sea views!
Ref: V.2343LOM
Price: 895,000€
Impressive Villa close to Mijas ! 4 beds* 4 baths Panoramic Sea views !
Here are just a few of the fantastic properties we have on the market – for more information on these properties and others available – please visit our website or pop in & meet us! Located in the heart of Mijas Village, near the Town hall If you are thinking of putting your property on for sale or rent, please do not hesitate to call us!
www.mijasproperties.com Tel : 952 485 025 - info@mijasproperties.com Avda. Virgen de la Peña 8, Mijas Pueblo
March 27th - April 9th 2019
OCEANS OF FUN: To be had at El Oceano
A crafty lot hats and even shoes, with examples at the Mijas folk museum (see right) meanwhile other snapshots of Mijas in days gone by include an underdeveloped La Cala in the 1960s
A slice of heaven
I
F you’re looking to treat yourself this year then look no further than El Oceano Luxury Boutique Beach Hotel. The perfect beachfront hotel, situated between Marbella and La Cala de Mijas, offers an outdoor pool, pool bar, VIP sunbeds, the Martini Lounge and a fantastic restaurant to boot. And it helps that there’s always friendly and highly trained staff ready to offer impeccable service. Meanwhile, the rooms, which were recently redesigned, are spacious and luxurious and give every guest a ‘feel good factor’. Most of them are OceanFront Mini-Suites offering stunning views of the coast.
But for those who prefer to self-cater, there are 15 beautifully appointed south-facing studio apartments offering a little privacy, away from the main hotel. And don’t forget the hotel’s new Penthouses. Constructed in 2016, they consist of four spectacular, private Pe n t h o u s e s , all with uninterrupted sea views. Many of the rooms offer spectacular views of the North African coast, the Pillars of Hercules and the Rock of Gibraltar...and just under your nose, there’s a quiet, secluded beach, heaven! The hotel is taking bookings for April NOW so visit www. oceanohotel.com to book yourself a slice of heaven.
DE LAS O D N TE U M
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CREATIVITY AND RESOURCEFULNESS: Mijas workers created an industry around the weaving of esparto grass, men picking it in the high mountains and women folk creating a range of baskets,
25 YEARS DECORATING YOUR HOME
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NATIONAL AND IMPORTED FABRICS FROM ALL OVER EUROPE MADE TO ORDER - CURTAINS, CUSHIONS, BLINDS EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR YOUR TERRACE UPHOLSTERY SERVICE FOR BARS, HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS
MUNDODELASTELAS
TEL: 952 47 70 50 CARRETERA DE MIJAS KM 4,7 MIJAS COSTA, MÁLAGA
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La Cala de Mijas
Hotel Carmen CONTRASTS: Inland dream at La Cala Resort and beach paradise at El Oceano
since 2013
WHERE TO STAY
M
@hotel_carmen
La Cala de Mijas Costa del Sol - Málaga (Spain) Tel. (+34) 952 494 014 www.hotel-carmen.es reservas@hotel-carmen.es
Hotel Carmen
IJAS has a great range of places to stay, from good budget options to grand luxury. The top end certainly includes La Cala Resort and Spa, one of the coast’s most exclusive hideouts and probably the best golf hotel in Spain. Counting on no less than three courses, along with fabulous fairways there are grass football training pitches pitches and a large gym - used by soccer teams from Everton to Steaua Bucharest, the England side included - and an overriding sense of nature and peace drawn from the stunning views to faraway mountains and Mijas village in the distance. This charming four-star hotel’s Thai-style spa introduces you to a range of exotic treatments in therapy rooms looking out across the valley. And after a hard day’s detoxing, fasting and pampering you don’t need to look far for your next meal - swanky La Terraza restaurant or the more informal Bodega next door. Another super luxury place to stay is El Oceano, perched on the coast as its name promises, just outside La Cala village. This stunning spot is still looking fabulous after its multi-million refit of two years ago. The suites are sumptuous and incredibly well-appointed, each with their own balcony over-
Sweet dreams
looking the rocky coastline. No wonder it’s full of celebrities and VIPs in summer, with many paying more than €500 euros a night. Run by John Palmer, his wife Lorraine and sonin-law Glen, there’s a real family feel about the place that keeps regulars coming back. For a more economical option, the Hotel Carmen in La Cala de MIjas is a great bet. The rooms at this two-star establishment are spotless and represent excellent value in a great location close to the action. For another prime spot up in the village, look out for Casa Tejon, offering spacious apartments with a great price/quality ratio. And coming soon, a new series of excellent one and two bedroom apartments being offered by Thomas Weller of the Aroma chain, the very epitome of comfort.
29 March 27th - April 9th
WHERE TO EAT
Toast of the coast
MAESTROS: Oceano’s Squires and Blue Marlin team
Mijas has a surprisingly vibrant restaurant scene, writes Dining Secrets of Andalucia editor Jon Clarke
H
E has become a global superstar as with plenty of rich stews and popular dishes much for his appearances on British TV like seafood pasta and an amazing clam chowas for his celebrated three Michelin stars. der. But few people know that British culinary This couple became famous from the TV show genius Michel Roux Jr (right) cites Mijas as the A New Life in the Sun and run a tight ship, if town that inspired him to follow in the footsteps you’ll excuse the fishy pun, with hundreds of regulars swearing by of his famous father at two Michelin their place. star Le Gavroche in London. It is not really surpriThe British-born maestro of Mastersing, given that the pair chef and Gordon Ramsey’s Hell’s Kitran restaurants back in chen fame visited the pueblo with his Scotland, while chef Stefamily as a child and revealed how ve has worked in many he tried things he had ‘never tasted places around the world before’. and his family have been “I remember I got a great big chunk running inns as far back of honey in the comb and was baffled as 1760. as to how to attack it. I ended up just And there is more at scraping and sucking it. wonderful El Oceano, a “I had orange juice, too – made with hotel restaurant right on fresh, real squeezed oranges.” It is a legacy that has been continued Continues on Page 30 to this day by London-trained chefs like Joffrey Charles and William Squires, at El Oceano restaurant. “It’s getting better and better here and there is a lot of competition,” exA MIJAS restaurant is celebrating plains Squires, who worked for four 25 years in business. years under famous Melbourne chef Restaurant Ole is a favourite Joel Valvason. among locals and expats and “There are a lot of young chefs with serves everything Spanish with new ideas and it’s great to try new meats, fish and paellas readily things, then get back and do things available. with a new twist,” he adds. And it’s no wonder it has surviTake a spin around La Cala these ved for more than two decades, days and you will find the wonderful with a quiet and cozy atmosphePura Cepa wine bar, Pura Sangre re, friendly staff and unbeatable and the amazing Blue Marlin fish prices. restaurant - probably the best on the The stalwart eatery is situated in coast. the Los Claveles III urbanisation The only ‘northern European fish resin La Cala and is open seven days a week from 6pm to 11pm. taurant’ in the area - run by Alison and Steve Hyatt - I found them hard at FAMILY FARE: Call 952 492 162 to book your it, prepping stews and dishes hours Juan and Victor at table or visit www.restauranbefore opening. Restaurante Ole teole.es for more information. The fish here is unbelievably good
Silver service
VOTED NO.1 SEAFOOD RESTAURANT IN LA CALA DE MIJAS ON TRIPADVISOR AND ‘EXCELLENT’ ON THE FORK
SEA FOOD D I F F E R E N T LY EARLY BIRD MENU – BEST QUALITY AND VALUE ON THE COAST Includes a starter and main course with a complimentary glass of wine/small beer or soft drink. Available 6pm - 8pm – 25€
LA20€ CARTE • Early A Bird - 6pm - 8pm AVAILABLE FROM • A La Carte Menu from6PM 6pm BOOKING RECOMMENDED SERIOUSLY GOOD FOOD Open Tuesday - Saturday from 6pm
Tel: 952 49 35 04 | Mob: 661 84 33 83 Avenida de Rota, Urb. Torrenueva, Local 1, La Cala de Mijas
www.thebluemarlin.eu
Open Monday to Saturday 14:00 to 23:00, Sunday closed June to October Open 7 days a week, Monday to Sunday
Cafeteria Churreria Cañon
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WHERE TO EAT From Page 29
Open: 06.30 - 16.00 Sundays/Domingos – Closed/Cerrado Breakfast/Desayunos: 06.30 - 13.00 Churros: 07.00 - 12.30 Menu of the Day/Menu Del Dia: 13.00 - 16.00 Tel: 952 587 645 Pso de Boulevard No.13 La Cala de Mijas Cafeteria Churreria Cañon
Mijas
the beach which is glamour personified. Head chef William Squires, 31, (right) has worked around the world, including four years in Australia and three in Ireland, and has built up a rave repertoire for Asiatic dishes in particular. The beef tartare is his ‘tete de cuvee’, marinated overnight, then rolled in peppercorns, seared for 30 seconds and rested in the fridge before being served. I also liked the tempura prawns with wasabi and the excellent scallops with ham while my winning pick would be the original take on Manchego Arancini, rice balls seasoned with saffron. The restaurant offers front row seats right on the beach and, after a multi-million euro overhaul, is even more glamorous than before. For yet another completely different style, head 400 metres inland to find the fantastic family-style Ole restaurant where Juan Go-
mez has been on the go for an incredible 25 years. Juan is a charming host – speaking perfect English. With son Victor, equally full of bonhomie, they put great emphasis on fresh ingredients, sourcing much from their finca near Ronda. “I buy all the meat and fish and go shopping every day to the local markets to find the very best ingredients,” explains Juan. “And price/quality is the key to my success.” Expect to eat fantastic stuffed red peppers, delicious lettuce hearts with anchovies, and great salmon cooked in a spicy dill sauce. Last but not least, if credentials were needed to run a wine bar, owning your own vineyard would certainly help. Meanwhile, Ronda chef Paco Flores at Pura Sangre has been making a name for himself with a stunning range of creative dishes. PURE BRED QUALITY: Paco Flores He first came into and sous chef at Puro Sangue while the public eye with (below) team at The Blarney his award-winning ‘gazpachuelo’ at Madrid Fusion in PADDY’S in La Cala Hills offers the perfect Guinness pou2012. red from Dublin crafted taps, in the newly refurbished suHe now divides his rrounding of Mijas Golf’s first Irish pub. time between his La The pioneering pub is run by charming Irish couple Mick Cala eaterie and a and Dee, who have enjoyed 20 years in the trade from Kilkenny to Gran Canaria. new restaurant, FaThe experience pairs’ winning combo of warmth, great brica, in Fuengirola, food and craic has already proved a hit on the mainland. which used to be the With tasty food to have in or go, tuck into a full breakfast, legendary Toston. golden jack potatoes or traditional fish with hand cuts Finally, in La Cala chips. look out for The The pub’s first Paddy’s Day was a lively affair with five Blarney, which is a empty barrels standing testament to a memorable day great spot for lunch, shared by all. or an excellent Tomorrow sees Paddy’s first Karaoke Night, hosted by Jabreakfast. son Walsh from 8pm until 11pm, sing your favourite tunes Open for a year it is or just soak up the atmosphere with friends. garnering a good reBe sure to call ahead to avoid disappointment. putation.
PADDY’S PROMISE
PADDYS BAR
LA CALA HILLS
LIVE SPORTS SHOWN ON 4 BIG SCREENS FULL MENU AVAILABLE ALL DAY • SUNDAY ROASTS TAKE AWAY MENU AVAILABLE
OPEN 9 TILL LATE tel: 951 068 586 Calle Acebuche, 14, La Cala Hills, Málaga, Spain
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PUEBLO REVOLUTION Heading up towards the pueblo you have a few exciting places to eat, the best easily being Casa Navarro, serving the area for decades. It is one of the most prestigious tables one can imagine with everyone from Lady Diana to Julio Iglesias have dined there. It is a true family affair, open since 1990 and with an amazing collection of wines in its cellar going way beyond that. “We’ve had everyone eating here from Lady Diana to the Rolling Stones and both Julio Iglesias and his son Enrique on lots of occasions,” explains owner Carlos. But you are here really to try the food and the real star of the restaurant is Carlos’s daughter Leire, whose vegetable dishes are lush and include chard with almonds and thistles (cardoons) with ham, both great dishes. Up in the pueblo itself you absolutely have to check out the Secret Garden, one of the definitive dining secrets of the coast. This oasis, tucked away behind its more typical whitewashed sister restaurant Aroma, is a beautiful hidden garden in the heart of the village. It’s a superb place to kick back and enjoy a nice mix of authentic Iberian dishes alongside Argentinean fare – particularly steaks - thanks to co-owner Hugo German. Part of a group of restaurants owned by Hugo and his business partner Thomas Weller, make sure to look out for their Taberna Meguinez (which means ‘Are you winking at me?’) which has an excellent menu, as well as the fishy delights at Latitud 36. Then there’s Tapintxos, inspired by Thomas’s love of the north of Spain, and his new Italian La Cucine di Nico where the osso bucco is some-
BOULEVARD DE LA CALA
MEAT-FEAST: At Casa Navarra
thing special. There are quite a few other good restaurants and new places to eat tapas but few beat La Bodega del Pintor, which also has a lovely hidden garden at the back. Welcoming owner Amparo was actually born in this charming spot, which offers visitors the chance to dine in a historic 300-year-old townhouse. Atmospheric in the extreme, the restaurant serves up plenty of wines by the glass to go with its tempting tapas. “I wanted to create the sense that you are dining in someone’s home,” explains Amparo, whose 86-year-old mother still lives upstairs.
LA CALA DE MIJAS
THE SCOTTISH PREMIER LEAGUE THE ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE
A LARGE SELECTION OF RUMS & GINS LIVE MUSIC AND KARAOKE
Come and try our famous breakfast Also serving fresh food and bar snacks The ONLY Bar in La Cala serving BREWDOG (bottles and on tap)
ADALID CALLE BEN THE REAL THAI BLARNEY ESTATE
The Blarney La Cala de Mijas
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LA CALA DE MIJAS