10 Things you should do before the summer’s out

With the summer season almost over, it’s time to make the most of those last few weeks of uninterrupted sunshine…

1. Enjoy a long, lazy lunch at your local chiringuito

Many beach restaurants in Marbella close their doors for the season at the end of September so why not head down to your local chiringuito to catch the last serving of sardines from the spit of the year. With the heat of summer fading and a welcome, cooler breeze now upon us, there’s nothing more satisfying than indulging in some typical Mediterranean fayre, al fresco.

2. Get pampered at the Hotel Fuerte Miramar Spa for just 16 euros!

If you’ve had a hectic summer, there’s nowhere better to relax and unwind than the tranquil spa at Marbella’s Hotel Fuerte Miramar. They’re currently offering Hydrotherapy treatment (includes jet massage in the dynamic pool, massage beds, sauna, steam bath and Scottish bio thermal shower) for just 16 euros! For more information, call 952 768 410.

3. Have an Amazing Sunday at Nikki Beach

Before Marbella’s most lavish outdoor club packs away its sumptuous beds for the winter, make sure you get down to Nikki Beach for one of its renowned Amazing Sundays. With chilled, up-to-the-minute house grooves, top international DJs, exquisite cuisine and the best cocktails on the coast, where better to spend your last weekend of the summer? To reserve a bed call, 952 836 239.

4. Take a walk on the wild side at Selwo adventure and animal park

Situated just 20km from Marbella, close to the town of Estepona, Selwo boasts an  impressive number ofanimals ranging from big cats to exotic birds. Perfect for a family day out, there’s a restaurant as well as accommodation for those who want to spend more time with thewild things! Adults – €24.50 and €17.00 for children (3-7 years). For more information, call 902 190 482.

5. Watch the tennis at Marbella Masters Tournament

Expected to attract over 15,000 visitors, Marbella Masters will see some of the world’s biggest tennis stars take to centre court for a spectacular 4-day sporting showdown kicking off on 16 September 2010.  Ticket prices start at 10€ each are available from www.ticketmaster.com and El Corte Ingles before 1 September.

6. Enjoy an exhilirating outdoor adventure

Fancy yourself as a bit of a daredevil? If so, look no further than Marbella’s very own adrenaline junkies, Team Xtreme.  From free-falling, jet-skiing and paragliding to caving, canyoning and kitesurfing, the sky really is the limit when it comes to the outdoor adventures available. For more information, call 952 768 349.

7. Make a splash at Aqua Mijas!

With just a few weeks left until it closes its doors until next season, Aqua Mijas Water Park, situated close to the town of Fuengirola, is currently offering excellent discounts for families and groups. With a wave pool, Jacuzzi, toboggan rides, rapids and the long, windy Labyrinth slides, you’re in for a wet and wild time! For more information, call 952 460 404.

8. Sail away

If you’re thinking of heading down to Marbella’s Puerto Deportivo in the last few weeks of summer, don’t miss the opportunity to get great views of the town and its stunning mountainous backdrop and the Golden Mile – from the sea.  The Fly Blue ‘taxi’ catamaran to takes just 30 minutes to reach the glitzy Puerto Banus and costs just 8€ for a  single journey.

9. Get golfing

Marbella Golf and Country Club is undeniably one of those most exclusive venues on the Costa del Sol. Located just five minute’s drive from Marbella town centre, the venue, with golf courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, is the perfect place to attempt that all important hole-in-one with friends or family. With a wellness centre and the luxurious ‘El Olivo’ restaurant, there’s no excuse not to make a day of it! For more information, call 952 83 05 00.

10. Climb La Concha

If you love being outdoors, enjoy exercise and taking photographs, then head for Marbella’s biggest, most iconic mountain, La Concha. Taking roughly 5 hours to reach the summit and get back down, the walk covers 11km of stunning Andalucían terrain and offers incredible views of the coast, the Straight of Gibraltar and the Atlas mountains of Morocco. The trail begins at the Refugio de Juanar, situated close to the inland town of Ojén and is perfect for a group expedition.