Mariposa Libre

Guests hereabouts ought not waste proximity to the coastal city of Málaga, half an hour’s drive from base. If only a handful of spots can be visited, make them the stunning palatial fortress of Alcazaba, the bullring museum, the Picasso museum and the winery, though multiple visits wouldn’t go astray either. Continue city days with a trip to the famed seaside resort of Marbella, where there’s much more to do than clubbing. Visitors can take to the beaches for watersports, swims and sunbathing, have a go on go-karting tracks, explore a handful of museums and gardens, and wander between the Salvador Dalí sculptures dotted about. Take a break from the urban with outdoorsy explores, starting with the spectacular El Caminito del Rey, a one-way (non-looped) hike along boardwalks built onto canyon walls. The route starts in Ardales (30 minutes) and finishes at the lake of Guadalhorce, and guests must be sure to book in advance. Less energy-filled days are to be had by sticking closer to home base. Kids – and grownups – can be handily entertained with trips to Aqualand Torremolinos waterpark (20 minutes), jaunts on the fair rides at Tivoli World (25 minutes), tours and petting at Crocodile Park (20 minutes), and afternoons watching dolphins and sea lions at Selwo Marina (30 minutes).