From the Tapas Route in Torremolinos and Benalmadena, to the oleotourism routes and wine tastings, the Costa del Sol invites visitors to discover its culinary culture in a sustainable and quality environment.
Various towns on the Costa del Sol, such as Marbella and Pujerra, celebrate autumn with seasonal festivals and other local products such as wine and olive oil_ Image: Shutterstock
Malaga, November 6, 2024.- Autumn, and the colder months in general, is one of the best times of the year to visit the province of Malaga, known as Costa del Sol, and enjoy its rich gastronomic offer. With the end of summer, this region offers a mild climate, not too hot and not too cold, along with seasonal produce that become the stars of the table. Through various routes, culinary activities and local celebrations, this destination invites lovers of good food to discover the essence of its gastronomy during the next months.
Among the main experiences is the Tapas Route that runs through municipalities such as Torremolinos and Benalmádena, where local establishments offer tapas made with fresh and traditional products. Ingredients such as extra virgin olive oil, jamón ibérico (iberian ham), and local fish and seafood allow visitors to savour the essence of the Costa del Sol, accompanied by drinks that enhance each creation.
Another key celebration is the Chestnut Festival in Marbella and Pujerra, an event dedicated to this typical autumn product, which includes the tasting of traditional recipes, from stews to desserts. In addition, attendees can participate in workshops and cultural activities that underline the importance of this product in local gastronomy.
Celebrations and typical dishes of the Malaga region
The inland areas of the province also take centre stage this season, with events and dishes that highlight the culinary richness of each region.The 'Fiesta del Mosto' (grape juice family-oriented festival, the celebration of the non-alcoholic part of wine making) in the town of Yunquera is one of the most eagerly awaited autumn events, where visitors can taste freshly fermented must alongside roasted chestnuts, a tradition that celebrates the harvest and rural work. The Perota de Álora soup, made with bread, tomato, peppers, onion and a touch of mint, is another typical delicacy of the season that is enjoyed at local events and bars.
At the Rabbit Festival in Parauta, local restaurants and family sales offer traditional rabbit recipes in garlic or sauce, highlighting the flavors of mountain cuisine. Another renowned autumn dish is the lamb stew, which is tasted in towns such as Campillos and Antequera, highlighting the tender meat accompanied by vegetables and herbs from the mountains.
Wine and olive oil, two pillars of the Mediterranean diet, also play a prominent role during this season. The oleotourism routes, one of the novelties promoted in 2024 by Turismo Costa del Sol, allow you to learn about the process of making extra virgin olive oil, visiting oil mills and participating in tastings. Tours of local wineries are also offered to discover the designations of origin of Malaga wines.
A commitment to the sustainability of the food value chain
The commitment to sustainability and the use of local products remains a priority throughout the gastronomic autumn in the province. This commitment to fresh and local ingredients enriches the culinary experience and promotes a more conscious and responsible tourism with the environment and the community.
With a variety of events and activities, the Costa del Sol in autumn offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the gastronomy of the province, explore its inland villages and enjoy the local culture. Thus, this destination is consolidated as an excellent option for those looking for authentic and quality experiences beyond the summer season.
‘Sierra de Las Nieves’ National Park, in the interior of the Costa del Sol (Andalusia, Spain), an area with many activities,famous white villages and a rich gastronomy_ Image: Visit Costa del Sol
A complete journey though the Costa del Sol
A culinary route along the Costa del Sol would not be complete without enjoying its beaches, its cultural heritage and its natural wealth. With more than 150 kilometres of coastline, seaside tourism remains one of the great attractions of the province of Malaga, but beyond the coast, visitors can explore white villages with centuries of history, stunning natural landscapes such as the Caminito del Rey and Mountains of Malaga Natural Park, and emblematic monuments such as the Alcazaba and the Roman Theatre in the city of Malaga. The cultural offer, with renowned museums such as the Picasso Museum and the Pompidou Centre, complements a stay that mixes gastronomy, good weather and heritage.