A view of Mijas

The story of Mijas encapsulates the story of the Costa del Sol. Originally a humble village, it is now the richest town in the province. Since finding favour with discerning bohemian artists and writers in the 1950s and '60s, Mijas has sprawled across the surrounding hills and down to the coast yet managed to retain the picturesque charm of the original pueblo.

Mijas has a foreign population of at least 40% and the municipality includes Mijas-Costa, on the coast southwest of Fuengirola. Golf courses abound, and Mijas is a noted area for rock climbing (particularly in winter), with around 100 grade V-7 climbs. Mijas is also famous for its donkey taxis, which have resulted in criticism from animal welfare groups.

Mijas is located half an hour from Marbella.