ESTEPONA

Some 36km west of Marbella is Estepona, another of the Costa del Sol's fast developing resorts. It offers the attractions of a long beach, pleasant seafront promenade, a marina and at least three golf courses. It is also a good centre for selling and windsurfing.

This former fishing village retains a large fleet protected by a harbor which also has moorings for some 400 yachts and pleasure craft: An enjoyable pastime is to wander down to the port early in the morning and watch the fresh catch being sold at the fish market: The old town dates back to Roman and Moorish times.

The focal point is the charming little square of the Plaza de las Flores, entered by four archways of trees. Amid trim orange trees and tropical plants, this is a good place in which to linger over a drink. The surrounding area offers a pleasant stroll through tiny streets lined with picturesque houses. Take a look at the church on Plaza de la Roloj and go down the steps to the Mercado Municipal, a covered market for fruit, vegetables and fresh fish. Above the little town are old castle ruins.