Due to his excellent location, you can plan several day trips from Mijas. Ronda, Gibraltar or even a bit further away Granada, whatever excursion you will do is completely up to your personal preferences.
I made a selection out of the large choice of trips from Mijas. Bear in mind that this is only a few of the large choice you have. First of all, Mijas Pueblo, if you are staying on the coast, it really is worthwhile to make the trip to the village. Located only about 5 km higher up in the mountains and easy to access. You can make this trip on your own or book a organised excursion with guide for this visit to maximize your experience of the Andalusian culture.
The village Mijas Pueblo is situated about 450 meter above sea level and this mountain village gives you an extrordanary view of the coast. It seems that time has stopped in this white village. With his traditional white houses, narrow streets and cosy squares this village is merits a visit. Plaza de Torros, Iglesia de la Inmaculada concepcion, de gedenkplaats van Virgin de la Peña, are only a few of the sites to visit.
Another village higher up in the mountains is Ronda. This city is located at 70km from Mijas Costa. You need a full day to enjoy the most of this excursion. Ronda is mainly know for its oldest and most famous bull ring of Spain. But there is much more to see. From the Puento Nuevo, the bridge of more then 200 meter above the valley, called El Tajo Gorge, you have a magnificant view on the unspoiled nature of the surroundings. The old Arab baths, from the 13th century have been exceptionnaly kept in a great shape and kan be visited with or without a guide. After this historical visit, get back to reality and enjoy the tapas bars and shops in the modern street of Calle La bola.
Some travel agencies combine a visit to Ronda with Puerto Banus in Marbella. This combination is , to my opinion, not recommendable, as your time to visit Ronda will be too limited. Puerto Banus, with his gorgeous yacht harbor, his exciting night live and the golden mile can better be visited another time.
Gibraltar at the far end of the Costa del Sol, still under U.K. government, is recommended for all those who like to combine a great shopping experience with a trip to visit exceptional nature. Gibraltar is tax free and you can find plenty of bargains here. A necessary identification with your passport when entering Gibraltar can create long cues to access this peninsula. Pay attention to the maximum quantities per adult, that you are allowed to take back to spain, as controls are frequent when leaving Gibraltar.
Beside the shopping, Gibraltar also offers other exciting places. The 'Rock' of Gibaltar kcan be reached by cable cabin, on foot or with a mini van and guide. The local habitants of the rock, The Barbary apes will give you with pleasure a full show of theire 'monkey business'. From the bay of Gibraltaryou can make a cruise of about 1 1/2 hour. This trip is rather expensive for the time you are spending on the boart but it is fun to watch the dolfins play and swim by the boat. The children will definetly sleep in the car on their way back.
Other things to do from Mijas are trips to Sevilla, Cordoba or Granada.
