Coín Area Guide
Coín, Malaga: A Factual Guide to a Charming Inland Spanish Town
Nestled in the heart of the Costa del Sol, Coín stands as a testament to the rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty that define this region of southern Spain. As a lesser-known gem, Coín offers a unique blend of authenticity and modernity, inviting visitors to explore its historic streets, embrace local traditions, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes.The town is about 20 kilometers from the beaches, so as you can imagine the focus is on working and living in an authentic Spanish inland town. With a population of over 30,000+ inhabitants, the town is well-serviced with retail food and clothing, home maintenance, and leisure companies with all sorts of conveniences and amenities.
Coín is very much a Spanish working town where families live their daily lives as they have done for centuries (admittedly now with WIFI, cell phones and all modern conveniences).
In this factual guide, we delve into the key aspects that make Coín a compelling destination on the Costa del Sol. It makes for a pleasant change from the sea and coast landscape and has an authentic, genuine working town feel. It is also this exact feature that attracts new overseas residents.
1. Location and Accessibility
Coín is strategically located in the inland region of the Costa del Sol, approximately 33 km west of Malaga. Its proximity to the coast makes it easily accessible by car, with a drive of about 30 minutes west from the Malaga airport. The town's central location also allows for convenient day trips to nearby attractions.
Exploring Coín's Old Town is a journey of delightful discoveries. Tucked away in the maze of streets are hidden corners and charming courtyards, where locals gather to escape the heat or engage in animated conversations. Each corner reveals a snapshot of daily life in this timeless quarter.
2. Historic Charm of the Old Town
The heart of Coín lies in its Old Town, a maze of narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and charming squares. Plaza Alameda, the main square, is a hub of activity surrounded by cafes, shops, and the iconic San Juan Bautista Church. Stroll through the historic streets to discover architectural gems and immerse yourself in the town's cultural ambiance.
The Moorish legacy is evident in the layout of Coín's Old Town, with its narrow, winding streets and hidden corners. The architectural remnants, such as arched doorways and the occasional glimpses of ancient walls, narrate the story of Moorish influence that once shaped the town.
3. Historical Landmarks
Coín boasts many historical landmarks that provide insights into its past. The San Juan Bautista Church, dating back to the 16th century, is a prominent example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. The Santa Maria Church and the Alameda Theatre are additional landmarks that display the town's cultural and architectural richness.
Slightly more recent history, has been made with the set of the BBC’s El Dorado, located outside of Coín from the 1992 production of this ill-fated soap, set in the fictional Los Barcos. The set remains but unfortunately not as a tourist attraction. It cost £10 million sterling to build a realistic, complete town including a square and old town, complete with restaurants, and back-room production offices including TV editing suites. It is located close to the popular Los Nebrales Urbanisation, for those who might want to look and be nostalgic and see where El Dorado was born.
4. Local Markets
Experience the vibrancy of local life by visiting Coín's markets. The weekly market, held on Saturdays, is a bustling affair where locals and visitors converge to explore stalls offering fresh produce, clothing, and artisanal products. The market reflects Coín's community spirit and is a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the daily life of the town.
There is a fresh produce and bric-a-brac market on the outskirts of the town every Sunday morning from 10am till 2pm. Local farmers sell their produce directly to the public. Most of the buying and selling is conducted in Spanish, but the ‘old point and buy’ technique works well also. There is a snack bar in the fresh produce section offering gambas on a stick and a cool refreshing beer for prices that must be experienced to be believed.
5. Natural Beauty of the Surroundings
Coín is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park. This park, a designated Biosphere Reserve, is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, offering hiking trails and breathtaking views of the mountainous terrain. Nature enthusiasts can explore the beauty of the Rio Grande and its scenic surroundings.
A mere twenty kilometers away is the famous Camino del Rey. This is a breathtaking elevated walk and tour, taking you through the construction of the Malaga electrification program at the beginning of the 20th Century. The walkway was built to provide workers and the hydroelectric power plants at Churro Falls and Gaitanejo Falls, with a means to cross between them, to provide for transport of materials, and to help facilitate inspection and maintenance of the channel. The construction began in 1901 and was finished in 1905. King Alfonso XIII crossed the pathway in 1921 for the inauguration of the dam Corde del Guadalhorce and it became known by its present name. It is spectacular in every respect, but perhaps not for those who are not keen on heights. Many of the final scenes of the 1965 film, Von Ryan’s Express was shot at this location.
6. Gastronomy
Coín's gastronomy reflects the rich culinary traditions of Andalusia. Explore local restaurants and tapas bars to savour traditional dishes such as gazpacho, salmorejo, and a variety of fresh seafood. The town's eateries provide an authentic taste of Spanish cuisine in a relaxed setting.
As you wander through the Old Town, take a pause to indulge in the culinary delights offered by traditional tapas bars and cafes. These establishments, often family-run, serve up authentic Andalusian flavors, allowing you to savor the essence of Spanish cuisine in an intimate setting.
The farming areas around Coín are famous throughout the region for their fresh, in-season vegetables. Why not come to the source of this fantastic fresh bounty, produced in this fertile region. Many of the more expensive restaurants in Malaga, and Marbella, will proudly tell you that their vegetables are sourced from Coín!!
In the evening during the long summer months take a trip to the town centre and sample all the local cuisine from a rich selection of local restaurants. Marvel at the prices, mingle with the locals, and eat and spend the evening as they do. It is a real opportunity to rub shoulders with real Spain.
7. Festivals and Cultural Events
Coín comes alive with festivals and cultural events throughout the year. The Feria de San Juan, celebrated in June, is a highlight featuring parades, music, and traditional Andalusian festivities. The Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions and the Fiesta de la Virgen de la Fuensanta are also significant cultural events that display Coín's religious and festive traditions.
8. Modern Amenities and Services
While Coín embraces its historical roots, it also offers modern amenities and services. Visitors can find a range of shops, supermarkets, and recreational facilities, making it a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the Costa del Sol. The town boasts of perfect grocery shopping choices with Mercadona, Carrefour, Aldi, and Lidl all having a strong presence in the town. International fast-food chains are also located in the town. There is a vibrant ex-pat community present also. So, everything from support for newcomers to language exchange classes is readily available.
Coín, often overshadowed by the coastal glamour of the Costa del Sol, unveils a world of historical charm, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Whether you are wandering through the Old Town's cobblestone streets, exploring the surrounding landscapes, or immersing yourself in local traditions, Coín invites you to discover the authentic soul of Spain in a tranquil and welcoming setting.
