The Costa Tropical is a lush and exotic corner of Andalucia, a region of iridescent light, bejewelled colours and shimmering sunshine.

Stretching from Velez-Malaga in the west to Roquetas de Mar in the east, the Costa Tropical is an area of complete contrast - in winter you could be skiing in the morning in the Sierra Nevada and sunbathing in the afternoon by the sea. The Costa Tropical is famous for its subtropical microclimate.

The Sierra Nevada, over 3000 meters high, is just over an hour away from the coast and is the perfect location if you are into winter sports or climbing. The Costa Tropical is studded with picturesque white villages around the verdant hills, so there is no end to the sightseeing you can do. At Almunecar, crowned by its imposing castle, you can stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town and shop at the delightful street market where you will find sumptuous locally grown produce. Further inland, visit the world-famous Alhambra at Granada. Alhambra means 'red castle' after the red mountain upon which it was built. The Alhambra consists of a ninth century fortress, palaces, gardens with fountains and lakes and a small city, all within its fortified walls. It is a great place to absorb the history, or sit back with a glass of wine and listen to the songs of visiting gypsies.

Back on the coast, Solabreno, 17 kilometres east of Almunecar, is set against the backdrop of the Sierra Chaparral mountain range. The little white washed town is clustered around a magnificent medieval castle that is well worth a visit.

Just east of Solbrena is Mortril, a thriving fishing and commercial port. This is where you will find the Costa Tropical's main shopping area, as well as plenty of great restaurants and glittering nightclubs. The marina offers a wide selection of water sports and is the best place to seek out boat trips, including excursions to Morocco.