One of the Costa del Sol's most traditional towns, San Pedro de Alcántara provides a serene transition between the glitz and glamour of Puerto Banús and tranquil natural beauty of the Sierra de Ronda range. The starting point for the winding mountain road to historical Ronda, San Pedro also provides one of the Coast's most important entryways into Andalucía's expansive rural landscape. Relaxed and underdeveloped relative to its boisterous neighbours, much of San Pedro de Alcántara's activity is concentrated around the bustling church square and narrow tree-lined streets; however, it is worth noting that the town's shopping and social amenities are not exclusive to its centre. Indeed, restaurants, pubs and small shops extend from the foothills to the north, through town, to the sands of San Pedro's long beachside, though in a way that feels far from obtrusive.
Established in 1860 as an agricultural colony, San Pedro retains much of its agrarian personality, as seen in the farms that line its surrounding hills and the residents who occasionally venture into town on horseback. San Pedro's ancient history is also on display with the ruins of Roman baths lining one of the town's edges and the Basilica Vega del Mar, built by the Visigoths in the 4th century, lining the other. A more contemporary side to San Pedro de Alcántara can be found on the seaside of the coastal road, which cuts a path through town. Spacious and restrained, this area consists of quiet urbanisations set beside a tranquil sea promenade, sparsely lined with just a few restaurants and bars.
From its northern foothills, providing stunning views of Gibraltar and beyond, to its cosy avenues and quiet surrounding pastures, San Pedro de Alcántara offers an unhurried, small town pace, just minutes from the bustling centres of Puerto Banús and Marbella and less than an hour's drive from Málaga's international airport.
Healthy, wealthy and wise
Despite its small town feel, a bustling centre and quick access to its neighbours help to create a residential environment ideal for non-Spanish residents, as seen with the wide range of international home-owners who call San Pedro de Alcántara home. Medical attention is never far away as San Pedro is home to a number of small clinics and 24-hour chemists, while Marbella's public Costa del Sol Hospital is sure to meet whatever needs cannot be met locally. Veterinarian needs can also be met at any number of San Pedro's animal care centres as well as those located in nearby Nueva Andalucía. Now officially certified by the British Council, San Pedro's King's College, located just a few hundred metres from the sea, provides excellent educational programmes to over 550 students, representing myriad nationalities, throughout the school year. Additional educational programmes are available at the Aloha Collage in Nueva Andalucía.
Stepping out
While much of San Pedro's social life is concentrated around a collection of low-key restaurants and tapas bars in and around the town centre, revellers will have no trouble finding their way to the large number of clubs and bars just a few minutes drive away in Puerto Banús. However, those choosing to stay in town will find a wide variety of menus incorporating both local seafood recipes and contributions from the town's international residents.
There is no shortage of ways to keep fit in San Pedro de Alcántara, with much of the town's activity focused on the broad selection of golf courses, including the greens at the Hotel Westin La Quinta. There is also a sprawling athletics centre, complete with a gym, outdoor pool and a world-famous climbing wall, which has hosted international competition, including the 2006 Climbing World Cup for the last three years. In October, the town's fairground hosts the Costa del Sol's final town fair, featuring a week of concerts, food and attractions for the entire family.
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