Summer on the Costa del Sol is a golden affair – sun-drenched days, warm coastal breezes, and evenings that glow with amber light. At the heart of this sun-soaked experience sits Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol, a resort that combines generous accommodation, thoughtful service, and the easy charm of southern Spain.
Hotel
Located just outside the relaxed town of La Cala de Mijas, this expansive resort offers a flexible and comfortable base for couples, families, solo travellers or groups. Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol is designed with both relaxation and activity in mind. A modern gym and wellness areas complement the amenities and, during high season, there’s everything from yoga and fitness classes to outdoor massages, kids’ clubs, adult-only pool parties and live entertainment.
The guest services centre is impressively comprehensive, offering 24-hour reception, concierge services, and even a doctor on site during daytime hours. The staff were friendly, helpful, and full of local knowledge – always ready with a suggestion or assistance.
Room
Our stay in a deluxe two bedroom San Diego suite with hot tub was the perfect escape – offering all the privacy of a holiday home with the conveniences of a five-star hotel.
The suite was beautifully arranged for both comfort and functionality. It featured two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, an additional shower room, a spacious open-plan living and dining area, and a well-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, fridge-freezer, and everything needed for easy self-catering.
The terrace was a particular highlight – spacious, green, and beautifully private. Comfortable sun loungers, a dining table, and a bubbling hot tub overlooked the glistening sea. It was a peaceful, leafy sanctuary just minutes from the main pool and resort facilities.
Food and drink
Guests can enjoy multiple on-site restaurants and bars including the Grand Lounge, Safari Restaurant, and a chic Gin Bar for cocktails.
Dining in this region is an experience in itself. Whether you’re feasting on freshly grilled sardines at a beachside chiringuito or dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant, there’s no shortage of flavour.
One of the highlights of our trip was an evening at Tercer Acto, a stylish theatre-restaurant owned by Antonio Banderas. Another favourite was the atmospheric Antigua Casa de Guardia, where sweet Málaga wines are served straight from the barrel and bills are written in chalk on the counter.
To do
Discovering the region
The resort’s central location makes it easy to explore the wider Costa del Sol. Taxis and Ubers are readily available, and guests can also rent a car via the on-site Autos Lido service, with vehicles conveniently delivered and collected from the resort.
Nearby, Mijas Pueblo sits nestled in the hills – a traditional whitewashed village with narrow cobbled streets, artisan shops, and flower-filled balconies. On Wednesdays and Saturdays at noon, guests can catch a charming Flamenco performance in the main square – a free cultural experience well worth seeing.
Down by the coast, La Cala de Mijas offers a wide sandy beach, a scenic wooden boardwalk, and excellent seafront dining. During summer, Unico Beach Club is a popular spot for loungers, cocktails and stylish people-watching.
Fuengirola, just west of La Cala, offers a livelier atmosphere – with its long beachfront promenade, buzzy plaza of tapas bars, and street performers. It’s also an easy connection point via train to Málaga city and the airport.
Málaga
Málaga itself is only 25 minutes by car or around 40 minutes by train and is a must for any visitor. The historic city centre is home to the Picasso Museum, Roman Theatre, Alcazaba fortress and colourful Soho arts district.
Food lovers will enjoy exploring the many tapas bars and wine cellars – El Pimpi is an institution – and rooftop bars like Lolita (on top of the Only You Hotel) and Terraza de Valeria offer incredible sunset views over the port and cathedral dome.
Málaga’s central station also connects you to other beautiful Andalusian cities, including Córdoba, Seville, and Granada – all reachable for day trips with a bit of planning.
Natural beauty and outdoor adventures
Summer is a wonderful time to explore the local landscape. Walking trails wind through the hills behind Mijas, and for more adventurous types, a guided trip to the Caminito del Rey – a dramatic walkway through narrow gorges – offers an unforgettable thrill.
For something more off the beaten track, a drive to the sand dunes of Bolonia Beach near Tarifa rewards visitors with wide open spaces, ocean breezes, and a wild, untamed feel – a perfect contrast to the manicured resort life.
In a nutshell
One of the resort’s great strengths is how well it balances independence with support. You can self-cater and explore at your own pace, yet concierge assistance is always available should you need help with bookings, transport, or local recommendations.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a solo recharge, or a fun and flexible base for family adventures, Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol offers something for everyone. It’s spacious, well-serviced, and ideally located for exploring one of Spain’s most sun-kissed regions.
Factbox
Address: Malaga Building B, Carr. de Cadiz, KM 206, 29649 Las Lagunas de Mijas, Málaga, Spain
Phone: +34 952 66 99 34
Website: idiliqhotels.com
Images courtesy of Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol.