La Madame et sa valise: Mijas the debrief

Mijas,

Well once again, Mijas excelled itself. For me there is something about this little place in the mountains.

I often feel as if I am on an island as I look down towards the coast, I also never really want to head down to the coast, and for me an avid beach lover this is slightly alien.

On this, my 4th visit in 11 months, it hasn't lost its charm.

My early morning walks through the village are a delight, everyone out doing there day to day things, always pleasant.

The range of restaurants in the village to cater for the mass of tourists who venture up the mountain during the day, give a wide selection of food choices. The tapas bars in the village full of locals in the evening.

The winding streets and alleys are a delightful view of village life, the streets may seem narrow and not getting much sunlight from one angle but theses houses usually have roof terraces and as such get maximum sunlight.

The hotel, the only one in the village, strikes you as being small and cosy with quirky seating areas around the reception a strange array of pictures on walls ( including a picture of Lumley Castle at Chester Le Street!!!) but it is in fact a massive place with over 200 room and being on 5 levels. This is well disguised, despite the fact that it is built on side of mountain. To look at it looks like a two/ three storey building.

The staff are brilliant and super friendly with the exception of Gabriel who I now realise doesn't just hate me but also most of the residents, there are some who are the chosen few, who he speaks to and laughs with.

The hotel is super clean through out although the bedrooms and bathrooms are a little jaded, none of this detracts from my love of the place.

There are great walks and hiking around the area, if that is what you like. Although for me just walking through the many streets is brilliant, a lovely walk up to the Church and the bull ring gives amazing views.