Spain > A day in Málaga

The last day of the trip has arrived. Today we travel back to Málaga. Since we don’t leave the hotel until ten o’clock, I can take it easy at breakfast again. Afterwards, I pack my luggage and double-check to make sure I haven’t packed any liquids, such as sunscreen, in my hand luggage. The drive to Málaga takes just under two hours. Fortunately, the roads are not too busy. The weather is beautiful as we enter the Spanish coastal city. Our first stop is the lighthouse, La Farola de Málaga, where there are restrooms and terraces. I order a coffee. We have the rest of the afternoon to explore the city. Jasper takes us on a short walk. Officially, he is not allowed to act as a guide in the city, but he points out some notable places, such as the cathedral and the Roman theatre.

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After that, everyone goes their own way. With a small group, I head to the Alcazaba fortress, a former Moorish fort and palace situated on the slope of Mount Gibralfaro. We enter through an original gate. From the defensive walls, we enjoy a beautiful view over Málaga and the harbor. At the very top of the fortress lies the former palace, where Moorish gates and pillars are still visible. Back in the city center, we order something to eat at a terrace. The weather is wonderful, and we find a table in the sun. I order a salad and a beer—just a small one, as we plan to walk to the Gibralfaro fortress after lunch. This fortress is located high above the Alcazaba. The path leading up to it winds around the lower fortress and climbs quite steeply. We make our way up at a relaxed pace. At the entrance of the fortress, there is a viewing platform offering a stunning panorama of the city and the Alcazaba.

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What a beautiful sight. Since we already bought a combined ticket for both fortresses earlier in the day, we can quickly enter the Gibralfaro fortress. We walk around the fort and along the battlements, enjoying views of the city from all sides. After returning to the city, we stroll through Málaga Park, a public park filled with remarkable plants and trees. Near the cathedral, we have another drink late in the afternoon. Afterwards, we take the bus to the airport. We thank the driver for the ride and Jasper for his pleasant guidance and care. The journey to the airport goes smoothly. In fact, we arrive too early to check in our luggage, as this is only possible two hours before departure. Around 7:30 PM, the gate is announced: D48. When we arrive, boarding has already started—very early. As a result, all passengers are on board quickly, and we depart ahead of schedule. I don’t mind at all. After a flight of just under three hours, we arrive back in the Netherlands. It’s half past eleven when we land. Around midnight, my travel bag arrives on the baggage carousel. I say goodbye to my travel companions and take the shuttle to the parking lot in Aalsmeer. Everything goes smoothly, and I’m back home before one o’clock.