Mijas is a lovely Andalusian town on the Costa del Sol, not far from Fuengirola. With 12 kilometres of coastline, including the La Cala de Mijas beach resort with its European blue flag, it is the perfect family friendly holiday destination for a spot of Mediterranean sun. And with a huge choice of rental homes in the region, it can be a surprisingly low cost place to visit as well.

There is so much to do on a family holiday in Mijas, easily enough to fill a week's trip. Aside from relaxing on La Cala de Mijas or one of the other beaches along Mijas's 12km of coastline, you can climb up to the white-washed village of Mijas Pueblo on the mountainside for stunning views across the Costa del Sol, Gibraltar, the Atlas Mountains and over to the African coastline. Mijas Pueblo is also the place to head to take a look at the traditional bull ring or to take a donkey trip on a short tour around the area. There are also at least seven golf courses in the area surrounding Mijas (with several more under construction). The streets of Mijas are very tourist friendly, and are full of independent shops selling hand made local crafts and products. The Mijas Aqua Park in nearby Las Lagunas is also well worth a visit with the whole family.

With a wide range of apartments and villas available as rental homes throughout Mijas, Calahonda and the whole of this western region of the Costa del Sol, there are many deals to be found, and if you shop around early enough, you can find apartment rentals for a family of four with weekly rates from just £350, which compares very well with the price of hotel rooms. Rental homes in the area come with comfortable basic facilities, as well as great extras such as private pools and jacuzzis, perfect to unwind after a hard day's sightseeing or sunbathing. And with a great deal more space than a hotel room, they also provide more privacy and are great for kids to run around and let off steam without disturbing other guests!