Spain is expected to boost its position as a top vacation destination yet again. The country, which sits on Europe’s Iberian Peninsula, is introducing a new train route connecting some of its most beloved coastal cities and villages. The much-anticipated rail link promises to make the sun-drenched shores of the Costa del Sol even more accessible to residents and tourists alike.
The ambitious €2.5 billion project will extend the existing route from Malaga to Fuengirola. It will wind through the Guadalhorce Valley and onward to the chic resort town of Marbella. The line will also provide a quick connection to the Costa del Sol hospital and bus terminal, combining vital services with pleasure travel.
The New Railway Route
Spain’s railway experts have devised a comprehensive plan to cap journey times at a breezy 45-50 minutes between destinations. Currently, the trip between these coastal hotspots often necessitates ride sharing services. With the proposed plan, convenience is key. A journey from Malaga Airport to Marbella could be slashed to a mere 22 minutes on express services, with stopping services clocking in at 55 minutes.
The proposed route is not just a straight dash between major cities; it promises to be a scenic trip. It will introduce travelers to the hidden gems of the coast. Potential stops include Mijas, which boasts stunning beaches, and the Mijas Pueblo, perched on the Sierra del Mijas slopes. Alhaurin el Grande is another highlight. Here visitors can soak in traditional architecture and sample the local fare at a century-old olive mill.
Addressing Spain’s Local Housing and Social Issues
This project is not merely a nod to the needs of holidaymakers. It’s also a strategic move to address local housing and social integration issues. As train driver Pablo Marín noted, a well-structured rail network can provide more affordable living options inland. Plus, it can foster community cohesion for those in more remote areas.
“It solves housing problems as it is cheaper inland and it encourages social integration for people who live in remote areas,” Marín told local news site Sur in English.
After twenty years of discussion, plans to offer the proposed rail line to the Spanish Transport Minister have recently become more tangible. The projected duration of the construction is around eight years.
