Trip from Marbella to Istan

Stunning Mountain Views

The stunning white village of Istan lies on the western side of Costa del Sol. If you want to savour a village in a rural setting then this is the place to visit. It sits at the foot of the Sierra Real and is close to Sierra de las Nieves Nature Park. Istan has stunning mountain views and attracts many tourists every year. It lies just 15 to 20 minutes by car from Marbella and Puerto Banus. Cultural and monumental heritage abound and you will want to visit the Escalante Tower, the San Miguel Hermitage, the San Miguel Church and Plaza El Calvario. There is so much more to see.

Town Centre

The town centre is very attractive with small squares leading off to tiny streets. There are a good number of restaurants, bars and cafes. Many of the streets have open spaces full of colourful flowers. Sit on one of the many benches, relax and take in the natural beauty. The old villagers were very religious and crosses are found throughout Istan. Some haven't changed for centuries, others have been restored. La Cruz de los Mozos is different from the others because it was placed there in the 16th century to sanctify the old plot of the mosque.

Fountains & Water

Water from the Sierra springs and Rio Verde feed many fountains in the town which makes Istan even more attractive. The El Chorro fountain feeds a washing place where the women used to do their laundry and is one of the most symbolic spots of the town. There are many examples of the use of water in the town but the Canalon Pond is one of the prettiest natural spots in Istan. Water trickling and gushing from many places around the town, together with the river flowing just below the town make Istan such a relaxing place where you will find peace and tranquillity.

SAN MIGUEL CHURCH

This beautiful 16th century church is dedicated to the local patron saint. It was damaged by fire in 1509 by the moors but was rebuilt. The building contains two small chapels which house some stunning eighteenth century paintings. The church also houses some wonderful images including those of San Miguel, an Immaculate Conception, a picture of Saint Anthony, a Resurrected Christ and one of Saint Joseph.

THE ESCALANTE TOWER (TORRE ESCALANTE)

This stunning tower was built in the 15th century. It is just a ruin now but is one of the most historical buildings in the village. It has been designated a Property of Cultural Interest. He story goes that during the Moorish rebellion, the village's priest lived in the tower. When he left to go to Marbella to get help, his niece "Juana de Escalante" and her maid managed to survive the invasion by locking themselves in the first floor of the tower - hence it's name.

San Miguel Hermitage

The Ermita is around 4kms from the village and has a natural cave, excavated from the rock wherein lies the Patron Saint of Istan, San Miguel. The San Miguel Hermitage commands superb views of the Sierra Blanca, the Rio Verde Valley and even the Mediterranean.

Walking & Cycling

Several bike routes and footpaths make Istan a magnet for visitors wanting to go for a trekking or cycling tour. A walking tour of Istan makes you appreciate and enjoy the rural beauty of Istan whilst exploring its past as a Moorish village.

Best Time to Visit

One of the best times to visit the village is at the end of September when the village celebrates the San Miguel fair . This three day event begins on the 29th September and the whole village take part in many different events in honor of their patron saint.

Getting to Istan

Istan is just about 13 km from the Marbella/Puerto Banus coastal belt. To reach Istan from Puerto Banus, take the A-6206 straight to the village. Coming from Marbella, you must take the local A-7176 road. Frequent bus services are available from the Marbella bus stand or you may hire a taxi which may be more convenient.