How to get to Estapona, Spain

Is this two questions? 1. 'How to get to Estapona from Madrid? 2. 'Has anyone traveled in this area?' Re:1 Train to Malaga city and direct bus to Estepona
or flight to Malaga airport, and two buses or a train and direct bus to Estepona. Re:2 I have travelled Andalucia every other year for between two and seven weeks at a time for thirty years. However, if by 'this area' you mean Estepona and surrounds, no. Is there another query?

George, You mean this October!? This is no small area to travel if you are talking of Andalucia, a region greater in size than many countries in Europe. As I have said I do not Estepona and it's surroundings. I cannot possibly give all that I know about the region in anything less than a paper travel guide of one inch thick. Are you reliant on public transport? How long have you in Estepona? I can give best direction and 'stuff' to see and do, but essentially, and I am sorry if this sounds harsh, where have you been until now planning and researching this trip?

Neil, Thanks for the answer to the two questions. Since you have traveled around Andalusia. What are your favorite locales to visit? Favorite eateries, etc? We will be in the area late October.

I've made this trip, too, and Neil's got it right. I took the bus from Madrid to Málaga and then a city bus from Málaga City to Estepona. It was pretty easy, actually. The city buses are great, the same line stops in Marbella, too. Saludos, MadridMan @ you-know-where!

Neil, We have been planning this for well over 6 months and with a basic itinerary - Madrid (5 days-4 nights) which includes day trip to Toledo; train to Malaga where we pick up a rental car for 7 days & nights which includes trips to Granada, Rhonda, Tangier and possibly Gibraltar; and then back to Madrid for 3 days & 2 nughts. This is our first trip to Spain and are researching all ideas and suggestions.

O.K. Seems like a fairly full itinerary to me. Comments on what you plan and presuming day trips from Estepona. Estepona to Granada is a big day at two and half hours each way, even if you only see the Alhambra. Perhaps purchase your tickets on line for the Alhambra, there are disappointments for 'walk ups'. Ensure you have an idea where you are going, although if parking at the Alhambra the way is signposted from outside the city. If you go to Gibraltar you may want to park in La Linea and walk across the border. It is hit and miss whether border security will be having a 'bad'' day and examining and quizzing and delaying vehicles. You seem to be neglecting Malaga, a fine city and seafood cuisine - again plan where you will park. Cadiz in the opposite direction, but two hours each way plus again seafood from the Atlantic this time. 'Googling' anywhere from a map of the vicinity will probably give something which might be interesting. For example, Vejer de la Frontera is a good looking and walbable town with views all around, if I recall correctly. I am reluctant to give eateries. Generally we are eating where there is little likelihood of hearing English spoken or finding tourists, so probably as a tip in popular destinations, go to the streets one or two to the rear of what appears to be the main tourist area. These are also likely to be taberna, casas, mesons, bars, cafes, bodegas and not restaurants. If not already understood, understand eating times, portions, drinks and drinking.

And I am still here for specific questions that you may not find in a guide.

Neil, Great suggestions! I will consult with my wife and the other couple for additional questions. Thanks for all the great help. George