Istán

#2757 among destinations in Spain

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Located in the breathtaking Andalusia region of Spain, Istán offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Nestled in the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park, this charming town is surrounded by lush forests, sparkling rivers, and stunning mountain views, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

One of the must-see attractions in Istán is the historic Moorish Castle, which dates back to the 10th century. Perched on a hill overlooking the town, the castle provides a glimpse into the area's ancient past and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the castle's towers, walls, and courtyards, and imagine what life was like in this strategic stronghold centuries ago.

For those seeking a taste of authentic Andalusian culture, Istán's narrow cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful flower pots, creating a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls. The town's main square, Plaza de Andalucía, is a bustling hub where locals and visitors gather to enjoy traditional tapas, sip on refreshing sangria, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the opportunities for outdoor activities in Istán. Hiking trails crisscross the surrounding mountains, leading to hidden waterfalls, natural pools, and panoramic viewpoints. The nearby Embalse de la Concepción reservoir offers the perfect setting for water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, while the surrounding forests are home to a diverse array of flora and fauna.

Alternative names: Population: 1.5 thous. (2019)Area: 38.35 mi²Coordinates: 36°34'55"N, 4°56'59"W

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AndalusiaSpain

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Day trips

Istán – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Aloha Golf Club, Estadio Municipal de Marbella, Lighthouse of Marbella, La Encarnación.

4.9 miS
Golf
Aloha Golf Club, Marbella
125 min walk • Aloha Golf Club is a golf club, located 3 kilometres inland from Puerto Banús and 8 kilometres west of Marbella, Andalusia, Spain. It hosted the Andalucian Open on the European Tour in 2007, 2008 and 2012, and the Spanish Women's Open on the Ladies European Tour in 2016 and 2019.
6.2 miSE
Sport event, Event, Sport venue
Estadio Municipal de Marbella, Marbella
159 min walk • Estadio Municipal Antonio Lorenzo Cuevas is a stadium in Marbella, Spain. It is primarily used for football. Spanish football team Marbella FC holding home matches at this stadium. The capacity of the stadium is 7,300 people.
6.1 miSE
Lighthouse, Vernacular architecture
Lighthouse of Marbella, Marbella
157 min walk • Marbella Lighthouse is a lighthouse in Marbella, southern Spain. It was built in 1864 and is 29 metres high. It is automatic and electric, its light controlled by photoelectric cells.
6.2 miSE
Church, Historical place, Sacred and religious sites
La Encarnación, Marbella
158 min walk • The Iglesia de la Encarnación is a church in Marbella, southern Spain. It was built in the 16th and 17th century.
6.1 miSE
Square
Plaza de los Naranjos, Marbella
156 min walk • The Plaza de los Naranjos is a plaza in the old town of Marbella, Spain. The plaza dates from 1485, after the Christian conquest of the city from The Moors; the area was created to be the urban hub of the city.
6.2 miSE
Church, Historical place, Sacred and religious sites
San Juan de Dios, Marbella
158 min walk • The Capilla de San Juan de Dios is a church in Marbella, southern Spain. It was built in the 16th century.
5.5 miS
Mosque
King Abdul Aziz Mosque, Marbella
141 min walk • King Abdul Aziz Mosque or Marbella Mosque is an Islamic place of worship located in Marbella, Province of Málaga, Andalusia, Spain. It is financed by Saudi Arabia, and is named after their first monarch. It was built in 1981 and is one of the first Spanish mosques built in the modern time.
5.5 miS
36°30'20"N • 4°58'44"W
Magna Marbella Golf, Marbella
141 min walk • Golf
6.1 miSE
Church, Pre-romanesque architecture
Basílica de Vega del Mar, Marbella
155 min walk • The Basílica de Vega del Mar is a church in Marbella, southern Spain. This is one of the few examples of North African Visigothic churches built in Andalusia during sixth century. It is located near the mouth of the Guadalmina River along an old Roman road which connected Cadiz with Cartagena.
6.1 miSE
Historical place, Forts and castles
Muralla urbana de Marbella, Marbella
155 min walk • The Muralla urbana is a fort in Marbella, southern Spain. It was built in the 11th century.
5.6 miSE
Museum
Cortijo de Miraflores, Marbella
144 min walk • Cortijo de Miraflores is a historical building in the Pilar Miraflores neighborhood of Marbella, Spain. It originated in the cortijo built in 1706 by Tomás Francisco Domínguez y Godoy on the ruins of a former farming estate.