Are you wondering whether the Fuengirola castle (Castillo Sohail) is worth visiting? Is there something to see inside?
Is it worth the uphill climb?
You will find answers to these and any other questions you might have in this article.
Let’s skip to the chase: there isn’t much to see inside the castle. It was primarily used as a defense fortress so the inside courtyard consists only of some crumbled walls, with very little information available.
Check the photo tour below to make a decision whether you want to visit or not – the views from the castle are pretty nice.
At the end of the article, I have also added some other castles and fortresses in Costa del Sol that you might like to check out while staying in Fuengirola.
Enjoy!
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Introducing Fuengirola Castle
Overlooking the Fuengirola river, and guarding the edge of the town, is Sohail Castle, an old Castle built as part of the city’s defense system in AD 956.
While much of it is long gone, the core structure with the large courtyard still remains, and since the year 2000, it has served its duty as one of the main attractions in the city.
You will see Sohail Castle recommended in almost all things on to-do lists for Fuengirola, and if you go there with very few expectations, you won’t be disappointed.
There are no museums or information boards, and not much remaining from the original structure of the courtyard. What it does offer are stunning views of the coastline, and a real life castle playground for kids – if you’re visiting Fuengirola with kids, I’m confident they will love it there.
There is a small information booth where you can get a leaflet with information about the castle and then you’re free to roam around.
Just outside of the main gate, on the right hand side, is a small pathway that goes around the edge of the castle walls. You will find some benches there and can enjoy beautiful views while hiding from the sun.
The entrance to the castle is from two areas – one right next to the river and you walk up steep pathway and second one from behind the castle where you will also find a large parking lot.
The entry is now free and you can visit any day – just make sure to check the opening times so you don’t venture there when they close for siesta.
Is it worth the trip?
Sohail Castle is certainly not as impressive as some similar places on Costa del Sol, but if you’re in the city and have a spare hour or two, it’s a nice walk and the view is well worth it.
It’s free to visit and once you’re done, you can enjoy a stroll on the coastal promenade and raise a toast to ticking off another place from your travel list.
Photos of Fuengirola Castle
Short History of Fuengirola Castle (Castillo Sohail)
Sohail Castle, located in Fuengirola, Spain, is a fortress with a rich history dating back to the Phoenician and Roman times, but the structure as we know it was primarily built by the Moors in the 10th century.
It has been a key defensive position through various historical periods, including the Muslim rule of Al-Andalus, the Christian Reconquista, and even the War of Spanish Succession.
After falling into disrepair in the early 20th century, it was restored and now serves as a cultural venue and tourist attraction, offering insights into Spain’s diverse historical layers (source).
Visiting Fuengirola Castle: Castillo Sohail
Opening Hours in Winter: From Tuesday to Friday: 10 am – 2 pm. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays: 10 am – 2 pm // 3:30 pm – 6 pm.
Opening Hours in Summer: From Tuesday to Friday: 10 am – 2 pm. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays: 10 am – 2 pm // 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm.
entry: free
How to Get to Fuengirola Castle
Fuengirola castle is conveniently located at the end of the city, closest towards Marbella direction. You can actually see it from the highway.
To get to the castle, simply come down from the highway and leave your car at the parking lot of the castle grounds – see location below.
If you’re staying locally in Fuengirola, you can walk to the castle from the coastal promenade. I’ve done this many times, the walk from central Los Boliches (which is about middle of the town) takes approximately 30 minutes.
location: C. Tartesios, s/n, 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga
parking: behind the castle area, marked on the map here (parking area called ‘Parking Castillo Fuengirola’).
Best Time to Visit Fuengirola Castle
You can visit the castle anytime during the opening hours in the winter, but in the summer months you should try to avoid the mid-day sun and visit either early in the morning, or late in the afternoon.
Events at Fuengirola Castle (Marenostrum Fuengirola)
There is an area right behind the castle called Marenostrum Fuengirola, which the city uses to host all kinds of cultural events and concerts.
In the summer months, the schedule is packed with performances from local Spanish but also international artists, so make sure you check out the events on their website here so you don’t miss out!
What Else to See in Fuengirola
I’ve been living in Fuengirola since 2020, so I’ve seen everything the city has to offer. Here are some picks for places and experiences you might like:
- Bioparc Fuengirola: Review & Photos
- Paseo de los Murales: Your Guide to Street Art of Fuengirola
- Fuengirola Marina: What To See & Do in The Port
- A Complete Guide to Fuengirola Beaches
- Fuengirola Market: All Your Questions Answered
- Fuengirola Old Town: An Insider’s Guide by a Local
- Local Guide to Fuengirola Supermarkets
Other Castles on Costa del Sol
If you love exploring castles and fortresses, you’re in for a treat – there are some pretty cool ones on Costa del Sol.
Closest to you, if you’re staying in Fuengirola, is Castillo Colomares – a monument outside of Benalmadena Pueblo built to commemorate the travels of Christopher Columbus.
Another famous fortress you shouldn’t miss is the Alcazaba of Malaga; it’s only a short train ride away from Fuengirola. For the ultimate bucket list experience, don’t forget that you can also visit the famous Alhambra in Granada!
If you don’t fancy driving there, you can book a tour of Alhambra with a pick up from Fuengirola here.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoyed this virtual tour of the Fuengirola castle and were able to decide whether it’s worth a trip or not.
If you’re looking for more inspiration on what to do in Fuengirola, don’t forget to check out this page with all my articles from my hometown.
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