Estepona

Estepona's immaculate old town, where thousands of blue-and-white flower pots line whitewashed lanes and huge hand-painted murals turn whole facades into open-air art. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the pedestrian streets, squares and most terraces.

A striking domed botanical garden in the old town holding one of Europe's largest orchid collections under glass, with indoor waterfalls and thousands of tropical plants. Pets are not allowed inside, so visit with a companion who can wait outside with the dog.

The long palm-lined seafront promenade that runs the length of Estepona, linking the beaches, the marina and the fishing port. It is an easy, mostly flat walk with a leashed dog, best in the cool of early morning or evening.

A small, sheltered cove west of the port, popular for its calm, clear water and a favourite for off-season strolls. Dogs are tolerated on a leash out of the bathing season, though summer beach bans apply as elsewhere on the coast.

A large safari-style wildlife park in the hills just east of town, home to hundreds of animals across recreated African and Asian habitats. It is a full-day outing but does not admit pets, so it is not a dog-friendly plan.

The pine-clad, iron-red mountain range rising behind Estepona, crossed by forest tracks and viewpoints looking out to the sea and, on clear days, to Gibraltar and Africa. Leashed hikes here are best in the cooler months, with water carried for the climbs.