Drive out of Marbella to see the countryside in a stylish Jeep Wrangler. Head northwards to the beautiful town of Antequera, known as the Florence of Andalucia. Discover Bronze Age burial mounds, ancient Churches with exquisite ornate interiors and a history of Moorish influence. Then discover Casares, a beautiful white-washed hilltop village.

Two tough Jeeps for your road trip

Jeep Wrangler

Drive a legend, known for its tough, uncompromising design that is ready to take on the most challenging terrain. The Jeep Wrangler rules the trails and the open roads, offering a fabulous adventure drive for both driver and passengers. The car is available in both a 2-door and 4-door version with engine sizes ranging from 2.8 to 3.8 litre V8. The rugged military design takes no prisoners! Love the skid plates and the cutting-edge Command-Trac 4x4 system. The interior which exudes comfort and style can be wet and fully washed-out with a hose! Doors can be removed for some wild outdoor trail bashing and there is a fast system for flipping the front windshield forward in seconds. Sway bars on some models are electronically detachable. This is your ultimate adventure seeking vehicle.

Jeep Wrangler Open-Top

The all-new Jeep Wrangler Open-Top is a thrill for outdoor lovers who want to do wild adventure. It is instantly recognisable with an iconic round headlamps, square tail lamps and keystone-shaped grille. This model is enhanced with improved aerodynamics, a fold-down windshield and a myriad of door, top and windshield combinations. The iconic feature is the power retractable top which operates with a one-touch control just above the rear view mirror. Doors can be removed for a true outdoor experience. This model is powered by a 3.6 litre V6, backed by a 6-speed manual. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds. The unique body-on-frame chassis and solid front and rear axles make it one of the most capable off-road SUVs. Designed with function in mind, the interior can be fully washed out after a muddy river crossing!

EXCITING ROAD TRIPS FROM MARBELLA

Drive to Casares

Located 45 km west of Marbella is the picture-postcard town of Casares, famous as the birthplace of Blas Infante, a politician and writer known for his role in shaping Andalusia's nationalist movement. Take a drive in your Jeep Wrangler Open-Top to see magnificent scenery and explore this quaint white-washed hilltop settlement. Set off along the AP-7 coast road and head to San Pedro de Alcantara, 10km away.

Stop in town and explore the traditional market and intriguing small stores selling local hand craft. Back in your car, drive to Estepona at the foot of the magnificent Sierra Bermeja mountains. Estepona's cobbled narrow streets with overhanging flower-filled balconies offer a true Andalucian ambience. Enjoy breakfast at the Cafeteria Oliveri then continue to Casares. Your first view is from high up on the hill, with a spectacular sight of the town and the towering fortress. Head to the Plaza de España, the village square and enjoy a stroll, browsing the quaint stores and stopping for a refreshing drink. Take a hike up the mountain to the massive Castle that dates back to the 1600’s, for spectacular views.

Back in your Jeep, head to Banos de la Hedionda, the ancient Roman Baths and enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the healing sulphur waters. Drive back to town and enjoy a late lunch at the Restaurant Arroyo Hondo before returning to Marbella.

Drive to Antequera

Our next recommended trip in your Jeep Wrangler is north to the 'Florence of Andalucía', a beautiful town called Antequera, about 100 km away. This scenic drive starts on the AP-7 and head towards Ojen. You will reach this picturesque town in about 15 minutes and see stunning views of white-washed buildings nestling against the hillside. Stop in the village centre and stroll around the square, it has a lovely parish church that you can explore.

Back in your Jeep, drive on to Antequera. It is known for its stunning Spanish-baroque style that gives it a unique character. With over 30 ornate churches to explore, it is a historians dream. Visit the Church of the Carmel built in the 16th century and admire the striking altarpiece made from twisting unadorned wood columns and scrolls that rise up to the vaulted ceiling.

Then get a taste of the Bronze Age history at the Dolmens de Menga y Viera. These massive tombs offer a spine-tingling experience as you explore underground.

Now drive to the Antequera Municipal Museum, it has an impressive watchtower and some lovely artesonado ceilings. See the star attraction, the Ephebe of Antequera, a superb bronze sculpture from the Roman Era. Enjoy lunch at the Arte de Cozina, it offers regional delights in a rustic setting. Relax and soak up the ambiance before taking a leisurely drive back to Marbella.

LUXURY HOTELS IN MARBELLA

- Hotel San Cristóbal, set in the vibrant Historic Centre, this hotel is a 4 minute walk from the beach. Traditional rooms include free Wi-Fi and satellite TVs. There is an upscale Mediterranean restaurant and a casual bar-cafeteria with panoramic views of the park. Address: Av. Ramón y Cajal, 3, 29601 Marbella

- Hotel Fuerte Marbella, stylish beachfront resort with beautifully appointed rooms offering satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, minibars and sea views. Some rooms have balconies or terraces. Offers a breakfast buffet and two restaurants, plus a bar with live flamenco music. Address: Calle el Fuerte, s/n, 29602 Marbella