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  • Málaga TechPark Joins Startup Network and Kyoto Alliance

    Málaga TechPark Joins Startup Network and Kyoto Alliance

    For years, the narrative surrounding Málaga has been one of attraction—drawing in digital nomads, multinationals, and foreign investment. However, the ecosystem has recently shifted gears towards consolidation and structure. The focus is no longer just on putting Málaga on the map, but on organizing the talent that is already here and connecting it to high-value global hubs.

    Two major initiatives spearheaded by Málaga TechPark (PTA) illustrate this maturation: the creation of the Málaga Startup Network and a strategic international alliance with the Kyoto Research Park.

    The Málaga Startup Network: A Seal of Quality

    The ecosystem needed a way to identify and support its most promising ventures. Driven by BIC Euronova, the European Business and Innovation Centre based at the park, the Málaga Startup Network was established to do exactly that.

    Rather than a loose collection of companies, this network formalized a group of 27 startups identified as having high growth potential. These companies, selected for their innovative capacity, represent the backbone of the local tech scene. The network functions not just as a directory, but as a platform to streamline access to funding, mentoring, and visibility.

    The success of this structured approach is already visible in national rankings. As reported by El Debate, several Málaga-based startups—specifically those nurtured within the TechPark environment—have secured positions within the Top 100 startups in Spain. This recognition validates the transition from a quantity-based ecosystem to one defined by quality and scalability.

    The Kyoto Connection: Bridging Continents

    While the Startup Network strengthens the internal structure, the TechPark has also expanded its external reach beyond the usual European suspects. In a significant move for internationalization, Málaga TechPark signed a collaboration agreement with the Kyoto Research Park (KRP) in Japan.

    According to Málaga Hoy, this alliance is designed to foster cooperation in specific high-tech sectors, including:

    • Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)
    • Biotechnology
    • Smart Cities

    This partnership allows companies from Málaga to access the Japanese market with a “soft landing” provided by KRP, and vice versa. It represents a sophisticated layer of diplomacy and business development, moving beyond general agreements to targeted industry cooperation.

    Why This Matters Now

    The combination of these two pillars—internal organization through the Startup Network and external expansion through the Kyoto alliance—signals that Málaga is professionalizing its success.

    According to El Referente, the distinction of these startups is crucial for investors who often struggle to filter through the noise of a booming tech hub. By curating the ecosystem, Málaga makes it easier for capital to find talent.

    As we look at the trajectory of the TechPark, it is clear that the groundwork laid by these initiatives is ensuring the city remains competitive not just as a lifestyle destination, but as a serious node in the global innovation economy.

    It is encouraging to see the city take these deliberate steps. Building a reputation is hard, but maintaining it requires exactly this kind of structural integrity and forward-thinking planning. We look forward to seeing which of these 27 startups will become the next global ambassador for Málaga.

  • Picasso and Françoise Gilot Take Center Stage this Winter

    Picasso and Françoise Gilot Take Center Stage this Winter

    In Málaga, Pablo Picasso is everywhere. From the magnets in souvenir shops to the monumental museum that bears his name, the city never lets you forget its most famous son. However, amidst a backdrop of history that includes the Gran Hotel Miramar celebrating 100 years, it is rare that we get to peel back the layers of the legend and look at the domestic, often complex reality behind the canvas. This winter, the exhibition ‘Picasso: vida con Françoise’ invites us to do exactly that.

  • Why Gaucín is Málaga’s Newest Magical Village for 2026

    Why Gaucín is Málaga’s Newest Magical Village for 2026

    While the Costa del Sol often dominates the headlines, the true soul of Málaga is frequently found by turning your back to the sea and heading inland. January 2026 has started with excellent news for rural tourism enthusiasts and those considering a relocation to Málaga’s rural villages: a new gem in the Serranía de Ronda has officially joined the prestigious network of Pueblos Mágicos de España (Magical Villages of Spain).

  • New ‘Magical Village’ and Ronda’s Dish of the Year

    New ‘Magical Village’ and Ronda’s Dish of the Year

    If you are looking for a reason to head inland this weekend, the Serranía de Ronda has just provided two compelling ones. The year 2026 has started strong for the province’s rural prestige, combining a major tourism accolade for one of our most picturesque white villages with a gastronomic triumph in the capital of the Tajo, mirroring the rise of young chefs and new flavors in Málaga.

  • Gaucín: The Magical Winter Escape in Málaga

    Gaucín: The Magical Winter Escape in Málaga

    January in Málaga often means quiet beaches and sleepy coastal towns, but inland, the energy is shifting. Gaucín, a whitewashed village perched high in the Serranía de Ronda, has started 2026 with a new accolade. Recently highlighted by national press as a “Pueblo Mágico” (Magical Village), this spot is gaining traction as the perfect antidote to the post-holiday blues.

    While the coast hibernates, Gaucín shines—quite literally. Its elevation and position make it one of the sunniest balconies in the province, offering a winter escape that combines history, hiking, and some of the best views in Andalusia.

    The ‘Balcony of the Serranía’

    The primary reason to visit Gaucín isn’t just what’s inside the village, but what you can see from it. Known as the “Balcony of the Serranía de Ronda,” its geographical position is unique. On a crisp January day, when the air is free of summer heat haze, the visibility is startling.

    Looking south, the Rock of Gibraltar dominates the horizon, and just beyond it, the Rif mountains of Morocco rise clearly across the strait. It is one of the few places where you can enjoy a coffee while looking at two continents simultaneously.

    According to El Confidencial, which recently spotlighted the village’s inclusion in the prestigious ‘Pueblos Mágicos’ network, this combination of landscape and heritage is what sets Gaucín apart from other pueblos blancos.

    Castillo del Águila: A Fortress in the Clouds

    Dominating the village skyline is the Castillo del Águila (Eagle’s Castle). Of Roman origin but largely expanded by the Arabs, this fortress was a strategic military point for centuries due to its command over the valleys leading to the coast.

    Today, it serves as a spectacular viewpoint. The climb up is steep but manageable for most fitness levels. Unlike the crowded monuments in larger cities, you can often explore the ruins here in relative silence. The castle grounds include a hermitage, the Santo Niño, which holds deep local significance.

    Tip: Bring comfortable shoes. The cobblestones and the ascent to the castle are not suited for heels or flimsy sandals, even if you are just driving up for lunch.

    A Bohemian Winter Retreat

    Gaucín has a different rhythm than its neighbor, Ronda. It has historically attracted a significant community of international artists, which has influenced the local vibe. You aren’t just walking through a museum piece; it’s a living village with art studios and a slightly bohemian undercurrent.

    For the ‘slow travel’ enthusiast, this is ideal. The streets are narrow and winding—classic Moorish urban design—meant to be walked slowly. In January, the winter sun warms the white walls, making outdoor dining pleasant during the midday hours.

    Practicalities for a Day Trip

    If you are planning a visit this month to see what the “Pueblo Mágico” buzz is about, keep these logistics in mind:

    • Getting There: Gaucín is about a 45-minute drive from the coast (Manilva/Sabinillas area) or about an hour and a half from Málaga city. The road is curvy—take it slow and enjoy the scenery.
    • Parking: Do not try to drive deep into the village center. Park on the outskirts (there are designated areas near the entrance) and walk in. The streets are unforgivingly narrow for modern cars.
    • Dining: The local cuisine leans towards hearty mountain fare—perfect for January. Look for stews, local meats, and chestnut-based desserts.

    Whether you are a local looking to rediscover your own backyard or a visitor seeking an authentic slice of Andalusian life, Gaucín offers a peaceful yet majestic break from the routine. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best views require a little bit of a climb, and the best destinations are the ones that force you to slow down.

  • Off-Piste Gastronomy: Campillos to Benajarafe

    Off-Piste Gastronomy: Campillos to Benajarafe

    While Málaga’s historic center offers an endless array of tapas bars and rooftop terraces, the true pulse of Málaga’s gastronomic explosion often beats strongest outside the city limits. For the local foodie or the traveler willing to rent a car, the province offers a different kind of luxury: space, authenticity, and the honest reinvention of tradition.

  • Málaga’s eMobility Expo 2026: Future of European Transport

    Málaga’s eMobility Expo 2026: Future of European Transport

    Málaga has long been celebrated for its quality of life and tourism, but in 2026, the city is firmly establishing itself as a nerve center for technological advancement and sustainability. The arrival of the eMobility Expo 2026 marks a significant milestone in this journey, transforming the Costa del Sol into the European capital of the sustainable mobility debate.

    A Global Stage for Green Transport

    The eMobility Expo World Congress has chosen Málaga as the backdrop for one of the most critical discussions in the automotive and transport sectors: the implementation of new European Union regulations regarding electric vehicles (EVs).

    With the EU’s ambitious climate targets looming, the industry is under pressure to accelerate the transition away from internal combustion engines. This year’s Expo is not just a showcase of futuristic prototypes; it is a strategic summit where policymakers, manufacturers, and tech disruptors are defining the roadmap for the next decade.

    According to ProSostenible, the 2026 edition is specifically focused on analyzing these new regulatory frameworks. The event serves as a crucial platform for understanding how these laws will impact everything from manufacturing supply chains to urban infrastructure planning.

    Why Málaga?

    The choice of Málaga is no accident. Over the last few years, the city has aggressively pursued a “Smart City” agenda, testing electric bus lines, expanding cycling infrastructure, and integrating the Málaga TechPark into the global digital economy.

    Hosting the eMobility Expo 2026 highlights two key aspects of the city’s growth:

    1. Strategic Hub: Málaga is increasingly seen as the gateway between Europe and Africa, as well as a bridge to Latin America, making it an ideal location for international logistics and transport dialogues.
    2. Living Lab: The city itself acts as a testing ground for many of the technologies discussed at the Expo, from smart traffic management systems to last-mile delivery solutions.

    Business Opportunities and the Green Economy

    For local businesses and international investors, the Expo signals a booming market. The transition to electric mobility requires massive infrastructure upgrades—charging stations, grid modernization, and software solutions—sectors where Málaga’s tech ecosystem is already thriving.

    The convergence of the tech sector with the automotive industry creates a fertile ground for startups and established firms alike to forge partnerships. The discussions held here in 2026 regarding the circular economy of batteries and carbon footprint reduction are expected to set the tone for business strategies across the continent.

    Looking Ahead

    As we navigate 2026, the presence of such a high-caliber event confirms that Málaga is moving beyond its traditional image. It is becoming a place where the future of how we move, work, and live is being decided.

    It is inspiring to see our city host these vital conversations. Whether you are an industry professional or simply a resident watching the electric buses glide by, it is clear that we are all part of a larger shift toward a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient future. We look forward to seeing the innovations unveiled this year translate into real-world benefits for our streets and communities.

  • Alternative Cultural Agenda in Málaga

    Alternative Cultural Agenda in Málaga

    Málaga has successfully branded itself as a city of museums. With the Centre Pompidou, the Picasso Museum, and the Carmen Thyssen, there is no shortage of world-class art for the weekend visitor. However, for those of us living here—or visiting for longer than a few days—the glossy brochures sometimes feel a bit detached from the daily pulse of the city, making the recent opening of alternative creative spaces like Creætica a welcome addition.

  • La Cosmo: Málaga’s Casual Michelin Concept

    La Cosmo: Málaga’s Casual Michelin Concept

    If you have walked through the center of Málaga recently, you know the struggle. Between the franchises and the ‘authentic paella’ signs aimed at cruise passengers, finding a meal that feels honest can be a challenge. Gentrification has a flavor, and it is usually bland.

    However, tucked away from the noise of the main tourist arteries, La Cosmo continues to hold the line.

    As we settle into 2026, looking back at the culinary landscape of the past year, one thing is clear: Chef Dani Carnero has successfully codified what modern Malagueño cuisine should be—sophisticated, accessible, and absolutely devoid of pretension.

    The ‘Little Sister’ with a Big Personality

    Dani Carnero is no stranger to accolades. His flagship restaurant, Kaleja, holds a Michelin star and is known for its deep dives into ‘candela’ (fire) cooking. His original hit, La Cosmopolita, is a legendary tavern that chefs themselves visit when they are in town.

    La Cosmo sits comfortably between them. It was designed to be the casual, rebellious sibling. It is a place where the kitchen is open, the noise level is lively, and the tablecloths are missing—but the technique is Michelin-grade.

    The premise is simple: What if you applied haute cuisine rigor to the format of a neighborhood bar? The result is a venue that feels effortless but tastes expensive.

    The Menu: Why It Works

    Unlike the static menus of tourist traps, La Cosmo’s offering breathes. It relies on the market, meaning if the produce isn’t good that morning, it’s not on the plate that night. However, there are staples that have defined its success throughout 2025 and remain essential ordering for anyone visiting now.

    The Holy Trinity of Orders

    1. Ensaladilla Rusa with Hake: You cannot talk about La Cosmo without this dish. While ensaladilla is a staple in every bar in Spain, Carnero’s version adds warm, flakey hake and perfectly crisp green beans. It changes the texture and temperature of the dish, turning a cold starter into a comforting main event.
    2. Steak Tartar Mollete: A nod to the traditional bread of Antequera, but filled with hand-cut, perfectly seasoned steak tartar. It is savory, soft, and punchy.
    3. Leek Carbonara: A clever twist where the vegetable takes center stage, treated with the richness usually reserved for pasta.

    A Refuge for Locals and Foodies

    The success of La Cosmo isn’t just about food; it’s about resistance. In a report by Málaga Hoy, experts highlighted La Cosmo as one of the defining restaurants of 2025, placing it among the top gastronomic experiences in Spain.

    This recognition validates a crucial point: casual dining does not have to mean lower standards. For the local resident, it offers a place to celebrate a Tuesday night without the ceremony of a tasting menu. For the visitor, it offers a glimpse into how Málaga actually eats when it’s not performing for Instagram.

    Practical Tips for Your Visit

    • Booking is Essential: Do not assume you can walk in. Despite being ‘casual’, the demand is high. Book at least two weeks in advance if you want a prime weekend slot.
    • The Bar: If you are dining solo or as a pair, try to sit at the bar. Watching the kitchen team work is half the entertainment.
    • Location: Calle Císter, 11. It is central, right near the Cathedral, making it an easy stop—but it feels worlds away from the hustle outside.

    Málaga is changing fast. New hotels and franchises open every month. But places like La Cosmo remind us that the city’s culinary heart is still beating strong, fueled by chefs who care more about the flavor of a leek than the filter on a photo. If you haven’t been yet, make 2026 the year you go.

    Enjoy your meal, and maybe I’ll see you at the bar.

  • Picasso & Françoise: Re-examining Their Legacy in 2026

    Picasso & Françoise: Re-examining Their Legacy in 2026

    As the festive lights of Calle Larios come down and Málaga settles into the quieter rhythm of January 2026—a transition made sweeter by the recent arrival of haute couture ice cream—the city’s cultural agenda offers a moment for deeper reflection. Among the current offerings, the exhibition “Picasso: vida con Françoise” stands out—not just as another display of the Malagueño genius, but as a necessary re-examination of one of the most significant relationships in 20th-century art.

    More Than a Muse

    For decades, Françoise Gilot was often reduced to a footnote or a chapter title in Picasso’s biography. However, following her passing in 2023 at the age of 101, the art world has been actively recontextualizing her role. She was an accomplished artist in her own right, a critic, and famously, the only woman who ever left Picasso.

    This exhibition, currently active in the Temporary Exhibition Hall, focuses on the period they shared and the lithographs that emerged from that era. It moves away from the romanticized view of the “artist and his model” to present a dialogue between two strong personalities. For those of us living in or visiting Málaga this winter, it provides a fascinating look at the human dynamics behind the masterpieces.

    Why Visit Now?

    January and February are arguably the best months to visit Málaga’s museums. The holiday crowds have dispersed, allowing for a more intimate viewing experience. This exhibition is particularly suited for a quiet morning or afternoon visit, where you can actually take the time to read the curators’ notes and study the engravings without being jostled.

    As noted in the 2025/2026 seasonal programming, this exhibition is a key pillar of the city’s winter cultural offer. It serves as a bridge between the festive season and the spring art calendar.

    A Broader Cultural Context

    This exhibition doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Málaga’s start to 2026 is intellectually robust. Alongside the Picasso focus, the city is hosting events related to Málaga Clásica and literary discussions centering on Dostoyevsky, creating a rich tapestry for culture lovers this month.

    According to Málaga de Cultura, these overlapping events—ranging from classical literature to modern art—highlight the city’s maturity as a cultural capital. It’s not just about sun and skewers; it’s about engaging with complex history and art.

    Practical Tips for Your Visit

    • Timing: Mid-week mornings are the quietest.
    • Context: Read a brief biography of Françoise Gilot before you go. Understanding her independence adds immense weight to the visual narrative.
    • Nearby: After the exhibition, the surrounding streets of the historic center are perfect for a coffee and a debrief. The conversations sparked by Gilot’s story are often as interesting as the art itself.

    We hope you take the opportunity to see this. It’s a reminder that history is rarely a solo act, and even giants like Picasso were shaped by the formidable people beside them.