Benalmadena organised its annual emergency exercise at the cable car last week, raising the level of challenge by involving firefighters from several towns across the province. But, this time, they decided to make the test even more difficult than previous years – by carrying it out in the pitch-black darkness of night.

Multiple services join forces in complex scenario

Firefighters were brought in from Benalmadena, Mijas, Fuengirola, Marbella and Malaga capital, and the provincial consortium worked together with national police, local officers, civil protection teams, Red Cross staff and the cable car’s own technicians.

Organisers recreated an incident that required the evacuation and rescue of around thirty people from cabins stranded on the line. The cable car is usually closed by nightfall, but on this occasion, they might have been thnking about the astronomy nights run during the summer or even the predicted eclipse in August of this year.

Fire crews carried out procedures for rescue work, operational coordination, victim care and resource management inside the distinctive cable car environment.

The activity allowed crews to assess joint response capacity during a demanding situation and to improve communication and other links between the different bodies involved.

Mayor observes drill with fire and police chiefs

Juan Antonio Lara, mayor of Benalmadena, attended the exercise accompanied by fire service heads of Malaga’s provincial fire brigade and the local police.

Both chiefs followed the work of the various teams at close range throughout the operation.

Drones with thermal cameras support night operations

Local police deployed their new drone unit during the evening phase of the drill. The little aircraft carried night vision equipment and thermal imaging cameras, enabling teams to obtain clear views inside the cable car cabins and to detect any passengers who, theoretically, might remain trapped inside.

Officers also used the drones to assist with search tasks, traffic control around the site and general support for the emergency response in low-light conditions.

Regular training builds readiness at popular attraction

The drill forms part of ongoing preparation designed to keep response standards high at one of the Costa del Sol’s well-known tourist sites during the busiest months of the year.

By bringing together a wide range of specialist teams and testing new technology in realistic nighttime settings, organisers noted down practical information on how modern tools can improve location and rescue times.

The exercise confirmed that the collaboration between local and provincial administrations as well as specialised organisations is excellent, supporting further progress in safety and prevention measures for the cable car ride.

Teams completed the full programme without complications and finished earlier than scheduled, providing clear evidence of effective planning and execution.

Great news for residents and visitors looking to escape the heat in the hills above Marbella as Ojen’s local town swimming pool has officially reopened its doors. The facilities are scheduled to remain open until mid September, offering a perfect spot for leisure and refreshment during the hottest months of the year.

Opening hours for the season

Monday to Friday, gates open at 12pm and close at 7pm. At weekends, swimmers can get in an hour earlier, with doors opening at 11am, still closing at 7pm. Worth noting is that advance bookings are only available up to one week ahead, so planning too far in advance is not possible.

How to book your spot at Ojen pool

Getting in requires a reservation. 75% of available tickets are sold online via the pool’s official website, while the remaining 25% are sold on the door on a first-come, first-served basis until they run out. Turning up without a booking is therefore a risk during busy periods, so booking online in advance is strongly recommended.

Prices and discounts for 2026

Entry fees are reasonable and family friendly

Under 2s: Free
Ages 2–14:€3
Ages 15 and over:€4

Cardholders benefit from reduced rates, paying just €1 for children aged 2–14 and €2 for those aged 15 and above.

How to get a pool card

A pool card can be requested using a form available at Ojen’s town hall offices, submitted with a passport-sized photograph. Cards are personal and non-transferable, and anyone who held a card in a previous season can continue using it without needing to renew. Bear in mind that holding a card does not guarantee entry availability still applies.

Facilities and location

Located at the Ojen sports centre, just five minutes from Marbella. There is a terrace bar and restaurant that serves local tapas, grilled specialties, and cold drinks. Showers, changing rooms, covered shaded areas, toilets, on-site WiFi, and parking are all available. The facility is also fully accessible for wheelchair users, providing adapted parking and dedicated toilet facilities.

For more information visit the Ojen Town Hall website