3 Beautiful White Villages In Andalucia, Spain
Andalucia in southern Spain is renowned for its quaint white villages (villas blancos) – these are three of the most interesting.
With its Moorish past, southern Spain has many villages tucked up in the hillsides, inland from the Mediterranean Sea. The streets are narrow, cobble-stoned and winding, lined with beautifully white-washed homes. Often, balconies are bursting with flowering geraniums and bougainvillea and song birds sing as you walk by. Here are three of the quieter and truly lovely white villages in Andalucia, Spain.
1. Ojen
Located a short drive from Marbella, Ojen nestles high up in the Sierra de las Nieves, surrounded by gorgeous scenery. The village is perfect for a day trip out from Marbella and the Costa del Sol. While it is tiny, each year, the village hosts El Ojeando, a national independent music festival.
Among the attractions of Ojen is the Fountain of Chorros. This water fountain has been flowing for more than a century, offering fresh spring water. The area is famous for the production of olives and olive oil. This makes a visit to the Oil Mill Museum fascinating, with its original equipment, as well as regular art exhibitions. Another fine visit is the Wine Museum, which is set in an old schnapps distillery and has a selection of excellent wines on sale.
The Caves of Ojen have been linked to life in the village for many centuries. The caves are naturally carved into the karstic rock and have been used as places of refuge for people and animals for years. These days, the caves form part of a garden, where concerts and other events are held.
2. Frigiliana
Frigiliana is nestled in the Axarquia region in the Natural Park of Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama. The village’s surroundings are perfect for nature lovers and trekking. The streets are lined with the signature white-washed homes, interspersed with the odd quaint tapas bar, perfect for a snack.
One of the monuments worth visiting is the Palacio de los Condes (Palace of the Counts), set in a 17th-century Renaissance mansion. The building was crafted using materials from a former Moorish castle, the ruins of which still stand in the town. Of interest to note, the building now hosts a molasses factory and its wares are on sale to take home.
Learn about the history of the area at the Archaeological Museum, housed in an 18th-century building, where Phoenician vessels, Moorish daggers and a Neolithic skull are part of the exhibits on display.
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3. Tolox
Tolox nestles high up in the Natural Park Sierra de las Nieves and is a colorful village to visit. The white homes are laden with flowering plants virtually all year round. Enjoy exploring nature is the surrounding countryside, or explore the narrow streets.
Another option is Fuente Amargosa Thermal Spa, a medicinal spa in town, perfect for relaxation and wellness. The waters here are wellknown for treating a number of inflammatory skin conditions and help with rheumatism and other health problems. The spa has been running since 1869.
A pleasant stroll can be enjoyed on the Tolox Castle walls, which are all that remains of the original castle. However, the walls offer beautiful views over the surrounding countryside. In the town center itself, several interesting buildings stand, including the Casa de la Inquisicion, The Tolox Popular Tradition and Art Museum and the Casa del Hidalgo Fernández de Villamor, which dates back to the 16th century.
Take time out from your beach vacation on the Costa del Sol and head inland to explore the wonders of the Andalucian white villages!
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