Four fabulous Andalucian pueblos worth exploring

Andalucía offers a virtually endless scenic route for cultural and historical explorations and picture postcard white villages are an integral part of that. It’s no wonder that many of these pueblos have maze-like clusters of narrow, irregular streets, given that they were founded thousands of years ago and it is these characteristics that make for some splendid exploring routes where the fun lies in getting lost and finding your way back again. Perfect for a balmy autumn afternoon.

Casares

just 15 km from the coast sits the picture perfect little village of Casares. With a historic church and Medieval Arab castle rising from a craggy hilltop, the village itself seems to cling to the slopes, rising to meet these monuments at the top. The traditional white-washed buildings are stacked higher and higher on top of one another like some impressionist painting. For a village of only about 3,000 inhabitants it has an incredible wealth of historical sites, all easily discovered whilst meandering through the streets en-route to the castle above.

Frigliana

The Axarquian village of Frigliana is a real maze of narrow pedestrian streets that can open unexpectedly onto a plaza suddenly teaming with life, or lead you into an apparent dead end only to reveal a cluster of shops and tapas bars. With a strong Moorish influence marvel at the intricately designed stone pavements and the plethora of floral colour hanging from proudly adorned balconies, window ledges and doorways. Exploring this pueblo can take a whole day, but rest assured there are plenty of restaurants and bars to stop and enjoy a little tapa.

Comares

Less than 25km from the coast, perfectly perched atop a hilltop at almost 740 metres high, Comares boasts amazing views to the Mediterranean sea and the surrounding mountains. It is easy to get lost in this labyrinthine village so ceramic footprints have been placed along the narrow-cobbled streets to help visitors find their way. A wander around will reveal various plaques graphically explaining Comares’ rich history, dating to at least the 3rd century B.C. and including the handover of the village from the Moors to the Catholic Kings in 1487.

Mijas

One of the most well-known and local pueblos you will find Mijas at the end of long and meandering road perched up in the mountains. A labyrinth of cobbled streets are perfect for losing yourself on an autumn afternoon. Stop for tapas or an ice cream and enjoy some fabulous sea views. There are plenty of historic buildings including the bullring and lift allows those that are less mobile access to the higher village area. With its own Made in Mijas brand you can find locally made goods including chocolate.