Walking in Axarquia
Walking in Axarquia
The South of Spain has some of the best hiking in Europe – it's not to be beaten for its culture, scenery, climate, spectacular mountains, history and some unique, endemic flora and fauna.
Just a short drive to east of Malaga and you'll find yourself in the Axarquia region, one of Spain’s beautiful natural places in the shadow of the Sierras of Tejeda and Almijara with their impressive peaks.
Axarquia, the region, has a great richness and variety in its make-up, concealing a splendid diversity of wetland zones, mountain ranges and bird varieties.
It’s a historic region of mountainside's sprinkled with white villages with their distinctive Arabic influence and where abundant grape vines, mango trees and kiwi fruits thrive among the ancient olive groves and almond plantations. Most of the white villages today still retain their typical character.
Agriculture plays an important part of the Axarquian economy, and the overflowing markets bear testimony to the incredible range of locally grown produce, such as grapes, mangos and tomatoes. All of which grow abundantly in this lush semi- tropical area.
Tapas bars and ventas abound, try the local dishes like vegetable and pulse stews, game, paellas and mariscos, which are the essence of the area. Axarquia is also famous for its cured Serrano hams which are considered to be among the best in Spain, excellent olive oil and sweet white Muscatel wines.
The sub-tropical climate here is the most agreeable in Europe, with over 3,000 hours of sunshine every year. This means pleasant summer days can begin in February and will often last well into October. Even at its hottest, a cooling Mediterranean air makes this a pleasant area.
The outstanding weather makes Walking in Axarquia ideal. The hot, dry summers, mild winters and almost constant sunshine together with an absence of frost, means that you should be able to get out every day.
Walking is a growing pastime in Axarquia, with more and more people visiting the area to explore its diverse wildlife and vegetation as well as discover the local culture, cuisine and traditions.
The best to begin your explorations in this area is in the company of local guides who can share their knowledge and enthusiasm.
The Andalucian Olive Oil Route is a great beginning, from Riogordo to Alcaucin it crosses many interesting little towns such as Colmenar, Alfarnate, and Periana. Walking here allows you to get touch with nature, breath in its clean fresh air at the same time you can enjoy the history and culture, experience the friendly mountain people or just enjoy the spectacular scenery.
Of course, the only way to appreciate Axarquia is see for yourself. Walks are offered in the Sierras Tejeda and Almijara where the mountain roads are surrounded by olive trees and panoramic mountain peaks, contact Walk Andalucia
Walking in Axarquia
Elaine Smith
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