Pueblos Mágicos de España (Spain’s Magical Villages) is a list published annually. There is also a ranking for the most beautiful villages in Spain, but to get on the list of most magical villages, a place has to have that little bit of extra. The criteria to be a “Magical Village” are based on traditions, gastronomy and whether villages have ‘life’. Of course the sights also play a role, but according to the initiators a Magical Village should have something more ‘extra’ than just being a Beautiful Village.
We would like to make a top 3 (in no particular order) from the list of more than 80 villages, with the most favorite places of La Taha.
Iznajar, Antequera
A typical Andalusian village with steep, narrow streets lined with orange trees, gardens, terraces and white houses: Iznájar. The village seems to rise from the large reservoir. An Arab castle at the top offers a beautiful view of the 32 kilometer long lake with water sports. Park Sierra Subbética, half an hour’s drive away, is 159,190 hectares. The picturesque villages in the immediate vicinity are heartwarming with their historical, artistic and archaeological aspects. Enjoy gastronomy and traditional agricultural products such as ‘Oro Liquido’ (Extra Virgin Olive Oil)!
Comares, Axarquia
Quaint Comares is located on a hilltop. This typical Andalusian village has bars, restaurants and shops. Also Colmenar is easily accessible from Comares for the Thursday market. Comares is sometimes called the balcony of the Axarquia with the Periana corridor and part of the Montes de la Axarquia in the north, and in the south a huge nature reserve that includes the Vélez Valley and the Sierra de Tejeda. The main ‘wealth’ of Comares is the production of oils and wines and the harvest of almonds, obligatory food when you are in Comares: oil, wine and raisins.
Conillas de Aceitunas, Axarquia
The drive to the nearest beach takes about half an hour. Closer by is Lake Viñuelas, a very photogenic place. Axarquia is known for its rich Moorish history and charming whitewashed villages (pueblos blancos). The area features beaches, cliffs, valleys and mountains. The cozy village of Canillas de Aceituno is known for its good restaurants, but bars and retailers are also well represented in this cozy mountain village.
For holiday homes in the most beautiful villages in Spain, click here!
