Welcome to Spain, welcome to a land beyond tales, beyond words and images. Spain is the cradle of great civilizations, a hub of cultures, and a coveted travel destination. There is more to Spain than meets the eye, hidden places known to few—waiting to be discovered by you! Our destination today is La Viñuela!
La Viñuela, Little Vineyard, is a beautiful town situated some 47 kilometers from Malaga and 19 kilometers from the coastal town of Torre del Mar. This town dates back to the 18th century and is one of Andalusia's most exciting holiday spots. It was once a stop for travelers along the road between Vélez and Grenada in the region of Axarquia. The town grew out of a small settlement near an old inn called Vinta La Vina that still exists today on the main street of La Viñuela.
The landscape of the Axarquia region consists of staggering mountain ranges and hills through which runs the famous Route of Olive Oil that takes you through the villages of the region. Olive groves, vineyards, and cereal crops are plentiful here, and the harvest is celebrated each year.
Here is our selection of some of the best things to do in La Viñuela.
Image Credit: Frog17, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Lake Viñuela is a reservoir built to supply the area with water needed for olive groves, vineyards, and cereal crops. Despite the fact that it is an artificial lake, the scenic beauty that Lake Viñuela bestows on the landscape here attracts many visitors and nature lovers who are in search of serenity. Near the lake are a few campsites and picnic areas that are ideal for family outings.
Try having a barbecue in one of many barbecue spots around the lake, tables, and chairs are conveniently set up in shady spots so you can enjoy your time during a hot summer day!
When it gets too hot, Lake Viñuela gives you the opportunity to swim and to try out some of the watersports available at a nearby watersports center. These include kayak, paddle surf, and pedalo (pedal boats).
Image Credit: Zangarreon, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sightseeing in La Viñuela is often combined with hiking. Make your trip to La Viñuela more exciting by visiting the most popular historic sites in the area. Visit the 15th-century Moorish watchtower Torre de la Atalaya or Castillo de Zalia, the ruins of an ancient Moorish castle. Both sites have amazing views and are definitely worth a visit!
Near the village, there are some archaeological sites dating back to prehistoric, medieval, and Roman times. If you are a history buff, you would find it most entertaining to discover the place! If you want more of this, visit the Folklore Museum of Los Romanes which is dedicated to the culture of Axarquia, the traditional music, dance, and costume of Verdiales.
One of the best times of the year to visit La Viñuela is in September, during which the Festival de la Pasa is organized. This 2-day festival is a time for the locals to celebrate the annual harvest of grapes. Join the locals in their festivities, music, and dance performances.
Image Credit: Johannes Schwanbeck from Dresden, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
La Viñuela is a great get-away spot! In and around town, there are various exciting hiking trails that offer visitors the chance to be in touch with the Spanish countryside and nature away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Hike to the top of the mountain La Maroma to enjoy stunning panoramic views. At an altitude of 2065 meters, the hike to La Maroma can be challenging, but this remains one of the most accessible mountain hikes in Andalucía.
Image Credit: Victoria Whiteley on Unsplash
La Viñuela is a typical Andalusian village: small, quiet, and charming. Take a walk along the Ruta del Agua and enjoy spectacular views as you approach Lake Viñuela.
While in town, make sure you try some of the local food specialties in one of the restaurants overlooking the lake. Try out Ajoblanco con Uvas, an exceptionally delicious garlic soup with grapes, or Cordero Asado al Horno, roasted marinated lamb, this is a mouthwatering dish typical of the Axarquia region. For peace of mind, you might need to check if the food is halal before consumption.
For more on other exciting holiday spots, feel free to check out our travel blogs!
