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What to see in Alhaurin el Grande, one of Malaga’s white villages
Alhaurin el Grande is located in the south-central area of the province of Malaga in the Guadalhorce Valley region. It was the place of residence of illustrious figures such as Gerald Brenan, who spent the last 17 years of his life in this town, or Antonio Gala, named Adopted Son in 2012.
Holy Week in this Malaga town is of great importance, so much so that it was declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest of Andalusia. Indeed, this town’s “grandeur” dates back to the time of the Catholic Kings, as they named the village. To learn more secrets about this Malaga town, just keep reading.
In Alhaurin el Grande
Parque de la Libertad
One of the most charming parks in Alhaurin el Grande is Parque de la Libertad, or Freedom Park. This large green area measures nearly 15,000 square feet. It has three levels, which are connected with foot paths, where you can find waterfalls, a children’s playground, and more. It is without a doubt one of the best places to see in Alhaurin el Grande.
Church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación
Where the old castle and mosque of Muslim Alhaurin were formerly located, today you can find the Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación Church. Here is where people worship the village’s patron saint, Our Lady of Grace. In this neoclassical church, vestiges including the Gothic rib vaults of the tower’s body still remain today, thanks to the fact that although remodeling was done in the 19th century, part of the original facade was conserved.
El Molino de la Paca
Another tourist attraction to see in Alhaurin el Grande is Molino de la Paca, or Paca’s Olive Press. It’s a must-see for both Spanish and foreign visitors, as it has been operational for more than 120 years. You can learn about this facility on a guided tour, where you will be shown the traditional method for obtaining olive oil in addition to the new technology used. And of course, you can also taste the final product.
Shrine of San Sebastian
The construction of the shrine of San Sebastian, the oldest chapel in town, dates from the 15th century. It is believed that it started as an ancient Muslim sanctuary and, with the passage of time, was converted to a Christian shrine in honor of Saint Sebastian, the patron saint of Alhaurin el Grande. It is now the headquarters of the Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno brotherhood[CC1] , known as “los Moraos,” or the purple ones.
Shrine of Santa Vera Cruz
The shrine of Santa Vera Cruz, also called the Convent shrine, is the headquarters of the Vera Cruz brotherhood, known as “los Verdes,” or the green ones. There are references that assert that the shrine already existed in 1542. It was destroyed in 1812 and its reconstruction finished in 1921. The Christ of the Santa Vera Cruz is worshiped within its walls.
Around Alhaurin el Grande
Golf
The best sport to play in Alhaurin el Grande is undoubtedly golf. Thanks to the legacy of Severiano Ballesteros, considered one of the best Spanish players of all time, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular golf courses in Spain. It is located in a wild area of the Mijas Mountain Range and is the only course in Andalusia designed by Ballesteros.
Horse riding
Another way to enjoy the nature around Alhaurin el Grande is to take a pleasant horse ride. This is an ideal experience for novices and for those looking to improve their horsemanship. Rides usually take place in equestrian centers, although you can also find people who offer these rides on their own, especially foreigners.
Hiking routes: Barranco Blanco in Coin
Just 20 minutes by car from Alhaurin el Grande is one of the most spectacular natural settings in the province of Malaga: the Barranco Blanco hiking route in Coin. The “Alaminos” Brook stands out for the beauty of its pools and its easy access. In fact, the European Union has classified it as a Site of Community Importance (SCI).
Beach (Fuengirola)
Although Alhaurin el Grande is not a coastal town, there are several beaches and entertainment areas within reach on the Costa del Sol. Castillo Beach (Fuengirola), Carihuela Beach (Torremolinos), or Bil-Bil Beach (Benalmadena)—one of the best beaches in Malaga to visit this summer—are especially recommendable.
Where to stay in Alhaurin el Grande
Now that you know the variety of options for learning about and enjoying this beautiful Malaga town, you need lodging that is up to the task. We recommend the Alhaurin Golf Hotel, a charming hotel tucked into nature that is perfect for a few days of tranquility.