Alfarnate travel information and video

Alfarnate

Alfarnate is a pueblo (village) located in the north west of the beautiful Axarquia region, forming part of the Route of the Olive Oil and Mountains. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist areas of the Costa del Sol, Alfarnate offers a real opportunity to see the more traditional side of the region.

The beautiful white washed village is situated in a verdant valley amidst majestic mountain scenery. Surrounded by farmland, orchards and groves, which are in stark contrast to the rugged mountains, which encompass it.

The village is one of the more level towns of the Axarquia, less hilly, it’s a lot easier to get about town.

History & culture
The name Alfarnate dates back to the 10th century, the original Moorish name was Al-farnate, which means flourmill. There are many reminders from this era including the 16th century church of Santa Ana, with its Mudejar minaret, in Calle Secretaria, here you in the oldest part of town there are numerous 16th century buildings and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, where bull fighting used to take place.

The Lake
The nearest beach to Alfarnate is around 50 kilometres away, but there not to far way is Lake Viñuela, whose warm and pleasant waters are perfect for swimming in the summer, offering a marvellous fresh water alternative to the sea.

Be advised that a licence is required to go fishing on the lake.

Festivals
The region has a large agricultural industry; one its most delicious produce is the cherry. Deliciously large and tasty, the cherry harvest is celebrated every year at the end of June with an excellent festival. Music and custom accompanies the cherry tasting, and the event brings thousands of visitors to Alfarnate every year.

Cuisine
The cuisine of Alcaucin is typical of the region with rice, meat and fish dishes being top of the menu. Also try a delicious tapa of Jamon (on the bone) or Chorizo sausage, both traditional from the local area.

Climate
The average yearly climate of Alfarante is around 16 ºC being hot in summer and temperate in the winter. The residents enjoy around three hundred days of annual sunshine.