Colmenar is a typical Andalucian, whitewashed village almost untouched by commercial tourism. In Colmenar life goes on at a relaxing, rural pace and mules are still a common form of transport. That said, Colmenar can be a lively place at times and there is a good range of bars, shops and restaurants, all of which are very welcoming, especially to visitors.
The village hugs the hillside amongst majestic mountain scenery. The main harvests of grapes and almonds are a particularly important time of year for the village.
Colmenar is located in the western most point of the Axarquia region. It is 32 kilometres from the centre of Málaga, a journey time of approximately 40 minutes.
If you are looking to experience the real taste of true Andalucian lifestyle then Colmenar is the place for you. Set in sumptuous surroundings it is the perfect place to unwind.
Natural surroundings The road from Malaga known as the Carretera de Colmenar takes you through pine forests and spectacular countryside to the mountain towns of the Malaga province
History On the way into the town, there is a stone steeple called the Puerta de La Cruz, showing the coat-of-arms of the town – a beehive with seven bees flying over it. In 1488 this was handed over by Hamet el Zuque to Francisco de Coalla.
Festivals Every year Colmenar hosts a number of festivals, like the spring festival in honour of the Virgin of Candelaria. The neighbouring towns are also unspoilt and host there own festivals which makes Colmenar are great place to experience traditional rural spain. There are many hill trails and hiking paths in the area to explore.
Golf The nearest golf course is that at El Candado east of Málaga, it is around 40 kilometres away, and equally 40 minutes drive. It is a very attractive course with fantastic views and enjoyable for all levels of player.
Cuisine Colmenar's cuisine is typical of the area, with lots of seafood, roasted meats and rice dishes on the menu. There are a number of tapas bars, restaurants and cáfes in the town and a diverse choice of what to eat.
Climate Colmenar enjoys a sub-tropical Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and warm winters. Cooling breezes from the sea make the summer heat manageable; temperatures average 32 ºC during the summer.
For a small town Colmenar has all the amenities one would expect of a place of its size. Local traders and shopkeepers were very friendly. I was able to buy fresh fish on a daily basis. There are a good selection of Bars, Restaurants and local food stores as well as a fresh fruit and veg market.
Costa del Sol reviews
I wasn't interested in the coast, being much more a person looking to relax in the peace and quiet of the countryside. I prefer nature, wildlife and mountain views.
Very pleasant, laid-back village, with friendly people, sufficient shops...a typical Spanish place
Costa del Sol reviews
Parts of the Costa del Sol I would stay away from, but there are many lovely areas, coves, beaches to visit, so it isn't necessary to go to the more built up areas, unless you want night life, fish and chips etc!!