The province of Malaga is known for its privileged climate, beaches and vibrant culture. But there is a secret that few tourists know about and that those who try it fall in love with: Malaga’s artisan goat’s cheese. This unique product, linked to the area’s livestock tradition, has conquered palates both inside and outside Spain for its flavour, quality and sustainable origin.
If you love good food, we suggest a delicious and unique route: take a drive to some of the best cheese shops in Malaga to learn how this delicacy is made and, of course, taste it straight from the source!
Why take a cheese route by car?
Artisanal cheese is mainly produced in rural areas, many of which are difficult to reach by public transport. With a car hired through Yellowcar, you can easily reach these locations, plan stops in charming villages, and combine gastronomy, nature and local culture in a single trip.
What’s more, most of these cheese factories are surrounded by spectacular scenery, making the route a truly sensory experience.
The Malaga goat: local pride
The Malaga goat breed is native to the region and is recognised as one of the best in the world for milk production. Its milk is rich in protein, highly digestible and perfect for making fresh, cured and semi-cured cheeses, as well as cheeses flavoured with spices or aromatic herbs.
The Malagueña Goat Breeders’ Association, based in Casabermeja, has promoted the value of this breed not only from an agricultural point of view, but also from a tourist perspective, promoting cheese-making agrotourism throughout the province.
Tour of the best cheese shops in Malaga
Here is a selection of essential stops for your Malaga artisan cheese route:
El Pastor del Valle Cheeses (Almogía)
A small family business that produces artisan cheeses from raw goat’s milk. They offer guided tours, tastings and direct sales.
Recommended: mature cheese with rosemary.
La Hortelana Cheese Factory (Coín)
Perfect to combine with a visit to the local market. Its production is organic and 100% handmade.
Recommended: fresh cheese with sweet paprika.
El Pinsapo Cheeses (Guaro)
Located very close to the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park, this cheese factory offers award-winning products.
Recommended: semi-cured cheese in olive oil.
Sierra Crestellina Cheese Factory (Casares)
One of the most picturesque spots on the route. Here you can enjoy breathtaking scenery and cheeses with character.
Recommended: cheese with red wine.
La Cañada del Capitán Cheeses (Vélez-Málaga)
Located in the heart of Axarquía, this cheese factory combines traditional and modern techniques to produce highly acclaimed cheeses.
Recommended: mature cheese with Provençal herbs.
What else is there to do along the route?
- Visit farmers’ markets where you can buy other local products such as honey, oil, or jams.
- Stroll through the white villages of the Axarquía region or the Guadalhorce Valley.
- Book agritourism experiences that include goat milking, craft workshops, or guided tours.
- Combine with other themed routes, such as wine or olive oil.
Tips for the perfect cheese route
- Call cheese shops in advance to confirm opening hours and availability of tours.
- Bring a cool box to keep your shopping cool if it is a hot day.
- Avoid visiting the countryside during the hottest hours of the day (especially in summer).
- Check out local events: many food fairs coincide with cheese tastings.
Malaga also tastes like cheese
Artisanal goat cheese from Malaga is much more than just a product: it is history, identity and flavour. Visiting its cheese factories is to discover the most authentic and delicious side of the province. And if you do it by car, you can enjoy the experience freely, without rushing, and with the convenience of designing your own itinerary.
With Yellowcar, you have the keys to unlock a route that combines gastronomy, tradition and scenery. Ready to begin your journey to the heart of Malaga’s flavours?