The word Axarquia is of Arabic origin and means east. Axarquia is the easternmost of the nine regions that make up the province of Malaga. In the municipalities that form part of this region you can still appreciate the influence of the Arab culture that occupied the area for several centuries. The Axarquia is made up of 31 municipalities, among the best known for its size are Velez-Malaga, Nerja and Torrox.

The Axarquia hides incredible landscapes and white villages full of charm, which is why it has become one of the most popular holiday destinations, not only in Andalusia, but also nationally. Beyond the most famous villages in the area, there are others, which despite being less well known, can be considered the most beautiful villages of the Axarquia. Read on if you want to find out which ones they are!

Canillas de Aceituno

The origins of Canillas de Aceituno date back to Roman times, although its streets are more reminiscent of its Moorish past. The village is made up of a multitude of narrow streets decorated with flowerpots and flowers. This municipality is part of the Natural Park of the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama, where we can find different caves and forests. This makes it possible to practice sports such as potholing, hiking and mountain biking.

In addition, during your visit you can cross El Saltillo, a famous suspension bridge located in Canillas de Aceituno with more than 50 meters long and views not suitable for the vertiginous.

Periana

Among the places that are a must to visit in Periana are the Church of San Isidro Labrador, in neo-Mudejar style, and the Baños del Vilo, Arab baths with different curative properties that receive a large number of visitors for their originality. The village’s economic activity is based on olive oil and peaches, considered to be one of the best in the country. As for the activities that can be carried out in Periana, there are several hiking routes. Specifically, the Ruta por la antigua Vía del Tren offers spectacular views of La Axarquía. On the other hand, 6 kilometres from Periana, you can visit the Museo del Aceite de Mondrón free of charge.

Sayalonga

The ancient village of Sayalonga is mainly known for its cemetery, a most original construction as it has a circular layout and all its niches have an original vault shape. This cemetery receives thousands of visitors throughout the year, making it one of the most visited places in the area. Sayalonga is located between the Sierra de Tejeda and the Sierra de Almijara, which is the starting point for various hiking trails. In the centre of the municipality is the Church of Santa Catalina, in Mudejar style, and the Callejón de la Alcuza, which is the narrowest in the region at 56 centimetres wide, a must-see.

Comares

The village that offers the best panoramic views of the Axarquia is perhaps Comares, from the viewpoint of its square you can contemplate magnificent views of the region. The town is mainly dedicated to the production of oil and wine. In Comares there are remains of the old Arab settlements such as the Castle Bastion la Tahona, the hill of Mazmullar or the Aljibe. It is the perfect destination for all nature lovers, as you can climb, slide down the Comares zip-line (436 metres long) and go on various hiking routes of different levels.

Alfarnate

The town of Alfarnate was founded in the Muslim period, something that is reflected in its peculiar architecture. Among its buildings is the old Venta de Alfarnate, now transformed into a restaurant-museum. The village is situated at an altitude of 925 metres, between the mountains, forests and fields of olive and cherry trees. A stream divides the municipality in two, so there are several bridges to cross from one side to the other. Walking through its streets is the best way to discover and admire all the most special corners of the place.

The province of Malaga is full of unknown places, among them, the beautiful villages of the Axarquia, to discover them you just have to take a look at our selection and choose. The charm of each of them will captivate you, not only for its beautiful streets or its good location in a privileged environment, these are places steeped in history that are able to transport us to another era in the blink of an eye.