Cómpeta is the largest of the white villages in the Axarquia, the area east of Malaga on the Costa del Sol in Andalucia. It's situated at an altitude of approx. 600 meters (2000 ft), 16 kilometers (10 miles) from the beach. The village has a long Moorish tradition and is famous for the production of Malaga wine. In July, the yearly local festival takes place; the wine festival is in August.

Over the years, the village has grown considerable, offering many facilities such as dozens of restaurants, banks with ATM's, two supermarkets, and lots of smaller shops. There's a market every Saturday. Plaza Almijara is the heart of the village. Here, you'll find the church and a number of restaurants.

Cómpeta's charm is that is hasn't updated itself in every respect. Despite those above facilities you will often encounter the goat shepherd with his flock on the way from the house to the village. And while enjoying the night on the square you'll see local farmers arriving on horseback for a beer. It's easy to get lost wandering the small streets of Cómpeta, and to find yourself back in earlier times. Cómpeta is a great starting point for many activities.

The Beautiful White Villages of Andalucia

Very near Cómpeta you'll encounter some extremly charming small white villages, such as Canillas de Albaida, Corumbela, Arenas, Archez, Salares, and Sayalonga. They all have strong Moorish influences and perch on the flanks of the Tejeda and Almijara mountains in Andalucia. An excellent way to visit these villages is by following the so-called 'Mudejar route'.

The Mudejar building style is typically Spanish: after the 'reconquest' on the Moores the christian rulers were so impressed by the muslim building style, that it strongly influenced their architecture. In Archez, for example, you'll find one of the best preserved minarets in Mudejar style, near the church.

Nature reserves, Mountains and Caves

Beaches of the Costa del Sol

Sports and Activities in Andalucia

Cómpeta is an ideal starting point for walks. A local organisation offers hiking arrangements, for both individuals and groups. A Landrover will take you far into the nature reserve, so you can reach places you wouln't otherwise be able to visit. In clear conditions, you can see the Rif mountains in Marocco and the Sierra Nevada. Afterwards, the Landrover will take you back. Once a week, on Wednesdays, a Landrover safari into the nature reserve is organized from Cómpeta. Additionally, there are two horse riding schools organizing horseback trips through the reserve.

In winter you can reach the ski slopes of the Sierra Nevada from Cómpeta in a mere two hours. There are more than 75 kilometers of marked tracks for every skill level. The ski season runs from end of November to end of April. Ski lifts will take you up to altitudes of 3,200 meters. Skis and shoes are for rent on location.

Looking for a creative way to spend your stay in Andalucia? How about a mosaic or sculpture class? Classes are taught by a local artist living in Cómpeta and last a week: from Monday to Friday.

In the vicinity there are several language schools offering Spanish courses.

There are three golf courses on the coast, East of Malaga. The closest is the 18 hole course of Caleta de Velez, twenty kilometers from Cómpeta.

Finally, there are many opportunities for water sports and deep sea diving.

Cities of Andalucia and the Alhambra - world cultural heritage

Granada is, of course, world-famous for its Alhambra, and if you have never been there before, a visit really is a must! From the coast Granada is easily reached with a day trip. We recommend reserving tickets in advance: save yourself queueing at the entrance and be assured of a time slot for visiting the Palacios Nazaries (royal chambers).

Also, Malaga is a great town, hosting the Picasso museum. Otherwise, Malaga is a very cosy, Spanish harbour town with accompanying cathedral, parks, markets, and bodegas where you can drink the famous Malaga wine directly from the barrel. Furthermore, Malaga is a wonderful shopping opportunity. Other cities you can visit in a day are Ronda, Cordoba, and Antequera.

A little closer, there a few smaller towns: Velez-Malaga (the regional capital, very Spanish), Torre del Mar, and Nerja. Nerja is a bustling town with an old Moorish centre: a labyrinth of narrow, pedestrian-only streets, housing restaurants, shops and tapas bars. Where once was a 10th century fortress, there is now the Balcon de Europa, offering a fantastic view of the sea and the coast line.

Further East, you'll find two more interesting towns: Almuñecar and Salobreña. Both have their roots in the Moorish tradition, which is good to see. They are very Spanish towns, worth visiting!