Algatocín between the Genal Valley and mountain trails

Landscape and views

Algatocín lies on the mountain ridge separating the Guadiaro and Genal rivers. Its elevated location offers views of the surroundings shaped by the Genal Valley. One kilometre from the centre is the Mirador del General viewpoint. From there, the river valley and the villages of Alpandeire, Faraján, Jubrique and Genalguacil can be seen.

Hiking and cycling

Several trails connect Algatocín with the neighbouring villages. The PR-A 239 hiking trail connects Benarrabá with Algatocín and forms part of the GR 141 trail network. Also part of this network is the PR-A 238 hiking trail, which connects Benalauría with Algatocín. A footpath leads uphill to the Ermita del Calvario chapel outside the village. The Ruta de la Sierra is another route connected with Algatocín.

The technical mountain-bike descent through the Barranco de la Loma near Algatocín covers 4.3 kilometres, has gradients of almost 40 percent and is recommended only for experienced cyclists.

River and bathing area

Charco Puente de San Juan is a bathing area on the Genal. This is where the MA-8305 road between Algatocín and Jubrique crosses the river. The bathing area can be reached via a path leading down from one corner of the bridge.

Townscape and history

Algatocín’s townscape is characterised by narrow, steep streets adapted to the terrain, reflecting its Arab past. Plaza de la Alameda de Andalucía is the centre of the village. The main street is lined with 18th-century houses whose doors bear family coats of arms.

According to tradition, the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Rosario was built in the 16th century over the former palace of an Arab princess. The church is easy to recognise by the ceramic dome of its bell tower.

Crafts, food and festivals

Algatocín’s plant-fibre craft tradition includes ribbons and woven strips, as well as “gaferas” made from esparto grass, palm fibres, olive branches and pita. In Algatocín, plant fibres are woven and sewn together with a cord made of the same material to create items such as baskets and mats. Large zambombas are also made in the village; in the hamlet of El Salitre, palm-straw brooms are additionally produced.

Beekeeping is one of Algatocín’s traditional activities. The village is also associated with traditionally made chacinas from Iberian pork, as well as gachas de harina with miel de caldera.

At Huerto del Niño, the Mayordomos offer a small glass of a drink and a bouquet of oranges in exchange for a donation. Candelaria celebrations include a Eucharistic service, the blessing of baked bread, the presentation of newborns and a procession accompanied by the Municipal Music School. The Feria de San Francisco takes place in Algatocín in October.

Other places

Other places: Alhaurin El Grande, Villanueva De Tapia, Periana, Lagos, Villanueva Del Trabuco, Igualeja, Álora and Pizarra.

To the higher-level travel overview: Málaga.