The magical white villages of Andalusia: A journey to Comares

Andalusia, the sunny region in southern Spain, is famous for its stunning white villages, known as “pueblos blancos”. These villages captivate visitors with their whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and rich history. One of the most remarkable villages in the region is Comares, a breathtaking hilltop village that you simply cannot miss.

The magic of the white villages

The “pueblos blancos” of Andalusia were built for practical reasons. The whitewashed walls reflect sunlight, keeping homes cooler during the scorching summers and warmer in the winter. Many of these villages are perched on steep hills or mountains, which provided strategic advantages against invasions. The architecture reflects a strong Moorish influence, blending different styles and shaping the rich cultural heritage of the area. Narrow streets, once traveled by donkeys, also provide natural shade and cooling effects. Some of the most well-known “pueblos blancos” include Ronda, Vejer de la Frontera, Frigiliana, and Comares. Each village has its own charm, featuring historic churches, palaces, scenic squares, and breathtaking views.

Comares: The highlight of Axarquía

Of course, we believe Comares is the highlight! 😊 It is one of the highest white villages in Andalusia, situated at 703 meters above sea level in the province of Málaga. The route through Olías offers spectacular views, including glimpses of Málaga city and the bay of La Herradura. The village itself boasts stunning panoramic views over the surrounding mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Comares is a fantastic destination for hiking, with numerous scenic trails and a zip-line for adventurous visitors. One well-known route is the “Ruta de la Pasa”, where you can see local grapes being dried in traditional drying racks. You can read more about local wines in our blog: The Wines and the Harvest in Andalusia.

History and culture

Comares has a rich history, dating back to the time of the Greeks and Phoenicians. Later, it became a significant Moorish stronghold and played a crucial role in defending against the Umayyad Caliphate of Córdoba. The name Comares derives from the Arabic word “qumaris”, meaning “castle on high”. When visiting Comares, you must explore the old Moorish fortress, where two towers remain intact. Don't forget to take a stroll to the other side of the village to see the Parish Church of Comares, a stunning example of local architecture.

Local traditions

Comares is also renowned for its unique musical style, “Verdiales”, a traditional folk music similar to flamenco. The village honors this tradition at “Plaza de los Verdiales” (read more about this in our previous blog: The Village Festivals of Comares).

Exploring the white villages of Andalusia, especially Comares, is like traveling through time and discovering the vibrant culture of southern Spain. The picturesque alleyways are incredibly Instagram-worthy, and whether you're interested in history, architecture, music, or simply enjoying Spain, Comares has something for everyone.

Viva los Pueblos Blancos! 🇪🇸