Soaked in classical Andalusian architecture, a traditional Spanish town, untouched by tourism, has been crowned a foodie paradise. Located in the heart of Malaga, the whitewashed town of Alhaurin el Grande is full of natural landscapes belonging to the Valle de Guadalhorce region.
Offering visitors an authentic experience, Alhaurin el Grande has a treasure trove of tourist attractions, despite its small size. Built in the 16th century, The Church of the Incarnation is a must visit and is built on the ruins of an old Arab mosque. The magnificent church was given a neoclassical style makeover during the 19th century, where a majestic bell tower was also added.
Those seeking a touch of tranquility should visit the Parque de la Libertad in Alhaurín el Grande, a park filled with waterfalls and water fountains. Spanning over 4,400 square meters this charming park which is populated with native and Mediterranean trees has glorious walks and is the perfect place to sit back and take in your glorious surroundings.
Much of the town’s beauty lies in its rural surroundings, where numerous hiking trails take you through stunning olive and citrus groves.
And now the inland town has secured itself a spot in Spain’s highly sought-after de Pueblos Gastronomicos, translating to Gastronomic Villages.
Organisers say the kitchen really is “the very soul of the place”.
Top of the foodie list is the legendary Andalucian delicacy called pan cateto – a dark, rustic village loaf of bread. This rustic loaf is one of the most typical breads of Andalusia, especially in Málaga.
Made with durum wheat and baked in wood ovens this dreamy country bread lasts several days without spoiling. Another delicacy in Alhaurin el Grande is Cachorreñas, an Andalusian soup that brightens up those cold winter nights.
Consisting of tomato, garlic, garlic, eggs, salted fish bread and orange the hearty meal is something locals swear by, so much so they honour the dish every year with a festival.
Meanwhile, those who have a sweet tooth are in for a treat as Alhaurin’s pastries have been called “heaven in a single bite”. Their specialities include sweet potato and honey torrijas, this Spanish style French toast can be topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or honey.
Their rich fig bread is packed with almonds and gorgeous spices whilst polcas, golden pastries, hide sticky surprises of pumpkin jam or cream.
The Red de Pueblos Gastronomicos has hand-picked 10 must visit establishments in Alhaurin el Grande.
Top 10 places to eat in Alhaurin el Grande, Malaga
- Bar Restaurante La Higuera – Ctra. Coín, 27
- Bodega Ancar – C. Guerrero Gajete, 7
- El Fogon de Morales – C. Gerald Brenan, 111
- El Rincon del Perete – C. Vicente Blasco Ibáñez, 8
- Las Anforas – C. Poeta Luis Cernuda, 24, 26
- Marisqueria Casa Paco – C. Gerald Brenan, 70
- Mucho Mas Restaurante – C. Gerald Brenan, 68
- Santiago’s Kitchen – C. Calvario, 38
- Taperia Casa La Abuela – C. Prta de la Villa, 6
- Voguem – C. Gerald Brenan, 75