Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Comares, a charming village nestled in the mountains of the Axarquía region, in the province of Málaga. Perched high above the Mediterranean, Comares offers breathtaking panoramic views that are truly a sight to behold.
In this guide, we aim to take you on an engaging journey through Comares, exploring its rich history, vibrant local culture, mouth-watering cuisine, and stunning landscapes. We’ll delve into the history of Comares, highlight key places of interest, introduce you to popular local fairs and festivals, give you a taste of the local cuisine, and provide useful information on how to get there.
Moreover, we’ll discuss the benefits of hiring a car in Málaga. With your own set of wheels, you’ll have the freedom to discover Comares at your own pace, as well as the many other fascinating locations throughout the province.
History of Comares
Comares, a charming village in the mountains of Axarquía, has a rich history that dates back to the 7th century BC, with Greek and Phoenician settlers. The village flourished under Arab rule, becoming a key Moorish fortress. This is evident in the Moorish architecture that still stands today, such as the ‘Puerta de Málaga’, the main point of access to the town, and the ‘Calle de los Arcos Árabes’, a street known for its beautiful arches.
One of the most significant historical landmarks in Comares is the castle. Although only two of its turrets and part of the ancient wall, known as ‘La Tahona’, remain, they serve as a reminder of the village’s strategic importance during the Moorish period.
In May 1487, the last Muslim governor surrendered to the Catholic Monarchs at the ‘Puerta de Málaga’. This marked the end of Moorish rule and the beginning of a new era for Comares.
Today, as you wander the narrow, winding streets of Comares, you’re walking through centuries of history.
Discover Comares
Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Comares, nestled amidst the lush pine groves of the “Los Montes de Málaga” Natural Park. Wander through its quaint town centre and narrow, flower-adorned streets, where you’ll find remnants of ancient Arabic settlements. The castle of Comares, originally a Roman fortification and later an Arabic stronghold, still stands as a testament to the village’s rich history. The Sixteenth Century Parish Church of “Ntra. Sra. De la Encarnación” is another must-see.
Don’t miss the Mazmúllar plateau, a parallel-type massif located two kilometres from the town. Here, you’ll find the remains of a Ninth Century Arabic settlement and a cistern, declared a Historical-Artistic Monument in 1931.
Places to Visit
Castillo de Comares
Explore the remnants of this ancient fortress that stands as a testament to Comares’ rich history. Find on map
Nuestra Señora de la Encarnacion Church
Erected in 1505, it was built on the site of an old Arab mosque. The church stands out in the urban landscape, with its splendid Mudejar-style wooden frames that cover the interior of the temple, considered one of the best-preserved examples among the parishes of the Malaga province.. Find on map
Mirador de la Axarquía
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Axarquía region from this scenic viewpoint. Find on map
Puerta de Málaga
Step through the ‘Puerta de Málaga’, the main point of access to the town, and step back in time. Find on map
Comares Zip-line
For the adventurous, the Tirolona de Comares offers a thrilling zip-line experience. Find on map
Fuente Gorda
Visit Fuente Gorda, a local landmark known for its refreshing spring water. Find on map
Calle de los Arcos Árabes
Stroll down the ‘Calle de los Arcos Árabes’, a street known for its beautiful arches and charming atmosphere. Find on map
Fairs and Festivals
Comares is renowned for its vibrant fairs and festivals that showcase the rich cultural tapestry of the area. Among these, the Feria de Los Ventorros stands out as a mid-July celebration that brings together the community and visitors in a lively atmosphere.
- Fair of Los Ventorros: Celebrated in mid-July, this fair is held in the hamlet of Los Ventorros, offering traditional music and dance.
- Festival of Verdiales: Taking place on the penultimate weekend of July, it features the region’s traditional fandango music with performances by ‘pandas’.
- Pilgrimage of Comares: A religious and communal event in mid-June, marked by processions and shared meals among the community.
- Fair of Las Cuevas: Occurring on the last weekend of July, this fair celebrates the town’s historical heritage and community spirit.
These festivities are just a glimpse of the rich culture and traditions of Comares. We invite you to join us in the celebration and to experience the warmth and hospitality of this wonderful Andalusian village.
Gastronomy
The gastronomy of Comares is a reflection of its rich culture and traditions, offering a variety of dishes that will delight any palate. Among the most notable gastronomic specialities are “gazpachuelo” and “sopa de puchero”, dishes that stand out for their authentic flavour and traditional preparation.
In winter, the typical dishes are potato stew, tomato soup, and “ajocolorao”, a delicious recipe based on garlic and red peppers. These dishes, with their warmth and robust flavour, are perfect for colder days.
In summer, cold soups like “gazpachuelo” and “ajoblanco” are more suitable. These soups, with their freshness and lightness, are the perfect choice for hot summer days.
Additionally, the local sweet wine serves as an ideal complement to its cuisine. This wine, with its sweetness and body, enhances the flavours of the dishes and provides a complete gastronomic experience.
So, whether you’re exploring the streets of Comares or enjoying a meal in one of its local restaurants, we invite you to try these culinary delights and enjoy the authentic gastronomy of Comares.
How to Get to Comares from Malaga Airport
Getting to Comares from Malaga Airport is straightforward and offers a scenic journey through the beautiful landscapes of Andalucía. Here are a few options:
By Car
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Comares is by car. The journey takes approximately 1 hour via the E-15 and MA-3111, covering a distance of about 50.58 kilometres. Car hire services are readily available at Malaga Airport.
If you dont have a car you can check for car hire in Malaga from our website
By Taxi
If you prefer a more comfortable journey, you can take a taxi from Malaga Airport directly to Comares. The journey takes about 48 minutes.
By Bus
ALSA operates a bus service from Malaga to Comares. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Remember to check the schedules and availability of these services in advance to ensure a smooth journey. Enjoy your trip to Comares!