Nestled in the heart of La Axarquía, Iznate is a quaint town located in the hinterlands of Málaga’s eastern coast. Home to approximately 800 residents, this charming locale is a mere 14 kilometres from Vélez. The town centre, anchored by the bustling “Los Dolores” square, sits at the base of the majestic “Cerro Iznate”. The serene Iznate river, from which the town derives its name, gently meanders through its lands, adding to the town’s picturesque appeal.
History
The rich history of Iznate is deeply rooted in its Arabic origins. The name ‘Iznate’ itself is derived from the Arabic root ‘hisnat’, translating to ‘castle’. This gives rise to ‘Hins Aute’, which intriguingly means ‘Castle of Aute’. This etymology paints a vivid picture of a time when castles dominated the landscape, offering a glimpse into the town’s historical significance.
Iznate’s history is marked by its active participation in the Moorish Rebellion, a period that left an indelible mark on the town’s demographic landscape. The rebellion was met with severe retribution from the Catholic Monarchs, resulting in a drastic reduction of its population to a mere hundred inhabitants. This event stands as a testament to the town’s resilience and spirit.
Among the architectural gems in Iznate, the Church of San Gregorio, dating back to the Sixteenth Century, holds a place of prominence. This historic edifice, nestled in the heart of the town centre, serves as a beacon of Iznate’s rich cultural heritage. Its timeless architecture continues to captivate visitors, making it a must-visit landmark in the town.
From its ancient roots to its enduring structures, the history of Iznate offers a fascinating journey through time, making it a compelling destination for those seeking to experience the echoes of the past.
Sights in Iznate
Iznate, a town steeped in history, offers a plethora of sights that captivate the hearts of its visitors. Each corner of this charming town is a testament to its rich heritage and natural beauty.
Cerro Iznate
One of the most iconic landmarks is the ‘Cerro Iznate’, a majestic hill that provides a stunning backdrop to the town. A hike up this hill rewards visitors with panoramic views of the town and its surrounding landscapes.
Los Dolores Square
The ‘Los Dolores’ square, the heart of the town, is a bustling hub of local life. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoy traditional cuisine at local eateries, and shop for unique souvenirs.
Iznate River
The serene Iznate river offers a tranquil retreat. The riverbanks, adorned with lush vegetation, provide a perfect setting for leisurely walks or picnics.
Church of San Gregorio
The Sixteenth Century Church of San Gregorio is a must-visit. This historic edifice stands as a symbol of Iznate’s rich cultural heritage. Its timeless architecture and the sense of peace it offers make it a favourite among visitors.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aPMmAd87zHT9LVNRA
Natural Environment
Nestled amidst olive groves, almond trees, and vineyards, Iznate offers fabulous panoramic views of its natural surroundings. Perched on a hill, it provides breathtaking vistas of the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara, and Camorolos. The rural landscape of this municipality in Axarquía is dominated by hills covered with olive trees, almond trees, and vineyards.
Hiking in Iznate
For nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, Iznate is a true paradise. There are several hiking trails that take you to spots located under the impressive peaks of Chamizo, Navachica, and La Maroma.
One of the most popular routes is the “Loma de Barcos Route“. This 5.17-kilometre route is an excellent option if you’re looking to hike with family or friends. It starts from the town centre itself and leads to the Loma de Barcos, with its formidable viewpoint, and extends to the vicinity of the Iznate river.
Another interesting route is the one that goes from Macharaviaya to Iznate and climbs up to Cerro Melonar (461m). This route offers a great opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the area and obtain impressive panoramic views.
In summary, Iznate offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels, each of which provides a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Fairs and Festivities
Iznate is a town that comes alive with vibrant fairs and festivities, each offering a unique insight into its rich cultural heritage. The local holidays and festivities are a testament to the town’s strong community spirit and tradition of celebration.
Friday of Our Lady of Dolours
The town’s festivities revolve around the Friday of Our Lady of Dolours, typically observed in the month of April. This significant event in the local religious calendar is marked with great reverence and is a time for the community to come together in celebration and prayer. The streets come alive with processions, music, and a sense of shared joy.
Feast of the Moscatel Grape
Another highlight in Iznate’s calendar is the Feast of the Moscatel Grape, celebrated towards the end of August, usually around the last weekend. This event pays tribute to the region’s rich viticulture and the Moscatel grape, a variety that has been cultivated in the region for centuries. The feast includes a Holy Mass and flamenco festivals, offering a blend of spiritual observance and cultural entertainment. Visitors have the opportunity to sample the local Moscatel wine, enjoy flamenco performances, and immerse themselves in the local culture.
These events, steeped in tradition and filled with warmth and hospitality, offer visitors a chance to experience the true essence of Iznate.
Gastronomy
The gastronomy of Iznate is a delightful blend of traditional flavours and culinary techniques that reflect the town’s rich cultural heritage.
La Sopa de Maimones
One of the most traditional dishes of Iznate cuisine is “La Sopa de Maimones”. This hearty soup, typically prepared with fresh local ingredients, is a staple in the local diet. Its comforting flavours and nourishing ingredients make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
El Pestiño
When it comes to confectionery, “El Pestiño” is a must-try. This sweet treat, often enjoyed during festive periods, is a testament to the town’s love for traditional pastries. Made with a delicate dough that’s deep-fried and then coated in honey, “El Pestiño” offers a delightful crunch and sweetness that’s hard to resist.
El Hornazo
On the Day of La Cruz, celebrated on the 3rd of May, it is customary to prepare “El Hornazo”. This sweet delicacy, made with flour, oil, and boiled eggs, is a traditional offering during this religious festival. The preparation of “El Hornazo” is a cherished tradition that brings the community together and adds to the festive spirit.
From hearty soups to sweet pastries, the gastronomy of Iznate offers a culinary journey that’s sure to delight food lovers.
How to Get to Iznate
There are several convenient ways to travel from Malaga Airport (AGP) to the charming town of Iznate.
By Car
If you prefer to travel by car, the journey from Malaga Airport to Iznate is straightforward and scenic. The recommended route is to take the MA-20 motorway from the airport, then join the A-7 road in the direction of Vélez-Málaga. From there, switch to the E-15 and take the exit towards Almayate-Iznate. Simply follow the signs to Iznate from there. The drive is approximately 46.3 kilometres and takes around 39 minutes.
Remember that we provide car hire at Malaga airport, in case you need to book in advance we have no reservation fees and payment is on arrival.
By Bus
Public transport is another viable option. However, please note that there is no direct bus service from Malaga Airport to Iznate. You would need to take a transport mean from the airport to the Malaga Bus Station or the Malaga Port, and then change to a bus that goes to Iznate. This journey typically takes around 2 hours and 54 minutes.
By Taxi
For a more direct and comfortable journey, you might consider taking a taxi from Malaga airport. The journey to Iznate by taxi takes approximately 39 minutes.