With a population of approximately 3,070 inhabitants, Periana is nestled in a fertile valley, surrounded by gentle hills and abundant water sources. The town boasts a splendid microclimate ideal for agriculture, particularly renowned for its famous peaches, thanks to its privileged location within the district of La Axarquía.
For those planning to visit Periana, car hire in Malaga is highly recommended. The convenience of having your own vehicle allows you to explore the scenic routes and picturesque landscapes at your own pace. Additionally, it provides easy access to the charming villages and hidden gems scattered throughout the region, making your journey to Periana even more enjoyable and memorable.
History
It has attracted, from time immemorial, settlers to its lands just as the remains found in “El Cerro de la Alcolea”, in the Neolithic sites of “El Cerro del Fuerte” and of “Marchamonas” vouch for. At a little more than two kilometres from the town is located the spa of “Los Baños de Vilo” whose sulphurous waters have been used for medicinal purposes since the time of the Arabic occupation.
The town, as we know it today, began to take shape in the second half of the eighteenth century when it gained independence from Vélez. The devastating earthquake of 1884 caused significant damage, leading to the construction of the Parish Church of San Isidro, which now stands as the most important building in the town and the entire surrounding district.
Tourist Attractions
Periana offers a variety of attractions that cater to different interests, making it a delightful destination for tourists:
Must-See Places in Periana
- Museo del Aceite de Mondrón: A museum dedicated to the history and production of olive oil. Map
- Baños de Vilo: Historic sulphurous baths known for their medicinal properties. Map
- Oasis Las Palmeras: A charming spot to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere. Map
- Viewpoint: Take some good photos from this viewpoint in Periana. Map
Natural environment
Periana is blessed with a rich natural environment, offering a variety of scenic landscapes and outdoor activities:
Suggested Routes
- Ruta del Aceite y los Montes: A scenic drive through the olive groves and mountains. Map
- Baños de Vilo: A route that takes you to the historic sulphurous baths known for their medicinal properties. Map
- Ruta del Guaro: A trail that follows the Guaro river, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Map
- Sendero de la Viñuela: A hiking path that leads to the La Viñuela reservoir, perfect for bird watching and picnics. Map
- Ruta de los Olivos Milenarios: A walk through fields with ancient olive trees, showcasing the region’s agricultural heritage. Map
Fair and festivities
The festive calendar of Periana is vibrant and diverse, starting towards the end of March with the celebration of “El Día del Aceite Verdial”, a festival dedicated to the region’s renowned Verdial olive oil. In mid-May, the town honours its patron saint with the Fair of San Isidro, featuring traditional music, dancing, and local cuisine. The festivities continue into the summer with the popular “Feria del Melocotón” on the third weekend in August, celebrating the town’s famous peaches with various events and activities.
Gastronomy
Periana’s cuisine is rich and varied, with a strong emphasis on traditional stews and local ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include “sopas cachorreñas”, a hearty soup made with cod; asparagus soup; and “gazpachuelo”, a creamy soup with a mayonnaise base. Other delicious offerings include “la ensaladilla cateta”, a rustic potato salad; “las migas”, a dish made from fried breadcrumbs; and “los morretes”, a flavorful combination of asparagus, mushrooms, potatoes, and almond sauce. The town is also popular for its exceptional Verdial olive oil, which adds a unique flavour to many dishes.
How to get to Periana from Malaga airport
Getting to Periana from Malaga Airport is straightforward and convenient. The most efficient way is by car, which allows you to enjoy the scenic drive through the Andalusian countryside. The journey takes approximately 55 minutes via the A-45 and A-356 roads. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the airport to the Malaga bus station, and then transfer to a bus heading to Periana, with a total travel time of around 2 hours and 40 minutes.