The Axarquia Region of Andalucia

The Axarquia and Andalucia is noted for its dramatic mountain vistas and views across rolling hills to the sea.  The region of the Axarquia is defined geographically by the Montes de Malaga to the west and the eastern banks of the Guadalquivir, to the north the Camorolos, Jobo and Alhama Sierras, to the east those of the Tejeta and Almijara and lastly to the south the coast line of the Mediterreanean Sea.

This is Spain as it once was, unspoilt, tranquil and the pace of life is unhurried. Farmers tend to their land using traditional methods unchanged by the modern world. Mules are used to plough the terraces, and goatherds wander amoung the hillsides.

Olive and almond groves are the usual crops and dotted around on the hillsides are whitewashed farmhouses and larger villages.

Birds of prey including eagles and vultures are regularly seen in the skies. This is a country of gentle walks, wild herbs and flowers, trailing vines, laden olive trees, pink almond blossom, rocky gorges and ancient woods filled with oak and carob trees.

This was a stronghold of Moorish Spain and many examples of their architecture remain, together with Roman ruins and evidence of some Phoenician settlements.

The villages are often set in the highest reaches of the region affording spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. The streets are narrow and often spanned by archways, geraniums tumble from window boxes, and locals pass the time in shady squares.