Everything You need To Know About Cómpeta
Nestled 700 metres above sea level in the Sierra Almijara, Cómpeta, is one of Andalucia’s famed Pueblo Blancos.
What to see in Cómpeta
As you ascend the mountain road from Torrox, the first sight that greets you is the picturesque village of Cómpeta, unveiled from the Mirador El Portichuelo. This original viewpoint has been elegantly remodeled in the Gaudí style, offering a breathtaking panorama of the town.
Venturing further, you’ll arrive at Plaza Vendimia, home to a tribute statue, ‘Homenage al Vendimiador,’ honoring the grape pickers. Here, the historic grape-crushing event during ‘Noche del Vino’ is reenacted each year on August 15th.
Nearby, the unique Casas Colgadas, or hanging houses, offer another striking sight, mesmerizing both day and night. A short two-minute walk leads to Rincon de los Abuelos, a quaint corner where the elderly residents often gather.
Arriving at Plaza Almijara, you’ll find the beautiful Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion, adjacent to which lies ‘Paseo de Tradiciones de Cómpeta,’ a mosaic exhibition detailing the town’s rich history.
Other experiences in Cómpeta
The town offers even more fascinating attractions not captured in the video below, including the Crematorio de Cómpeta Malaga, and the Museo de Artes y Costumbres. Another must-visit is the local market where you can buy fresh produce, local crafts, and other goods. A stroll around the town will also lead you to various art galleries, showcasing the talent of local and international artists. For nature lovers, nearby hiking trails in the Sierra Almijara offer a chance to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Nestled 700 metres above sea level in the Sierra Almijara, Cómpeta, one of Andalucia’s famed Pueblo Blancos, is a charming, mid-sized white Spanish village. Its whitewashed walls, doors, and windows reflect the stunning summer sun, adding to its alluring appeal. Conveniently located, Cómpeta is just a 50-minute drive from Malaga airport and the city centre.
To plan your visit better, you can check the weekly weather forecast for Cómpeta – HERE.
6 Facts about Cómpeta
Historical Significance: Cómpeta is a town steeped in history, dating back to the Moorish occupation of Spain. Its narrow, winding streets and white-washed houses retain a distinctive Moorish charm. The town is also known for its traditional artisan crafts, particularly ceramics and tapestries.
Noche del Vino: Every year on August 15th, Cómpeta hosts the “Noche del Vino” or “Night of the Wine” celebration, a day-long festival commemorating the end of the grape harvest. The event is marked by traditional music, dance, and copious amounts of locally-produced wine.
Natural Beauty: Located in the Sierra Almijara mountain range, Cómpeta is surrounded by natural beauty. It is known for its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Mediterranean Sea. The region is also a popular destination for hiking and exploring local flora and fauna.
Pueblo Blanco: Cómpeta is one of Andalucia’s famed Pueblo Blancos, or “white towns”. These towns get their name from the traditional white-washed buildings that reflect the strong Andalusian sun. These picturesque towns, with their narrow, winding streets and vibrant local culture, are a popular attraction in southern Spain.
Local Cuisine: Cómpeta is also known for its delightful local cuisine. Traditional dishes include ‘migas’, a type of fried breadcrumb dish, and ‘ajo blanco’, a cold garlic and almond soup. The local wine, made from Moscatel grapes, is particularly famous and is a must-try for any visitor.
Architectural Landmarks: The town is home to some significant architectural landmarks. Among them is the Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion, a beautiful 16th-century church that stands in the town’s main square, Plaza Almijara. The church is particularly noted for its stunning Mudejar-style coffered ceiling.
If you have any questions about what to do in Cómpeta, click on the email address below and contact Helen.
