Alhaurin El Grande: History, Festivals and Nature

The medieval Castillo de Fahala is a significant part of Alhaurín el Grande’s historical heritage. It stands on a two-hectare plateau-like hill and offers sweeping views over large parts of the Guadalhorce Valley.

Culture and History

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación in Alhaurín el Grande is protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Monument category. Its history as a parish church dates back to the town’s incorporation into Christian territory during the campaign of 1485. Its present appearance is shaped primarily by 19th-century alterations in the Neoclassical style.

Among the most interesting architectural monuments in Alhaurín el Grande is Cuevas del Convento. La Baltasara preserves rural architecture from 19th-century Málaga. As the Antonio Gala House Museum, La Baltasara offers theatrical tours, literary conferences, concerts and workshops.

The Molino Morisco de los Corchos dates from the 15th or 16th century and is one of the few surviving examples of traditional water mills in the province of Málaga. It is located on the banks of the Fahala River and uses its water to power the milling operation. At the foot of the Castillo de Fahala are three water mills from the same period; one of them was still in operation.

Nature and Landscape

The northern side of the Sierra de Mijas offers impressive views of the Guadalhorce Valley and the Costa del Sol from Alhaurín el Grande. The area of the Sierra de Mijas in Alhaurín el Grande has a diverse range of flora and fauna. The riparian forest at the Molino Morisco de los Corchos provides a habitat for many species, including purple herons, squacco herons, little bitterns and golden orioles. Alhaurín el Grande is suitable for hiking, cycling and outdoor activities.

Festivals and Regional Cuisine

The Semana Santa de Alhaurín el Grande is recognised as a Fiesta de Interés Turístico Nacional de Andalucía. It includes a live staging of the Passion of Jesus. Sabores de la Semana Santa invites visitors to discover and sample traditional sweets and dishes associated with Holy Week. As part of the annual San Isidro Labrador festival, tastings of Cachorreña and Mojete, typical dishes from Alhaurín, are included in the programme. The Fiesta de la Cachorreña is recognised as a Fiesta de Singularidad Turística Provincial.

The bread programme includes guided tours and a journey through the history of bread from the time of the Egyptians, as well as breakfast and a practical workshop. A tourist experience in an old mill combines the history of olive growers from Málaga with a tasting of extra virgin olive oil.

Holiday Apartment and Orientation

When planning a holiday apartment in Alhaurin El Grande, you can compare travel dates, room categories and cancellation policies. This allows you to keep track of the information relevant to you across different offer pages and sort it according to your own priorities.

The Oficina Municipal de Turismo is located in the premises of the town’s bus station or bus stop.

More Destinations

More destinations: Montejaque, Arroyo Coche, Alfarnate, Villafranco del Guadalhorce, Atajate, Carratraca, Benaoján, Igualeja

To the higher-level travel overview: Málaga.