top of page
Search

The Quintessential Casares Travel Guide, The White Heart of Andalusia


Casares

Imagine a village so white it glows against the emerald hills, where narrow, winding streets lead you to a fortress in the clouds and ancient Roman legends are whispered in the steam of thermal baths.

Perched on a limestone cliff in the province of Málaga, Casares is one of Andalusia's most striking pueblos blancos (white villages). It is a place where history hangs from the mountainside and time slows down to the pace of a stroll.


Top Things to See & Do


Castillo de Casares

  • Explore the Castillo de Casares

    This 13th-century Moorish stronghold sits at the village's highest point. The climb is steep, but the panoramic views of the Sierra de Ronda, Gibraltar, and even the African coast are unparalleled.

  • Bathe in Legend at the Baños de la Hedionda de Casares

    These ancient Roman sulfur baths are steeped in myth; legend says Julius Caesar himself was cured of a skin ailment here. The waters remain a steady, therapeutic temperature year-round.

  • Visit the Casa Natal de Blas Infante

    Discover the birthplace of the "Father of Andalusian Nationalism" in a museum that celebrates local culture and identity.

  • Wander Plaza de España: The heart of the village features the 18th-century

    Fuente de Carlos III and the 17th-century Church of San Sebastián

    .

Nature & Adventure

  • Birdwatching at Sierra Crestellina

    : Look up to see a colony of rare griffon vultures and eagles soaring above the craggy peaks.

  • Hiking Trails: Take the circular route from Casares to the Sierra de Crestellina

    for dramatic gorge views, or follow the Río Manilva path past waterfalls and old flour mills.

  • Casares Costa: Just a short drive from the hilltop village, enjoy the dark sands of

    Playa Ancha or explore the 16th-century Salt Tower (Torre de la Sal).



What to Eat: Local Specialities

In Casares, the food is as dramatic as the landscape, split between "mountain" and "beach" cuisine. You'll find hearty stews and goat specialities in the hilltop village, while the coast offers fresh Mediterranean seafood. 


Sierra Crestellina Cheeses

  • Chivo (Kid Goat): The star of Casares mountain cooking. Try it as Fritá de Cabrito (fried goat) or Chuletitas de Chivo (lamb-like chops).

  • Moruna de Sardinas: A coastal favorite featuring sardines marinated in lemon and a signature touch of paprika.

  • Sierra Crestellina Goat Cheese: Artisanal cheeses made traditionally from local goat's milk.

  • Gazpacho Casareño: A local variation of the classic cold tomato soup, often served alongside fried fish on the coast.

  • Sweets: Don't leave without trying the Casares sponge biscuits (bizcochos) or honey-drizzled fried cakes.


For an authentic taste of Casares, you can find local specialties like Sierra Crestellina cheese, artisan bread, and goat meats at several traditional shops and a weekly street market.


Cheese table

  • Weekly Street Market

Mercadillo de Casares (Viernes) This traditional open-air market features around 20 stalls selling fresh produce, honey, crafts, and regional cheeses.

  • When: Every Friday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

  • Location: Calle de la Carrera, in the historic town centre.


Practical Travel Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures for exploring the steep, cobbled streets.

  • Getting Around: A car is highly recommended for navigating the mountain roads and visiting nearby coastal areas, as public transport is limited.

  • What to Pack: Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are essential for the village's vertical terrain.

Comments

bottom of page