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If taking the waters appeals to you, Carratraca
is the place for you. A country drive through olive and almond groves,
past the white village of Alora,
its whitewashed houses spread over three hills below the impressive
ramparts of Alora Castle. Continue on to Ardales, El Chorro lakes and Teba.
 Carratraca, known as the Diamond of Malaga, has
been famous for its sulphur water spas since Roman
times. In its heyday in the 19th century, when taking the waters
was the height of fashionable travel, this spa attracted such famous
visitors as Lord Byron and Empress Marie Eugenie, wife of Napoleon
III. The baths are open from June 15th - October 15th every year.
A complete day's treatment costs around 120 euros.
Carratraca is also famous for its Easter passion
play performed in the bullring by about 140 villagers on Good Friday
and Easter Sunday. For a relaxing drink or meal, visit the charming,
slightly dilapidated, romantic old hotel, Hostal del Principe, located
in the town. Converted from an inn which King Fernando VII of Spain
ordered to be built for himself and his retinue in 1830. It has
its own connecting corridor leading directly to the baths.
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