Carratraca

Carratraca

by Diana Sierra

Carratraca is a white village tucked away in the Málaga mountains, home to the luxury Villa Padierna Hotel & Spa. If taking the waters and fresh, mountain air appeals to you, Carratraca could just be 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.

Carratraca, known as the Diamond of Málaga, has been famous for its sulphur water spas since Roman times. The Spa was renovated in the 2000s and incorporated into a 5-star hotel which closed during the Covid pandemic.

History

Carratraca has been inhabited since prehistoric times, as evidenced by archaeological finds in the Sierra de Alcaparaín, where Neolithic burials and cave paintings have been discovered. This long-standing presence continued into the Roman Period, as suggested by Roman coins and a late Roman necropolis found near the sulphurous springs. More about the history of Carratraca.

The history of the village is very much linked to the Spa. According to legend, in the 19th century, a beggar known as Juan Camisón discovered the healing properties of the waters after observing a goatherd using them to treat the ulcers of his goats. After trying the waters himself, he experienced a marked improvement in his health. About the history of the Spa at Carratraca

Things to see

Villa Padierna Thermas Carratraca
The Villa Padierna Thermas Carratraca is a luxurious 5-star hotel that occupies the historic neoclassical spa building, inaugurated in 1855 and designed by architect José Trigueros. Renowned for its sulphurous thermal waters, the spa - now fully restored within the hotel - has become a major health tourism destination, attracting visitors from the bourgeoisie and celebrities. About the Spa at Carratraca

Trinidad Grund Palace (Town Hall)
The Trinidad Grun Palace was built in 1885 as the residence of the philanthropist Trinidad Grund, and now serves as the town hall of Carratraca. Known to local residents as the Moorish house, its terraces offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You can also visit the exhibition hall, the Plenary Hall, and the Archive.

Church of Virgen de la Salud
The Church of the Virgin Lady of Health was built in the 19th century on the site of an earlier hermitage. This church features three naves separated by semicircular arches and houses the image of the Virgin of Health.

Outside the Village

Bullring Carved into Rock
The Bullring is situated on the outskirts of the village, about a five-minute walk from the historic centre of Carratraca. It is octagonal and is carved directly into the rock of the Sierra Blanquilla, and is used as a stage for the Easter Week Passion Play, performed by local residents.

Cueva de Ardales
The Ardales Cave, also known as Doña Trinidad Grund Cave, is located about a 15-minute drive from Carratraca. It was discovered in 1821 after an earthquake and contains prehistoric rupestrian paintings.

Caminito del Rey The King's Little Path is a 20-minute drive from Carratraca and offers stunning views of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a gorge carved by the Guadalhorce River. More>

Hotels in Carratraca

Gastronomy

The cuisine of Carratraca is primarily centred around hearty dishes featuring pork and kid goat meat, which are traditional staples of the region. The local gastronomy also includes confectionery and bakery, among other things:

Bizcochos: Fluffy sponge cakes are often enjoyed with coffee or as a sweet treat.

Roscos de manteca: Traditional lard-based ring-shaped biscuits, known for their crumbly texture.

Tortas de almendra: Almond cakes or flat pastries, offering a sweet, nutty taste typical of Andalusian confectionery.

Ressturants

Fonda Casa Pepa
Fonda Casa Pepa is an emblematic place in Carratraca. It was founded in 1961 by Pepa Baeza, and now her daughter, Dori Sánchez, continues to offer a gastronomic experience in a warm and family atmosphere. The restaurant’s decor is filled with photographs and souvenirs from family trips, giving it a cozy and nostalgic feel. Fonda Casa Pepa serves traditional Andalusian dishes such as:
Gazpachuelo: a comforting warm soup made with fish broth, garlic, and mayonnaise.
Arroz caldoso: a soupy rice dish typically cooked with seafood or meat.
Callos: a hearty stew made from beef tripe, chickpeas, and chorizo, popular in Andalusian cuisine.

Many famous personalities have visited Fonda Casa Pepa, including actor Antonio Banderas and the renowned chef Karlos Arguiñano. It is even said that Prince Carlos III dined there during a visit.

Handicrafts

Carratraca has a tradition of handicrafts that reflect its cultural heritage. For example, ceramics and pottery are often handmade using traditional techniques passed down through generations. These pieces typically feature vibrant colours and patterns inspired by Moorish and Mediterranean designs.

Additionally, the village is known for its woodwork and textiles, including woven baskets and embroidered fabrics used in everyday life and local festivals.

Visitors can find artisanal products in local markets or small workshops, making handicrafts a wonderful souvenir of authentic Andalusian craftsmanship.

Festivals

Popular festivals in Carratraca are the Carnival, the Holy Week, the Three Kings Parade, the Al-Andalus Festival, and the Carratraca Fair. More >

Parking

Free public parking is available. Visitors arriving by car are advised to enter the village via the southern access road, which ascends from the A-7077 at kilometre 4.5. There is a spacious car park in Partido San José, from where one can explore the village on foot.

Bus Service

There is a bus service from Carratraca centre to Málaga city and other nearby towns. More >

Tourist Office

The Tourist Office in Carratraca is situated within the Town Hall building. More >

Weather

The weather forecast for the next few days for Carratraca. More >

Next Villages

Nearby villages are Ardales, El Chorro lakes Teba Alora and Casarbonela.