Archidona lies fifty kilometres north of Malaga in the heart of Andalucía. Although no longer a tiny village, Archidona, with a population of nine thousand, remains a tranquil spot offering a relaxing holiday in picturesque surroundings. It lies in a fertile area where olive oil production is vital to the economy. The backdrop of mountains, the olive groves and the meadows combine to make this an idyllic retreat. Archidona’s narrow streets are filled with fine old buildings and interesting monuments.
An Archidona holiday offers a peaceful break with a guarantee of summer sunshine in a town with a traditional atmosphere. Those who love southern Spain but dislike the hordes of tourists at the coast will find Archidona a perfect choice. It is well placed for visiting other important cities such as Granada, Seville and Cordoba, as well as for excursions to the beach.
Archidona appeals to a variety of ages and interests with the exception perhaps of families with small children for whom the close proximity of a sandy beach is usually an essential holiday ingredient.
Archidona has an extended holiday season with long hot summers and mild winters. Although the most popular time to visit is during the summer months it is also a good place to go to escape from the damp British winter.
Archidona, in the heart of Andalucía, has had a long and turbulent history, evidence of which is seen in the many old buildings and ancient sites found in the town and in the surrounding area. Originally Archidona was a walled settlement and the Moors built a strong, impenetrable fortress above it. The present layout of the old town dates back to the sixteenth century with the Santa Ana Church dating from that time. Much of the church was rebuilt in the nineteenth century. The Hermitage of the Virgin de Gracia was unusually built on the site of a former mosque. The architecture of the Plaza Ochavada and the Plaza Victoria should not be missed.
There are many fiestas throughout the year to celebrate various saints’ days but the largest and most colourful is the Easter Festival when the whole town participates in processions.
An Archidona holiday offers a range of outdoor activities including climbing, mountain biking and trekking.
Archidona is also close to the lakes at El Chorro which offer a range of non-motorised water sports including fishing. In order that you make the most of your holiday in Archidona, car hire is recommended.
Archidona nightlife is fairly low-key, where evenings are spent strolling through the streets enjoying a meal or a drink in the company of friends.
Archidona has a number of small supermarkets supplying holiday essentials as well as gift and craft shops. Popular purchases include basketry, leather goods and ceramics.
Archidona has a variety of restaurants catering for most tastes and budgets. Menus include traditional local dishes such as the egg stew, tortillas, tapas and chorizo, as well as a choice of international cuisine. A good way to try Spanish food is to order a plate of tapas which consists of a medley of bite-sized dishes. Tapas are also ideal for filling the sometimes long gap between lunch and dinner, which is served later in Spain than at home. Those with a more conservative palate can find pubs serving standard pub fare.
Children are always made very welcome in Spanish restaurants and their tastes and portion sizes are usually accommodated.
Spanish wines are pleasant and inexpensive.
