Hidden Corners of Spain: Michael Coy takes you on a tour of Competa in the Malaga region of the Axarquia

Michael Coy guides you through the Axarquia Region of Malaga to discover the Hidden Corners of Spain


NARROW winding streets, whitewashed houses … Competa is everyone’s idea of what an Andalucian village should be. Competa is situated halfway between Velez Malaga, Nerja. It lies approximately 12 miles inland and 25 miles away.

This mountainous district is known as ‘Axarquia’.

As in the towns of Ronda y Cuenca, the precipitous landscape of Competa has forced the town to build houses that seem to be about to tumble into the canyon to which they are next. And as with those towns, they are known as the ‘hanging houses’.

Competa has an unique tradition of wine-making. The grapes are sun-dried, and the local wine has a special, ‘raisiny’ tang.

The Wine Festival (La Noche del Vino) falls in mid-August, to coincide with the religious feast of The Assumption – to which the village is especially devoted.

The event is a full-blown fiesta, complete with flamenco music, pop songs, and a massive paella prepared in the open. Of course, there’s plenty of wine.

It is the most important monument in Competa. Its height, size and shape make it the dominant landmark of Competa. It was built in 16th century by the Catholic Monarchs and is situated in Plaza de Almijara.

This authentic ‘Cathedral of the Axarquia’ houses a fresco of the Virgin of the Assumption, the work of painter Francisco Hernandez.

On the exterior façade, you will find the interesting Paseo de las Tradiciones (Walk of Traditions). This is a collection of ceramic murals that depict the life and customs in Competa.

A statue of a couple, a tribute to the flamenco songs of Competa (a local type of song), is located in the Plaza Almijara.

Here, folk customs are very important.

The Museum of Popular Arts and Customs has been created to meet the demands of the residents of Competa and the visitors.

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It’s a permanent tribute paid to rural and peasant families, as well as the customs and traditional practices of the town, which have been carefully recreated to preserve and spread them.

The Cultural Centre occupies both floors of the former Civil Guard Barracks, a beautiful and elegant building with a distinct architectural style.

The museum is a collection of ancient agricultural implements (farming tools, treading equipment, walking etc.). The museum also houses other economic activities such as shops, wood-fired bakeries, carpentry and blacksmithing.Traditional costumes and all cultural, artistic and traditional manifestations of the region.

The mirador is also worth a look.

A mirador, or viewing gallery, is available in Competa.

This spectacular, original viewpoint, which is inspired by Antonio Gaudi’s style, can be found at the entrance of Competa. The A-7207 highway leads from Torrox to the town.

Enjoy the unique views from the Tejeda Mountains, Alhama Mountains, and Almijara Mountains Natural Park.

La Posada del Cani is a small, off-the-beaten path hotel that we recommend. A Posada The traditional inn offers cosy family hospitality and hotel amenities.

Cani is no exception. Cani is a guesthouse that offers free Wi-Fi and a restaurant with Mediterranean cuisine. Located in the calle Eusebio García, it’s right in the heart of the village.

Rooms at the guesthouse have air conditioning, a TV with a flat screen, and a bathroom that includes free toiletries. Some rooms include a sitting area. In each room, bed linens and towels are included.

You can even play darts at La Posada del Cani!

A room, shared by two persons, costs €60 (May 2025 prices) but direct access by car is not easy.

Cortijo Paco, a charming little restaurant located on the quiet and narrow Avenida de Canillas. The restaurant specializes in grilled meats.

It is closed on Mondays but open every other night from 6:30 until 10:30. (Cortijo Paco does not serve lunch, except on Sundays).

The “Grilled Honey Basted Lamb” is highly recommended. It’s delicious, and it costs only €14! It’s obvious that the wine list features some excellent local products!


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About Louise Brown

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Louise Brown is an experienced journalist and travel writer, known for exploring diverse cultures and sharing compelling stories. Her work spans news reporting, human interest, and travel, with a focus on sustainability and responsible tourism.

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