Spain’s underrated road trip through ‘raisin country’ in the Malaga mountains

In the hills of Axarquia in Malaga, Spain lies one of the most underrated yet rewarding road trips. It’s called the Ruta de la Pasa or Raisin Route. 

This 62-kilometre loop winds through a string of whitewashed Moorish villages – Moclinejo, Almachar, El Borge, Cutar, Comares, and Totalan – each steeped in centuries-old wine making traditions and Andalucian charm. 

Recent feature brought the issue to light The TelegraphThis overlooked stretch of southern Spain provides a travel experience far beyond its modest fame. 

READ MORE WATCH: The secret gem just one hour from Madrid in the Spanish heartlands that you should visit because it’s ‘untouched by tourism’

The route departs from Malaga and quickly swaps the coastal crowds with steep, winding, terraced vineyards lined roads. Paseos – traditional drying beds where Muscat grapes are sun-dried into the region’s prized raisins. 

Moclinejo is the first stop and offers a unique blend of history, charm, and culture. 

In addition to its 16th-century Church and panoramic views, this village will enchant visitors with the Casita del Ratoncito perez, a tiny house dedicated by ChariRuiz, local artist, to Spain’s favorite tooth fairy figure. 

This little attraction is tucked away in a wall along Calle Sierra. It brings joy to children and adults alike.

Further along, El Borge stands as the ‘raisin capital’ of Spain, producing some of the country’s finest Muscatel raisins. 

Whitewashed houses line the narrow streets of the village, which is located at the foothills of Cerro de Cutar.

The town is alive in September during the Dia de la Pasa Festival, which celebrates the raisin harvest. There will be music, dancing and a generous sampling of local delicacies.

Visitors can delve into the area’s storied past at the Galeria del Bandolero, a museum dedicated to the infamous 19th-century bandit Luis Muñoz Garcia, known as ‘El Bizco de El Borge.’ 

The museum contains over 1,300 artifacts that offer a glimpse of the turbulent history of the region.

The Hotel Posada del Bandolero offers rustic accommodation with rooms named for legendary outlaws, and a restaurant that serves hearty local dishes. 

Dishes like goat ‘Bandolero’ style and sirloin with raisin sauce showcase the region’s culinary strength. .

Continuing the journey, the road ascends to Comares, dubbed the ‘balcony of Axarquia’ for its panoramic views stretching to the Mediterranean. 

In the village’s architecture, you can see its Moorish roots.

Along the route, you can see the intensive labour involved in the raisin-production process.

You can see farmers tending to their crops. PaseosTraditions are preserved over generations. 

The United Nations has recognized the region as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System.

The Ruta de la Pasa invites you to experience a slower pace of life, where every stop is a story. 

You can also read about the advantages of using The Telegraph This route is a great choice for those who are willing to go off the beaten track. 

If you are looking for an authentic Andalucian adventure, the Raisin Route will not disappoint.