With its sub-tropical temperatures, Axarquia is known for the best climate in Europe. This comarca (district) is bordered by the Mediterranean to the south and mountains, which shelter the area, to the north. Covering 1,021 square kilometres of territory within the eastern extreme of Andalucia's Province of Malaga, Axarquia stretches from the eastern side of Malaga to the east of Nerja and inland to Alfarnate.Until a few years ago when rural tourism took off, Axarquia was one of Andalucia's forgotten areas. Major attractions are the spectacular unspoilt countryside and coastal villages. The hill and mountain scenery are ablaze with flowers and blossom from January onwards. Shepherds lead their goats and sheep through hills and valleys, eagles soar the skies and pretty, unspoiled white villages abound, each having a version of local sweet wine made from sun-dried grapes.
Axarquia is riven with deep valleys lined with terraces and irrigation channels that go back to the time of Muslim occupation. Almost all the villages that dot the olive, almond and vine-planted hillsides are of Arab origin and the influence is seen in the layout of the narrow, winding streets lined with white-washed houses reflecting the sunlight. There are also many lush tropical river valleys with orange and lemon groves, eucalyptus, avocado, banana, kiwi, chirimoya and mango trees. Wild herbs and lavendar grow everywhere and further up the foothills and mountain slopes there are pine, oak and carob trees. |
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