Whitewashed houses, narrow alleys and a long tradition in olive oil. Guaro, province of Málaga, is the kind of place that makes you pause. Tucked into the mountains of the Sierra de las Nieves, this Andalusian village may be small, but it knows how to make an impression.

Worth the stop

Guaro isn’t big, but it packs a punch. Start at the Al-Andalus Cultural Centre and the Ethnographic Olive Oil Museum. The highlight here is a 12th-century Arab oil press that still steals the show. Right next door, the Marmolejo Olive Oil Museum shows off old tools and machinery from Guaro’s olive-making past.

From there, head to the Church of San Miguel Arcángel. Built in 1505 on top of an old mosque. Simple on the outside, impressive inside. A little further, you’ll find the chapels of San Isidro and Cruz del Puerto. The latter sits higher up and comes with panoramic views you won’t forget.

For hikers and leg-burners

Nature fans will feel right at home. Guaro sits on the edge of the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. With over 20,000 hectares of forest, peaks and rare fir trees called pinsapos, this park is one of Andalusia’s greenest treasures. Several hiking and MTB trails start right outside the village. Looking for a challenge? Head to Chiribenítez, Guaro’s highest point.

A village full of light and life

In September, Guaro becomes a fairy tale. During the Festival de la Luna Mora, the streetlights go out and 25,000 candles take over. For two weekends, the village fills with Andalusian music, street markets, medieval costumes and evening parades.

Earlier in August, the village hosts its annual fair. Originally a livestock market, now it’s mostly about dancing, meeting up with family and staying up late. In December, Christmas celebrations kick off with fireworks, processions and a live nativity with dozens of locals taking part.

Theatre in the mountains

Since 2010, Guaro has had an open-air theatre: the Luna Mora Auditorium. It fits 1,800 people and hosts music, dance, opera and more. It’s busiest during the Luna Mora Festival, but there’s something on most of the summer.

Eat like a local

Food in Guaro is honest and hearty. Think rabbit with almonds, kid goat stew, and galipuche – a local vegetable and egg dish. Got a sweet tooth? Try almond cakes, bocaditos or Christmas doughnuts.

Best time to fill your plate? The Gastronomy Festival. Sample dishes from across the region and pick up new recipes to try at home.

A long, rich history

People have lived in this area since the Copper Age. On Ardite Hill, traces of Chalcolithic settlements have been found. The Romans left behind pottery, coins and tiles on nearby El Povillar.

The village we see today dates back to Moorish times. The original settlement was at Guaro Viejo, before moving to its current spot. In 1485, the area was taken by the Catholic Monarchs. In 1614, King Philip IV granted Guaro its independence. In 1648, he also created the County of Guaro and named Juan Chumacero Sotomayor Carrillo de la Vega its first count.

Getting there

From Málaga, take the A-357 to Cártama, then follow the A-355 towards Coín. From there, hop on the A-7101 and finally the A-7100. After about 50 kilometres, you’ll roll into Guaro. Tucked between the mountains, surrounded by stories.

(c) photo and source: guaro.es