10 Things to do in Alhaurin El Grande
If you’re up for exploring inland towns that offer a combination of food, nature and culture, Alhaurin El Grande should be on your list.
My family lives in Alhaurín de la Torre, the town next to it, so it’s a short drive from them. It wasn’t that long ago that I decided to go on a little day trip. I can’t believe how easy it is to overlook places so close to us!
I was pleasantly surprised by how many interesting things I found in Alhaurin, from visiting the Bread Museum and residence of the former writer Antonio Gala to going on beautiful hiking trails with diverse flora and fauna.
In this guide, I’ll cover the best things to do in Alhaurín el Grande and tips for making the most of your trip.
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1. Visit Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación Church
Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación is one of the main churches in Alhaurin El Grande. It was recognised as Bien de Interés Cultural in 2004. The latter is a term used in Spain for buildings considered part of Spain’s heritage.
Many believe that this 1505 building was built above the ruins of a mosque.
It’s beautiful to see from the outside but worth visiting, too. Here, you can find the town’s patron, Virgen de Gracia. If you’re interested in the religious parades, you can see the patron’s parade on the 15th of August.
I recommend stopping by the plaza where this church is located and walking behind the entrance because you’ll find the next attraction on this list.
2. Take a photo of Arco del Cobertizo
This arch, dating back to the 12th century, is located in the back of the church. It was part of the city wall and entrance to the Arab bazaar, where locals sold silk and food products from the area.
3. Hike in Sierra de Alhaurín El Grande
Are you a nature enthusiast? You’re spoilt by choice in Alhaurin El Grande. It’s in a fantastic location, next to the mountains, so you can expect gorgeous hiking trails packed with a wide variety of plants and animals.
I must admit that hiking Sierra de Alhaurin El Grande, which is right behind Sierra de Mijas, is one of the best areas for walking. If you wonder why, it’s because it’s quiet. Unlike places like Caminito del Rey, you can connect with nature here.
I recommend experiencing popular hikes like Caminito del Rey, but it isn’t a place for everyone because of the heights and crowds.
I did a short hiking trail with Hasha Nature. We hiked and stopped along the way to write our thoughts in a notebook provided and did a small meditation. We went just at the beginning of spring and were lucky to see water flowing through the small cascades and fountains.
Spring is the best time to hike here, but you can do it in winter and autumn, too. I don’t recommend summer because of the extremely hot temperatures.
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4. Try the local cuisine
No matter where I go, close or far, food is a big part of my travels, and I was delighted to learn more about gastronomy in Alhaurin on a walking tour.
One of my favourite ingredients in Valle del Guadalhorce, including Alhaurin, is tomate huevo de toro. This type of tomato is big, juice and so flavourful. Slice the tomato and add a bit of extra virgin olive oil and salt. You’ll want to take home tomatoes like this.
Other local products include aceitunas aloreñas (I can’t comment on these since I dislike olives), honey and pan cateto (village bread).
If you love sweets, try bollo de aceite, a pastry coated in sugar.
Two places I’ve been recommended and want to try next time I go to Alhaurin are Restaurante Carolina, which serves local food, and Tita Gracia, one of the oldest and most traditional bakeries.
5. Play golf at Lauro Golf
Golf is a popular activity in Costa del Sol. Many travellers pick places like Mijas and Marbella to play. However, a lesser-known but very well-maintained golf course is Lauro Golf, located between Alhaurín del Torre and Alhaurín El Grande.
I haven’t played golf yet, but I want to try it, and this place would be a good place to do so.
6. Check out Museo del Pan
Alhaurin El Grande is famous for its bread culture, which is reflected in its museum all about bread. It’s definitely one of the most unique museums in the area. I personally hadn’t heard of it until I went to Alhaurin.
The museum takes you through the process of making bread, from the moment they collect the cereal to kneading and baking the bread.
It’s very impressive to see because they have machinery dating back to the Arabs in the Iberian Peninsula.
According to a local guide, the museum is open for big groups, so it isn’t the sort of museum you can visit on your own or with a plus one.
However, you can have a cup of coffee and pastries in its cafe at any time.
7. Go to Ermita de la Santa Vera-Cruz
This church, also known as Ermita del Convento, is next to Alhaurin El Grande Town Hall. It’s a popular spot for weddings and important local events like Semana Santa (Holy Week).
Historical documents state that this church was built in 1542, but what you and I see today isn’t a work of that time but 1921. It was refurbished after French troops destroyed it in 1812, one of the darkest days in the city, as many locals also died.
I absolutely love its Neogothic architecture and encourage you to walk its surroundings. You’ll find the town hall and a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the mountains and other beautiful white-painted towns there.
While in the town hall square, pay attention to the other historical objects like Roman columns.
8. Admire the beauty of La Baltasara-Casa Museo Antonio Gala
La Baltasara is an unmissable thing to do in Alhaurín El Grande.
This beautiful country estate was the temporary residency of the notable artist Antonio Gala. He used to spend summers here and host events with his friends and family.
This location was a secret for many years and wasn’t opened to the public until 2021. You can now visit the museum, which houses the artists’ belongings and has stunning gardens.
Book your visit on the official website.
9. Stop by Plaza Alta
This little square is worth mentioning in the list since it’s an emblematic location for locals. At first sight, it looks like a regular square with a few benches and flowers, but it’s actually a meeting point. Important events like religious parades and fairs happen here.
It’s always been a key location since it was the town’s market and other activities took place.
This square is especially beautiful between May and June when the Jaracanda flower’s beautiful purple colours are in full bloom.
10. See Fuente Lucena
Fuente Lucena o De Los Doce Caños is a unique fountain situated in a corner of what locals call “Carretera de Coín.” Its name refers to the number of taps this fountain initially had.
During Roman times, its water was recommended for people with illnesses like tuberculosis because people believed the water had curative properties. Later, the fountain was used as a communal washing spot for locals.
The water flowed naturally in the past, but it’s a closed circuit fed by the city’s water supply company.
Map with attractions in Alhaurin El Grande
Where to stay in Alhaurin El Grande
I haven’t stayed overnight in Alhaurin El Grande, and because of its size, it doesn’t have a great selection of hotels. You’re more likely to find guesthouses.
However, one of the top-rated hotels in the town is Hotel El Mirador. This 3-star hotel offers comfortable rooms and incredible mountain views.
🛏️ Check out availability and prices for Hotel El Mirador
Conclusion
Is Alhaurín El Grande worth a visit? I think it’s a good place to spend the day exploring its attractions, going on a walk in nature and tasting the local cuisine.
It’s also a good spot to discover nearby towns in Valle del Guadalhorce, such as Alhaurín de la Torre and Coín.
Spring is the best time to visit Alhaurín El Grande because it isn’t too hot so you can sightsee and admire the beautiful flower blossoms and fruits that grow during that time.
I’m not really into Semana Santa (Easter Week), but if you like it, this is one of the best towns in Malaga to experience it.
I hope you enjoy your time in Alhaurín!
Cristina
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You always have beautiful photos on your posts! I love how you’ve captured this city without a bunch of tourists in your photos! I feel like that’s super rare even in cities that aren’t as popular.
Thank you so much! I’m happy to hear that. I always try to go off-season and early to places 🙂