13 Best Things to Do in Comares (A Charming Town in Malaga)
If you’re looking for a unique day trip from Malaga, Comares is for you.
There are many fantastic things to do in Comares, and it’s a true hidden gem in Malaga, where you’ll be able to experience the authentic life of a town in the province.
Comares is a beautiful mountain town nestled in the Axarquia region in Malaga. This whitewashed town is one of the towns of Ruta de la Pasa (Raisins Route), a 62-kilometre route that takes you to the best towns to eat raisins in the province of Malaga.
But that’s not all. Comares has more than raisins, such as breathtaking mountain views, a peekaboo view of the coast and incredible Moorish architecture and history.
Having visited Comares for a day, I’m sharing with you the fantastic things to do in Comares, where to eat and tips to make the best of your day trip.
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The Best Things to Do in Comares
1. Take a picture of Puerta de Malaga
Puerta de Málaga is the main point of access to the town of Comares. No matter if you come by car or bus, you’re likely to park just outside this arch and walk through it.
This door was a defensive spot and the only way to go to Comares’ main square and castle. This was also where Comares was given to the Christian forces; therefore, it has significant importance in the town’s history.
When you walk through the left-hand side arch, you’ll see a plaque that tells you a little bit about the inauguration of Puerta de Malaga.
2. See the Fiestero monument
Monumento al Fiestero is a statue situated in Plaza de los Verdiales. This monument to one of the neighbours playing the tambourine represents the passion for the traditional dance of this area, called verdiales.
If you wonder what type of music you dance to, verdiales consists of a variation of flamenco music that originated in Almogía, Malaga.
It’s here where parties in which locals dance verdiales take place, and in addition to this monument, you can see a ceramic picture of people dancing this traditional dance and admire the views of the town and mountains.
3. Contemplate the Moorish architecture
From the moment you step into Comares, you’ll see that Moorish influences are still present in the town.
However, the area where you’ll see most of the traces of Moorish and Mudejar architecture is in the historic centre.
I love this type of architecture, and it’s one of the reasons why I like visiting Comares.
However, you can also find this architectural style in some monuments in Malaga, for example, in the Alcazaba.
Pay attention to the floor to spot gorgeous white and blue ceramic footprints, walk through the arches, and enjoy spotting small details.
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4. Read the ceramic panels to learn about Comares
The best way to learn about Comares and its past is by checking the ceramic panels in different town points. These informative panels tell you about the attractions or important places.
Unfortunately, all these ceramic panels are in Spanish; however, they all include a picture.
5. Enjoy the breathtaking views from Mirador Balcón de la Axarquía
Located next to the town hall of Comares, Mirador Balcón de la Axarquía is the main viewpoint in the town. It offers panoramic views of the valley of the Axarquia, Montes de Malaga Natural Park and Sierra Tejeda.
In the square next to the viewpoint, you’ll also see a small flea market on Saturdays.
6. Check out Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación
Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación is a parish church that dates back to the 16th century.
It was built at the highest point of Comares, replacing a former Arab Mosque, and has a Mudejar architectural style.
In my opinion, it isn’t the most impressive and well-preserved church in Malaga and its surroundings, but you can visit it on your trip to Comares.
7. Make your way to Castillo de Comares
Castillo de Comares, also called Baluarte de la Tahoma, is in the highest part of the town, just next to the cemetery.
It used to be an important fortress in the Muslim period in Malaga, and it was mentioned as “Hins-Qomarix” in many Nasrid texts.
Nowadays, there’s not much left of this Arab castle, so you can only see two towers and some of the wall ruins. However, it’s worth making your way to the castle, enjoying its impressive viewpoints and reading the ceramic panels that tell you more about Comares.
This is also an excellent spot to watch the sunrise or sunset and take photos, especially if you go to Mirador Sur El Castillo, a viewpoint that is characterised by its arch and incredible views of the mountains.
I loved watching the sunset from there with my friend.
8. Have a meal at Restaurante El Molino de los Abuelos
Restaurante El Molino de los Abuelos, located in Comares’ main square, is one of the prettiest places to enjoy a meal. It isn’t only a restaurant but a hotel too.
When you enter, you’ll see beautiful pottery, outdoor seating with trees and plants, and a corner overlooking the mountains.
I loved visiting this restaurant because the atmosphere and views made it worth it. My friend and I ordered berenjenas con miel (aubergine with sugar cane honey) as a starter and loved it.
We also tried the delicious wine of Comares, made by the town’s mayor. I highly recommend it if you love sweet wine.
I ordered a chicken skewer as the main course. But I’ve had better chicken skewers. Therefore, I can only recommend the starters.
9. Try the local cuisine and wine
Comares and the rest of the towns in La Axarquia are known for their raisins, but they aren’t regular raisins. They have a unique sweet flavour that makes them perfect for wine, too.
In fact, these raisins are used by applying traditional methods to make Moscatel wine, the typical wine from this region. It’s sweet, fruity and aromatic.
If you love raisins and wine, you must try Comares wine and raisins.
In addition to these, other products worth trying are honey and almonds.
10. Wander the streets of Comares
Wandering Comares won’t take you long, but it’s perfect for stopping to take pictures in pretty streets, checking out the information panels and Monumento al Fiestero statue, and enjoying the peaceful streets.
Although Comares isn’t as picturesque as Frigiliana, I loved wandering its streets.
During your visit, you might come across María, a well-known and friendly old lady, who may welcome you to her house and try to sell you local products like raisins, almonds and honey. This is exactly what happened to my friends and me. She ended up buying a jar of honey.
11. Watch the sunset
If you love a good sunset, you’re in luck because you can enjoy stunning sunsets from Comares. The idyllic surroundings, whitewashed buildings, and peaceful atmosphere make the town perfect for watching the sunset.
Not only can you watch the sunset from the different viewpoints across the town, but when you drive back to Malaga, too.
My friends and I stopped in a safe spot on our way down to Malaga and took pictures like the one you can see above.
There are other viewpoints on the way down from Comares to Malaga, and some of them offer a breathtaking view of Malaga City.
12. Go on a hiking trail
Nature lovers will be amazed by the scenic hiking trails that start from Comares. Whether you love a good walk, mountain biking or horse riding, you can do all these activities on these routes.
Some of the most popular hiking routes in Comares are Ruta Fuente Gorda and Ruta Buena Vista.
Ruta Fuente Gorda is an easy-to-moderate trail that is 3 kilometres long and can be done in approximately 1 hour.
Ruta Buena Vista is a much longer hike as it’s 26 kilometres long, so it’ll probably take 10 hours to complete. It’s also important to know that this challenging hiking trail isn’t recommended for children.
13. Visit Comares Feria
If you happen to be in Comares at the end of August, you might want to check Feria de Comares (Comares Fair). It usually lasts 3 days, and you can expect anything from live concerts from national singers to verdiales dance and children’s activities.
This quiet town becomes a meeting point for locals and neighbouring towns, and the lively atmosphere is incredible. It’s a great event near Malaga!
How to get to Comares
The most convenient way to get to Comares is by car. The car journey from Malaga to Comares is 38.5 kilometres (24 miles), so it’ll take about 1 hour to arrive in Comares.
However, you must know that the road to Comares is very windy, hilly and narrow, so I advise driving slowly, especially if you suffer from motion sickness.
Another option is taking the ALSA bus to Comares from Malaga’s port. The bus journey takes 1 hour and 35 minutes.
Tips for visiting Comares
- Your visit to Comares won’t take more than half a day, so it’s worth checking out nearby towns in the Axarquia, such as El Borge and Almáchar. They’re also small, so you’ll be able to see a few places in a day if you want to make the most of your day trip.
- Don’t drive to Comares if you aren’t an experienced driver or don’t feel comfortable behind the wheel. The road is in good condition, but very windy and narrow.
- If you drive to Comares, park before Puerta de Malaga. There is free parking, and you won’t need to move on narrow streets.
- There is a zip-line activity in Comares, but if you want to do this activity, make sure to book in advance via phone.
- Don’t leave Comares without trying its raisins. They’re full of flavour and the best raisins in the province of Malaga.
Map of Comares
Click on the map below to open it in Google Maps. You can access directions to each of the locations mentioned in this article.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Comares
How much time do I need to visit Comares?
You’ll only need a couple of hours to visit Comares. However, you can spend more time in the town if you stop for lunch or go on one of the lovely hiking trails.
Is Comares worth visiting?
Yes. If you love quieter, rustic and less touristy places, Comares is for you. However, Comares isn’t a town with many historical places to visit, so if you want to spend a day in museums and historical sites, you might choose elsewhere.
Conclusion on things to do in Comares
Comares isn’t a destination with many historical sites and museums to visit.
Still, if you’re after a tranquil day exploring an off-the-beaten-track destination, trying local dishes and contemplating gorgeous views, Comares won’t disappoint you. It’s a great day trip from Malaga!
Do you have any questions about Comares? Leave your question in the comments. I’ll be happy to help.
Safe adventures!
Cristina x
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Top things to check before visiting Comares
- Compare and book cheap flights to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) with Skyscanner.
- Are you looking for the best accommodation in Comares? Book accommodation with Booking.com
- Have a look at amazing activities and tours in Malaga and its surroundings with Get Your Guide.
- Eat like a local by trying these traditional dishes from Malaga.
- Rent a car to travel around Malaga.
- Book travel insurance for your trip; this is a must for any trip!
Read more about other beautiful towns in Malaga
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- Frigiliana, Spain: The Most Charming Town in Malaga
- Parauta, Malaga: A Lovely White Inland Village
- Top Things to Do in Ronda in a Day
- 20 Incredible things to do in Benalmadena
- 26 Fantastic Things to Do in Estepona
- 25+ Best Things to Do in Marbella
- 20 Best Things To Do in Mijas Pueblo
I would love to wander through the beautiful streets Comares. It looks like such a charming town. And I would make sure not to leave without eating the raisins. And drinking the wine.
Wow, Comares looks beautiful! I would love to go hiking here and take in the vistas, looks so pretty. I also love the architecture, definitely fun to just stroll these streets.
It’s a small but charming location! 🙂