Carratraca
Carratraca is a spa town situated in the Guadalhorce Valley, in the province of Malaga, Andalusia. It is situated between Ardales and Alora in the beautiful region of the Sierra Blanquilla. The El Chorro Lakes are also close by.
The town is famous for its sulphur water spas, which have been in existence since Roman times. Over the centuries the spa has attracted many famous visitors and still to this day attracts many visitors, who come to enjoy the benefits of the therapeutic waters.
About town
The whitewashed town is spread out over three hills, set below the impressive Alora Castle. As the spa is one of the principal attractions of the area, the town itself offers good facilities and amenities for the visitor.
The Town Hall, also known as the Arab House, is a particularly attractive building, built in the Mudejar style, although it only dates from 1885. The bullring also dates from around the same period, and is worth a visit. Festivals and events are also held within the grounds of the bullring.
Carratraca Spa
The spa is set just outside of town, and although dates back to Roman times, the current building was constructed around the middle of the 19th century in a neo-classical style.
The spa has attracted many famous visitors over the centuries, including the actor Antonio Banderas, who is a native to Malaga. The spa is open between June 15th and October 15th every year. Aside from the baths, there are now also many luxury treatments available.
Natural surroundings
Carratraca is not only an excellent destination for those wishing to experience the wonderful spa facilities. The rural town is set in an area of outstanding natural beauty, ideal for hiking and walking holidays, and those who want to enjoy a typically Andalusian lifestyle.
Set at an altitude of 540 metres above sea level, to the south of Carratraca you can visit the beautiful Sierra de Alcaparain, with the El Grajo Peak towering over at 1,200 metres altitude.
You can also visit the La Cueva de los Murciélagos, the Bat Caves, which are situated between Carratraca and Casarabonela.
Eating out
There are some decent restaurants in town, and countryside ‘Ventas’ in the surrounding region. Most serve traditional dishes, originating from Andalusia and the Malaga countryside.
Climate
The climate in Carratraca is that of a typical Andalusian inland town. During the summer months the town gets very hot, into the late 30, early 40-degree temperatures. The spring and autumn is generally mild, and the winters do get slightly colder, than the protected Costa del Sol and Malaga region.
