Carratraca is a small town located in the province of Malaga, especially known for its thermal waters, which have been appreciated and exploited since Roman times for their medicinal properties.
Throughout the centuries, Carratraca has attracted visitors from all over seeking the benefits of its sulfurous waters. But aside from its waters, this charming village has much more to offer to its visitors. Keep reading to discover more!
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History of Carratraca
Originally valued for its thermal waters during Roman times, the small town of Carratraca was a place of rest and relaxation where the Romans took advantage of the healing properties of the water.
Over the centuries, Carratraca went through various civilizations, from the Visigoths to the Muslims, who also left their mark on the place.
The 19th century was the golden age of Carratraca, where it became a meeting place for the European elite. In 1821, a spectacular spa was built that became the heart of the town, attracting nobles and personalities from all over Europe, including Queen Isabella II of Spain.
Today, although the frenetic pace of those glorious years has diminished, Carratraca remains a charming refuge for those seeking peace and well-being. Its waters continue to flow with the same mineral richness as in Roman times, and the town remains a picturesque testimony of history.
What to see and do in Carratraca
Carratraca offers the perfect blend of architecture, nature, and culture, inviting you to explore its charming thermal spa, beautiful hiking trails, and historical monuments such as the Church of San Antonio de Padua.
What to see in Carratraca
Although it is a small place, Carratraca offers a wide variety of attractions that capture the essence of its rich history and beautiful natural surroundings.
Here are some recommendations on what to see in this charming Andalusian village:
Carratraca Spa
The Carratraca Spa, with a history dating back to the Romans and Arabs, is a wellness treasure in Malaga.
Famous since the 18th century and very popular in the 19th century, this place uses waters rich in minerals like calcium and arsenic sulfides with an alkaline touch, flowing at a constant temperature of 17.5ºC.
The spa retains 19th-century infrastructure, such as pools, bathtubs, and showers, capable of accommodating 200 visitors a day. It also has modern services, including specialized medical care and expert staff to guide treatments.
Currently, the spa, managed by the Villa Padierna chain, is permanently closed, so it is not possible to visit.
Points of interest:
- Location: Antonio Rioboó, 11, 29551 Carratraca, Malaga
Church of Our Lady of Health
The Church of Our Lady of Health is one of Carratraca’s most emblematic buildings whose architecture reflects the most traditional style of the region.
Dedicated to the worship of the Virgin of Health, this place is the meeting point for the local community as well as a space for prayer and devotion.
Points of interest:
- Location: Calle de la Iglesia, 29551 Carratraca, Malaga
Trinidad Grund House (current Town Hall)
The town hall of Carratraca, located in an impressive neo-Mudejar building, was originally the recreational house of Trinidad Grund, an influential 19th-century journalist and philanthropist known for her social activism and her role in Malaga’s culture and society at the time.
This building not only stands out for its distinctive architecture but also for its magnificent views, making it a place of interest both administratively and historically.
Points of interest:
- Location: Glorieta, 2, 29551 Carratraca, Malaga
Bullring
Built in 1878, the Carratraca bullring is a unique structure as its grandstand sits directly on the rock.
This place not only hosts bullfighting events but also becomes the stage for a famous Holy Week performance by the town’s inhabitants.
In addition, from the back of the plaza, you can access a forest path that leads to the old hermitage of the Virgin of Health.
Points of interest:
- Location: Glorieta, 23, 29551 Carratraca, Malaga
Casa Pepa
Fonda Casa Pepa is a charming guesthouse that offers an authentic culinary experience in a traditional atmosphere.
Here, the food is entirely homemade and varies depending on what Pepa prepares: from Malaga-style gazpachuelo to noodle casserole.
In addition, the guesthouse has five double rooms, decorated in the traditional Andalusian style, offering a quiet and comfortable stay for visitors.
Points of interest:
- Location: Baños, 18, 29551 Carratraca, Malaga
Nature and Hiking
Located near the Serranía de Ronda, Carratraca has a landscape of steep slopes covered by pine forests and scrubland.
Hermitage Trail – Llano de Arenalejos
This route is an excellent option for hiking lovers as it is a fairly easy circular trail.
Starting from the town hall, the route passes by the bullring and crosses wooded areas, offering spectacular views of the Sierra de Huma and Chimenea, making it ideal for hot days.
Points of interest:
- Estimated time: 3-3.5 hours
- Kilometers: 5.23 km round trip
- Elevation: 641 meters max and 535 meters min
- Estimated location: Start at Carratraca Town Hall
- Difficulty: low
Popular festivals
Carratraca Fair
Held between August 13 and 15 in honor of the patron saint, the Virgin of Health, the Carratraca fair is an event that celebrates local culture with music, dance, and activities that unite the entire community.
Andalusian Enchantment (Festival of the Moorish Moon)
Held on the first weekend of September, this celebration transforms the village, which is lit by thousands of candles, creating a magical atmosphere.
This event celebrates harmony and unity among cultures through music, art, theater, and dance in an outdoor setting under the stars, reflecting the rich history and cultural diversity of Andalusia.
Gastronomy
Although Carratraca is not characterized by any specific emblematic dish, its gastronomy encompasses a range of tasty traditional dishes, especially those that use pork products like kid goat shepherd’s style or veal, such as stew-style shank.
Shepherd-style kid goat
This traditional Carratraca dish uses kid goat meat cooked with spices and herbs that enhance its flavor.
Stew-style shank
This recipe includes shank, a cut from the veal leg, cooked with vegetables and other local ingredients, resulting in a flavorful stew.
Pastries also play a prominent role in local culture, with a wide variety of sweets like cakes, butter rolls, oil cakes, or almond cakes.
How to get to Carratraca
How to get there by public transport
Carratraca is accessible by public transport, mainly from Malaga.
You can take a bus at the bus station that will take you to Carratraca in about 45 minutes.
How to get there by car
If you prefer to travel by car, Carratraca is well connected by road from any point in the province of Malaga. For greater convenience, you can opt to hire an automatic car at Málaga airport, perfect for exploring the region. Additionally, if you are passionate about nature and breathtaking landscapes, don’t miss the chance to visit Ardales, a picturesque town just a few kilometers away.
If departing from Malaga capital, you can follow the Mediterranean highway, pass through Cártama, and then take secondary roads that lead directly to the town.
Map of Carratraca
In the following map, you will find all the places of interest mentioned in this post marked.
In addition to exploring Carratraca, there are several activities you can consider when visiting this charming village, such as walking the Caminito del Rey, visiting Álora, or hiking in the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park.
