Casares

Casares is a beautiful village located in the province of Malaga, in the region of Andalusia, Spain. With its whitewashed architecture, beautiful views and narrow cobbled streets, it is an ideal destination for those looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure in nature.

This village stretches from the small bay of Casares in the south between Manilva and Estepona to Gaucín in the north. Whether you prefer hiking in the mountains, tasting the local wines, playing golf or simply enjoying the fiestas and gastronomy, Casares is the perfect place for you. Don’t hesitate to visit this beautiful village and experience all it has to offer!

History of Casares

Casares is a village with a long history dating back to prehistoric times, remains of which were found in a nearby mountain range, Sierra Crestellina. The Phoenicians also established a colony nearby, by the sea.

It became an important strategic enclave thanks to its elevated position, allowing it to see threats and to be a defensive bastion. In addition, its proximity to the sea and the Strait of Gibraltar made it a profitable trading post.

For this reason, during Roman times, a city was founded on top of the ancient settlements, called Lacipo, which even minted its own coinage. Over the centuries, Casares remained an important place for different cultures, including Arabs, Christians and Jews.

During Moorish rule, the imposing Casares Castle was built, which was to play a key role in later historical events. It was one of the last strongholds to resist the Christian Reconquest, served as a defence for the Moorish rebels, and became an impregnable bastion during the French invasion.

Today, Casares remains a popular destination for those looking to escape the city and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. Don’t miss this charming village steeped in history.

What to see and do in Casares

Despite being a small town, Casares has enough tourist attractions and activities to make it stand out on the route of most visitors who pass through the area, whether local or foreign. Do you think you would include them all in your visit?

What to see

Casares Castle. This impressive castle is one of the main attractions of Casares. Built in the 15th century, the castle was built on a large limestone mound. Therefore, from its location it overlooks the nearby valleys, from the Serranía de Ronda to the Strait of Gibraltar, offering breathtaking views.

Remains of it are still preserved today, such as towers, segments of the wall and the remains of the main gates of the walled enclosure.

Torre de la Sal. Also known as Torre del Salto del Moro, it is characterised by having a square base instead of a circular one, as it was not originally used as a watchtower. Later, salt pans were built next to it, hence its name.

Baños de la Hedionda. Surrounded by mysticism, the stories tell that an ancient demon lived here, expelled by Santiago, who breathed his last, hence the intense smell of sulphur.

The most widespread legend has it that Julius Caesar’s troops, infected with scabies, bathed in these healing waters. It is also believed that it was Caesar himself who found refuge in the baths before facing Pompey’s army.

Church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación. This beautiful baroque church is one of the main tourist attractions in Casares. With its impressive façade and frescoed interior, the 16th century church is a must-see.

Casa Natal de Blas Infante. Birthplace of the founder of the Andalusian sentiment, who united the southern villages of the beautiful region of Andalusia under one flag.

Things to do

The most popular and sought-after activities in Casares are related to nature, thanks to the imposing natural area in which it is located. Here are some of the most popular activities for tourists.

Sierra Crestellina Natural Park. This beautiful natural spot is an ideal place for nature lovers. With its impressive landscape formed by cork oak groves and rivers, the area is a perfect place to spend a day hiking. You can also see birds of prey such as vultures and Bonelli’s eagles.

Sierra Bermeja Nature Reserve. An important natural area with a multitude of endangered species, such as the Spanish fir, which can only be seen here, in the nearby Sierra de las Nieves and in Grazalema (Cadiz).

Gran Senda de Málaga. This well-known hiking route crosses the entire province in a circular route. Casares is the end of the stage from Genalguacil and the start in Estepona.

Wine tasting. Casares is situated in the wine region of Malaga, making it an ideal place to sample the local wines. There are many bodegas in the area offering guided tours and wine tastings.

Play golf. If you are a golf fan, this is the perfect place for you. There are several golf courses in the area, such as Finca Cortesín and Casares Costa Golf, with stunning sea and mountain views.

Popular festivals and gastronomy

Feria de Casares. Held during the first weekend of August, this fiesta dates back to 1813 and you can enjoy the local gastronomy with music and various festivities.

San Juan. On the beaches of Casares a verbena is organised during this well-known festivity on the magical night of 23rd June.

Pilgrimage of Nuestra Señora del Campo. Held in May, this pilgrimage carries the virgin to her hermitage in a festive atmosphere throughout the day, making it a magnet for visitors to the area.

During the fiestas you can try some of the most typical dishes of Casares, such as “casareña” soup, made with bread, vegetables, garlic, egg and oil, and “montañés” rabbit, typical of autumn, cooked with chestnuts. The honeyed goat’s cheese from the Sierra de Crestellina is also well known.

How to get to Casares

How to get there by bus

If you prefer to travel by bus, you can get to Casares from Malaga bus station. The bus company AvanzaBus offers regular services from Malaga to Casares, but with transfers.

The bus journey takes approximately 1h 15min to Marbella, depending on the route you choose among the many that depart from Malaga Station. From there you must take the L-77 to Casares, which has only one departure a day at 11.40am.

How to get there by car

If you prefer to travel by car, you can reach Casares from Malaga in approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. It’s very easy from the airport, as you just follow the A-7 (which becomes the AP-7 motorway) to exit 1070B towards Estepona and Casares.

If you’ve decided to hire a convertible car at the airport, you may prefer to enjoy a leisurely drive along the N-340 coastal road, although be warned that the journey is much longer and slower. This is a good option if you are going to take advantage of the trip to visit coastal towns such as Fuengirola. Be sure to take the 1010 turnoff after passing Benalmádena if you don’t want to take the motorway route.

Map of Casares

We provide you with a map prepared by CarGest to see the different routes to get there by car, locations of interest or the different activities that take place in Casares.

Relevant information

Best time of the year to visit: during any time of the year you will find activities suitable for the weather you encounter. However, we recommend visiting between spring and early summer, because of the combination of festivities and the green springtime natural environment.

Not to be missed: a hike in the nearby green hills, as well as the Baños de la Hedionda and the views from the castle of Casares.

Nearby places to eat: without a doubt, the views from Restaurante Sarmiento are not easy to forget. If you have the chance, you should visit its terrace.

For more information about the town you can consult the website of the Casares Town Hall: https://www.casares.es/