Welcome to Cómpeta, a destination that will captivate you with its authenticity, panoramic views, and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the province of Málaga, this charming white village is known for its cobbled streets, traditional houses, and privileged location in the heart of nature.
Get ready to enjoy a unique experience as you discover everything Cómpeta has to offer.
Table of Contents
History of Cómpeta: A Journey Through Time
The origin of Cómpeta dates back to the Roman era, and its name comes from “Compita-Orum,” which means “crossroads” in Latin. When the area was still uninhabited, the Romans used it to celebrate the Compitalia festivals, where they gathered to honor the gods through various rituals.
Over time, the Romans replaced these roads with hermitages and places of worship, some of which still stand today. In 1487, with the arrival of the Catholic Monarchs, the municipality became part of the Kingdom of Granada.
From then on, Cómpeta was already a bustling town with a population of 600 and an important commercial and wine-producing center, thanks to its good communication with the surrounding villages.
Throughout the centuries, the town has experienced different cultural influences, with the Roman influence leaving the most significant mark on the architecture, traditions, and identity of Cómpeta.
What to See and Do in Cómpeta: A Range of Possibilities
Cómpeta offers a variety of interesting places to visit and activities to enjoy. As you stroll through its streets, you will be amazed by its whitewashed houses, picturesque squares, and stunning views of the mountains and the sea.
What to See in Cómpeta
Nuestra Señora de la Asunción
If you are interested in architecture, you must visit the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. Its construction dates back to the 16th century and was ordered by Queen Isabella I of Castile in 1505.
Although the façade does not boast elaborate decorations, its interior is quite the opposite. It features three naves separated by Mudéjar-style semicircular arches, and the altar stands out with a large painting depicting ecclesiastical images, created by the renowned painter Francisco Hernández.
Outside, you will find a large Neo-Mudéjar tower built in 1932. It has a square base and is made of bricks.
- Address: Pl. Pantaleón Romero, 2, 29754 Cómpeta, Málaga
- Phone: 952 51 60 04
The church’s opening hours may vary depending on the season.
Paseo de las Tradiciones
A few meters from the church is Paseo de las Tradiciones. It is a street where you can find a variety of mosaics depicting the history of Cómpeta. Here, you can learn about the different traditions and cultural influences that have shaped the municipality in a dynamic and original way.
Ermita de San Antón
Another monument you must visit is the Ermita de San Antón, also known as the Ermita de San Antonio de Abad. It is a simple construction from the 18th century with a typical architectural style of rural hermitages in Andalusia.
- Address: C. San Antonio, 106, Cómpeta, Málaga
- Phone: 952 51 60 04
Museum of Arts and Popular Customs
The Museum of Arts and Popular Customs is one of the most visited places in Cómpeta. This house-museum pays homage to the traditions and customs of the peasant families that lived in the village in the past.
The center has two floors where you can see different utensils used in agricultural activities, blacksmithing, and other relevant activities of ancient times.
- Address: C/Horno 2, 29754 Cómpeta, Málaga
- Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday 10:00-14:00
- Phone: 952 51 60 06
Galería Luz de la Vida
The Luz de la Vida Gallery is a beautiful creative space where the artist Lieuwke Loth exhibits her own creations, including drawings, paintings, and sculptures. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions by other international artists.
If you visit Cómpeta, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the gallery and learn about the fascinating life of the artist.
- Address: C. Laberinto, 15, Bajo, 29754 Cómpeta, Málaga
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 11:00-14:00, Thursday and Friday 17:00-20:00
- Phone: (+31)-650408977
Nature and Hiking
Cómpeta is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. Surrounded by mountains and breathtaking landscapes, the village offers numerous hiking trails that will take you through lush forests, impressive ravines, and natural viewpoints.
A good option is to explore the streets of the village and discover its picturesque white streets along the way. During the journey, you can explore the most surprising corners of the municipality that we mentioned earlier. This is the easiest and most accessible route.
If you prefer to explore the outskirts of Cómpeta, there are several routes you can take to explore the surrounding areas. One notable circular route is to go to the neighboring village of Canillas de Albaida, walk to Árchez, and return to Cómpeta, starting at the Ermita de San Antón.
This route covers a distance of nearly 8 kilometers, and along the way, you can admire the different natural landscapes offered by the scenery. Enjoy a peaceful walk among vineyards and olive groves, and witness the incredible views of the coast and the mountains.
Be cautious and bring plenty of water during the summer months due to high temperatures.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly hike, the Las Ventas trail is the best option. It covers a total of 12 kilometers and is not too demanding. The route starts on the trail next to the soccer field of Cómpeta and takes you to the summit of Cerro Gavilán.
From that point, you can follow the path marked by blue stones. Throughout the journey, you will have wonderful views and come across various ruins of buildings.
Popular Festivals and Gastronomy
Día de la Cruz
The Día de la Cruz (Day of the Cross) is a popular festival celebrated on May 3rd. The inhabitants of the village gather at the Cruz del Monte to accompany a cross adorned with flowers, welcoming the arrival of spring and celebrating a mass in its honor. The day is filled with traditional dances, music, and various activities.
Feria de Cómpeta
The Feria de Cómpeta (Cómpeta Fair) is held in late July in honor of San Sebastián. Throughout a whole week, sports tournaments, dance and singing performances, fireworks displays, and more are organized. It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy music, traditional dances, and taste local cuisine.
Noche del Vino
The Noche del Vino (Night of Wine) is a popular festival celebrated every year on August 15th and has ancient origins. During the day, the villagers gather in Plaza de la Almijara, in front of the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción.
If you have the opportunity to visit Cómpeta on this date, you can enjoy a full day of musical activities, fandango dances, Verdiales pandas, and artisan markets. You can also taste the wines from the area and other traditional delicacies.
As for gastronomy, Cómpeta is known for products such as almonds and honey, thanks to its Mediterranean climate that favors their cultivation. However, the most characteristic products of this municipality, as we have seen in its dedicated festival, are derived from wine and raisins.
Additionally, you must try typical dishes from the area such as the exquisite migas (fried breadcrumbs), asaduría a la pastoril (offal dish), and potajes de vigilia (traditional lentil and vegetable stew).
How to Get to Cómpeta
How to Get There by Bus
From Málaga, you can reach Cómpeta by bus through various transportation companies. The best option is to depart from the bus station in the center of Málaga, take the bus heading to Canillas de Albaida and, after passing Velez-Malaga, get off at the bus stop in Competa.
Schedules and route options may vary, so it is recommended to check updated information before planning your trip.
How to Get There by Car
If you prefer to travel by car, the most direct route from Málaga Airport is to take the A-7 highway, then take exit 985 towards Algarrobo. Continue on the A-7206 in the direction of Sayalonga, and follow it until you find the turn-off to Cómpeta.
The journey will take you approximately one hour and will allow you to enjoy beautiful landscapes along the way, as the A-7 runs very close to the coast but at a considerable height. The A-7206 is a winding road until you reach the village.
Hiring a 7-seater car at Málaga Airport can be a convenient option if you plan to visit Cómpeta and explore the surrounding areas. It will provide you with the freedom and flexibility to move at your own pace with your family and friends, and discover other nearby places of interest such as Canillas de Aceituno, Sedella, or Frigiliana.
Map of Cómpeta: Explore the Highlights
Below, you will find a map with all the relevant locations marked, so you can easily visualize the location of the main points of interest in Cómpeta and plan your route.
Come to Cómpeta and immerse yourself in its Andalusian authenticity! Discover its history, enjoy nature, and savor the delicious local cuisine. An unforgettable experience awaits you in this charming corner of the province of Málaga.
Relevant Information
Best time of the year to visit: Between August and September.
Don’t miss: Take a tour of the village, discovering its corners, and then stop to eat at some of its exquisite restaurants in the town.
Nearby places to eat: It is difficult for us to rank the best restaurants in Cómpeta, so we encourage you to discover them for yourself.
For more information about the village, you can visit the Cómpeta Town Council’s website: https://www.competa.es/
