Immerse yourself in the magic of Fuente de Piedra, a picturesque village located in the province of Málaga. In this article, we will guide you through the wonders you will find in this destination, from its fascinating history to its impressive natural landscapes.
Known for its incredible lagoon, declared a Natural Reserve and home to one of the largest colonies of flamingos in Europe, Fuente de Piedra is a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts.
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History of Fuente de Piedra
The history of Fuente de Piedra dates back to the Roman era, with evidence of human settlements. They built the divine fountain, which according to legend, had healing properties.
Its name comes from the fact that people who drank from the fountain most often suffered from kidney stones and healed from the “stone disease”. In 1547, the qualities of this fountain were so popular that its waters were exported to other countries such as the Kingdom of Naples or America.
Fuente de Piedra experienced an increase in population and local economy, becoming a key point in the industrial salt export thanks to its proximity to the Laguna Salada. In 1981, the lagoon was declared a National Game Reserve.
Today, the lagoon is home to a great variety of birds and is the largest Natural Reserve of pink flamingos in Europe. It is a protected area of great ecological importance, where you can see the diversity of waterfowl and enjoy peaceful walks along its trails.
What to See and Do in Fuente de Piedra
During your visit to Fuente de Piedra, do not miss the opportunity to explore the main points of interest that this town has to offer.
Among the highlights is the Church of the Virgen de las Virtudes, a beautiful 19th-century building in Neo-Mudéjar style. Although it was rebuilt and the original bell tower was added after the 1884 earthquake.
The image of the Virgin has been of great importance to the inhabitants of the town as it has been attributed since then with the virtues of the healing water from the well-known fountain.
- Address: C. Juan Carlos I, 13, 29520 Fuente de Piedra, Málaga
- Price: Free admission
- Phone: 952 735 067
In the municipality, you will find the Refugio del Burrito, a non-profit association that shelters donkeys and mules that have been abandoned or mistreated in Spain. Its purpose is to prevent abandonment and investigate reports of cruelty and animal abuse.
If you want to get a closer look at their incredible work, the refuge offers guided tours and educational activities for children. It also has an official shop where you can buy some of their items to continue supporting their work.
- Address: Cortijo Rafael Sánchez, 58, 29520 Fuente de Piedra, Málaga
- Hours: Saturdays and Sundays 11:00-13:00
- Price: Free access (appointment required to attend)
- Phone: 952 735 077
If you are interested in the world of wine, Fuente de Piedra has Bodegas Málaga Virgen. It is a family winery with over 130 years of experience in winemaking that has been passed down through generations.
The winery offers guided tours where you can see the production process, walk through the vineyards, and taste the wines. It is definitely a great opportunity to savor the best wines of the region.
- Address: la Laguna de, 11049 Fuente de Piedra, Málaga
- Hours: Monday to Friday 7:00-15:00
- Price: To be determined
- Phone: 952 329 454
On the outskirts of the town, you will find the Centro de Visitantes José Antonio Valverde, a space that houses an exhibition about flamingos and other species that inhabit the lagoon of Fuente de Piedra.
- Address: A-92 km 132, Finca Vistahermosa, 29520 Fuente de Piedra, Málaga
- Hours: Monday to Friday 7:00-15:00
- Price: To be determined
- Phone: 951 712 554
Nature and Hiking
Currently, the Fuente de Piedra Lagoon is home to a great variety of birds and is the largest Natural Reserve of pink flamingos in Europe. It is a protected area of great ecological importance, where you can see the diversity of waterfowl.
In addition to the lagoon, in this town, you will discover a rich diversity of ecosystems, from Mediterranean forests to endless golden plains, which offer numerous opportunities for hiking and outdoor exploration.
The Ruta de las Albinas has a distance of almost 6 kilometers and starts at the José Antonio Valverde Visitors Center. The destination is to reach the “La Vicaría” observatory through the paths and walkways.
It is strongly recommended to bring plenty of water and avoid the hottest months, as there are few shaded areas along the routes.
This is a small viewpoint where you can observe the birds of the area and rest in the shade. The trail is ideal for a family hike as it does not require much physical effort and is easily accessible.
If you are looking for a longer route, you can continue walking to the Cantarranas viewpoint and after 16 kilometers, you will have covered a large part of the Fuente de Piedra Lagoon. Along the way, you can walk along wide paths.
Another option, further away from the lagoon, is to walk to Mollina, one of the nearby towns. It is approximately 8 kilometers away, making it perfect for a visit and a stop at some of its bars.
You can extend the route to Humilladero and return to Fuente de Piedra. In total, it is about 16 kilometers along well-marked trails.
Popular Festivals and Gastronomy
A great opportunity to discover the true essence of Fuente de Piedra is by attending the popular festivals. Immerse yourself in its vibrant culture and participate in its most outstanding celebrations.
Fiesta de la Candelaria
Every February 2nd, Fuente de Piedra celebrates its traditional Candelaria Day. It is very typical for the locals to gather in the evening to burn olive branches and create large bonfires in different parts of the town.
During the festive day, it is common to prepare a grill of chorizo and sardines and enjoy a magical night around the bonfires.
Romería Virgen de las Virtudes
On the second Sunday of May, the people of Fuente de Piedra begin this unique day by celebrating a mass in honor of the Virgin. Then they walk to the mountain, bordering the lagoon, displaying the traditional floats, which will compete for the best float award.
Upon reaching their destination, they commemorate with a verben where they offer delicious food and live music performances. They also raffle typical local products such as hams and cheeses.
Nuestra Señora de las Virtudes Patron Saint Festivities
On September 8th, the day of the town’s patron saint is celebrated, and as such, numerous entertaining activities for the whole family take place. It starts with a mass in honor of the Lady of the Virtudes, where the inhabitants offer a floral tribute.
Afterwards, there are grand shows, such as the children’s painting contest, “porra” competition, distribution of sangria, or the parades of the verdiales groups. This is a festival that you definitely shouldn’t miss.
Tapa Route
If you want to taste the varied local flavors, don’t miss the Tapa Route. During the last weekend of May, you can take a tour of the bars and restaurants that compete. Afterward, you can vote for the best tapa and enter a draw for various prizes.
As for gastronomy, don’t miss the opportunity to try typical dishes of the region, such as the delicious “porra”, traditional “migas”, and refreshing gazpacho on hot days.
The mantecados and pestiños are also noteworthy, mainly consumed during the Christmas season. Additionally, the local agricultural products such as olive oil and the wines of the region are true delights that you cannot miss.
How to Get to Fuente de Piedra
How to Get by Bus
If you prefer to use public transportation, there are several options to reach Fuente de Piedra by bus from Málaga. The transport company ALSA offers regular and comfortable connections that will take you directly to the heart of the town.
The best option is to depart from the Málaga Bus Station, take the bus towards Alameda Marquesina, and get off at the Fuente de Piedra stop. It will take you about an hour and a half to arrive, and the ticket price is around 9 euros.
How to Get by Car
You also have the option of reaching your destination by car from Málaga Airport. To do so, join the MA-20 to reach the A-7 and take exit 983 towards the A-45 motorway.
After about 20 minutes, take the exit towards the A-92 and follow the signs to reach Fuente de Piedra. It will take you about 50 minutes to arrive, depending on traffic conditions.
Hiring a car at Malaga Airport is the ideal option as it will allow you to enjoy beautiful landscapes during your journey and explore the surroundings of Fuente de Piedra comfortably and flexibly, allowing you to discover Campillos, Casabermeja, or Antequera.
Fuente de Piedra Map
To help you explore Fuente de Piedra more efficiently, we have prepared a map with all the relevant points marked. Check the map below and plan your visit so you don’t miss anything in this charming town.
Relevant Information
Best time of year to visit: Between the months of May and September, as most of the festivals take place during this period.
Can’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a walk in the emblematic natural setting of the lagoon and explore the local fauna. And, of course, you have to try the exquisite gastronomy in the bars and restaurants of the town.
Nearby places to eat: Among the most prominent places to eat in Fuente de Piedra are Bar Manolillo Rey, La Taberna de Joaquín, or restaurante El Rincón del Lozano, in the town center.
For more information, please visit the Fuente de Piedra Town Hall website: https://www.fuentedepiedra.es/
