Between the slopes of the Sierra de las Nieves and the Guadalhorce valley lies the small village of Guaro. Known for its Luna Mora, this village is located 45km from Malaga and only 22km from Marbella.
If you have decided to rent a car without excess at Malaga airport, you can do so with CarGest and reach this attractive village in just over 40 minutes.
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History of Guaro
The first indications come from the Arab civilization, during its occupation. In this period, Guaro was part of a chain of defensive fortifications, similar to that formed in the chain of defensive structures of the Al-Sarqiyya in which towns such as Sedella or Comares participated.
What to see and do in Guaro
What to see
Undoubtedly the biggest event in this place is the Festival de la Luna Mora (Moorish Moon Festival). Known throughout the province for its spectacular beauty, it attracts people from all over Andalusia.
For two nights in September, the village is left in darkness and is illuminated by thousands of candles, arranged in different patterns, many of them representing religious symbols of the Muslim, Christian and Sephardic religions. In this way, the coexistence of these three cultures in the region for many years is celebrated.
There are also different stalls with traditional food and ornaments for visitors. Also, if you are going by car, it is important to know that some accesses may be blocked due to the large number of visitors.
Access to the village will be restricted for visitors from 18.00h until 5.00h. Those wishing to visit the village should leave their vehicle at the Puente Viejo car park (indicated below on the map), where they can catch a shuttle bus (2 euros per person) to Guaro.
If you have decided to visit in August, don’t miss the Feria de Guaro, traditionally a livestock fair that has been extended over time and continues to this day. It is a more festive and summery atmosphere than the Luna Mora, with competitions, activities and traditional food like the ones we tell you about below.
What to do
To visit Guaro and not try its delicious typical dishes is a sin. Its traditional gastronomy includes “galipuche” (an atypical stew with omelette), rabbit with almond sauce and kid stew.
After recharging your batteries with this hearty and tasty meal, it is highly recommended to take some of the many hiking trails that cross the neighbouring Sierra de las Nieves. Whether you want to rent MTB bikes or do it on foot, there are routes that begin the ascent towards the mountains, crossing extensive areas of pure nature.
How to get to Guaro
How to get there by bus
Many buses leave from Malaga station in the direction of Marbella. From there, you can take one of the 6 buses that leave daily in the direction of Coín, stopping in Guaro. The total cost is around 9 euros (6,74 euros and 2,43 euros, respectively), and the journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
How to get there by car
The quickest route to Guaro by car is via the A-357, turning off onto the A-355. However, there is a beautiful mountain route from Alhaurín de la Torre to our destination, and it will only take a few minutes longer.
If you want to extend your route, you can visit nearby villages such as Monda or Coín, organising your trip according to the places you want to visit and the activities you are interested in doing.
Map of Guaro
In the following map elaborated by CarGest you can see located on a map the most interesting and attractive places to visit. Explore the whole map and organise your route to make the most of your time.
Relevant information
Best time of the year to visit: September – October
Not to be missed: Luna Mora Festival
Places to eat nearby: Restaurante La Bodega
- Address: Av. de Andalucía, 63, 29108 Guaro, Málaga
- Opening hours: 12.00-24.00, M closed
For more information check the website of the Guaro Town Hall: http://guaro.es/
