Ojén is the first village you come across if you leave Marbella heading north. It is located in the first mountainous elevations closest to the sea, so it offers unsurpassed views of the hills, with the Mediterranean in the background.
Its excellent position between the Sierra de las Nieves and the sea makes it a village that every year increases the number of tourists who decide to visit it, as well as others who are passing through on their way to other villages further north such as Monda or Coín.
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History
The history of the village of Ojén begins in the Neolithic period, a period from which there are remains of nearby settlements. However, the first knowledge of the village of Ojén as such dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was under Moorish rule.
There are writings that document a battle between the Moorish army and revolted Mozarabic citizens, or Christians who lived in the region of Al-Andalus, right at the foot of the castle of Ojén, of which only a few traces remain today.
This uprising was resisted in the now demolished settlement of Bobastro, near Ojén, and was retaken by Abderramán III in 921. Later, during the Reconquest, it passed into the hands of the Catholic Monarchs.
Places of interest
In Ojén you will find places of interest and activities for all tastes. The two most visited spots are the Caves of Ojén, high above the village with magnificent views from a cave in the mountain, and the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, in a beautiful village square lined with palm trees.
If you are looking to connect with nature, very close to Ojén is the Refugio del Juanar, in the heart of the Sierra de las Nieves Nature Reserve, a Biosphere Reserve. In this natural wildlife refuge you can see wild boar, foxes, birds of prey and deer, among others.
Other information you should know
The Castillo del Cante Flamenco Festival is held in August, and the San Dionisio Fair takes place on 9 October, with activities, popular games and typical local dishes such as chestnut stew and fennel “bolo”.
Due to its location immersed in nature, the area offers many options for hiking trails near Marbella, which allows you to enjoy a day of activity in nature, and close it enjoying the Marbella nightlife or the peace and relaxation of the rural accommodation in Ojén.
How to get to Ojén from Málaga
How to get there by bus
If you wish to get by bus from Malaga to Ojen it is imperative to change buses. You can take one of the many buses that leave from Malaga in the direction of Marbella. From Marbella station you can catch the L-82 which will take you to Ojén in 20 minutes.
How to get there by car
The bus journey can easily exceed 2 hours and 30 minutes, so our recommendation is to hire a convertible in Malaga, take the coastal road and enjoy the unique views along the way. Alternatively, you can take the toll motorway that runs along the upper part of the coast.
If you are interested in Ojén, here you will find the Ojén Town Hall website for all the information you need: https://www.ojen.es/
