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This time we are going to visit Alhama de Granada from Malaga, a short but intense trip that will leave a very good experience. To find out all the details continue reading and leave us your opinion at the end if you feel like it. Throughout this article we will try to convince you with facts; we will talk about activities, annual events and of course places to visit or things you should do when you visit Alhama de Granada.
Although Alhama de Granada is famous for its thermal baths, there is plenty to do if you decide to visit.
Do you want to break with routine and discover Alhama de Granada? Let’s go there.
Discovering Alhama de Granada
Alhama de Granada is ancient, so much so that remains have been found of the first settlements belonging to the Neolithic period. It was not until the arrival of the Romans, who settled in the area corresponding to the Balneario, that the town began to show its potential. From the Roman period we have some remains of villas and the thermal baths.
The thermal baths have undoubtedly been one of the attractions of Alhama de Granada throughout history, but it was not until the arrival of the Arabs that it would get its present name. Alhama means hot water spring, referring to the thermal baths that were discovered and exploited by the Romans earlier.
During the Muslim reign Alhama was one of the fastest growing towns in the Kingdom of Granada. In 1482 the town was taken by the Catholic armies and during this period some of the Moorish buildings such as mosques and souks were replaced by churches and squares.
Things to do
From these periods great monuments such as the Arab baths or the Roman bridge over the river have been preserved. There is undoubtedly much to see and discover in Alhama de Granada, we are going to recommend some of the main places you should not miss.
Arab baths
There are two springs, a more recent one that arose as a result of an earthquake and is known as the “new bath” and the old one known as the “Old Bath”. It is in this second place where the historic Arab Bath is located, a place of health and historical heritage that has been used since prehistoric times. They were very popular between the 13th and 15th centuries, centuries during which kings and nobles came to enjoy these waters.
The water from this spring is at 42ºC and is indicated for bone and respiratory diseases.
Location: We can take you to the esplanade just before crossing the bridge to the spa. This spa is not public and is located inside the Hotel Balneario Alhama de Granada. (Map)
Entrance to thermal baths
The visit costs 1 euro and if you want to enjoy one of the treatments, the price starts at 18€. Remember that you also have free natural thermal baths in the area surrounding the spa, if you want to benefit from their properties completely free of charge.(Map: https://goo.gl/maps/CanJG3x9NBACA4mB9)
Roman bridge
The popular Roman bridge of Alhama de Granada provokes discussion among many. It is located a couple of kilometres from the centre on the same road that leads to the spa.
It is in good condition despite its age and it is not certain whether it is 1st-century Roman or Muslim.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/gFpmkAj6co6dv6en6
Visit the Old Town
It’s always a good idea to visit the old quarter of the place you’re visiting. On this occasion you will enjoy a walk that will take you back in time.
Along your walk you can visit such emblematic places as:
Iglesia Mayor de Santa María de la Encarnación (Main Church of Santa María de la Encarnación)
Built at the end of the 15th century, probably on the site of a mosque.
Tourist Office
If you would like to know more about the city or find out about guided tours, you can go to the tourist office. The guides will show you the main sights and tell you about the history of the city.
- The opening hours are Monday to Saturday, morning and afternoon. From 10:00 to 2:00 pm and from 4:00 to 5:30 pm.
- Location: https://goo.gl/maps/BJnE4NdUH9i3akLaA
Old Prison
In the Prisoners’ Square, you will find, of course, the old prison of Alhama de Granada. It is now an interpretation centre and can be visited with a guide.
The prison was built during the 17th century and is in a good state of preservation.
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/73sFhkUqPeaAf3RM8
The Water Gate
In the old days the city was walled and to enter you had to pass through one of the numerous gates. One of these gates is still preserved and is a point of interest for those strolling through Alhama de Granada.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/5D9VSWpWDMSFFgxd6
The Mine Gate
Another of the access gates to the city, this is one of the most hidden and protected gates in the past. As you walk around you can see crosses that were carved into the stone after the conquest of Alhama by the Catholics.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/YK8zE5qbtVUbR8JR9
Devil’s Stairs
These steep, ancient stairs will take the strength out of even the most experienced climbers. Not everyone will be able to climb them, but if you decide to try, do so with care, as they are very dangerous.
Descending these stairs is very dangerous, but at the end there is a beautiful view of the hanging houses, dungeons and old manor houses on the river bank.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/s1WsCJ8BzCU16MPd7
Alhama Dungeons
Perfect location surrounded by beautiful natural surroundings, ideal for those who enjoy hiking.
The dungeons, possibly of Muslim origin, were mainly used for the storage of cereals. It can be visited on one of the tours organised by the tourist office and with a guide.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/jVqegNARiRWQFk467
Hiking
In a privileged environment like Alhama de Granada you will find not only beautiful hiking routes but also many historical and natural monuments along the way. The river of Alhama moulds the terrain as it passes through, giving us spectacular landscapes sculpted in the rock.
- Spa Route: This route is pleasant to walk and will take you from the village to the hot springs spa.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/G1YYLXzjohaKkGpJ7 - Los Angeles Chapel: A good place to rest while you walk along the southern route of Alhama de Granada. It is a hermitage carved into the rock that impresses everyone who passes by. The route is simple and can be done with children because of its low difficulty.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/t3va63yqgtgXuymq9
Activities
Would you like to enjoy some of the events that take place throughout the year in this municipality? We are going to tell you about some of the most popular ones, although almost every month there will be something for you to do.
We cannot forget the carnival, Easter, Christmas or many other festivities that take place all over Andalusia. However, we are going to talk about the local fiestas in Alhama de Granada.
Wine Festival
Every year at the beginning of February the Wine Festival takes place in Paseo del Cisne. To participate you only have to pay 7 euros to taste all the wines on offer.
- Location: https://goo.gl/maps/jVDKHYatQfnKwov29
- Cuando: Begining of February.
Alhama Fair
The main festival is the Feria de Alhama de Granada which takes place around the 8th of September every year. It is ideal for both adults and children, who will have a great time on the mechanical rides during the night.
At the fair you can taste some of the typical products of the region, as well as attend some popular events and concerts.
From Malaga to Alhama de Granada
To get to Alhama de Granada from Malaga airport or the western Costa del Sol there are two routes. Both have a similar estimated time, the second being more recommendable for those who want to visit the town from the eastern Costa del Sol.
The second route runs parallel to the coast until you reach Vélez-Málaga. We must take the A-356 road towards Vélez-Málaga, which we will not leave until we reach the reservoir. From there we take the A-402 road towards Venta de Zafarraya, and continue along this road until we reach Alhama de Granada.
To use the second route, take the MA-20 towards Malaga and continue on the A-7 towards Jaén, Granada. After leaving it by the AP-46 road we will pass near towns such as Casabermeja, then we must be attentive to follow the A-92 road towards Loja, which we will follow until we pass this town and turn right onto the A-4155 road. At the beginning of the road you will come across the Roman Villa del Salar (Map), which you can visit if you are interested in finding Roman remains in a fairly good state of preservation. Continue along this road until you reach Alhama de Granada.
The estimated duration of the route is 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.
Choose how and when to go
If you want we can take you by car and bring you back when you need it. You can choose which of the two routes you prefer and you can forget about driving. We have vehicles for all needs, whether you are travelling as a couple, a family or a large group of people. Remember that the more people you travel with, the cheaper the trip will be. We are a company with a wide range of transfers from Malaga airport that you can also use for your excursions and discover Andalusia.
One of the best times of the year to visit this area is spring and September. However, you can visit Alhama de Granada at any time of the year and enjoy it.
All in all, it is a highly recommended visit with many beautiful historical sites. Check the prices for the transfer from the main page by following the link above, we are waiting for you. If you need a guide, you can ask for one at the tourist office or from their website.
