The best traffic-free bike rides around Colmenar

The Hermitage of Our Lady of Candelaria in Colmenar sits atop a hill overlooking the town and is one of the most important buildings in the Axarquía region. This Baroque chapel was built in the 17th century, its richly decorated chancel dating from 1719. The church consists of a single, rectangular nave with a hemispherical vault over the chancel. The façade, with its round-arched portal, Tuscan pilasters, and a bell gable with three openings, gives the small pilgrimage church its distinctive appearance. Legend has it that it was built in gratitude for the miraculous rescue of sailors who were dedicated to Our Lady of Candelaria. Today, the chapel is considered the spiritual heart of Colmenar and, from its elevated position, offers magnificent views of the surrounding Sierra de Tejeda landscape.

Colmenar, a picturesque village in the Andalusian province of Málaga, was founded at the end of the 15th century after the Christian reconquest of the region. The village's name derives from the Spanish word colmena ("beehive") and recalls the long tradition of beekeeping, which once played a central role here. Thanks to its favorable location in the Montes de Málaga mountains and the lush vegetation, beekeeping was one of the most important sources of income for the population for centuries. Even today, Colmenar is known as the "Village of Honey" and proudly maintains this cultural heritage. Among the village's most important landmarks is the Ermita de la Candelaria, a small 17th-century chapel perched on a hill overlooking the village, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. In the town center stands the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, a church dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, which impresses with its simple Andalusian style and tranquil atmosphere. At the town entrance, visitors are greeted by the Puerta de la Cruz, a symbolic gate featuring a monolith bearing the village's coat of arms – adorned with a bee and a honeycomb, representing Colmenar's history and identity. A particular highlight is the Museo de la Miel, the "Honey Museum," where visitors can learn all about beekeeping, the work of bees, and honey production. Thus, Colmenar harmoniously blends history, nature, and tradition – a place where the region's past and a deep love for its landscape are reflected in every street and every scent of wild rosemary.

The monument commemorates Don Alfonso Molina Padilla, one of the town's most important figures. Born in Colmenar in 1875, Molina Padilla was a lawyer and politician of the liberal left. He represented the Archidona constituency in the Spanish Parliament and dedicated his life to social causes and education. Having no children, he bequeathed his entire fortune to a foundation he established in his will – the "Fundación Molina Padilla – Orfanato de Jesús y Candelaria." The foundation's aim was to provide underprivileged children and young people from Colmenar with access to education. To this day, the foundation awards scholarships to pupils and students, ensuring the continued impact of his work across generations. A monument honoring his legacy was erected in Colmenar, located in the plaza at the end of Calle Camino de Málaga, near Calle La Nora. The statue depicts Don Alfonso Molina Padilla as a symbol of charity and community spirit – values that he deeply rooted in his home community.

A town famous for its honey and sausages, among other things. A visit to its central square and the church located at the top of the town are highly recommended.

Entrance to the town of Colmenar

The Ermita de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria is a beautiful Baroque chapel located in Colmenar, Málaga. Built between the 17th and 18th centuries, it has been designated a Bien de Interés Cultural (Cultural Interest) site since 1996. The chapel is situated on a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. Inside, the chapel has a single nave with a chancel and a chapel, richly decorated with Baroque elements. The façade features a large semicircular arch and a slender bell tower with three arches.

It's worth it... best from east to west!

Colmenar is a picturesque typical Spanish village. As one of the typical villages with whitewashed houses, it stands out because of its strategic location, bordering the Montes de Málaga nature park. This is a protected nature reserve that is home to various species of mammals, birds and plants. Impressive rivers, trees and fauna make this area definitely worth a walk. Of course, the village itself also offers enough activities that make a visit an absolute must. Centuries-old monasteries, theatrical churches and a rich culinary culture leave an indelible impression on you. It is definitely recommended to stay in Colmenar during a tour.