The best traffic-free bike rides around Málaga

A fountain located right on the road, within the village at the exit towards Puerto de la Bolina. An excellent spot to refill your water bottle before continuing the climb.

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.

This balcony in the Comares Palace offers a fairytale view of the city of Granada and the Albaicín district. From here, the Nasrid kings admired their empire, surrounded by the refined architecture of the Alhambra.

Comares is a picturesque, traditional Andalusian village in the province of Málaga, Spain, known as the "Balcony of the Axarquía" for the breathtaking views from its hilltop location, some 700 meters above sea level. The village is characterized by its Moorish past, evident in the narrow, winding streets and the remains of the Arab fortress on Musmullar Hill. Places of interest include the Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation and the opportunity to enjoy the panoramic views, stroll, and discover local crafts, such as traditional clothing.

A point, a crossroads, with good views.

Entrance to the town of Colmenar