The best road cycling routes around Zafarraya

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 Asador restaurant at the Hotel Balcón de los Montes in Colmenar impresses with its rustic atmosphere and a terrace offering unobstructed views of the surrounding Montes de Málaga mountains. Specialties include grilled meat dishes and traditional regional cuisine. Large windows and the terrace seamlessly connect the dining experience with the expansive, idyllic landscape, making it the perfect place to relax during or after a day of sightseeing.

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

quite steady with 6-8% up the mountain 😀

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.

through kilometres of olive orchards and beautiful views steadily climbing towards Malaga