Monday, January 18, 2016

Genalguacil

The Hidden Gem of the 
Serranía de Ronda

Prologue:
Genalguacil is known as the artists village in the Seranía de Ronda region. A typical Pueblo Blanco with its white washed houses nestling on the hillside. A strong Moorish influence is still very present as you walk through the narrow windy alleyways. Genaguacil in Arabic means Garden of the vizier.  It lays very well hidden in the southern part of the Serranía de Ronda region and just north of Los Reales de Sierra Bermejas Nature area, in the heart of the Genal valley. Surrounded by chestnut trees, Cork oaks and Pine forests, also the rare Spanish fir (Pinsapo) can be found here.


Its natural beauty inspires Artist from all over. Since 1994 artists have been gathering in Genalguacíl to share ideas and experiences. The works of art became part of the villages heritage. That is why you find many sculptures, murals and paintings displayed on the streets, just like an open air art museum. Every year in August, Genalguacíl celebrates an Art fair (Art Encounter Genal Valley) where Artists come together to share their creative experiences and ideas. 

   Directions:
  • When coming from Marbella head towards Estepona and take 1st exit towards town centre.  
  • After 4th roadabout turn right onto Av. Andalucía, drive on until you can see the sign to Jubrique and Genalgucil on the right.  
  • This is Av. Los Reales  which leads across the motorway and onto Ctra. Genalguacíl MA - 8301
  • About 20 min., 15 km, after leaving Estepona you will reach Peñas Blancas pass.
  • At the crossroad you can drive straight onto Genalguacíl 16km or you take a right turn towards Jubrique and than onto Genalguacíl 28,3 km.
  • Take note the road is very windy and narrow but the effort is well worth it. The views along the way are breath taking.
  • The journey takes just over 1 hour from Estepona depending on how many stops you make. There are many viewpoints (Miradors) along the way. 

At the crossroads of Peña Blanca Pass (990 m altitude) towards north/west you have good views of the Serrania de Ronda.


and back towards the south/east you also have fine views of the coast.


Driving to the village of Genalguacíl is an adventure in itself. 
Good job we had goats to guide us along the way.


Cork oak trees  line the road. 


What an idyllic sight. An old farm house in the middle of nowhere.


As we reached the village the panoramic views were amazing. 
The peak in the center is Sierra Crestellina and to the left is 
Los Reales Sierra de Bermeja Nature area.


A donkey greets us at the entrance to the village.




A viewpoint (Mirador de la Huerta)



Ahead we can see the village center with its church tower.


As you walk through the village you see artwork everywhere.



Many natural materials are used.



This sculpture looked very intriguing 





This display is made out of recycled bottles.























A poem honoring the working donkeys.





















The dream of Genal 
(Un sueño del Genal)




Almond blossom




In the museum you will find artwork which can't be displayed on the road.











One of the many Arabic archways.



An historic plaque explains the churches history.



This parish church was built and dedicated to San Pedro de Verona.
The original building dates back to the 16th century but it was destroyed during the Moorish uprising in 1570 .......

Related link: Church of San Pedro de Verona























The village of Jubrique

How to get to Genalguacíl



Related links: Genalguacíl





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