Located in the picturesque region of the Serrania de Ronda, Gaucin is a charming municipality in the province of Malaga that invites you to explore its wonders. This Andalusian village, with its white houses and narrow streets that wind between them, is a living testament to its rich Arab history.
Renting a car during your visit to Malaga will allow you to discover hidden gems like Gaucin. With its varied natural environment and its great historical value, Gaucin offers a unique experience that will make you want to learn more about its history, the activities you can do and other fascinating details.
Discover Gaucin, a village with a rich history that dates back to Roman times. This ancient settlement, crucial for communication between Gibraltar and Ronda, was settled on an Iberian village and still preserves archaeological remains of its past.
The Arabs, who called the place Sajra Guazan (Hard Rock), left their mark on the architecture and the layout of its streets. Its castle, one of the most difficult to conquer, is a testament to the resistance of Gaucin.
In 1457, Gaucin was taken by the Christian armies, marking the beginning of a new era. Despite the difficulties, the Moriscos fought to maintain their home and their culture.
The resistance of Gaucin continued during the French invasion, giving rise to the figure of the Andalusian bandit. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Gaucin enjoyed a period of prosperity thanks to its strategic location.
Visiting Gaucin is immersing yourself in history, it is discovering the resistance and the strength of a people that has known how to maintain itself over the centuries. Are you ready for the adventure?
Gaucin is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Here we present some of the most outstanding places you cannot miss:
The Castillo del Aguila, also known as the castle of Gaucin, is a fortress that majestically rises on a hill of 688 meters, dominating the Genal river valley and the Campos de Gibraltar. This castle offers impressive views that are a real gift for the senses.
The origin of the castle is Arab and it was built in the 20th century, although its history dates back to Iberian times. Over the centuries, it has been rebuilt several times due to its strategic value. The wall, the tribute tower, the cisterns and some other elements that bear witness to its rich history are preserved.
The castle has witnessed numerous historical events. In 1309, Guzman el Bueno died in the vicinity of the castle while trying to conquer it from the Arabs. During the French invasion, the castle became a focus of resistance and was taken in 1810. Later, in 1839, the walls and cisterns were repaired, and it was destined to barracks.
Today, the Castillo del Aguila is a place of great tourist interest. When visiting it, not only can you enjoy the impressive views, but also immerse yourself in the history and culture of the region. Undoubtedly, a visit to the Castillo del Aguila is an experience that you cannot miss when visiting Gaucin.
Visit on the mapIn the heart of Gaucin, in the central square of the village, you will find La Fuente, a Baroque architectural jewel dating from 1628. This historical monument is not just a water source, but also a symbol of the rich history and culture of Gaucin.
La Fuente has been a meeting point for the inhabitants of Gaucin for centuries. In the past, it was the place where the women of the village gathered to wash clothes and collect water for their homes.
Visit on the mapEl Convento, a historic building from the 18th century, is a living testament to the rich history of Gaucin. Originally, this place housed a small hermitage called Vera Cruz. In 1700, Bartolome del Rio asked Don Juan Carlos Alonso Perez de Guzman el Bueno, Duke of Medina Sidonia, for authorization to build a convent of Discalced Carmelites on the site occupied by the hermitage. The inauguration of the convent took place on August 15, 1704.
After the disentailment of Mendizabal in 1835, the convent was abandoned and later used for different purposes, such as cinema or theatre. In 1982, the Bishop of Malaga ceded the convent to the town hall of Gaucin. Today, the building is used as "Centro Cultural El Convento", where cultural events and activities are held.
Visit on the mapThe Church of San Sebastian is a historical monument that stands in the heart of Gaucin. This church was built on an old Arab mosque, which in turn was built on a Visigothic church, making it a fascinating testament to the rich religious and cultural history of the region.
Founded in 1487, shortly after the conquest of the territory by the Catholic Monarchs, the Church of San Sebastian is one of the oldest temples preserved in the Diocese of Malaga. Over the centuries, it has been the subject of various reforms and improvements, including a major repair in 1614 directed by the Mayor of the Cathedral of Seville.
Inside, the church is organized into three naves separated by square pillars with attached columns that support peralted arches. The head is square and is covered by a half-orange dome on pendentives. On both sides of the presbytery there are side chapels open each to the side naves and covered by edge vaults.
Visit on the mapGaucin is a true paradise for hiking lovers. With a variety of routes that adapt to all levels of experience, there is something for everyone, from the casual walker to the experienced hiker.
One of the most popular routes is the circular route along the Old Road of Ronda. This route takes you through stunning landscapes and offers panoramic views of the Serrania de Ronda.
For those looking for a challenge, the route to the summit of Hacho is an excellent option. This hiking route takes you to the top of the Sierra del Hacho, offering spectacular views of Gaucin and the surroundings.
Finally, the route around the lower slopes of Hacho is a gentler option, perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed walk. This route takes you through beautiful natural landscapes and offers the opportunity to enjoy the local flora and fauna.
With its rich culture and traditions, Gaucin celebrates a series of festivals and events throughout the year that attract both locals and visitors. Here we present some of the most popular:
Held annually between August 4 and 7, the Gaucin Fair is an event full of colour and joy. Originally a cattle fair, today it has transformed into a vibrant celebration that includes mechanical attractions, restaurants, dances and performances by local music bands. It is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the hospitality of Gaucin.
In this exciting festival, two bulls are tied with ropes and run along the streets while the participants run in turn in front of the animals. It is a tradition full of adrenaline and excitement that attracts crowds every year.
The Noche de San Juan, celebrated every year on June 23, is a pagan festival that welcomes summer. In Gaucin, it is celebrated with a big party on the outskirts of the village, which includes an orchestra, a bar, horse races and motorcycles. It is a magical night full of fun and camaraderie.
The Carnival is a tradition that dates back to Roman times and is still alive in Gaucin. During this festivity, the village streets are filled with people in costumes who dance and celebrate from morning until well into the night. It is an explosion of colour and joy that you cannot miss.
In addition to these festivities, Gaucin celebrates all the typical festivities such as Holy Week, New Year's Eve in the village square and other festivals that have remained with the village over the years. Each of these celebrations offers a unique vision of the rich culture and traditions of Gaucin.
The gastronomy of Gaucin is a reflection of its rich culture and traditions. Here, the native flavours of the land and sea combine to create dishes that delight the palate and nourish the soul.
The most traditional dishes of Gaucin are stews with wild herbs such as tagarninas, fennels, chickweed or wild asparagus. The mountain pots and the various chickpea stews are also very popular, as well as rabbit stews and a wide variety of dishes and sausages from pork.
In Gaucin, you can enjoy typical Malaga cuisine in a variety of restaurants and bars. Some of the most outstanding include Azulete, Bodeguita Chaparro, Casa Antonia, Bonissim, El Atico, El Hacho, La Cruz, La Esquinita, La Fructuosa, La Raiz, Platero & Co, Portusuelo and Paco Pepe. Each of these places offers a unique menu that reflects the rich diversity of local cuisine.
To get to Gaucin, the charming white village of the Serrania de Ronda, you must head towards Manilva and from there follow the signage to Gaucin. With a journey of approximately 117 kilometers from the Malaga airport, we recommend you make this trip by car to be able to enjoy the beautiful Andalusian landscape.
If you do not have your own vehicle, do not worry. You can book a car with us. Check our prices for car hire in Malaga. In addition, if you need it, you can also book a GPS to be able to carry out this and other routes in the simplest and most comfortable way.
In approximately an hour and a half of driving, you will be in Gaucin, ready to explore its cobbled streets, its rich history and its vibrant culture. Have a good trip!
Town Hall: Plaza Guzman El Bueno, 29 - 29480.
Phone: 952 15 10 00
Official Website: www.gaucin.es
Credit cards accepted
