Axarquia’s hidden villages attract a new kind of international tourist

International tourists are discovering a new facet of Costa del Sol, venturing inland from popular coastal towns like Nerja and Torrox to explore the villages, mountains, and traditions of Axarquia. This shift towards "slow tourism" – a leisurely approach to visiting destinations and immersing oneself in local culture – has been identified as a potential game-changer for tourism-based businesses in the area.

Oletrips, a company that organizes small-group excursions across Axarquia and other parts of Andalucia, reports that a majority of its customers are foreigners, coming from countries such as Britain, Sweden, Ireland, Canada, Germany, Switzerland, and the United States. The typical customer is over 50 years old and shows a keen interest in local customs, cuisine, history, and traditional ways of life.

One of Oletrips' excursions takes visitors to the municipalities of Archez, Canillas de Albaida, Salares, and Sayalonga, where they can experience mountain landscapes and historic buildings that offer a different perspective on Malaga province. These routes also delve into the area's Moorish heritage, providing visitors with insights into the region's history that might be missed during a typical coastal holiday.

The experiences offered during these excursions go beyond mere sightseeing. They include activities like spending time with a goat herder, learning about the work of beekeepers, and participating in the creation of traditional village bread and roscos de vino, a sweet wine biscuit popular in Andalucia. These interactive experiences enable travelers to gain a direct understanding of rural life from those who still practice these traditions.

While Malaga Province is primarily known for its summer holidays, Oletrips indicates that autumn and winter are actually the busiest seasons for these "slow tourism" excursions. Many customers are foreigners who prefer to spend longer periods in the Costa del Sol, taking advantage of the milder climate outside the peak summer season.

Additionally, some tourists stay in nearby resorts like Nerja and Torrox before embarking on countryside trips. North American visitors, in particular, are drawn to quieter destinations after exploring major cities such as Madrid, Seville, and Malaga. For the smaller communities in Axarquia, this alternative form of tourism offers an opportunity to introduce visitors to the region's attractions beyond the coastline, while simultaneously drawing attention to their unique cultural and historical offerings.