Ardales
Ardales is typical white village ‘pueblo’ situated in the beautiful rural countryside of Andalusia, in the province of Malaga.
The town is surrounded by a series of lakes and reservoirs; the landscape of soft, undulating hills and olive groves make way for the dramatic background of the Ronda Mountains.
Ardales is an excellent destination for those looking for a real Andalusian experience. It’s also popular with Spanish tourists who come to enjoy a bath in the lakes during the hot summer months. It’s also a region well equipped for walking and hiking holidays.
About town
Ardales is a traditional Andalusian town, set on the side of a steep hill, it’s steep streets lined with typical whitewashed terrace houses.
You cross into the village over the River Turón, which meanders past the town, the rambling streets give way to pretty plazas (squares); the atmosphere is happy and the town although small, is bustling.
There is a good selection of shops, bars and restaurants in town. You will find all the amenities and facilities you need to enjoy your stay in Ardales.
Cultural attractions
Historic records of the area date back to the Neolithic age and around Ardales remains from the Neolithic, Copper and Roman civilisations have been found, in fact just two kilometres outside of Ardales you can visit Prehistoric Caves, where you can see artefacts from 30,000 years ago.
On entering the village you come immediately to the Museum of History and Traditions, where you can find out all about the history of the town and region. Continue up to the summit of the town and you can visit the town’s Castillo de la Peña, which dates back to around the 9th century and the 15th century church, which was constructed on top of the original mosque, created during the Moorish occupation.
Eating out
Ardales is home to a good selection of typical tapas bars and restaurants. The cuisine is mainly Andalusian, but there is a choice, you can even enjoy a pint of Guinness in a couple of the local bars.
Climate
The climate in Ardales is that of a typical Andalusian inland town. During the summer months the town gets very hot, into the late 30, early 40 degree temperatures. But you have the wonderful local lakes to bath an cool down.
The spring and autumn is generally mild, and the winters do get slightly colder, than the protected Costa del Sol and Malaga region.
