Casares is one of Spain’s most photogenic white villages that sits between mountains and sea. This hidden gem blends ancient Roman ruins with Moorish architecture and fascinates visitors with its striking beauty and rich history.
The heart of Costa del Sol houses this remarkable town, Casares. Julius Caesar’s therapeutic Roman baths and secret spots where griffon vultures glide above are just some of the treasures you’ll find in this enchanting place.
Your visit to Casares can be unforgettable with seven unique experiences. These range from early morning castle visits to genuine local encounters that most travelers never find.
Explore the Ancient Castle at Sunrise
The ancient stones of Casares Castle glow golden at dawn. This 13th-century fortress sits on a limestone outcrop and gives you amazing views of valleys, hills, and coastal plains that stretch from the Ronda mountains to the Bay of Algeciras.
Best spots for sunrise photography
The Mirador del Tajo de la Planá behind the castle ruins offers the most dramatic shots. You’ll see majestic griffon vultures gliding through the morning air.
The Mirador del Castillo is another great spot where the village’s white houses and terracotta roofs shine in the early morning light.
Historical significance of the fortress
The castle’s roots go back to Arab rule, and the first written records show it existed in the 13th century. This strategic stronghold connected coastal inlets with interior fortifications. A massive 770.50-meter perimeter wall runs along the edge of a deep ravine known as “La Planá”.
Tips for early morning visits
Your castle adventure begins at Plaza de España, where you’ll see the main path going up. Here’s what you need to know:
- Wear sturdy shoes to climb the steep Calle Arrabal
- Get there 30 minutes before sunrise to pick your spot
- Take a camera with wide-angle lens to get those panoramic views
- Bring warm layers since mornings can be chilly
You can visit the castle any time since it’s open 24/7. The original structure has two angled entrances with arched doorways in Calle Villa and Calle Arrabal. The views are spectacular – you can see Gibraltar and on clear mornings, the coast of Morocco comes into view.
Join Local Life in Plaza España
Plaza de España pulses with local life, centered around the magnificent Carlos III fountain from 1785. The vibrant square sits next to the historic 17th-century Chapel of Saint Sebastian and pulls you right into authentic Spanish culture.
Morning coffee with residents
The cozy cafes around the plaza buzz with local life each morning. Residents gather here and chat over steaming cups of café con leche. These simple, homestyle spots show you real Spanish hospitality at its best.
Traditional market experiences
A quick stroll down Carreras street leads to the local market where vendors showcase their daily goods. Here’s what you can expect:
- Fresh fish brought in daily from Casares Costa
- Local seasonal fruits and vegetables
- Traditional Andalusian produce
Hidden cafes and tapas spots
The plaza’s neighborhood holds several family-run ventas that have served authentic local dishes across three generations.
Restaurante Arroyo Hondo blends Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine perfectly in its cozy setting.
Restaurante Sarmiento serves amazing Andalusian dishes with stunning views to match.
Local festivals and cultural events bring the plaza to life. The space becomes a vibrant stage where the community comes together. The plaza welcomes you whether you want a quiet morning coffee or an evening of tapas hopping.
La Sal pairs warm hospitality with breathtaking bay views.
Venta Victoria captures traditional Spanish cuisine’s essence while showing off beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Discover Secret Viewpoints
Beyond the castle walls, Casares hides its treasures in a network of secluded viewpoints. These spots showcase stunning views of both the village and wilderness.
The Sierra Crestellina Natural Reserve became a protected area in 1989 and creates a dramatic backdrop to your exploration.
Lesser-known photography locations
The Mirador del Tajo de la Planá starts your quest to capture perfect shots with panoramic views that stretch from the countryside to the Costa del Sol coastline.
A short uphill walk to Mirador Cancho Andares rewards you with clear views of white houses that cascade down the hillside.
Notable photo spots include:
- Mirador de la Plaza Marcelino Camacho – Best to capture castle-and-town compositions
- Mirador del Castillo – Perfect shots of terracotta roofs against white walls
- Kissing Corner – A charming spot surrounded by traditional Andalusian flora
Best times for vulture watching
Majestic Griffon Vultures create a spectacular show as they nest on the surrounding cliffs. These impressive birds have wingspans up to 2.5 meters (8 feet) and often float past at eye level. The castle viewpoints let you watch these magnificent creatures soar just meters away.
You might also spot:
- Peregrine Falcons
- Booted Eagles
- Short-toed Snake Eagles
Local hiking trails to viewpoints
Casares features many hiking trails that lead to spectacular vantage points. The Casares-Crestellina trail stands out as a 6.66-mile loop with magical views of the village and Mediterranean Sea.
January through May marks the hiking season. Spring brings colorful wildflowers that enhance your photographs. Early morning hikes offer soft light and cooler temperatures to create the best experience. Proper footwear and plenty of water are essential since some trails cover rocky terrain.
These vantage points show Casares’s unique position between the coast and Serranía de Ronda. The views stretch to Gibraltar and even reach the African coastline on clear days.
Experience Roman Baths Like Caesar
The Utrera massif hides one of Casares’ most fascinating historical treasures – the sulfurous baths of La Hedionda. These ancient waters have soothed visitors for over two millennia and earned recognition as a designated Asset of Cultural Interest.
History of La Hedionda
The baths’ most famous story takes us back to 61 B.C. Julius Caesar reportedly cured his herpetic infection in these waters. While historians debate certain details, Roman troops definitely used these waters to treat their skin ailments while preparing to battle Pompey’s forces. The original Roman structure changed many times. Arab rulers expanded the walls and canals later, as archeological digs revealed in the early 1990s.
Therapeutic benefits
These mineral-rich sulfurous waters flow from a limestone outcrop and offer more than just historical value. The waters help with:
- Skin conditions like dermatitis and rashes
- Arthritis and chronic inflammation
- Overall skin health and rejuvenation
The water stays at 18 degrees centigrade, which makes your therapeutic soak comfortable throughout the year. The water’s distinctive milky color stands out, especially in summer when sulfur levels reach their peak.
Practical visit tips
Here’s what you need to know before visiting La Hedionda:
Access and Timing:
- Peak season (June 22 to September 8) hours run from 12 PM to 7 PM on weekdays and until 8 PM on weekends
- The baths can hold 24 people at once
- You’ll need advance reservations during high season
What to Bring:
- Water shoes for easy walking
- A waterproof light to explore the caves
- Drinking water and snacks since there are no facilities nearby
Important Notes:
- Park your car in the designated area off Los Baños road to avoid fines
- The sulfur will darken silver jewelry temporarily, but polish can restore it
- The main building has controlled access, but you can use the outdoor pools near the recreational area anytime
These baths blend history with wellness perfectly. You can soak in the same waters that people have enjoyed for thousands of years in Casares.
Immerse in Cultural Traditions
Casares’ whitewashed streets burst into life with celebrations that tell stories of its rich cultural heritage. The town hosts everything from age-old religious processions to modern art gatherings. These festivities give you a real taste of local traditions.
Local festivals and celebrations
The rhythm of seasonal celebrations shapes Casares’ cultural scene. Late May brings the Pilgrimage of Virgen del Rocío, where locals honor their patron saint with music and festivities.
The enchanting Medieval Market fills the streets in mid-July.
You’ll see:
- Traditional craft demonstrations
- Ancient tavern recreations
- Mesmerizing storytellers
- Live falconry displays
August welcomes the Feria de Casares, a traditional fair that dates back to 1813. Music, local food, and festivities take over the historic center. The Cristo Fair arrives in September to mark the harvest season’s end. Streets come alive with music and the beloved Holy Christ procession.
Traditional craft workshops
The artisan quarter buzzes with centuries-old traditions. Summer evenings sparkle at the Sea Market & Artisan Market from June through August. Stalls display beautiful handmade jewelry, clothing, and leather goods.
A beautifully restored building houses the Blas Infante Cultural Center. This cultural hub fits 200 people and regularly hosts craft exhibitions and workshops.
Meeting local artisans
Local handicraft shops line the village streets. Artisans create traditional Andalusian crafts, from woodworking to textiles.
The historic quarter becomes a festive marketplace during Christmas. A unique crochet Christmas tree stands as the centerpiece, crafted by Active Maturity Program participants.
July’s La Noche en Vela creates magic as candlelight bathes the streets. Artisans show their work in an enchanting night market. The Cultural Summer program lets you meet local artists every Friday night. They demonstrate their skills at the Rosario Gardens amphitheater.
October brings the Tostón and Halloween celebration. Traditional chestnut roasting mixes with modern festivities. Each festival gives you chances to meet local artisans. These living traditions make Casares a cultural gem of the Costa del Sol.
Conclusion
Casares serves as remarkable evidence of Spain’s rich heritage and provides experiences way beyond typical tourist destinations. This white village tells a story in every corner – ancient Roman baths, Moorish fortifications, and modern-day cultural celebrations keep traditions alive.
Spectacular sunrise views from the castle, authentic encounters in Plaza España, therapeutic dips in historic baths, and meaningful connections with local artisans await visitors. These individual-specific experiences create lasting memories that endure well after the visit ends.
Casares delivers unique adventures year-round for photography enthusiasts, culture seekers, and nature lovers. Visitors should pack their cameras, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready to explore one of Costa del Sol’s most captivating hidden gems. This enchanting village shows that the most memorable destinations often lie off the beaten path.
