With its envious position in the Andalusian hills, Competa and the surrounding area offers visitors a wealth of activities that take advantage of the outstanding local scenery. Here we take a look at five of our favourites things to do that should appeal to all ages and all fitness levels.
Hiking in the Hills
A great way to enjoy the beauty of the area is via the dozens of hiking trails nearby. From easier trails that suit all fitness levels to more gruelling routes that can challenge even the most seasoned hiker, Competa has it all.
The trail of Los Tres Pueblos is a favourite of ours. This 7-mile route takes you to the village of Archez, via the river walk, along to the Roman bridge up to Canillas de Albaida and back to Competa.
The 16-mile Cómpeta to Cerro de la Chapa is one of the most popular ‘expert’ hikes in the area. Paths are good and it is a circular route. Click here for a full list of local trails with maps and descriptions.
Two Wheeled Fun
Competa and the entire area of Axarquia are extremely popular with cyclists, especially in cooler months. The roads and trails are excellent, the scenery is stunning, and the topology is challenging.
We can recommend the 35km Competa to Arenas Loop, or the more gruelling 55km Competa to La Maroma route, with its 1800m climb. You can click here for over 100 mapped cycle routes in the area covering more than 6700km.
Don’t have your own bike? Local company Cycle Malaga rents road bikes, mountain bikes or even electric bikes by the day or longer. They also deliver the bikes to any of our Under Spanish Skies rentals.
A Round of Golf
We know golf isn’t for everyone but if you do enjoy a round, we have two awesome courses a short drive away that offer great facilities, immaculate conditions and views to remember. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own clubs with you either. Clubs are available to rent.
Situated on the coast at Caleta de Velez, just 25 minutes from Competa is the pay-and-play Baviera Golf Club. The 18 holes here are on even terrain and water is in play on 6 of the holes. The par-3s and par-5s deserve a special mention due to their level of difficulty.
Just 20 minutes further down the coast lies Añoreta Golf. Here, the fairways are wide and are dotted with palm trees with the sea in the background, and the country club-style clubhouse is not to be missed.
Saddle Up
Imagine experiencing the local scenery from the saddle of a beautiful Spanish horse. There are local specialists who can make sure you have a fabulous trek amongst the hills or down on the beaches, regardless of your experience level.
Located on the edge of the nearby village of Canillas de Albaida, just 2km from Competa, the Los Caballos del Mosquin riding school offers mountain rides from 25 minutes up to 6 hours. The owner, Eva makes sure everyone is safe and has a great time.
Do you have dreams of riding your horse Spanish Western-style along a beach at sunset? Heidi and Antonio at Cortijo Hildalgo, based in nearby Nerja can make that dream come true.
The Local Wine
We certainly enjoy our wine. The local wine is made from the locally grown Moscatel grape. It has a fortified taste and is available in dry, medium and sweet varieties. We prefer the dry, but why not try them all?
The most celebrated winery in the region is Bodegas Bentomiz. Their Ariyanas wines are award-winning. The winery offers tours and tastings as well as lunches in their excellent restaurant and special events on their large patio throughout the year.
You can enjoy a wine tasting for just €5 at the beautifully rustic Bodegas Almijara, located 1km outside Competa, or try out the artisan wines at the Sedella Vinos vineyard in nearby Sedella.
