Discover Casares
If you have ever wondered what Spain feels like outside the big cities’ hassle, in smaller areas, then we will give you an answer. It’s time you met Casares, a gorgeous whitewashed village with panoramic views down to the Mediterranean sea, Gibraltar and the North African coastline. As the Spanish call it, the pueblo is in the well-known region of the Costa del Sol, with numerous seaside resorts. You should put it on your to-do list if you’re up for some authentic Andalusian experience, and we will tell you why you won’t regret it!
Declared a Historic-Artistic Site, Casares today has the best of all the civilizations that once inhabited it. So, there are few priority stops which you have to see if you want to say you’ve been to Andalusia.
Casares Castle is definitely one of them. Located in the highest part of Casares, it was erected by the Arabs who took advantage of the steep limestone massif which served as the basic ground to complete the defense system. The castle dominates the valleys, plains and hills stretching from the Serrania de Ronda to the Bay of Algeciras and the Rock of Gibraltar. Apart from the Castle, there are some preserved ancient towers and two gates known as the Arrabal and Villa arches, a home to the Ethnology and History Museum.
Many tourists decide to start their visit to Casares with Casa Natal Blas Infante, the birthplace of the father of the Andalusian nationalism and the most important figure in the rebuilding of the Andalusian identity. Also, it houses temporary exhibitions with works by local artists.
Another beauty on the spot is the Encarnación church which originated in the late 16th century. The church deserves a visit for its Mudéjar-influenced bell tower and its rear patio that used to be part of the convent. The Hermitage of Saint Sebastian from the 17th century is home to the image of Our Lady of the Rosary of the fields, the patron saint of Casares.
If that wasn’t enough, we have something that will win you over. The Helionda Baths, span. Los Baños de la Hedionda were supposedly built by Julius Caesar who was once healed by its sulfurous waters. They are open to the public and accessible any time of the year, so combine pleasure with history and have a bath in the same place as one of the world’s greatest emperors ever.
Getting to Casares:
- By car: The village is best to approach by car from the coast road (N340/A7) by turning at Torre de la Sal and driving another 15 km. The scenery is breathtaking, so don’t rush and stop at Venta Garcia as well on your way. After one turn, you will see one of the best views in your life, the village with the medieval castle on the top. The view is the best in the afternoon sun.
- By bus: This should be your last option since there is only a morning and evening bus a day to and from Estepona.