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Competa
is nestled 700 metres above sea level in the Sierra Almijara,
the snow capped range of mountains between Malaga &
Granada that stretch down to the warm Mediterranean.
A delightful medium-sized white Spanish village, with white washed
walls that reflect the beautiful summer sun, on doors, windows and
walls throughout Competa town. Common features in Competa
are the decorative colours of the facings and the details of the
balconies, grilles and tiles are especially magnificent against
the white surfaces.
Competa village is surrounded by a 4,000 hectares wide
wildlife reserve, the Sierra Almijara, with peaks as high
as 2,068 metres. A stunningly beautiful natural park where you can
go for walks to encounter mountain goats, eagles and a very rich
vegetation. Yet, the sandy beaches and coastal villages of Axarquia
are also very near. Competa has 35 bars and restaurants
offering excellent tapas and meals at low prices.
The area of Competa has one of the best climates in Europe,
and the land surrounding the village and down to the coast is filled
with vineyards, olive, almond and lemon groves, tropical fruits
such as avocado, mango and kiwi, all idealy suited to this sub tropical
climate. The locally produced Moscatel wine is famous throughout
the region. You can visit one of the bodegas and taste it yourself!
The region is renowned for it's muscatel grape and the infamous
Vino de Competa. For this reason the routes through the
villages are named 'The Route of the Wine'. This takes you through
the villages of Torrox, Algarrobo, Sayalonga, Competa, Canillais
de Albaida, Nerja and Frigliana. To the north of this
Provence of Malaga lies the Provence of Granada.
Further
south there is a beautiful stretch of coastline with cliffs and
small bays as well as wide well cared for beaches. The hillsides
are dotted with vines and small farm houses where they harvest the
wine such as the Vino de Competa whose fame dates back
to Roman times.
The Andalusian culture offers a mix of Mediterranean and Arab customs
dating from earlier times. Glorious cities like Malaga, Granada,
Cordoba and Sevilla are nearby.
The region around Competa has an average of 320 days of
sunshine a year, even February and November can resemble the best
summer days to be found in northern Europe. Almost nine months of
perfect weather for walking, hiking and riding. This leaves July
and August which are hot (an average of 30 degrees) although being
700 meters above sea level is often tempered with mountain breeze.
The annual rainfall is low. Andalusia is said to be the least polluted
region in Southern Europe.
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