OJEN

Located between the sea and the Sierra de las Nieves, and more specifically from Sierra Blanca to Sierra Alpujata, Ojén is famous for its abundant offer of active and nature tourism. In its surroundings you can practice hiking, climbing or caving, among other sports.

Near the town you will find the Botanical Garden of Ojén, a nature interpretation center where you can discover the native flora. It is located in the El Cerezal area and also includes a recreation area with tables and barbecues.

In Sierra Blanca you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views from the El Juanar Natural Viewpoint. Surrounded by a lush pine forest, the sea and the mountains make up a unique portrait of the area. Another high point that will surprise you is the El Corzo Natural Viewpoint.

From Ojén you can start your route through the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park. This park has been declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO and has been awarded the EDEN “European Destinations of Excellence” award in the category of Tourism and Intangible Heritage. It has more than 20,163 hectares of extension and constitutes one of the richest ecological strongholds in Andalusia thanks to its 3,000 hectares of Spanish fir, a protected species.

“We can characterize the cuisine of Ojén by using products from the orchards that surround the city and food from the hunts.

Jervia soup is one of the most traditional dishes in the city. Others include rice with fennel, bolo de hinojos (a fennel dish), malagueña salmorejo, chicarrón with rice or noodles, rice with cod or a peculiar gazpacho with grapes and almonds.

For those who love desserts, roquets, fritters, churros soaked in salt water, chestnuts and chestnut stew are the stars. ”

MONUMENTS

Lovers of history and architecture will enjoy the historical enclaves, monuments of heritage value and a route of clear Moorish reminiscence that they will find on their way through Ojén. The first monument that stands out when arriving in this municipality is the parish church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, which houses the image of San Dionisio Areopagita, built on an old mosque in the 16th century. Of its original construction, its minaret is still preserved, which today serves as a bell tower.

Water is one of the symbols of Ojén, and walking through the center of town you will find the Fuente de los Chorros. Water has flowed from the five pipes of this fountain for more than a century, specifically since 1905.

To learn a little more about the production and tradition of some of its most outstanding products, we recommend visiting the Oil Mill Museum, which exhibits original machinery used for olive milling and artistic exhibitions; and the Wine Museum, located in an old brandy distillery.

Finally, we recommend you visit the Caves of Ojén. These natural monuments of karst origin have been linked to the life of the people for centuries. Although at first they were used as refuge spaces for animals and people, today they are part of a garden in which acts, concerts and events are often held.

POPULAR FESTIVALS

The cultural, leisure and entertainment offer in Ojén is one of the reasons why this town of 3,350 inhabitants multiplies its population in its most important appointments. If you like flamenco and independent music, in this municipality you can attend two of the most prominent festivals on the current scene.

The Castillo del Cante Flamenco Festival has been held every August for more than 40 years. It is one of the most traditional encounters in Malaga and some of the most important flamenco legends have passed through its tables. A great decoration, a silent and respectful public, the best flamenco and even a good glass of pot at dawn for the public, make the Festival one of the most interesting attractions in Ojén.

In the indie field, Ojén stands out with its Ojeando festival, which takes place the first weekend in July and attracts more than 15,000 visitors in each edition. Three stages and two days of concerts, a market, a toy library and camping areas, to receive the best independent music artists on the current scene.

More traditional are the San Dionisio Fair, which is held in honor of the patron every October 9. In the central square you will find the popular coronation, orchestras and dances, you can taste the local cuisine or participate in popular games.

Finally, it is worth highlighting a festival deeply rooted in its environment, the Popular Tostón, and whose protagonists are roasted chestnuts and traditional brandy. This celebration takes place every year on the first Sunday after All Saints’ Day.