Cómpeta

Reached via winding mountain roads, only an hour from Málaga airport and 25 minutes from the coast, Cómpeta is a huddle of brilliant white houses tumbling down the mountainside, surrounded by vineyards. A Moorish settlement in origin, Cómpeta is now famous for its wine, friendly Spanish atmosphere and the beautiful mountains surrounding it.

The resident population is about 3,500 and includes many English people and other northern Europeans who have made Competa their permanent home. They are attracted by the laid back lifestyle, the clear air and the natural beauty of the surroundings. The result is a busy working village and a thriving community. There are also many visitors who come to sample the white villages of the Axarquia and to walk or ride in the Natural Park on Competa's doorstep.

The village itself is also fascinating to explore on foot and is a maze of winding streets with lovely old houses and flower filled balconies. The main square, Plaza Almijara, is at the heart of the village and is dominated by a magnificent sixteenth century church. This bustling square is one of the best places to enjoy a break with a choice of several bars and restaurants.

One of the most popular annual fiestas here is the Noche del Vino (Night of the Wine) held on the 15th of August which features a programme of flamenco and sevillana music and dance, plus plenty of free-flowing local wine.

Competa benefits from a good range of modern facilities. There are numerous bars and restaurants to choose from, shops of every kind, banks and legal services and a number of small businesses providing everything from therapies to works of art. There are nursery, primary and secondary schools and many young foreign children have integrated well into the Spanish education system.