ABOUT GAUCÍN

Embraced by the dramatic terrain of the Serranía de Ronda, Gaucín is reputed to be the birthplace of Carmen, opera’s most famous heroine!!  Once a sleepy sun-bleached mountain village, today its inhabitants manage to blend a centuries-old way of life with a burgeoning interest from international visitors seeking an idyllic holiday hideaway, or a permanent home in the tranquil heart of Andalusia, with the most temperate climate in Europe!

The skyline of this enchanting 'pueblo blanco' is dominated by the medieval ‘Castle of Eagles’, which earns its name from the wide variety of raptors (vultures, eagles, honey buzzards, kites etc) often seen soaring across the blue skies above.  From the Castle's spectacular vantage point, there are amazing views to the Mediterranean, Gibraltar, and the Rif mountains of Morocco!  The pretty village streets entwine rows of delightful white-painted houses with red-tiled roofs, cloaks of bougainvillea and 'hanging gardens' of exotic pot plants.  Wandering through the streets, you may still encounter the occasional mule carrying its load of logs or fresh produce to and fro, but more likely posing for photographs! 

In bygone days, the economy of Gaucín was largely dependent on agriculture and  bartering of labour and goods was commonplace, as were the muleteers who traversed the narrow mountain paths. As well as local produce and stacks of cork, the mules would carry salted fish from the coastal ports, not to mention contraband cigarettes and alcohol!!  But how times have changed, today the secret 'smugglers’ paths have become way-marked walking routes popular with hikers!

The surrounding mountains and the River Genal valley, host an amazing array of wildlife, birds, flora and fauna.  Picturesque country roads take you through protected Natural Parks and ancient cork forests (‘Quercus suber’), abundant in western Andalucίa and considered a national treasure due to the economic value of the cork. The acorns are also a valuable source of food for Iberian black pigs, which produce Iberico ham, a delicacy sought after by gourmets around the world.

Not far away, the historical town of RONDA is home to Spain's oldest bullring, Plaza de Toros which was built in 1784.  The town straddles the famous El Tajo Gorge, a plunging 300m ravine spanned by a centuries-old bridge (certainly not for the faint-hearted!), and more recently the El Tajo Gorge walkway has become an attraction for tourists!  The 'Puente Nuevo' (New Bridge) across the gorge was completed in 1793 and, according to local legend, its architect fell to his death from the bridge during his final inspection whilst trying to catch his hat as it blew off in the wind!  Both Orson Welles and Ernest Hemingway resided in Ronda for many years, writing about its history and dramatic beauty, adding to its attraction for international visitors.

Back in Gaucín, a cosmopolitan mix of residents live in harmony with the local Spanish community, enjoying a gentle pace of life and the low cost of living!  Inevitably, more visitors are discovering the charm of Gaucín, which now boasts several high quality restaurants, a delightful boutique hotel, a good selection of tapas bars, a supermarket, two delicatessens, an organic food shop, an impressive antique/gift shop etc.

As well as countryside pursuits mentioned on my Home page, there is a village tennis court (free!), padel court, and an excellent swimming pool open to th public in high summer.  A new well-equipped gymnasium offers yoga, pilates etc., and the nearest golf course is only 30 mins away!  For those seeking a more sedate lifestyle, there are numerous cultural and music events, a local choir (always looking for recruits!), painting classes, Spanish lessons, book clubs, bridge groups etc.  Gaucín has also become very popular with artists & photographers, represented by ‘Art Gaucin’ with their Open Studio weekends each Spring, attracting many local and international visitors (see ‘Links’ page).