Casares

The ‘pueblo’, as the Spaniards say, is built against a dangerously high wall that abuts an ancient castle. The castle was built by the Arabs who used this rocky landscape for a benefit of their defense system because of its dominating position overlooking the valleys, plains and hills of La Serrania de Ronda, the Bay of Algeciras to the Rock of Gibraltar. On a clear day you will be able to see the African coast and the Rock of Gibraltar beckoning in the foreground.

In addition to the castle there is a number of well preserved stone towers and two gates known as the Arrabal and Villa arches.

On the way to Manilva you will find the Roman ‘Baños de la Hedionda’ – natural wellness pool. A hidden gem that was created by the force of nature thousands of years ago. If you are in this area, don’t miss the opportunity to bathe like the Romans did. First you rub the fresh clay onto your skin, let it dry a bit and then wash it off in the river. Allegedly good for the skin! The place is hard to find and there is always a problem with parking, but it is a part of the adventure.