Autumn is here; a time that in the province of Malaga comes with an enviable weather, and the chance to see a captivating scenery in its fields. The leaves of the chestnut trees cover a large part of the Serrania de Ronda, a legendary land of romantic travelers and old bandits. Chestnut trees colour the landscape with ochers and browns, yellows and oranges, and coppery tones. This is the area where the Bosque de Cobre (Coppel Forest) is located. Here are some keys to enjoy this fantastic experience.
A walk among the chestnuts
Bosque de Cobre extends through ten municipalities of the Valle del Genal before reaching Yunquera, in the Sierra de las Nieves. Those villages are Alpandeire, Benalauria, Cartajima, Faraján, Genalguacil, Igualeja, Jubrique, Juzcar, Parauta, Yunquera, Benadalid and Pujerra. Small towns whose whiteness stands out in a landscape dominated by masses of chestnut trees.
Strolling through typical Andalusian streets, tasting the mountain cuisine, where chestnut has a prominent role, or enjoying unique festivals. These are some proposals these municipalities offer. Several paths run from them, leading to huge chestnut groves that beautifully colour the fields from September to December.
Tradition, rural environment and nature
If you visit the Bosque de Cobre in October, you will be able to witness the collecting of the typical autumn fruit. This work makes the celebration of the "tostones" possible, a festivity that takes place in the villages of the area. It is an exceptional opportunity to try roasted chestnuts and get to know one of the most deeply rooted traditions of the place.
The Serrania de Ronda offers endless possibilities for nature lovers. Thanks to the variety of its landscapes and ecosystems, it is an ideal place for outdoor sports or hiking through the forests of cork oaks, pines and chestnut trees. Besides, the area is surrounded by plenty of rivers, streams and springs that enliven the area.
Things you should know ...
Chestnuts are not only one of the most typical products of this area of Malaga, but also they are present in some traditional dishes of the Valle del Genal. In the celebrations of the "tostones" they are eaten roasted and accompanied by anise, brandy or liqueur.
Pujerra celebrates the Chestnut Festival at the end of October. The event revolves around a sample of products made from this fruit, which also has a museum dedicated to it. At that time, the Chestnut and Wine Festival is celebrated in Yunquera, a municipality that has received the visit of illustrious travelers like Washington Irving over time.
The villages of the Bosque de Cobre are characterized by their white houses, a remain of their Arab past. All but Juzcar. This villa, located in the Alto Genal is known for its blue-painted houses, which has earned it the title of "Smurf Village".
To know all the secrets that the Bosque de Cobre encloses, you can get full information at the following link: http://www.visitcostadelsol.com/vita/the-copper-forest
