Gaucin

Gaucin is a spectacularly beautiful mountain village commanding sweeping views to Gibraltar and the Rif mountains of North Africa. The village is situated against the looming dark backdrop of the Serranía de Ronda where, depending on the time of year, you can enjoy an Impressionist paint palette of colour: brilliant brush strokes of red poppies, yellow mimosa, wild orchids, tempered by the cool green of olive groves and occasional splash of pale pink almond blossom.

Gaucin has a population of only 2000 and is perched 626 metres above sea level. Like so much of Andalucia, it has had a fascinating, if tumultuous history. Derived from the Arab word, "guazan" (strong rock), the village is perched on the crest of the Sierra del Hacho, and due to its key strategic position was once a major Roman settlement. Its magnificent castle, Castillo del Aguila (Eagle's Castle) dates from this era and was later expanded by the Arabs into a fortress. As one would expect from the name, it is not unusual to see eagles circling the towers here, while kestrels regularly nest in the walls of the mediaeval convent.

These days, the castle is open from 11 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 7 pm and occasional concerts are held here. Foot stomping flamenco can also be enjoyed at the convent where concerts are held, while classical recitals take place in the church.

The centre of the village is a tangle of narrow, twisting streets and was once a haven for brandy and tobacco smugglers who travelled through the surrounding hills. Up until recently, most houses had no running water and one light bulb. A far cry from the refurbished houses today which boast every mod con. The locals are apparently somewhat bemused by the mad foreigners who insist on keeping the old beams and Ronda tiled floors!

Gaucin offers two hotels, one of which has an excellent international style restaurant. There are also six restaurants within the village and about the same number just outside. There are many artists living in the village and art courses are tutored locally.  Two riding stables are located just outside the village, and guided walks, longer treks, nature trails and bird watching expeditions are also organised. Tennis courts and a large municipal swimming pool are popular in the summer month.