The landscape of the Serranía de Ronda is full of charming villages where you can lose yourself in the purest form of nature. The municipality of Jimera de Líbar in particular is a jewel in the Sierra de Grazalema Nature Reserve and we’re recommending it as a rural tourism destination of the highest quality in this area of the province of Málaga.
It is set at an altitude of over 500 metres above sea level and has a population of just over 400 inhabitants. They have a wealth of natural and cultural treasures on their doorstep, which we invite you to discover for yourself.
What to see in Jimera de Líbar? There are many interesting places in the municipality that are closely linked to its history. Getting to know the personality of this corner of the south of Spain is a unique experience that you won’t forget in a hurry.
One of the main attractions is the church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, located in the heart of the village, right on the main square. It stands on what used to be an old mosque and its façade is a true expression of the essence of Andalucia.
Another example of religious architecture is the hermitage of the Virgen de la Salud, purportedly the site of a miraculous appearance of the Virgin Mary. Inside, you will find a single rectangular nave adorned with icons and religious imagery.
In terms of civil architecture, the Public Fountain, which dates back to 1789 and houses the municipality's old washing place, stands at the entrance to the village. You can also visit the Molino de la Flor, an old water mill with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Leaving the last houses of the village behind, we find places that attest to the presence of ancient civilisations in the area. About 4 kilometres from the village, in the Finca El Tesoro, there is a Phoenician site which includes a graveyard. The remains of funerary offerings have been found here which date back to the sixth or seventh century BCE.
Evidence of the Roman era can be seen too in a part of an ancient road that linked Campo de Gibraltar with the ancient city of Acnipio.
How to get here and where to stay? If all these stories have made you want to travel here, the best thing to do is drive, although there are also public transport options that will take you to Jimera. Any time of year is a good time to come and spend a few days here, and there are holiday cottages, hotels and campsites near Jimera de Líbar where you can rest comfortably after a day’s exploring.
If you are travelling with children, especially in summer, there’s something you can’t miss. We’re talking about natural swimming pools, perfect places to swim in the midday heat and where you can also enjoy a picnic.
As for the festivities, which are also a good way to keep the children entertained, we would highlight those held in August, where one of the most fun events is the Fiesta del Agua (Water Festival). Or, experience an authentic Spanish celebration during the Fair in honour of the Virgen de la Salud. At this time of year, you won’t be short on options when it comes to sampling the typical dishes of Jimera de Líbar.
