Hidden wonders of Casares

Whilst the beaches of Sotogrande are among the most popular leisure spots in Europe, there are other fabulous discoveries to be made by venturing off the beaten track and escaping the crowds. Travel east from Sotogrande and the coastline of Casares has some surprising wonders to uncover.

Although famous for its recognisable pueblo blanco (white village) perched high upon a hilltop with pretty whitewashed houses and an imposing fortress offering spectacular views of the coast, Casares’ lesser-known beach is also well worth a visit. The Casares coastline is barely two kilometres in length and is home to two charming coves collectively known as Bahía de Casares (Casares Bay). For a refreshing change from the busy beaches of Marbella and Sotogrande, these delightful coves offer a haven of tranquillity with rocky areas and abundant wildlife to explore. The quiet unspoiled beaches are superb sanctuaries to relax in and unwind far from the madding crowd – and the ideal location to take your dog to, as one recently became the first beach in Spain to allow dogs.

If you fancy an unwinding alternative to the beach, why not venture on to the Camino de los Baños trail, which leads up from the beach to the natural spring of La Hedionda. This sulphurous source has been famous for its beneficial health properties since Roman times and sits at the foot of the Sierra de Utrera. Reportedly it cured Julius Caesar from a skin ailment and thousands flock to the baths each year to take advantage of its health benefits, even covering their bodies in the claylike mud in the hope of increasing its positive effects.

If smelly, sulphurous waters are not for you, then journey a little further up the river where you will find the crystal clear waters of La Paloma and El Charco. These two wonderful pools springing from the Manilva River may not have the dermatological qualities of the waters of the Roman baths, but here you can relax in an oasis of calm, surrounded by untouched nature and swim in deliciously cool and clean spring water.

If you’re after a more adventurous excursion, then begin the trail from the Plaza de España in the centre of Casares. The route descends south through pretty countryside and abundant vegetation, travelling alongside the river that feeds the ancient baths. Cool down, take a picnic, relax and enjoy bathing in the pools before embarking upon the challenging journey that takes you back up the mountain to Casares.
Once you return to the pretty fortified town there are a myriad of tapas bars and cafés to grab a well-earned drink and bite to eat – and to end your day on a high, why not walk to the fortress, from where you can behold one of the most stunning sunsets on the Costa del Sol…