The best road cycling routes around Riogordo

The Hermitage of Our Lady of Candelaria in Colmenar sits atop a hill overlooking the town and is one of the most important buildings in the Axarquía region. This Baroque chapel was built in the 17th century, its richly decorated chancel dating from 1719. The church consists of a single, rectangular nave with a hemispherical vault over the chancel. The façade, with its round-arched portal, Tuscan pilasters, and a bell gable with three openings, gives the small pilgrimage church its distinctive appearance. Legend has it that it was built in gratitude for the miraculous rescue of sailors who were dedicated to Our Lady of Candelaria. Today, the chapel is considered the spiritual heart of Colmenar and, from its elevated position, offers magnificent views of the surrounding Sierra de Tejeda landscape.

Colmenar, a picturesque village in the Andalusian province of Málaga, was founded at the end of the 15th century after the Christian reconquest of the region. The village's name derives from the Spanish word colmena ("beehive") and recalls the long tradition of beekeeping, which once played a central role here. Thanks to its favorable location in the Montes de Málaga mountains and the lush vegetation, beekeeping was one of the most important sources of income for the population for centuries. Even today, Colmenar is known as the "Village of Honey" and proudly maintains this cultural heritage. Among the village's most important landmarks is the Ermita de la Candelaria, a small 17th-century chapel perched on a hill overlooking the village, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. In the town center stands the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, a church dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, which impresses with its simple Andalusian style and tranquil atmosphere. At the town entrance, visitors are greeted by the Puerta de la Cruz, a symbolic gate featuring a monolith bearing the village's coat of arms – adorned with a bee and a honeycomb, representing Colmenar's history and identity. A particular highlight is the Museo de la Miel, the "Honey Museum," where visitors can learn all about beekeeping, the work of bees, and honey production. Thus, Colmenar harmoniously blends history, nature, and tradition – a place where the region's past and a deep love for its landscape are reflected in every street and every scent of wild rosemary.

The monument commemorates Don Alfonso Molina Padilla, one of the town's most important figures. Born in Colmenar in 1875, Molina Padilla was a lawyer and politician of the liberal left. He represented the Archidona constituency in the Spanish Parliament and dedicated his life to social causes and education. Having no children, he bequeathed his entire fortune to a foundation he established in his will – the "Fundación Molina Padilla – Orfanato de Jesús y Candelaria." The foundation's aim was to provide underprivileged children and young people from Colmenar with access to education. To this day, the foundation awards scholarships to pupils and students, ensuring the continued impact of his work across generations. A monument honoring his legacy was erected in Colmenar, located in the plaza at the end of Calle Camino de Málaga, near Calle La Nora. The statue depicts Don Alfonso Molina Padilla as a symbol of charity and community spirit – values that he deeply rooted in his home community.

At the highest point, Olia's picnic table with drinking water

This section of the route offers a steady but noticeable climb and magnificent views. It gains approximately 500 meters in elevation, beginning gently and gradually increasing. The route leads through a diverse hilly landscape with olive groves and sweeping views of the Andalusian countryside. Shortly before Casabermeja, a somewhat steeper section awaits before reaching the white village at an elevation of approximately 550 meters. Once at the top, traditional inns and restaurants invite you to take a well-deserved break while enjoying the peace and quiet and the view of the mountains.

A town famous for its honey and sausages, among other things. A visit to its central square and the church located at the top of the town are highly recommended.

Comares is a picturesque, traditional Andalusian village in the province of Málaga, Spain, known as the "Balcony of the Axarquía" for the breathtaking views from its hilltop location, some 700 meters above sea level. The village is characterized by its Moorish past, evident in the narrow, winding streets and the remains of the Arab fortress on Musmullar Hill. Places of interest include the Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation and the opportunity to enjoy the panoramic views, stroll, and discover local crafts, such as traditional clothing.

The wall starts above the village, with its 17%