Immerse yourself in the wonder of nature in Alfarnate, a village in the Axarquia region of Malaga, where during the months of March and April, the cherry trees display their splendid blossom, transforming the town into a captivating tourist attraction.
This small corner of Andalusia has been gaining recognition over the years, becoming a national reference thanks to the growing production of cherries, an economic activity that has flourished as one of the most important in the region.
A place with a lot of history
Alfarnate, whose name comes from the Arabic word “Al-farnat” meaning “flour mill”, has its roots in prehistoric times. The first written mention of Los Alfarnates (Alfarnate and Alfarnatejo) dates back to the 10th century.
The economy of Alfarnate is centred on the agricultural sector, with olive groves, almond trees, wheat and chickpeas being cultivated, the latter being famous for their quality and already mentioned by Cervantes.
Cherry trees in Alfarnate
While chickpeas were the star product of the locality, they began to be replaced by cherries around 1980, finding the climate and geographical location to be ideal for this plantation.
Around 4,000 cherry trees make it possible for Alfarnate to produce between 70,000 and 80,000 kilos of cherries every year.
During the blossom season, the City Council organises exciting walking trails that will lead you through the lush cherry blossom fields, offering an unforgettable visual spectacle. Walking days vary according to the blossoming process of the trees, so it is essential to contact the council for up-to-date information on the best time to see the cherry blossoms.
Experience a Shogun in Japan
Since 2022, Alfarnate has been paying homage to Japan with the Sakura festival, the term used in the land of the rising sun to refer to the cherry blossom, one of the best-known symbols of its culture, which reaches its maximum splendour in spring.
This is a recently established celebration, but it is very popular in the town and its surroundings.
Alfarnate’s relationship with Japan goes back many years, the town has an Open Interpretation Centre dedicated to the eight Japanese regions and a sakuri garden with 47 cherry trees, in memory of the 47 prefectures of Japan.
The Sakura festival revolves around the cherry blossom, which is celebrated on a weekend to be determined in mid-April, depending on weather conditions during the year that may delay or advance this phenomenon.
The residents of Alfarnate are working to get everything ready and the village will host workshops, parades, craft and food stalls dedicated exclusively to Japan and its cherry blossom festival.
The village, with its little more than 1,000 inhabitants, becomes a mini-Japan, decorated for the occasion with 60,000 paper flowers made by the villagers.
A special colour is given by people dressed in kimonos, many of them made by the local fashion designer Inmaculada Toledo Betancor and the villagers.
Many activities such as exhibitions of aikido, iaido (Japanese katana), kyudo (archery) or shodo (Japanese calligraphy) as well as many others are held to commemorate a symbolic twinning with Japan and to bring us closer to Japanese culture, given the similarity of both places in this natural event.
In addition, Alfarnate offers the possibility of following an itinerary of tiles detailing numerous locations in Japan in Calle Puente, Plaza de la Iglesia, Sacristía, Plaza de la Constitución and Pósito, travelling through 8 regions from north to south accompanied by Sakuri, a girl in Japanese dress and wearing a catite, a traditional garment worn in Alfarnate during the festival of the Moors and Christians Embassy.
Cherry day
The explosion of nature is also celebrated on “Cherry Day”, a festival that has been going strong since 2006. This event, which takes place on the penultimate Saturday in June, gives you the opportunity to buy and taste the delicious local cherries. More than 20 stands make up the Feria de Muestras, where you can not only enjoy fresh cherries, but also buy other local products, such as bread, sweets, vegetables and oil. The Town Hall, as part of the celebration, offers visitors almost 600 kg of cherries and typical regional delicacies. The day is filled with joyful dances and fandangos, creating a festive atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression.
What to see in Alfarnate
In addition to the Japanese experience, Alfarnate offers more charms to discover:
Follow the Sendero de las Pilas
The sierras of Enmedio, Palomera and Jobo make up the natural belt that surrounds Alfarnate, in the Axarquia region of Malaga. For lovers of hiking, the Sendero de las Pilas offers an easy and enjoyable route, with a journey of approximately 4 hours, perfect to enjoy with the whole family. Start your adventure by taking the path in front of the agricultural cooperative Virgen de Monsalud, crossing plains of cereals and vegetables, and discovering artesian wells along the way.
Visit the Venta de Alfarnate
Alfarnate has a labyrinth of narrow streets, in which you can observe its architecture of Arabic origin that preserves picturesque details. One example is the old Venta de Alfarnate, built in 1690 and nowadays converted into a restaurant-museum, which was visited by characters such as King Alfonso XIII or the bandits José María el Tempranillo or Luis Candelas, which will transport you back in time.
Enjoy its starry nights
The Axarquia area has beautiful skies free of light pollution and conducive to see beautiful starry nights, transporting us to a completely natural environment away from the crowds. It is ideal for observing the sky with a telescope or astrophotography.
Taste the Moscatel wine
Discover the wine secrets of the Axarquia region. This region is known for its sweet wines, made from muscatel grapes. You will easily find this type of wine in restaurants and shops.
Once again we hope from Vacalia that you have enjoyed this article and as always count on us to find holiday rentals in Malaga.
