El Acebuchal – Lost but found again!

El Acebuchal is a white village hidden in the hills along a dusty track not far from Frigiliana, yet a world away from its better known neighbour. It was lost to the world in 1948 when it was forcibly abandoned in the aftermath of the Civil War. Fifty years later, Antonio García Sánchez, the son of one of the residents forced out of their home, decided it was time to rebuild the village. The results of his efforts are spectacular and have led to the return of other exiled families.

Getting there isn’t too difficult but bear in mind that it’s a bumpy old road and there are few passing places on some of the narrower stretches. The views along the valleys are amazing though. There are no barriers at the side of the road so, whilst you don’t need a 4×4, you might need a strong nerve! When you get there, try to park up before entering the village, or continue all the way through where there is a bit more space.

There is a bar (well, a tavern) where you can eat and drink, but I was there at the wrong time of day to sample any of the game meat such places are rightly famous for. Just a wander through the beautiful whitewashed streets was enough to wish I had booked a night in one of the many casa rurales which seem to be mostly down the restored street running parallel to the main “road”.

There are also several hiking routes taking you out into the hills and forests. There seemed to be such a variety of flowers around that any route is sure to be a pretty one. Wild boar are said to be numerous but as usual, they knew I was coming and hid away! A word of warning: there are no phone lines in the village so credit cards cannot be accepted anywhere. Bring cash!!

If my photos have whet your appetite, watch this video and you’ll be checking out how to get there before logging off from your computer!