Wildside Holidays Iberia

Cortijo “La Calera” has been listed on Wildside Holidays close to its inception in January 2007.
We have been immensely impressed at the rate of growth and development into one of the foremost sites relating to our environment here in Spain.

Our rural accommodation has been available since May 2005 and our guests have chosen “La Calera” for the quiet, tranquil location on the slopes of 'La Pena de Hierro'. They have enjoyed the endless natural delights of “La Calera” and its surroundings: the scent of the lavender, thyme and sage that edge the walking tracks here, the fascinating bird life that changes with the seasons. It has become evident that many guests return for the bird watching, especially attracted by the plethora of species they find here without even leaving our delightful gardens and terraces - such as the beautiful summer song of the Golden Oriole which nest in the eucalyptus trees below. The blitz of colour and sound from the flocks of Bee-eaters as they seek for food on the wing. The iridescent flash of our resident Blue Rock thrush demonstrating his acrobatic abilities.

Although there are numerous sightings of Short-toed and Booted Eagles, Ospreys and Griffon Vultures, the most enjoyed is the unforgettable sight of our Eagle Owl as he soars off on his nightly hunting expedition.

Our own interest in bird watching, flora and fauna has increased greatly and fuelled a desire to capture the images we see. We have now taken extensive photos, which we want to share. This, together with the enthusiasm of our guests, has encouraged us in our plans to launch a web album on our newly designed web site.  (Work currently in progress) www.lacalera.co.uk

This initiative has been facilitated by the long awaited arrival of our Internet connection and our guests will be invited to contribute any relevant photos taken during their stay.

We hope to stimulate your interest in visiting this little known area that has much to offer, with the following information.

The situation of “La Calera” is unique in the Axarquia district, bordered by the Med to the South and mountains to the North. We particularly chose this area for its proximity to the Natural Parks of  “Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama” and “Montes de Malaga” as well as the shelter provided by the 'Pena de Hierro'. This area retains all the charm of yesteryear and until a few years ago the Axarquia was one of Andalusias forgotten areas. Axarquia is a land of contrast where high mountains look down upon the beautiful countryside and beaches below. The highest of the mountains, in the northeast of the area, is La Maroma, which reaches an altitude of 2,080 metres and is snow-capped in the winter. There are many undeveloped villages and towns in the inland regions and some remain on the coast. Mules are still used as a means of transport and bullocks can be seen ploughing the fields.

Major attractions are the spectacular unspoilt countryside and coastal villages. The hill and mountain scenery are ablaze with flowers and blossom from January onwards. Shepherds lead their goats and sheep through hills and valleys, eagles soar the skies and pretty, unspoiled white villages abound, each having a version of local sweet wine made from sun ripened grapes.

Axarquia is riven with deep valleys lined with terraces and irrigation channels that go back to the time of Muslim occupation. Almost all the villages that dot the olive, almond and vine-planted hillsides are of Arab origin and the influence is seen in the layout of the narrow, winding streets lined with white-washed houses reflecting the sunlight. There are also many lush tropical river valleys with orange and lemon groves, eucalyptus, avocado, banana, kiwi, chirimoya and mango trees. Wild herbs and lavender grow everywhere and further up the foothills and mountain slopes there are pine, oak and carob trees.

Archaeological remains from Phoenecian, Carthaginian, Roman and Arab eras dot the countryside and coastline. La Pena de Hierro and the immediate area has been documented with Neolithic to Bronze Age ancient pottery and Roman coins.