Axarquia • Issue No. 2044 • 5 - 11 Sept 2024
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VELEZ-MALAGA’S second year of ‘La Noche en Vela’ (The Night in Candlelight) was a smashing success, drawing over 25,000 attendees to the historic centre of Velez-Malaga on Saturday, August 31. Mayor Jesús Lupiáñez praised the event, calling it a ‘resounding success’ that brought the town to life like never before. With more than 100 activities spread across 10 zones, the event offered something for everyone, from live performances to art displays, making the centre of Velez-Malaga shine brighter than ever. One of the highlights was the opening of the town’s church towers, including Santa María, which saw nearly 400 visits, a clear sign of the event’s impact. Social media buzzed with excitement, with over 250,000 views of event promotions, further demonstrating the night’s
ON Sunday, September 8, Moclinejo is gearing up for its 24th Viñeros Festival (Winemakers’ Festival), a lively event dedicated to the generations that have kept the cherished Moscatel grape alive in the Axarquia region. The festival is packed with activities that showcase local traditions and delicious treats. The day kicks off at 11.00am with a special mass, featuring local choirs, musicians, and bands. At 12.30pm, Malaga’s own Javier Ojeda will give the festival’s opening speech. Then, a vibrant parade with the
Image: Velez-Malaga Town Hall
Candlelit magic
Velez-Malaga lights up.
wide-reaching appeal. Mayor Lupiáñez expressed gratitude to the police, security forces, and cleaning crews, who worked efficiently to restore the town by the next morning, as if the massive celebration had never happened. He also acknowledged the incredible involvement of local groups, associations, and volunteers who played a crucial role in the event’s success. Looking ahead, the mayor is eager to keep the momentum going, with plans for more activities throughout the year, aiming to make ‘La Noche en Vela’ the pinnacle of a full summer programme in 2025. With upcoming events like ‘Sunset Music Evenings,’ Velez-Malaga is set to keep its historic centre vibrant and alive, continuing to draw locals and visitors to celebrate its unique charm and community spirit.
Wine wonderland Panda de Verdiales de Moclinejo, a local group, will lead visitors to the traditional wine press, where they can watch the grape pressing process up close. Food enthusiasts can enjoy a communal paella at 3.30pm, followed
by home-made borrachuelos (sweet pastries) later in the afternoon. The schedule also includes wine and grape tastings, art exhibitions, folk dancing, and much more. Mayor Antonio Muñoz invites everyone to ex-
plore Moclinejo, its pretty white-washed streets, and the exceptional Moscatel wine that has received international acclaim. Don’t miss this chance to taste local traditions and celebrate with the community!
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Rural star
Image: Shutterstock/ Caron Badkin
Torrox tops rural tourism.
IF you’re dreaming of a rural getaway, Torrox is the place to be! This charming spot continues to lead the pack in rural tourism across Andalucia. Torrox remains the standout area due to the great variety of rural accommodations in the area, and the owners of rural homes are very aware of what tourists want and know how to offer it! August wrapped up on a high note for the province of Malaga, with an impressive 90 per cent occupancy rate, and September looks promising with a forecasted 70 per cent occupancy, according to Ruralidays. Malaga, enjoying near-full bookings, is the top destination in the region. Cadiz follows with an 87.9 per cent occupancy rate, while Cordoba, Granada, Huelva, Sevilla, Jaen, and Almeria complete the list. As the summer winds down, September is shifting focus. The first half will still see a good number of Spanish families, but from mid-month onwards, expect a rise in international couples, especially from Germany and the Netherlands, taking advantage of the mild weather and lower prices. Repeat guests are on the rise, and early bookings for summer 2025 are already strong. The rural tourism sector’s growth is not just a trend but a solid reality. So, if you’re planning a rural retreat, Torrox is still the top choice!
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