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Situated at the foot of the northern face of the Sierra de Mijas, looking out over the Guadalhorce Valley, Alhaurin El Grande is a bustling town with a large English ex-pat community. Neolitihc, Phoenician, Greek, Roman and Arabic settlers have all had an input in the areas rich history.
The Phoenicians first settled here exploiting the areas rich resources constructing silver and lead mines. The Romans, Moors, French and Christians have all had their hands o­n Alhaurin and its name has changed a couple of times o­n the way. The Romans named it “Lauro Nova” whilst the Arabs christened the town “Alhaurin” (meaning the “Valley People”) The Catholic Kings conquered the town in 1485 and called it “Grande” to distinguish it from the nearby Alhaurin de la Torre. During the 19th Century many wealthy families of Malaga chose it as a holiday place, thus making way for tourists ever since.
The town itself is bustling; being o­ne of the largest towns in the Guadalhorce Valley. It has a wide selection of shops, restaurants and cafes. Hostals and hotels are a little sparser which isn’t that surprising as Alhaurin doesn’t hold much of an attraction to tourists. It hasn’t the attractions of a castle or large church to admire. It is a simple, but charming Andalucian town.