It sounds like a fairy tale, but it's in Malaga: the village with an enchanted forest that is a hit in spring.

There are corners where reality seems to have stopped at an indeterminate point between history and fantasy. Narrow streets wind between white houses, paths disappear among centuries-old trees, and sculptures emerge from the forest as if they had always been there. In the heart of the Serranía de Ronda, this setting takes shape in Parauta, a small municipality in Málaga that, with the arrival of spring, transforms into one of the most unique landscapes of the province.

Parauta is a village of Muslim origin whose history has run parallel to that of Ronda and other towns in the southern surroundings of the Serranía. Its past dates back to the ancient Hisn Autha, with references to nearby farmsteads like Torrichela, where some theories place the birth, around the year 854, of Omar Ben Hafsun, a key figure in the rebellion of the Muladi in Al-Ándalus.

After the conquest by the Catholic Monarchs, coinciding with the capture of Ronda, the municipality experienced a demographic transformation marked by the gradual disappearance of the Mudejar population. It was later repopulated by old Christians, thus shaping a new historical stage that is still reflected in its physiognomy.

The Genal Valley: pure nature

Located in the Genal Valley, Parauta is part of one of the most representative natural environments of the province of Málaga. The region is characterized by its abundant vegetation, its agricultural tradition, and a landscape that combines farmlands, forests, and mountainous areas.

During spring, this enclave gains special prominence thanks to the explosion of colors that cover its slopes. The fields are filled with flowers and the light of April enhances the beauty of the surroundings, where avocados, pine forests, and other species typical of the Mediterranean climate coexist.

Its proximity to other municipalities like Cartajima or Igualeja reinforces the idea of unity within the Serranía de Ronda, a territory where nature and traditional architecture maintain a close relationship.

An urban center that retains its historical essence

The urban layout of Parauta is one of the best examples of Andalusian heritage in the province. Its streets, narrow and with steep slopes, adapt to the terrain and maintain the characteristic structure of towns of Moorish origin.

The whitewashed houses, Arab tile roofs, and decorated balconies form a recognizable image that naturally integrates into the landscape. Among its heritage elements stands out the Church of the Immaculate Conception, a 16th-century temple that reflects the religious transition after the reconquest.

This is complemented by other points of interest such as the historical fountains scattered throughout the municipality or the Arquillo on Altillo Street, one of the most representative corners of the town.

The Enchanted Forest: art and nature on the same path

One of the major attractions of Parauta is the so-called Enchanted Forest, a route that connects the municipality with the neighboring town of Cartajima. This itinerary, open to the public since 2022, is the result of the work of local sculptor Diego Guerrero, who has spent years creating figures from natural elements.

Along the path, visitors encounter wooden sculptures representing wizards, goblins, and fairies, harmoniously integrated into the environment. The result is a trail that combines art and nature, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of fairy-tale settings.

This space has become one of the most striking points of the municipality, especially during spring, when the vegetation and climate conditions enhance its character.

Unique landscapes: chestnut groves, Spanish firs, and ancient trees

The surroundings of Parauta host other enclaves of great natural value. Among them stands out the well-known Copper Forest, a chestnut grove that is particularly relevant in autumn, but that is part of the usual landscape of the municipality.

Also noteworthy is the Valdecilla Holm Oak, a centuries-old specimen of great size considered one of the oldest in the world. This is added to the Escalereta Spanish Fir, a monumental tree located in the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park, estimated to be between 350 and 550 years old.

These elements reinforce the ecological richness of the area, where the diversity of species and the conservation of the environment are essential parts of its identity.

Cuisine linked to the land and local tradition

The cuisine of Parauta is closely linked to the products of its environment. The chestnut occupies a central place within its kitchen, accompanied by ingredients from the Andalusian garden.

Traditional preparations reflect a cuisine with rural roots, where inherited techniques and the use of local products define the character of the dishes. During Holy Week, this gastronomic offering is integrated into the experience of the municipality, reinforcing its cultural identity.