La Algaba, Forest Bathing and Prehistory in the Heart of the Serranía de Ronda

Ronda/Prehistory, geology, nature, and disconnection come together at the La Algaba complex. Located about five kilometers from Ronda, the site features a predominantly holm oak estate of about 50 hectares where disconnection, relaxation, and learning merge in a place filled with nature. A true forest bath surrounded by prehistory.

One of its best-known activities is the immersion into the past of the Serranía. For this, they have a village that recreates the lifestyle of those early inhabitants of the region using the same techniques.

Its wall and huts instantly transport you back to ancient times when those men began to use tools, manage fire, make pottery, or transform foods like cereals.

A journey through time conducted by expert guides who immerse visitors in that life while offering the opportunity to practice some of the techniques used such as the construction of flint weapons, the use of stone mortars, and the conditions in which they lived in those first stone and wood houses.

This is one of the most important highlights during the tour of this Mediterranean forest, which is full of natural wealth. Flora and fauna also coexist with areas equipped to learn about the geology of the Serranía or to carry out archaeological research. This is complemented by the opportunity to observe the birds that live in this area from special observation points.

All this without forgetting a rich flora that has orchids as one of its star plants. Up to 15 types have been identified on the estate by Gonzalo Astete, a forestry manager who works at La Algaba showcasing its riches.

Moreover, it also includes programs for the conservation of native breeds such as the pajuna cow in the past or now the merino sheep, Andalusian chickens, and the golden blonde pig.

An area led by the environmentalist Gea Terroba, who after training in Madrid decided to return home and take the lead of the second generation that now heads this project, which started more than twenty years ago, although it remains unknown to many in the province.

Showcasing these breeds also forms part of the learning programs about the ways of life in the region, as they have been very important for the inhabitants of the area for centuries.

Specifically, the area dedicated to the conservation of breeds and agriculture is in a "new phase," explains Gea Terroba, as the center is immersed in the development of its own range of gourmet products based on cured meats, organic oil, and honey. All of this using the raw materials produced on the estate itself.

It's a new avenue they are working on, which would allow them to complete the experience by tasting local products, another of the region's riches.

Indeed, María Sánchez, one of the project's founders, is very satisfied with this step, as it allows completing the entire experience and a process as complex and long as the recovery of this native breed of the area.

Furthermore, she also considers the arrival of the "new energy" provided by the new generation now supporting the foundation of this environmental education project to be fundamental.

In addition to having a standard tour lasting about two hours, which includes visits to different areas of the space, it also offers special programs for schools and activities designed according to the preferences of the visitors.