Seven things not to miss this summer on a visit to the Sierra Norte de Málaga

Just a few years ago, it was unthinkable for it to be known as a region. However, today many accept referring to the Sierra Norte de Málaga –formerly Nororma– as the area that includes Archidona as its main town and the six surrounding municipalities, namely, the four 'villanuevas' (del Rosario, del Trabuco, de Tapia, and de Algaidas) and the two 'cuevas' (Bajas and de San Marcos).

It is not a typical region, but it is, at least, an increasingly defined tourist destination that can be enjoyed all year round.

On summer days, except for some moments when the shade provides brief relief, the night is the best time to enjoy Archidona's most emblematic square, the Ochavada.

There, in the heart of the historic center, one can enjoy pleasant evenings outdoors, thanks to the terraces offered by the restaurants and cocktail bars.

It is one of the most unique squares that can be seen in the interior not only of Málaga but of all Andalusia. Its originality lies in the perfect combination of styles as diverse as the French eighteenth century and Andalusian Mudejar.

In summer, it is better to drive up there and save the hikes for other times. It's a castle that seems impregnable due to its location.

The fortress is situated on a hill from which one can view the fertile lands now populated by olive trees. In fact, walks can be taken along the paths set up, early in the morning and late in the afternoon, if it's summer.

From many of its corners, one can clearly see the Peña de los Enamorados, the same one described in the famous legend of the Lovers as the tragic end of Tello and Tagzona. Inside the enclosure, there is also a center for the interpretation of Mozarabic Culture.

Málaga is one of the few Spanish provinces that can enjoy rafting or river rafting in summer thanks to the section of the Genil that passes through the town of Cuevas Bajas.

There, this tributary of the Guadalquivir flows with rough waters thanks to the release of water from the nearby Iznájar reservoir. Thus, it is possible to take an exciting river tour with some of the active tourism companies that usually operate there, such as Ocio Aventura Cerro Gordo, which offers different levels and prices.

At the foot of the Sierra de San Jorge, in Villanueva del Trabuco, awaits one of the most original proposals that can be made these days in the province of Málaga, even in summer.

It is the Tree Climbing Park managed by the active tourism company Pindongos. There, children and adults can do up to three different circuits among trees. For this, they will use zip lines or hanging bridges with the highest possible safety.

On a getaway to the Sierra Norte de Málaga, one must partake of its most artisanal products.

Among them, extra virgin olive oils, sausages like the relleno, pistachios, molletes, and homemade and even conventual sweets stand out.

It is the only pilgrimage held at night in the province of Málaga and marks the unofficial start of one of the great fairs in the interior.

Archidona will experience this August 14th a most original pilgrimage, in which the rigors of summer in the Sierra Norte de Málaga are avoided. Hundreds of Archidona residents will climb to the hill of the castle in this curious tradition that lasts until dawn. There will be two masses in honor of the virgin, taking place at midnight and around six in the morning.

In the Sierra Norte de Málaga, a striking summer carnival is celebrated. Specifically, the town of Villanueva del Trabuco, during its fair, which takes place between September 11th and 15th, invites locals and visitors to dress up and have fun.

On the Saturday of this fair, bands and groups participate, enlivening this colorful parade. The origin of this festival, known as Especial Trabuco, is relatively recent. In fact, it was spontaneously created by the locals themselves.