Seniors Stop In Casares

Casares Spain is a picture postcard village with a population of just three thousand and senior travelers will find that the view from the approach is worth a photo. Casares is one of what is called Andalucia’s “White Towns.” To say that Casares is beautiful is an understatement.

Located about 20 km inland from the Costa del Sol town of Estepona, Casares is of Arab origin and  has been designated a Historical-Artistic Site. Its main attractions are the quaint streets, the ruins of the Medieval castle and the Birthplace of Blas Infante. I’d want to check out the Old Roman Spa with ferric sulfurous baths that were rebuilt by the moors.

Casares Castle is perched on a limestone massif overlooking the region’s valleys, hills and meadows. It is an ancient Arab fortress and its remains include towers, walls and two gates.

 Seniors Enjoy Enchanting Village

Most of the so called White Villages are beautiful, but there is something very special about the sight of Casares that causes the visitor to park the car and check out the village. It is a little difficult to believe that this enchanting Spanish village lies only nine miles from the hustle and bustle of the coast and somehow succeeded in avoiding the typical tourist circuit.

This village, situated on a bed of limestone, has many attractions, including the birthplace of the political Blas Infante, considered the “Father of the Andalusian Homeland”. This is also where Julius Caesar supposedly was cured of a liver complaint, thanks to the sulfuric waters that still pour out of the local spring.

The 12th century Castle, around which grew the present town center, was founded by the occupying Moors. Seniors, plan your stay around one of the special celebrations in Casares. The main fair (Feria) of Casares takes place during the first weekend in August. The day of the patron saint, the Virgen del Rosario, is celebrated in the first week in September, and in the middle of January is the Feria del Cristo. The most important of the Romero takes place the last Saturday in May, so take your pick.

 Seniors Find Narrow, Steep and Winding Streets

The old original fortress at the pinnacle of the village lies 1,400 feet above sea level, which would have been a superb vantage point during a time of invasion and piracy. The village streets are narrow and wind steeply so be prepared for a steep and energetic climb, rather than a tranquil stroll through the village. Senior visitors, wear good shoes.

Casares is one of the most scenic and photographed White Villages in Andalucia and is ideally located to offer something for everyone in Southern Spain. Don’t miss it. Enjoy. -jeb