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Nestled at the top of the Poqueira Gorge, Capileira is the second highest of all the pueblos blancos (white villages) in Spain, set at about 1400 metres. From the village the views are utterly magnificent, with the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada in Autumn and winter as a backdrop to the North, and the distant coast of Africa across the sparkling Mediterranean to the South. |
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Villages of Capileira and Bubion (foreground) |
Looking towards Bubion from Capileira |
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The surrounding countryside is a wonderful haven for some quite exotic wildlife, and offers a wealth of possibilities for the painter, (provided you are reasonably able-bodied!) There are wildflower meadows and waterfalls, orchards and olive groves, rocky canyons and terraced farmlands. Within the village the ancient white houses stand amid a tangle of quaint and shady alleys, all beautifully bedecked with flowers on their balconies. |
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There are inspirational subjects to be found everywhere, and the intensity of the light enhances everything to an almost magical degree. There is a timelessness and tranquility here that is deeply relaxing yet stimulating too. You can enjoy a free tapa at one of the outdoor cafes on the village plaza (see photo on the left). You can watch genuine Flamenco being performed, and there are various other live music events staged in small venues around the area on a regular basis. |
Facilities in Capileira include a pharmacy, two bakeries, a bank with a cash machine, two small supermarkets, regular deliveries of fresh fish from the coast, and a colourful weekly fruit and veg market. There is an interesting variety of retail outlets for locally made crafts and gastronomic produce, and two Art Galleries. In summary, Capileira is a small but cosmopolitan village which attracts visitors from all over the globe for painting, walking, bird watching, horse riding and other activities. It is an unspoilt place full of charm and character, with a warm and welcoming community atmosphere which will capture your heart. |
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The village itself is well provided with a range of bars shops and restaurants. One of the restaurants, El Castaño (The Chestnut Tree - pictured), has recently been awarded a Michelin star, one of only two throughout the province of Granada . The chef takes his work very seriously and is building a strong international reputation. |
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The nearest town of any size is Orgiva which lies within the river valley of the Guadalfeo, at the foot of the Alpujarras. This small market town has long been a magnet for creative ex-pats, and now has a strong alternative culture. Gerald Brennan, Robert Graves and, more recently, Chris Stewart (of “Driving Over Lemons” fame), have all been drawn to write about the area. The very popular Alhambra Palace in Granada is well worth a visit, but booking must be made well in advance. This can be done through their web site: www.alhambra-tickets.es or by phone: 0034 902 888 001. Tickets are approximately 13€ (March 2009). We can arrange the trip to the Alhambra from Capileira for you. Please enquire for details. For non-painting partners other activities include horse riding, guided walks, bird watching, mountain-biking excursions and paragliding. |
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Grand Cathedral in Granada |
Alhambra Palace |
Arabic Market, Granada |
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If you wish to explore our area, simply use the Google map below: |
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Arte Andalucia Painting Holidays, Capileira, Nr Granada, Spain. Tel: +34 958 763464 Email: info@arteandalucia.com |
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