Not far from Santa Fé, approximately 53km from Granada, is the ancient spa town of Alhama de Granada which overlooks a magnificent gorge and is famous for its hot springs.
The name ‘al hamma’ is Arabic in origin (it means ‘baths’) but the therapeutic, thermal springs have been used as baths since Roman times and you can bathe in the warm waters.
To get there from Nerja, follow the signs off the E340 to Vélez-Málaga and then on to Alhama de Granada, passing Lake Viñuela on the way. There are some magnificent views to be had en route. The journey takes about one hour by car. The springs themselves are about 1km out of the town and you get to them by taking a left turn beside the modern bridge over the River Alham.
Statistics
Area: 434 square kilometres
Altitude: 883 mtrs above sea level
Population: +/- 6,000
Distance from Nerja: 69 km
Driving Time: +/- 1 hour 20 mins
Location
Places of Interest
The 16th century Iglesia Parroquial de la Encarnación, which has priestly vestments said to have been embroidered by Queen Isabel herself.
Health Spa and Arab Thermal Baths
Acueducto de los Arcos
The 15th century Casa de la Inquisición
The 17th century Convento de la Purísima
The 16th century Granary building
The 17th century Iglesia Ntra. Sra. de las Angustias
The Prison, dating back to 1674
The 16th century Hospital de la Reina
Nearby:
Cuevas de la Mujer y del Agua
Molino de los Pérez in Tajo de Alhama
Roman remains in Cerro del Castillo and Villares de Dona
Local Cuisine
Local specialities include: Olla Alhameña (chickpea stew). Sopa de Maimones (Soup made of bread, eggs, oil and garlic)
Local Fiestas
Fiesta de la Candelaria (February) – Candlemas celebration
Carnival
Fiesta de San Marcos
San Juan (June 24th)
Feria (September)
Useful Info
Tourist Office
Tel: 958 36 06 86