Nestling in the mountains of the Serranía de Ronda, Parauta is a picturesque town that seems to have stepped right out of a fairytale. With its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and breathtaking natural surroundings, this small town has become one of Spain’s most charming places to visit.
But what makes this town truly special is its famous “enchanted forest” and the intriguing bulrush chairs adorning the façades of the houses, in homage to the fairies that, as legend has it, take a rest on them. Parauta is perfect for families wishing to enjoy a magical experience and reconnect with nature.
Discover the enchanted forest of Parauta
The main attraction of Parauta is its “enchanted forest”, a magical place that appeals to the imagination, whatever your age. This forest, on the outskirts of town, is populated with ancient cork oaks and common oaks that seem to whisper stories to the wind. As you follow its paths, it’s easy to imagine the fairies or other mythical beings inhabiting the trees.
The most intriguing sights are the figures carved into the tree trunks and the little “fairy doors” that local artisans have placed there to bring the legend to life. According to the locals, these doors lead into the fairies’ homes, and it’s said that if you make a wish with a pure heart, it may well come true. It’s a great place for children to explore and let their imagination run wild, while adults enjoy the peacefulness of this natural spot.
The Serranía de Ronda: an idyllic setting
Parauta forms part of the spectacular Serranía de Ronda, a natural enclave combining the beauty of its mountainous landscape with a wealth of history and tradition. Surrounded by natural parks such as the Sierra de las Nieves, declared a Biosphere Reserve, this little town makes an excellent starting point for exploring the region.
The Serranía de Ronda is a place of contrasts, where sheer peaks tower over green valleys and crystal-clear rivers. The area is also dotted with other white towns, such as Gaucín and Benalauría, where you can wander through the charming streets. One of the most popular family activities is walking, as there are routes suitable for all levels, from gentle strolls to more adventurous challenges.
Parauta also preserves the authentic spirit of the Serranía, with traditional festivities and a cuisine to delight any visitor. You can’t leave before you’ve tried the hot gazpacho, the migas (a simple dish based on breadcrumbs) or the artisan pastries such as roscos de vino (ring-shaped, biscuit-like sweets made with wine). All washed down with a good Ronda wine to finish off a unique experience.
The bulrush chairs: a nod to the magic of the fairies
Strolling through the streets of Parauta is like stepping into another world. Many of the façades have small bulrush chairs hanging from them, a curiosity that does not go unnoticed. According to local tradition, these chairs are placed there so that the fairies living in the forest can take a rest when they come into town.
This tradition, handed down from generation to generation, not only creates an air of fantasy, but also reflects the strong connection that the inhabitants enjoy with the town’s surroundings and its legends. Families visiting the town enjoy exploring these streets full of little touches and taking photos to capture the magic of the place.
Practical tips for your visit to Parauta
How to get there
Parauta is around 20km from Ronda and approximately one and a half hour’s drive from Málaga. It’s easy to get to and the roads are well signposted, whilst the sinuous nature of the Serranía makes your journey a scenic experience.
Where to stay
If you’re looking for an authentic experience, Parauta has some truly charming, small rural accommodation options, such as cottages and family-run lodgings. Another option is to stay in Ronda, where there’s a wider range of hotels and facilities.
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Parauta. In springtime, the enchanted forest can be seen in all its splendour, with flowers and lush vegetation. In autumn, on the other hand, the landscape is tinged with shades of gold and red, offering a delightful spectacle to the eye.
Activities for children
Parauta is an ideal destination for families. As well as exploring the enchanted forest, children can take part in local craft workshops or enjoy walking routes suitable for the younger ones. There are also picnic areas on the outskirts and viewpoints with stunning views.
Neighbouring towns
Visiting Ronda is a must, with its breathtaking Puente Nuevo bridge and its old town steeped in history. Other towns worth exploring include Jubrique, Benalauría and Cartajima, each with its own character and charm. The Sierra de las Nieves, recently declared a National Park, offers you another opportunity to connect with nature.
Parauta is much more than just a picturesque town; it’s a place full of magic, tradition and nature. Its “enchanted forest” and its streets adorned with bulrush chairs is an unforgettable experience for families looking for something different on their break. Whether you explore the walking trails of the Serranía de Ronda, enjoy the local cuisine or step into fairytales, Parauta promises to capture the heart of all who visit.
