An archaeological collection of 183 items, an ermita with a Baroque camarín and three hiking trails ranging from 8.8 to 14 kilometres give Cártama several specific reasons to visit. There are also cultural events and a cycling event, each following a different calendar. As you plan your trip, you can choose between historical attractions, an event date and outdoor activity on different routes.
Archaeology and Architectural History
The Colección Museográfica de Cártama comprises 183 items and traces the history of the area from prehistoric times to the Early Modern period. It also has the largest collection of Iberian archaeology in Málaga province. Admission is free; check the admission information before your trip, as it may change.
The Ermita de Ntra. Sra. de los Remedios offers a different historical perspective. It was built in the 16th century, at the latest in connection with the 1579 epidemic. Its Baroque camarín dates from the 18th century and features richly decorated stucco work. The collection offers a broad overview spanning several periods, while the ermita focuses on architectural history and decoration.
Events Throughout the Year
The Noches de la Bella Jarifa takes place every year in late September and recreates a medieval atmosphere in the streets of Cártama Pueblo. The programme may include an Arab souk, falconry, Oriental music and dance, guided tours of archaeological sites, theatre and competitions. Exact dates and programme details may vary from one edition to another, so check them before your trip.
The Festival Flamenco José Hurtado “Ramoliche” is dedicated to the singer from Cártama. It gives special prominence to local artists and contemporary flamenco; performers and shows vary between editions. The Fiesta en Honor de la Virgen de Ntra. Sra. de los Remedios has also received a historic distinction: in 2002, it was recognised as a Festival of National Tourist Interest in Andalusia.
On 23 April, a solemn procession in honour of the patron saint, Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, passes through the streets of the town. On the first Sunday in May, Verdiales groups meet at the Ermita de las Tres Cruces. This is a gathering of groups; its date follows a recurring calendar rather than a fixed annual date.
The Jornada del Pedal is a regular cycling event in Estación de Cártama that has been running for more than 20 years. It takes place around the Sunday closest to 19 March. The cycling route runs through the streets of Estación; the course may change between editions. If you are planning your trip around the event, check the date and the route for that edition.
Compare Hiking and Cycling Routes
The hiking trails differ in both length and route format. The Camino de las Tres Cruces starts in the town of Cártama, is 14 kilometres long and follows a linear route. Torrealquería is an 8.8-kilometre circular hiking route around the valley formed by the Sierra de los Espartales and Sierra Llana. The Espartales trail is an approximately 9-kilometre circular route of particular botanical and scenic interest.
The two circular routes are similar in length at 8.8 and approximately 9 kilometres, but have different emphases: Torrealquería follows the valley between the two mountain ranges, while the Espartales trail is notable for its botanical and scenic interest. The Camino de las Tres Cruces differs in its greater length and linear format. You can therefore choose a route based on distance, format and its stated focus, rather than comparing kilometres alone. Trail conditions may change; check them before setting out.
For mountain bikers, the BTT route De Cártama a Almogía is another option: it is 30.69 kilometres long, rated difficult and is not a loop. Check the route details before riding. This also gives you a practical distinction when choosing when to visit: event visits depend on the relevant calendar, while routes can be compared by length, format and focus.
Discover More Destinations
Estación, Gibralgalia, Sierra De Yeguas, La Capellania, Sayalonga, Alcaucín, Los Puertas, Romo Cuevas
For the broader travel overview: Málaga.
