The north of Málaga province presents a very different side to the well-known Costa del Sol. Here, beaches give way to olive groves, limestone sierras, reservoirs and towns with a slower pace of life. In this inland landscape, close to the border with Córdoba and surrounded by natural scenery, lies the northernmost town in Málaga province.
The northernmost town in Málaga
The northernmost town in Málaga is Cuevas de San Marcos, a municipality in the province's north-eastern region and the northernmost point in Málaga. It borders Córdoba province and stands at an altitude of around 420 metres, between the Genil Valley, the Sierra del Malnombre and the Sierra del Camorro. It has a population of approximately 3,600 residents.
The town is located around 88 kilometres from Málaga city by road and roughly 90 kilometres from the coast. Its surroundings offer a landscape far removed from the shoreline, where olive groves, almond trees, holm oaks and pine forests blend with the waters of the Iznájar Reservoir, Andalusia's largest reservoir.
Agriculture, particularly olive cultivation and the production of Hojiblanca olive oil, remains deeply rooted in the local economy. Cuevas de San Marcos is also known for Belda Cave, which, together with Saint Mark the Evangelist, the town's patron saint, has helped shape its identity.
What to see in Cuevas de San Marcos
Cuevas de San Marcos combines historical heritage, natural attractions and small museums that provide insight into the history and landscape of northern Málaga. Highlights include:
- Belda Cave: Located in the Sierra del Camorro, it features galleries, underground lakes, stalactites and stalagmites. Its environmental importance is enhanced by the presence of a significant bat colony.
- Medina Belda Archaeological Site: This site preserves the remains of a former medieval settlement, including traces of houses, streets, a cistern and an ancient tower.
- Toy Museum of Spain and the World: A distinctive cultural attraction showcasing toys from different periods and countries.
- San Marcos Evangelista church: Originally dating back to the 18th century and rebuilt in 1798 in a Neoclassical style, it is one of the town's most notable landmarks. Its brick bell tower is particularly striking.
How to get to Cuevas de San Marcos
From Málaga city, Cuevas de San Marcos is around 88 kilometres away, with a journey time of just over one hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and route conditions. The most direct route follows the A-45 motorway, exiting near the Córdoba provincial border at junction 82 before continuing on the A-7300.
The town's location also makes it an easy day trip from nearby municipalities in Córdoba province and from the area surrounding the Iznájar Reservoir, which is shared between Málaga, Córdoba and Granada.
Living in Cuevas de San Marcos
Living in Cuevas de San Marcos means choosing a small town with essential day-to-day services, schools and a strong community life rooted in local traditions. The municipality has a nursery school, primary and secondary education facilities, local shops and a range of public amenities that meet residents' everyday needs.
The natural surroundings are another major attraction. The nearby Genil River and Iznájar Reservoir provide opportunities for outdoor activities, while local celebrations such as the San Marcos pilgrimage, the August fair and La Aurora festivities in October remain important events in the town's calendar.
