"Competa is my home abroad!" Cómpeta by happyhousesitter

I have an ongoing love affair with Spain, in particular the region of Andalusia. Above the coastal town of Torre Del Mar, twenty-five kilometers in the Almijara Mountains, there are a number of quaint, whitewashed villages. Competa has become my personal favorite. I have lived there off and on over the past five years for a sum total of eight months.

Competa has a population of about 4000 people. A significant proportion of the inhabitants are retirees from various other European countries. I can see why. Competa has a charming, "otherwordly" feel to it. The people are friendly. The streets are safe. The food is great! From many restaurants and terraces one can see the Mediterranean Sea. On a clear day the etchings of Morocco are visible.

Competa is built on the side of the mountain. Walking in Competa can be strenuous, but take heart, life is slow there and one can take a coffee or a glass of wine at various cafes and restaurants throughout the village as needed.

There is a bus that passes through Competa three times a day. It is not necessary to have a car. The bus route goes all the way to Malaga and beyond. Buses are not expensive. I always fly into the Malaga airport and take the bus to the village. It is not difficult and saves me from having to muster up the courage to drive the twisting, winding road in a rented car.

If you are searching for a quiet vacation where you will actually get to know the locals, Competa might be just the place. If you get bored, a day trip to some of the nearby coastal town is very doable.