The town of Algarinejo can be found nestling in the Montes Occidentales in the province of Granada in the region of Andalusia. The town’s name comes from the Arab word “al-Garin” which means the caves. The surrounding area is mountainous and rural, and the local economy relies heavily on farming olives. Local handicrafts and skills include: Albardoneria (wicker work); Esparto (embroidery), and Mantillas (blanket making). Local food crafts include homemade cheese making, conserves, and salted fish. There are plenty of sights to see, and the surrounding countryside is stunning, so by booking into one of the budget hotels in Algarinejo, you’ll be perfectly positioned to tour both the town and the surrounding region.
Algarinejo was originally an early Roman settlement. There are some very interesting archeological remains to be seen including some old Roman built walls and pavements on Constitucion Avenue, and close by, there are some old Roman-Iberian burial chambers. There are several interesting churches and museums in the town, and in order to give yourself plenty of time to take them all in, the best thing to do is to reserve some accommodation in one of the many cheap hotels in Algarinejo. Sites to put on your list to visit include: Cesna Castle, the church of Santa María La Mayor; the Hermitage of Santo Cristo, and Pesquera Tower, all of which are within easy striking distance. The local cuisine is excellent. You will discern the early Arabic influences in various dishes from chick-pea soups to the delicious fig-bread.