TODAY WE TALK ABOUT MONACHIL, OUR VILLAGE.
The name of our village, Monachil comes from the Arabian-Spanish: it would be "muntasal" (from the Latin "monte" or mountain and from the Arabic "sal" or elevated) and it would mean, therefore, "high mountain." Although its name comes from the Al-Andalus period, Monachil was founded thousands of years ago. We can see it for the prehistoric site of Cerro de la Encina. It is a bit unknown in the area but it is also one of the best examples of the Argaric culture of the Bronze Age in Granada. The access is easy and the area that is very well signposted with panels explaining everything. Guided and dramatized tours are organized, it is a well worth visit.
Our village, Monachil is divided into three areas: Monachil Pueblo (old town), Barrio de Monachil and Sierra Nevada Ski Resort. Monachil old town is just 1 km from us and has the character of a mountain village in a unique environment. Monachil is entrance door to the National and Natural Park of Sierra Nevada. It is the only town in Andalusia with a ski resort. It is unique also for its morphology, with steeps from 740m to Veleta Peak to 3,394m.
Monachil is hiking, climbing, snow sports, gastronomy, handicrafts, music, culture and history, among others...
Its well-known hiking route "Los Cahorros" is much better to do it during the week because of loads of hikers on weekends and bank holidays. The route is not boring at all and it is singular due to the different areas you are walking through. It is walkable from our hotel, La Almunia del Valle. We will give you a map and we assure you that you will return amazed and satisfied 3 hours later.
Los Cahorros is not the only hike you can do, many other nearby routes will delight you. Do not hesitate to ask us!
In Monachil we have also ateliers of the typical Granada pottery handicrafts with Blas Casares brothers and the Taracea crafts of Isidro
Regarding gastronomy, in Monachil, you can taste products from our fertile "La Vega" and from the mountains in seasons. Artichokes, beans, green beans and Pajuna veal are served at "La Cocina de La Almunia" and in many restaurants of our town.
We like a famous restaurant among locals, with a very good menu, family atmosphere and quiet. "Casa Fernando" http://www.restaurantecasafernando.es/
Also "La Cantina de Diego", a restaurant in the old town of Monachil, where most of the ingredients they use are from its own harvest. http://www.restaurantelacantinadediego.es/
But you will also be surprised by the great live music offer you will find.
"La Barbería" is a very curious bar, the old barbershop of the town that has 2 small caves inside. Vegetarian tapas, juices and more, plus music. Flamenco nights and musical sunsets. http://www.labarberiamonachil.com/
"El Puntarrón" as a typical rural restaurant with a terrace, live music and local food. A fantastic option with good weather. http://www.puntarron.es/
"La Chistera" is a place where you get casual food while enjoining the outstanding "Jam session" on Sundays, as well as concerts, exhibitions and screenings that they also offer. With a terrace overlooking the river. http://www.lachisteramonachil.com/
Beautiful and interesting place, Monachil, which we are very proud to belong to and to show to all our guests. The perfect starting point to explore Granada and Andalucia.