Just to the east of the Natural Park Sierra de las Nieves is Tolox, a small town in which the flowers, white houses and long streets come together to create a picturesque urban ensemble. The town offers various options allowing you enjoy a mix of activities, tastes and experiences. Nature is within an arms reach along pretty trails on the outskirts of the town, and for those in search of relaxation and wellness, Tolox has the only medicinal thermal spa in all of Spain. Towards the end of the 19th century, this sparkling mineral water was sold in bottles made in London.

MUST SEE SIGHTS IN TOLOX

MONUMENTS

Without a doubt, one of the biggest reasons people visit Tolox is the Fuente Amargosa Thermal Spa. Amongst its famous regulars, Miguel Primo de Rivera and Rafael Molina Sánchez ""Lagartijo"" stand out. This spa mainly treats inflammatory skin conditions, allergic reactions in the skin, chronic coronary artery rheumatisms and chronic inflammatory respiratory processes. These waters, unlike other natural springs, are not suitable for drinking, rather it"s the gases that come from the springs that the spa uses. The thermal spa was opened in 1869, and rebuilt after a flood at the start of the 20th century.

Of the original Tolox Castle Walls, only a stretch of wall and some wall cavity remain today. However, this castle was key in the defence of the various different towns in the area. It was built by the Phoenicians and used by the Romans and Muladi Omar Ben Hafsún in 883 in his fight against the Emirate of Córdoba"s troops. Today only the stretch of wall and wall cavity mentioned above are preserved, and where the fortress previously stood, today is the Rinconada del Castillo district.

Walking through Tolox town centre you will find the Plaza Alta, and it's majestic houses. Amongst them are the Casa de la Inquisición and the Casa del Hidalgo Fernández de Villamor, dating back to the 16th century and sporting iron bars on their whitewashed frontage. In the Tolox Popular Tradition and Art Museum House, you will find architecture and stylings typical of 19th century houses, as well as historical objects such as a missal (liturgical book) from 1864.

One of the key stops as you make your way through Tolox is the San Miguel Arcángel church. Built in the 16th century, it was burnt down in 1568 during the Moorish uprising and was rebuilt 9 years later. During these events, the area"s Chrisitans took refuge in the church. Inside you will find canvases from the 18th century that have been attributed to Diego de la Cerda.

The chapels of San Roque and the chapel of the Virgen de las Nieves are two must see destinations for lovers of heritage tourism. The chapel of San Roque, Patron Saint of the town, is 3 kilometres from the city centre and is surrounded by unbeatable views. The Virgen de las Nieves chapel is situated in a building right in the heart of Natural Park Sierra de las Nieves, surrounded by dense pinewood.