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Viñuela
In the heart of some of Andalucía’s most spectacular scenery in Axarquia lies a man-made reservoir that can hold 170 million cubic metres of water. The reservoir, known as Lake Viñuela, fills a natural valley and is surrounded by beaches, trees and other vegetation creating an additional attractive feature to an already beautiful landscape.
Before the area was flooded to create the reservoir many sites were excavated providing finds dating back to the Neolithic as well as Roman eras but today, the area has become a favorite spot to ‘get away from it all’ and the peace and tranquility has attracted many purchasers looking for the quieter lifestyle. The lake took its name from the nearby village of La Viñuela, which nestles in a valley supporting olive groves and lower down, cereal crops. The village was named after small vines found in the area when the village was merely a refreshment stop on the route from the coast to Granada. Today it takes only 15 minutes drive from the coast to the lakeside.
Periana, situated at the northern reaches of the lake, has been inhabited for centuries, mainly because of the natural water supply and fertile soil. The village is also the birthplace of the River Guaro which irrigates the land and enables the production of many citrus fruits and peaches. Newer townhouses and villas have been built on the outskirts of the village attracting families with a Spanish lifestyle in mind.
It is possible to tour around the lake in all directions. Heading northeast along a stunning road you arrive at the pretty white village of Canillas de Aceituno nestling in the foothills of the Sierra Tejada mountain range with beautiful views of the countryside and Lake Vinuela. The natural springs attract people from far away due to a belief that if the pure water is drunk, illness is prevented. A new public outdoor swimming pool, with bar, children's pool and playground has also been opened on the outskirts of the village.
Alcaucin facing south- southwest is situated on the lower western slope of La Maroma in the Sierra Tejeda mountain range. Its narrow streets are awash with colourful flowers which hang from every wrought iron balcony and the village is home to numerous spring fed fountains, still very much in use. One of these, the Fuente San Sebastian has been restored to its former Moorish glory and its five spouts jut out from an exquisite tiled background.
Los Romanes a village on the opposite side of the lake facing east - south east offers the most magnificent views over the turquoise waters of the lake towards the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Tejeda mountains and La Maroma, snowcapped in winter.
Over the past six years many new properties have been built around Lake Vinuela, Alcaucin, and Los Romanes and the authorities of the region are now ensuring controls are in place to restrict this urbanisation and maintain the natural beauty. Saying this there are still many bargains to be had, particularly for villas on developments already authorised and especially if you are seeking a property with some space and privacy. Some cautions also apply and Unique Property Search has expertise knowledge of this area which is vital for anyone considering a new build or resale purchase here.
SEE FULL MAP
Other Area Info:
Zone 1 - (Nerja), Zone 2 - (Costa tropical)
Zone 3 - (Las Alpujarras) Zone 4 - (Competa)
Zone 5 - (Vinuela) Zone 6 - (Torre del Mar)
Zone 7 - (Rincon de la Victoria)
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