There are many reasons why we chose Restábal for our country house. Its location is almost unbeatable, close to everything and far from everything else! The village clings to the foot of the Canjorros hill, next to the confluence of the Saleres and Dúrcal rivers, surrounded by beautiful scenery. The views over the Beznar reservoir, the Lecrín Valley and the Sierra Nevada seduce the visitor.
The restabeños and restabeñas, about 480 souls, are hospitable and hard-working people, giving their village a friendly atmosphere, receptive to outsiders.
Restábal has some interesting monuments, its church dedicated to San Cristóbal, its old fish market and the remains of an Arab fortress on the outskirts of the town. Upper and lower districts are crossed by the Camino Real from Granada to the coast, a road that once brought riches to the region. As in many villages in the Valley, you can see emblazoned houses, formerly belonging to merchants and nobles of Granada.
The history of the Lecrin Valley is closely linked to its Arab past, as is the whole province of Granada, and going in search of the castle of Restábal is a small adventure. Hidden on a hill above the village, finding the ruins of the castle is a challenge. Arriving at the top with incredible views over the valley and Restábal, imagining the ancient inhabitants of these old walls, makes us feel that we have conquered the castle ourselves. Unfortunately today only a few pieces of walls and bastions remain but the cistern is still quite intact, it is worth it just to see this and the place itself.
How to find it? We have everything planned, the route is described in the house.
Peace and quiet or active tourism... the choice is yours. The GR-7/E-4 long distance walking route passes through the village itself but there are also countless paths for the enjoyment of outdoor enthusiasts. Do not miss the Ruta del Azahar, recently approved and signposted by the Andalusian Mountaineering Federation.
And for lunch? There are 2 supermarkets, 2 bars and 2 restaurants where you can try the delicious typical dishes of the Lecrin Valley. There is also a tobacconist's and a pharmacy.
If you go to the village, let me know if you find any more reasons for choosing Restábal...I'm sure there will be!
This fountain is at the end of the street where Casa Tagomago is located. Of modern construction, of its spout it leaves a fresh and crystalline water. Even today some women from the village come down here to fill their bottles to bring the water home for drinking and cooking. I marvel at them, loaded with up to 6 litre and a half bottles each, climbing the hill. I ask them if the water is better than the tap water, they say it is similar but that "they have to do something"! Customs are not easily lost. I'm so glad!
Photos and story by Susan from Casa Tagomago at Turismo Valle de Lecrín
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