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GAUCIN History:​

GAUCIN, is a very special Pueblo Blanco known as the ¨Balcon De La Serrania¨ .

It was an ancient Roman village which began as a strategic observation post founded by the conquering troops of Caesar. 

Later it became an important Moorish village.

In the Napoleonic wars it was attacked by the French, presumably because of its proximity to Gibraltar and the straits.

The Roman observation post is now referred to as the Eagle´s Castle; it has been sought out by travellers and painters through the centuries, including the famous painter David Roberts (see opposite his painting 1834).

Named by the Moors, GAUCIN means ¨Hard Rock¨.

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Nature Walking:

GAUCIN has great and long established walking trails through old cork and pine forests. Starting from the village, there are a number of loops that you can do: some that last less than one hour and others over 2 hours around El Hacho. 

There are also much longer and strenuous walks for the seasoned hiker
.- See ¨21 Walks Around Gaucin¨ (by  Patrick Elvin) for many diverse and documented walking trails.

Or you could combine walking with a train ride on the remarkable ¨Henderson´s Railway¨ which is referenced in our Walking Gallery. 

Also, there are excellent spots for watching giant raptors and other birds, on the migratory path- over the skies of Gibraltar and Morocco, on their way to and from Africa.


Other Activities:
GAUCIN is known for its vibrant artist and writers colony, and music scenes.  There are numerous art exhibitions and musical gatherings. 

Some people come here to paint or photograph landscapes- as the natural light lends itself to vivid colours and contrasts.

  • These artist studios can be visited during ¨Art Gaucin¨, and sometimes by appointment.

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For example, Silvia Franco who lives full time in Gaucin, spent many years in New York City.  She does amazing pieces in wood or other Mixmedia, working with different materials to connect to nature.  She has her own studio.

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There is also a remarkable gallery in the center of the village at the street level, exclusively dedicated to featuring the works of renowned painter Jose Sanchez Zabaleta

 

 For further information of the artists and their contacts details, see:

https://artgaucin.com/

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  • There could be a Creative Writing work-shop* taught by a professional at CASA EMILIANA over two to five days, for a minimum of (6) people, with prior bookings. 


Just outside GAUCIN, by the Genal river, the ¨Lanas Del Rio¨ mill makes traditionally woven blankets and shawls from rare looms.  We have acquired a number of beautiful blankets which are in the bedrooms.

  • Excursions to the mill can be arranged by prior appointment. 

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The area is great for trail rides.

  • Horse back riding for one or two people*, plus professional guide can be possible by prior appointment.

 

Close to GAUCIN:

  • Go to Benalauria*, another Pueblo Blanco, where you can visit a village bakery, a honey bee farm, and a jam factory.

  • Nearby RONDA, visit an organic olive farm* that offers special products.


As an aside, the village offers a modern and fully-equipped gym* (where pilates and yoga classes are held several times a week), tennis and paddle courts, and a municipal pool which is open to everyone during the summer.

 * all activities are independent from us as an extra charge

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GAUCIN Weather: 
One of the reasons people like to come to GAUCIN,
particularly from northern Europe and North America, is to escape bad weather
and enjoy the relatively moderate mountain climate that Gaucin can offer during
most of the autumn, winter and spring months. 
In general, this is the best period of time during the year
for experiencing fabulous nature walks and other activities. 

May 7th photo Silvia Franco_edited.jpg
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