Acebuchal or El Acebuchal as it is often called is far from a regular tourist spot. The town has an incredibly rich history, and it is often called the “lost village” which is more than fitting.

Acebuchal was abandoned for more than 50 years in the mid-20th century and has only recently been rebuilt to its former glory. With only 36 houses the village is truly small but worth seeing if you’re in the area. Its remote location and beautiful mountain landscape make it the perfect getaway for those seeking peace and quiet or a great daytrip.

Acebuchal can be traced back as far as the 16th century, although it is believed that the area was inhabited long before then. The name “Acebuchal” comes from the Arabic term “acebuche” which means olive tree.

The village had up to 200 permanent inhabitants during its most prosperous times. It originated as a single tavern where mule drivers stopped on their way from Malaga to Granada. Back then this was the only way to cross the mountains and transport goods. The journey was tedious and exhausting. All along this former mule route lie little taverns and albergues where the travellers could rest and exchange their tired animals for new ones. Around the Acebuchal tavern, a little village soon started to form.

The villagers raised animals and made lime which was used to coat the houses and give them their famous white colour. With basic farming activities, Acebuchal was able to sustain itself and trade with surrounding villages. However, life there wasn’t easy. Even in the 20th century, there was still no electricity, running water or even a sewage system. The town was cut off from civilisation and had to endure hard winters where the sun barely reached the bottom of the valley. Even snow wasn’t unusual during the winter months.

In the Summer of 1948, disaster struck. During the Spanish Civil War, Acebuchal was caught between the rebels or “Marquis” hiding in the mountains and the Guardia Civil which was trying to restore Franco’s control. The forces suspected Acebuchal to be supporting the rebels while the “Marquis” suspected the village to secretly be on Franco’s side. Finally, the Guardia Civil forced all inhabitants of Acebuchal to leave immediately. From then on, the town became a ‘Pueblo Fantasmas’, a ghost town. The buildings soon began to deteriorate and Acebuchal lay abandoned for more than 50 years.

So how come today the town seems to be more prosperous than ever? In 1998, two direct descendants of the last inhabitants of Acebuchal decided to rebuild the village. Virtudes and her husband, Antonio García Sánchez slowly began reconstructing the ruined houses using old photographs as their guideline. It took until 2003 to finally supply the village with running water and electricity.

“Finca Flor was one of the highlights of our walking holiday this year, it offers total escapism and the hosts, Nicky and Keith, could not have been more welcoming.”