Actualizado el
Júzcar Málaga: El Pueblo Entero de los Pinguinos
Júzcar, a small town in the province of Málaga, Spain, is a hidden gem that has become a must-visit destination for tourists from all over the world. Known as "El Pueblo Entero de los Pinguinos" (The Entire Penguin Village), this charming town is famous for its unique and colorful transformation.
From a White Village to a Penguin Village
Júzcar was once a typical white village of Andalusia, but in 2011, something extraordinary happened. Sony Pictures chose the town as the setting for the premiere of the movie "The Smurfs 3D." To promote the film, the town was painted in bright blue, and dozens of penguin statues were placed throughout the streets. The makeover was intended to last only a few weeks, but the villagers loved the new look so much that they decided to keep it.
The blue buildings, the colorful penguins, and the movie memorabilia make Júzcar a unique and unforgettable place. Walking through its narrow streets and colorful squares, you can feel the magic of this village that has become a symbol of joy and happiness.
Activities and Attractions
Júzcar is not just a pretty village; it also offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors. One of the most popular is the "Smurf Walk," a hiking trail that takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Genal Valley and the Sierra de las Nieves. The walk ends in Júzcar, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest and a meal in one of the local restaurants.
For those who prefer a more relaxed activity, there is the "Smurf Museum," a small museum that tells the story of the village's transformation and the filming of the movie. You can see original props, costumes, and behind-the-scenes photos that make you feel part of the Smurf world.
If you like adventure, you can try the "Smurf Paintball," an exciting game that takes place in a specially designed paintball field. The penguins are the targets, and the goal is to paint them in as many colors as possible. You will have a lot of fun and laughter while playing this game.
Local Cuisine and Traditions
Júzcar is not only about penguins and Smurfs; it is also a town with its own identity and traditions. The local cuisine is based on the products of the land, such as olive oil, almonds, and honey. Some of the dishes you can try are "ensaladilla de aceitunas" (olive salad), "albóndigas de chivo" (goat meatballs), and "tortilla de patatas con cebolla" (potato and onion omelette).
The villagers are proud of their traditions and customs, such as the "Fiesta de la Candelaria," a religious festival that takes place in February. During the festivities, the villagers dress in traditional costumes and dance to the rhythm of the music. You can also see the "Romería de San Antonio," a pilgrimage to the hermitage of San Antonio, where the villagers offer food and drinks to the saint.
How to Get There and Accommodation
Júzcar is located in the heart of the Serranía de Ronda, a mountainous region of Málaga. The town is about 100 kilometers from the city of Málaga and can be reached by car, bus, or train. If you choose to travel by car, you can take the A-397 road from Ronda or the A-369 road from Marbella.
There are several accommodation options in Júzcar, from camping sites to luxury hotels. You can choose to stay in the town or in the surrounding area, where you can find charming rural houses and apartments. Whatever your preference, you will find a comfortable and welcoming place to rest.
Conclusion
Júzcar Málaga is a unique and special place that you must visit if you are in southern Spain. Its colorful streets, its friendly people, and its diverse attractions make it a destination that will surprise you and leave you with unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags and get ready to meet the penguins and discover the magic of El Pueblo Entero de los Pinguinos.
FAQ
- Why is Júzcar called the Penguin Village? Júzcar is called the Penguin Village because it was painted blue and decorated with penguin statues to promote the movie "The Smurfs 3D" in 2011.
- How can I get to Júzcar from Málaga? You can get to Júzcar from Málaga by car, bus, or train. The town is about 100 kilometers from Málaga and can be reached by taking the A-397 road from Ronda or the A-369 road from Marbella.
- What are the most popular activities in Júzcar? The most popular activities in Júzcar are the Smurf Walk, the Smurf Museum, and the Smurf Paintball.
- What is the local cuisine of Júzcar based on? The local cuisine of Júzcar is based on the products of the land, such as olive oil, almonds, and honey.
- Are there accommodations in Júzcar? Yes, there are several accommodation options in Júzcar, from camping sites to luxury hotels. You can choose to stay in the town or in the surrounding area.