Organic produce and farmer’s markets on the Costa del Sol

Sep 17, 2021 Lifestyle

More and more people around the world are focusing on ethical and health-conscious food products that can include a whole range of specialisations, from organic and free-range to vegetarian, vegan and even raw foods. The Costa del Sol has adapted to these new trends, which additionally cater to specific dietary needs and intolerances.

 

Many supermarket chains stock certain products within these categories and even have sections dedicated to them, but if you really want to move away from mass-produced foods it might be worthwhile visiting a traditional Spanish market, which unlike those in Northern Europe are covered, located in a dedicated building and are open most days.

 

They are increasingly sophisticated, and besides quality products such as the finest tuna, mushrooms, truffles and more, also offer good, honest produce straight from the farm as well as specialist vendors of organically produced fruit, vegetables, honey, cheese and free-range eggs, to name but a few.

 

Markets and ‘mercados’

It’s an experience you will savour, all the more because it is lively in a friendly way, and you’ll get to know the vendors, most of whom are happy to offer samples. And when you’re done, why not stop for a tipple or a snack before heading home? The traditional mercado municipal is a perfect antidote to soulless supermarket shopping and much healthier to boot.

 

In addition, there are also weekly green markets that specialise in organic products. Usually manned by the producers themselves, the stalls feature everything from honey, sweets and fruit to cheese, nuts, pulses, vegetables, eggs, olive oil, wine and even meat products, including Spain’s famous jamón.

 

The Guadalhorce valley is the centre of this activity, and also known as the Orchard of Málaga. It is centred upon country towns such as Alhaurín el Grande, situated about 20 minutes inland from Higuerón West, though there are also weekly green markets in Elviria, Calahonda, Fuengirola, Torremolinos and Marbella.

 

The main green and ecological markets on the Costa del Sol are:

 

First weekend of the month

·       Saturday – Elviria

·       Sunday – Cártama

Second weekend of the month

·       Saturday – Málaga

·       Sunday – Mijas

Third weekend of the month

·       Saturday – Nueva Andalucía, Marbella

·       Sunday - Benalmádena

Fourth weekend of the month

·       Saturday – Málaga

·       Last Sunday of the month – La Cala de Mijas