In terms of a restaurant with a view, they don’t come better than the Venta el Refugio. Situated almost at the summit of the Pico de Reales and within the Sierra Bermeja national park, this old hiking refuge, now converted into a rustic restaurant offers stunning views; from La Conca and Marbella to the East to Gibraltar and Africa in front and to the West.

One of the most popular hiking routes in the area, known as the Paseo de Los Pinsapos, passes right in front of the Venta’s door, making it a perfect spot for some warm food or drink after a good hike. Many people however simply choose to visit the Venta by vehicle, it is accessible by car, although the final stretch of the road from the Las Peñas Blancas crossing is not for the faint of heart!

The restaurant itself has no electricity, so the interior is warmed by a log fire in the winter and the lighting from candles, giving it a timeless, warm and cosy rural feel. The ever changing menu, composed of traditional, hearty and healthy rural food, sourced mainly from the surrounding area is cooked over wood ovens and is always delicious and perfect for the unique environment and even better washed down with some good red wine in from short, heavy glasses.

Follow Venta El Refugio on their Facebook page or find directions and details below.