Lentegí

This pretty town with narrow, steep streets is located in the southern foothills of the Sierra de Almijara. Lentejí is surrounded by a steep and mountainous landscape, with areas of pine forests, herbs and springs. This is a great place for hiking and other outdoor activities. From the Cortijada de Aguas Blanquillas and the Cortijada Guardajama you can enjoy some splendid views. In Guardajama there is a fresh water spring that supplies the entire surrounding valley. The Sequero is a well-equipped playground.

There only a few references regarding the origins of Lentejí, but we do know that the Phoenicians and Romans settled here. However, its first inhabitants date back to long before that time, judging by the remains found in the archaeological site Los Caserones which dates back to the Neolithic period. During the Arab period the town was very prosperous until the Reconquista in the late 15^th century. After the rebellion of the Moors in the 16^th and their subsequent expulsion, the population of the town dropped significantly. During the reign of Philip II Christians from other parts of the kingdom were moved here.

The local cuisine is based on a mix of subtropical crops grown in the area as well as traditional products. The best local is the loquat, but avocados and cherimoyas are also grown together with other fruits and vegetables on a smaller scale. Almonds and olives are grown here and excellent olive oil is produced.