Knowing Júzcar, the first Smurf town in the world

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Hidden in the Serranía de Ronda is Júzcar, a Malaga town that in 2011 became the first Smurf town in the world on the occasion of the premiere of the movie "The Smurfs in 3D". Three were the towns that could be "smurfed" but finally Júzcar emerged as the winner due to its geographical location and its mycological wealth.

SONY's decision to turn Júzcar into a Smurf village revolutionized this quiet Andalusian town. All the neighbors turned to the initiative and their economic situation improved. Before it was part of the white towns route but by painting all the facades of its buildings in blue, Júzcar acquired its own identity and its name was put on the map.

Since then, five years have passed and continues to receive followers of this endearing children's series. The town has become a tourist attraction to visit with the family where the little ones enjoy like dwarfs looking for these tiny and friendly creatures in every corner.

It is true that Júzcar is not a Smurf theme park. At the end of the day it is only a small town of less than 300 inhabitants that has tried to take advantage of being the first Smurf town in the world as best they have been. However, the visit is fun and curious. Here we go over what to see and do in this Smurf village.

Judge Smurf Town

Firstly, It is advisable to go to the tourist information booth to find out about the places of interest that Júzcar offers as well as where to eat or sleep in town. You will recognize it because it is shaped like a mushroom and is next to a small playground. There they will give you a map showing all the attractions of Júzcar, both cultural and leisure. The staff will kindly inform you and answer all your questions.

What to see and do in Júzcar during the visit?

Find the Smurfs walking the streets of Júzcar: Map in hand, the protagonists of the series have to be searched throughout the town, which appear painted on the walls of the houses. This is one of the favorite pastimes of the children who visit the Malaga municipality.

mercapurf

Mercapurf: On weekends a smurf market is organized in order to promote the artisan products of the area. There you can buy souvenirs from the town such as t-shirts, brooches, stuffed animals, soaps, etc. During these years, several businesses have been started in the town and this initiative is a way of ensuring the presence of small local merchants.

Gargamel's cave: It is a cave house, where there is a giant Gargamel figure and a large cauldron to take a souvenir photo. The ticket price is 0,50 euros.

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For children, Júzcar organizes Smurf activities on weekends such as children's workshops or shows, turning their visit into something very fun. Adults can take the opportunity to go out to collect mushrooms, since days and outings are organized to find these tasty mushrooms around the Smurf village.

Another activity that can be done in Júzcar is hiking. This town has excellent trails and beautiful landscapes to enjoy nature in the open air. The chestnut grove, the caves of the Water, the bridge of the Mill, the Devil's chasm or the torcal de los Riscos, are some of the places that we recommend you to visit.

History of Júzcar before being a Smurf village

The history of Júzcar is fascinating. The first tinplate factory in the country was installed here in the first half of the XNUMXth century, during the reign of King Felipe V., reaching more than 200 employees working.
Over time the factory would close but the many mills on the banks of the Genal would continue to operate, as evidenced by the ruins that can still be seen bordering this river in the Ronda mountains.

Where to eat and sleep in Júzcar

smurf bar

The hotel and gastronomic offer is not very varied since it is a very small town. However, Juzcareños make an effort so that all tourists leave satisfied.

As for restaurants, we recommend having tapas at the El Casarón tavern, the Torricheli bar or La Bodega del Bandolero. Regarding accommodation, there is a hotel and several rural houses where you can rest peacefully.

Latest recommendations to get to know Júzcar

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While for children getting to know this Smurf village can be quite an adventure, for adults Júzcar may not deserve more than a quick visit. Therefore, if you are not traveling as a family I advise you to take a weekend route by car through the small towns of the Ronda mountains: Ronda, Júzcar, Alpandeire, Pujerra, Cartajima, Igualeja or Genalguacil. Cozy white villages located in rugged mountains that can only be accessed through narrow roads and many curves. But it's worth it!


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