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Competa is situated 638 meters above sea level, 18 km from the coast and 49 km to the east of Malaga , in the heart of the Axarquia, Costa del Sol .  It takes approximately one hour to reach the village from Malaga Airport along the coastal motorway and then inland via the well maintained mountain road.

The white village of Competa shines out against a backdrop of rich landscape rising to the great height of the Tejeda and Almijara mountain ranges (peaking at La Maroma at 2,080 metres) and stretches out to the Mediterranean over a hilly countryside covered with grapevines that yield its famous wine, and with olive, almond and citrus groves and avocado plantations.

Competa is surrounded by the beautiful Sierra Almijara Parque Natural, a wildlife reserve where you can walk or ride in peace and tranquillity with perhaps the occasional glimpse of mountain goats and eagles.
Apart from the wonderful nature that surrounds Competa, you will be impressed by the village itself.

The architectural splendour of the main square dominated by the magnificent sixteenth century church with its gold domed tower can be appreciated whilst enjoying some refreshment in one of the bars, and the streets of whitewashed houses and unexpected plazas are just waiting to be discovered.  The warmth of the local Spanish community ensures a constant welcome to visitors and foreign residents alike.

The population is approximately four thousand, and includes many northern Europeans who have settled in this delightful area, making the most of the relaxed lifestyle and the healthy environment.  There are lots of visitors throughout the year for the various fiestas and activities and the general air is one of gentle bustle. 

There is a lot to do in the area: there are many good bars and restaurants and regular music events throughout the year; the townhall provides free Spanish language classes, there are various evening classes including keep fit and a local gym for the more energetic amongst us; there is a newly built swimming pool and sports centre; nursery, primary and secondary schools enable foreign children of all ages to integrate with their new Spanish friends.

The region has an average of 320 days of sunshine a year, even in the winter it can resemble some of the best summer days that can be found in northern Europe .  July and August can be hot, but being 650 meters above sea level, it is often cooled by mountain breezes. The annual rainfall here is low.