Snail celebrations return to Riogordo

On Sunday, May 31, the beautiful quiet village of Riogordo will once again do what it does best, turn a humble traditional local recipe into one of the area’s favourite unique gatherings. The Dia del Caracol, or ‘Snail day’ is officially recognised as a ‘festival of singular tourist interest’, meaning the Malaga authorities have noted the festival as special and important for tourism because it’s completely unique to the area and part of local tradition. 

A huge feast built around 450 kilos of snails

For more than 40 years, Riogordo has marked late spring with this interesting tradition, a tasting of its famous escargots cooked in caldillo, a local broth. The flavour comes not only from the snails themselves but from the aromatic mix of herbs and spices,  anise, dried orange peel, chilli, black pepper, peppermint, bay leaf, thyme and salt. In the days leading up to the festival, residents collect up to a massive 450 kilos of snails, but to note, limited to when the weather cooperates, as they can only be gathered properly on cloudy, rainy days.

The famous broth is served with local wines, olives and other regional staples. Music fills through the streets, folk groups take over the squares and the village fills with joy.

Walking routes, museums and other areas

For visitors, the day can be more than a bowl of broth. Walking routes weave out towards the Tajo de Gomer, small museums open their doors, and the surrounding countryside invites hikers, riders and anyone curious about rural Andalucia. It’s an easy place to explore, especially for anyone looking for something beautiful and super traditional, well worth a visit inland for the stunning scenery. 

For further details about the day itself or more information on what there is to see, do and eat in Riogordo, visit the Riogordo town hall website.