Craft Beer Near Costa Ballena: 12 Taps, 12 Different Experiences
Just a short drive from Costa Ballena, in the town of Rota, you’ll find Malandar Brewing, a small independent microbrewery and taproom that has become a reference point for craft beer in the area. Born in 2016 from the vision of brewer Pablo Mora, Malandar started life as a nomadic brand. In 2022, it settled into its own brewery space in Rota, now run by Pablo and Laia as a small, family-style project. Their focus is clear: 100% independent, 100% craft, with beers brewed on site and a constant willingness to experiment with new styles while still respecting classic brewing traditions.
The Malandar taproom offers 12 taps – 12 different experiences, moving from light, smooth lagers to more aromatic and bitter IPAs, before finishing with fuller, darker beers like stouts or porters. The space itself has a relaxed, slightly industrial feel, designed more for conversation and tasting than for formality. There is no kitchen, but guests are welcome to bring their own food or order in, which makes the experience flexible and informal.
Malandar Brewing also offers guided tasting tours lasting around two hours that walk through the brewing process from grain to can. The visit includes tastings of six or more beer styles, tips on how to taste and pair them with food, and even how to pour properly from the tap.
Reviews consistently point to the quality of the beer, with many guests describing it as among the best craft beer they’ve tried in Spain and noting the balance between variety and consistency across the range. The Malandar taproom is described as cosy and friendly, with small details like board games, easy parking, and dogs being welcome, all adding to its relaxed, community feel. Many visitors also mention the personal attention, thoughtful explanations of the beers, and the chance to join informal tastings or gain insight into the brewing process.
If you are staying in Costa Ballena and looking to discover the local craft beer scene, Malandar Brewing is an easy and very rewarding place to visit.
