Southern Spain is known for its charming Pueblos Blancos, “white villages,” or “white cities.” Often surrounded by mountains or forests or set atop dramatic hills, these hamlets are not only scenic but also full of unique history, culture, art, and gastronomy. Though Spain’s official Pueblos Blancos route highlights 19 popular and picturesque villages, there are over 30 options, and this guide helps you choose the right village for you, your crew, and your interests.
Spain’s White villages are known for hilltop locations and views Andalusia , Spain’s southern region, is synonymous with Pueblos Blancos , the country’s famed white villages. During the Roman era, these towns began painting some of their buildings white, a practical solution to stave off the region’s heat, as white reflects light. But it wasn’t until the 14th century, when the plague hit the area, that residents painted all the buildings’ exteriors and interiors white, believing it would ward off disease. Today, these villages are a huge attraction for travelers worldwide, offering unique history and geology, plus vistas across Andalusia’s mountain ranges and seaside. Many of these towns feature Roman, Visigoth, and Berber influences and relics of the past, such as dramatic rock formations, cave-like homes, and stone paintings. The official Pueblos Blancos route twists through 19 of these charming villages, which you can visit on an epic road trip. But the entire province is home to nearly double that number, so choosing the right spot can be tricky. Famous options include Ronda and Arcos de La Frontera , but you’ll find a few less-visited towns on our list, such as Frigiliana and Olvera . Read on to discover kimkim’s picks for the top white villages in Andalusia and their key differences, what you need to know to choose the best option for you, and suggested road trip routes. The Most Famous White Cities & Villages If you’d like to visit the towns and cities that get the most attention, set your sights on the most popular and famous options. Sure, they’ll definitely be busier and more crowded, but they’re favorites for a reason. From Ronda’s breathtaking scenery to Setenil de las Bodega’s curious streets, you’ll get a proper history and cultural lesson by visiting these top villages. Ronda Puente Nuevo in Ronda at sunset Though it’s actually a city, Ronda may very well be Spain’s most famous and popular white “village.” You might feel hesitant to visit such a hot spot, but don’t let the crowds stop you from enjoying this city, set atop a dramatic cliff and gorge with sprawling views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges. Ronda is known for its unique setting on top of a long cliffside where the Guadalevín River snakes its way through El Tajo Gorge , cutting the town into two parts. The city also has an exciting history with Roman, Berber, and Catholic influences. However, Ronda was initially a refuge for Muslims fleeing the more significant towns after the Spanish Inquisition in 1492. During the 19th century, the city became known for its bandits, prompting artists like Washington Irving and Richard Ford to reflect the region’s fascinating landscape with risky travel. This appealed to romantics, and the rest is history, as Ronda became a place of allure despite its danger. Soon women were making the journey with the help of guards, plus famous creatives like Orson Welles and Hemmingway declared Ronda a dream city. Ronda is a top pick because you can easily spend an entire day here—or, better yet, spend the night. Some of the best boutique hotels in Ronda sit right along the gorge, meaning you can enjoy the town and scenery even after the tourist buses leave. And some of the best things to do in Ronda include walking down to the many viewpoints of the El Tajo Gorge and visiting all three of the bridges: Puente Nuevo , Puente Viejo , and Puente Romano . Strolling along the cliffs, you’ll pass sites like the Alameda del Tajo Park , the Mirador del Ronda , and the Bullring of the Royal Cavalry of Ronda . How to Get There: Ronda is easily accessible by car from many Andalusian cities, including Seville, Málaga, and Cádiz. From Seville , the journey by car takes a little under two hours if traveling via the A-375 and A-374 highways. Head south or east of the city via SE-40 or A-4, respectively, and connect to A-375. You’ll eventually transition to A-374, which takes you straight to Ronda. From Málaga , plan for 1.5 hours by heading northwest via A-357 and connecting to A-364 near the turnoff for the Caminito del Rey gorge hiking trail. From Cádiz , just a little over 1.5 hours will take you northeast along E-5 through Jerez de la Frontera (an excellent stopping point) and then east via A-384 and A-374. Where to Park: If you’re staying in Ronda overnight, look for accommodation with parking included or plan to pay for parking at one of the town’s lots or garages. The streets are narrow (though wider than most white villages), so you might prefer to park at the edge of town and walk in. If starting from the north of Ronda, try the parking garage Parking Publico El Fuerte or Parking Martínez Astein if coming from the east. It’s a bit trickier in the southern part of the city, as that’s the most historic area. Instead, we recommended the two garages mentioned or parking in the underground lot in the city center at Plaza Del Socorro . What to Do/See: An overnight stay is the best idea for Ronda, as there are plenty of attractions and experiences to enjoy, including: Cross the three bridges and visit the 18th-century Fuente de los Ocho Caños with its eight significant spouts Learn about the 19th century Romantic travelers at the Mirador de los Viajeros Románticos Walk down the gorge day and night to enjoy views of Puente Nuevo Sip local wine and enjoy regional tapas at Tabanco Los Arcos Discover local history at one of the museums, including the Mondragon Palace , Museo Lara , or La Casa del Rey Moro Savor the views from Paseo De Los Ingleses , Alameda del Tajo Park, and the Mirador del Ronda Sip drinks from the rooftop bar at Hotel Catalonia , which overlooks the Bullring of the Royal Cavalry of Ronda Visit one of the churches, such as the mosque-turned-cathedral Iglesia de Santa María la Mayo or the prominent Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Socorro. How Long to Stay: Ronda makes an excellent hub if you want to explore more than one white village. One night in Ronda is enough to enjoy the town, but extend your stay to two or three nights to take day trips to nearby villages, hike the famous Caminito del Rey, or visit Grazalema de Sierra Natural Park . Perfect For: Ronda can appeal to any traveler, including those with younger kids. The views, history, shops, and food will keep you busy, so it’s best for overnight stays. Pairs Well With: Setenil del las Bodegas, Olvera, Zahara de la Sierra, Grazalema Let kimkim help you organize your visit to Ronda . Setenil de las Bodegas The unique rock formations in Setenil Another famous white village in Andalusia is Setenil de las Bodegas , thanks to its unique geology. A portion of the town sits under rocky overhangs, with many buildings and homes built right into dramatic boulders, cliffs, and caves. These rocks come from the village’s location in the Rio Trejo Gorge and provide temperature control, naturally keeping homes cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The town’s residents live—quite literally—under rocks, surprising visitors with charming facades that line the caves. As you stroll along the streets, you can imagine what it’s like to open your window to a giant boulder or keep cool during the summer. The town is relatively small, so it’s best for a day trip. Still, if you’re traveling during festive Spanish holidays, including Carnival, Easter, or the town’s Feria in August, you’ll find parades and plenty of festivities to enjoy. Setenil de las Bodegas has a long history dating before the Roman invasion, though its most influential occupation was the Moors, as the town’s castle is from the 12th century. If you’re a fan of local products, you can taste some of the region’s best meats and produce in the town center, including chorizo sausage and pasteles (pastries). How to Get There: Setenil de las Bodegas is sandwiched between two other white villages, Ronda and Olvera . If you’re staying in Ronda, it’s a 30-minute scenic drive north, but you can also get there from bigger cities, including Seville, Málaga, and Cádiz. From Seville , head south and east via A-376/75 and A-384 for about one hour and 45 minutes. From Málaga , the journey takes just under 1.5 hours and follows A-357 west out of the city, turning north at highway A-357 and west again at A-367. From Cádiz , plan for a little over 1.5 hours, following E-5 out of the city and past Jerez de la Frontera, then turning northeast via A-384. Where to Park: Because the streets are pretty narrow and compact, we recommend parking at one of the lots on the edge of town and strolling into the city. This is a famous village, so you’ll find free spots along the twisting streets leading into town (CA-4223 being the largest). There’s also free designated parking on Calle Jaboneria or, to play it completely safe, a lot next to the town’s football stadium. What to Do/See: Setenil de las Bodegas is the perfect white village for lunch and a leisurely walk. The highlights of the town include: Strolling through the rock-covered streets and taking lots of photos Enjoying lunch or a snack at one of the cafés lining the famous Calle de las Cuevas Visiting the Arab Castle , built in the 12th century during the Almohad Caliphate occupation Stopping to admire a church or two, such as the Our Lady of the Incarnation (a mosque turned cathedral) Discovering all the incredible viewpoints in the town, including the Mirador del Carmen , or from atop the castle tower How Long to Stay: If you’re visiting Setenil de las Bodegas on a day trip, a few hours to stroll around the village and eat lunch is all you need. But if you happen to be in the area during the Carnival, Easter, or Feria festivities, you might want to stay a little longer and arrive earlier in the day. These holidays feature parades and activities like horseback riding, Flamenco performances, street food, and lots of music and dancing. Perfect For: Couples, friend groups, and solo travelers will enjoy Setenil de las Bodegas for a day trip or a quick stop for lunch. Because there’s not a lot of entertainment outside of holidays, families might want to choose a different white village—though kids certainly like seeing the rocks and cave houses! Pairs Well With: Ronda, Olvera, Zahara de la Sierra Arcos de La Frontera The dramatic landscape of Arcos de la Frontera One look at Arcos de la Frontera , and you’ll know why it’s one of the best white villages to visit in Spain. Its four main monuments sit on separate hills atop sandstone cliffs that drop down into the Guadalete River . The scenery is remarkable, and you can enjoy it from a walkway along the top of the cliffs. Because this is such a narrow area, you’ll get 360-degree views across the surrounding valleys, featuring the twisting Guadalete River, Arcos Reservoir , and mountain ranges. The town’s history is just as fascinating as the scenery, which includes influences from prehistoric times to the Modern Era. The village’s Castillo de Arcos de la Frontera was once a military fortress but now features renovations from the 14th and 15th centuries. You can admire the original archway, four towers, a cistern, and viewpoints with unmatched vistas of the agricultural valley and Guadalete River. Iglesia de San Pedro is another landmark dominating the town’s cliffside skyline. The church is an exceptional example of late-Gothic religious architecture from Andalusia, built in the 16th and 17th centuries. Though originally Gothic, you’ll also notice some Renaissance and Baroque elements, such as its oldest altarpiece in the Cádiz province. How to Get There: Arcos de la Frontera is just 40 minutes from Cádiz and not too far from Seville, but if you’re coming from Málaga, we suggest pairing a visit with an overnight stay in a nearby town or city. Cádiz is a great option, but so is Ronda. From Cádiz , head northeast along E-5 and A-382, passing by Jerez de la Frontera. From Seville , you’ll follow the E-5 highway south for a little over an hour, eventually transitioning to a local road (SE-5207) in the town of Las Cabezas de San Juan. From Málaga , the journey takes about 2.5 hours, so you might want to make your hub in Ronda or use Arcos de la Frontera as a stopping point on your way to Cádiz or Seville. You’ll take A-357 and A-367 northwest, switching west on A-384. As you’ll pass by a few other white villages, a road trip from Málaga to Cádiz is an excellent opportunity to tour the Pueblos Blancos! Where to Park: You’ll want to park your car in one of the lots near Calle Muñoz Vázquez . There’s plenty of parking there, and it’s easy to get your vehicle in and out, unlike the city’s narrow streets. What to Do/See: There are quite a few sites in Arcos de la Frontera, but the town’s highlights are undoubtedly the viewpoints. Some activities not to miss include: Strolling to the Old Town via Calle Paseo de Boliches and enjoying the views Admiring the facade of Palacio Del Conde Del Aguila Walking through the charming and very narrow Calle Nuevo to the Ayuntamiento de Arcos de la Frontera Visiting the castle and savoring the views from its observation deck Popping into the Iglesia de San Pedro Passing through the charming Bésame en este Arco to reach the 360-degree views at Mirador de Abades Walking under the Puerta de Matrera and admiring the 18th-century Casa Palacio García de Veas Strolling along charming streets, such as Calle Mozárabes , Calle Mudéjares , and Calle Sefardíes. Hiking out to the reservoir and enjoying the views via Sendero Tajo de Arcos How Long to Stay: Though this is one of the bigger white villages in Andalusia, it’s still relatively compact, so you only need a few hours to see it all. Again, this is a great spot to include on a road trip between Cádiz and Málaga or while staying in Ronda. And because it’s a bigger town, you’ll find many cafés, bars, and restaurants to enjoy a meal. Perfect For: A road trip between Cádiz and Málaga could easily include stops at the Caminito del Rey hiking area, Ronda, Olvera, Zahara de la Sierra, and, of course, Arcos de la Frontera. Otherwise, the town is perfect for history buffs or as a standalone adventure if you can only pick one or two white villages to visit. Pairs Well With: Ronda, Olvera, Zahara de la Sierra, Grazalema, Setenil de las Bodegas The Best White Villages for Hiking Because you’ll find many of these towns nestled in the hills and mountains, there are a few excellent options for hiking and trekking. Two of our top picks for white villages in Andalusia are right in Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park and just outside Ronda, so you can enjoy hiking trails ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging treks. Grazalema The forests and peaks surrounding Grazalema You’ll find Grazalema at about 2,600 feet (800 m) in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, surrounded by the foothills of the Sierra del Pinar mountains and overlooking a scenic valley. The town has gone through quite a few transitions over the centuries. It was once an essential Roman village, possibly called Lacidulerium, then under Arab rule as Raisa lami Suli, changing to Zagrazalema under Christian control. One thing Grazalema had in common throughout the different occupations was its economy centered around forestry, agriculture, and textiles. The views alone are worth a trip to Grazalema, but hiking is another appeal. If you’re interested in something easy and short, head up to the Mirador Del Santo viewpoint and visit the ruins of Ermita del Calvario . For a slightly more challenging route, follow the Camino de los Charcones and enjoy views from El Puerto del Boyar . Another popular trail is the Pinsapar , a 10-mile (16-km) hike that takes about six hours to complete and leads through a dense forest of pine trees. The trail has an elevation gain of 2,625 feet (800 m) and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. How to Get There: If you’re based in Ronda, driving to Grazalema through the park is easy. Just head west out of Ronda via A-374 and connect to A-372 once in the park, which takes about 45 minutes. You can also reach this white village from Seville, Málaga, and Cádiz. From Seville , head south and east via A-376/5 and A-384/74 for about one hour and 45 minutes. From Málaga , plan for 2 hours by heading northwest via A-357 and connecting to A-367 right to Ronda. From there, you’ll drive through the park via A-374 and A-372. From Cádiz , the 1.5-hour drive is particularly scenic, as you’ll take E-5 past Jerez de la Frontera, connecting to A-382 to Arcos de la Frontera, another white village worth a stop. Then you’ll drive right through the park via A-372. Where to Park: In Grazalema, you’ll find plenty of free and public parking on A-372, either at the start of the town from the east or as the road curves around the El Tajo viewpoint. What to Do/See: As a village in the national park, the appeals are the views and hiking trails. Some highlights in Grazalema include: El Tajo viewpoint Walking up to the Mirador Del Santo viewpoint and the ruins of Ermita del Calvario Visiting the colorful Iglesia de San José Checking out the town’s most famous facade at Casa de los Cactus Sipping coffee at Grazalema’s main square, Plaza de España Enjoying two other viewpoints, Mirador Los Peñascos Grazalema and Mirador de Los Asomaderos Popping into one of the artisan shops or art galleries. How Long to Stay: You can easily make an entire day of visiting Grazalema if you decide to focus your time on hiking. Because of parking and summer crowds, we recommend starting in Grazalema in the morning to enjoy a hike during cooler hours. To make the trip easier, plan to stay in the town of Ronda or at one of the boutique hotels outside Ronda. Perfect For: Choose this white village if you’re looking for adventure! Grazalema is ideal for hiking, even for those without experience, as you’ll find plenty of more accessible options. Families might prefer Grazalema for its more accessible, kid-friendly walking and hiking options. Pairs Well With: Zahara de la Sierra, El Bosque, Ronda Let kimkim help plan your trip to Grazalema and Zahara de la Sierra (a perfect pair). El Bosque El Bosque, near Benamahoma, tucked into the mountains El Bosque is a small village known for its natural beauty, charming architecture, and vibrant local culture. Though small, the town has a rich history that dates back to the Roman Empire. During the Roman period, the area had valuable minerals, including silver and lead, and was a prosperous center of mining and commerce. In the following centuries, the village passed through the hands of various civilizations, including the Visigoths and the Moors, who left their mark on the local architecture and culture. During the Reconquista, the Christians took control of the region, and the village became part of the Kingdom of Castile. In the 16th century, the village was granted the title of “villa” (town) by King Philip II, and its prosperity continued to grow throughout the following centuries. Today, El Bosque is a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers who explore its scenic landscapes and traditional Andalusian culture, which is why it’s a perfect spot for trekking. Some hiking options in and near El Bosque include: El Bosque to Benaocaz (easy). Though leisurely, this route takes about two or three hours to complete, as you’ll hike about 5.6 miles (9 km) roundtrip. You’ll start in El Bosque and follow a gently rolling path through the countryside to the nearby town of Benaocaz . Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of the surrounding hills and forests and the traditional Andalusian architecture of the villages you pass. El Bosque to La Mojonera (moderate). For a longer hike, plan for at least four hours, trekking about 8 miles (13 km) roundtrip. From El Bosque, you’ll follow a scenic trail through the hills to the nearby village of La Mojonera , passing through forests and viewpoints offering vistas into the surrounding hills. El Bosque to El Pedroso (difficult). Considered one of the more challenging hikes in the area, this 12.4-mile (20-km) trek takes about six or seven hours to complete roundtrip. The trail starts in El Bosque and follows a steep path through the hills to the nearby village of El Pedroso . Enjoy views of the surrounding forests and valleys, but prepare for an elevation gain of nearly 4,000 feet (1,200 m). How to Get There: It’s best to visit El Bosque if you’ve made your hub in Ronda. You’ll leave the city via A-374, then connect to A-372 and drive through Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. Since you’ll pass through Grazalema, visiting both villages is easy. Plus, the drive is exceptionally scenic and offers views of the beautiful Andalusian countryside. You can also reach this white village from Seville, Málaga, and Cádiz. From Seville , you’ll head south on A-375, then switch to A-373 to reach El Bosque. The drive takes about one hour and 15 minutes. From Málaga , plan for a little over two hours by heading northwest via A-357 and connecting to A-384, then A-373. If you’re taking this route, adding a few other white villages to the mix, including Ronda, Grazalema, and/or Zahara de la Sierra, is easy. From Cádiz , just one hour gets you to El Bosque via the E-5, A-383, and A-372 roadways. You’ll pass right through Arcos de la Frontera, another great white village worth a stop. Where to Park: You can find street parking in the village center or a public parking lot just outside the town, which is better if you have a larger vehicle. What to Do/See: El Bosque is a tiny village, mostly visited for its natural beauty and hiking opportunities. Still, aside from the hikes suggested above, there are a few other things to do in the village and area. Visit the church of Nuestra Senora de la Merced Take a stroll through the botanical gardens Enjoy a traditional Andalusian meal at a local restaurant Visit the nearby town of Ubrique , famous for its leather industry Visit the castle and church in the nearby village of Benaocaz (which you can get to by following the easy hike option). How Long to Stay: A few hours in El Bosque is sufficient to see the main sites and enjoy a hike, but add a bit more time if you’d like to eat lunch in the village or combine the road trip with Grazalema or another town. Perfect For: Hikers and nature lovers will enjoy time in El Bosque the most, as there’s not much to do outside of experiencing its natural environment. Pairs Well With: Grazalema, Zahara de la Sierra, Ronda Plan your trip to Spain Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip. Get Started The Best Off-the-Beaten-Path White Villages Andalusia’s White Villages are naturally famous, as the scenery, architecture, and history make visiting them a unique experience. But some options see fewer tourists than others, which can feel more authentic. These off-the-beaten-path villages are where residents meet with neighbors over coffee, kids play in the streets, and annual fiestas take place. If this is more your scene, we recommend the following towns. Zahara de la Sierra The beauty of Zahara de la Sierra and its hilltop castle Zahara de la Sierra could easily be one of the most scenic white villages, as it sits at the base of its castle and overlooks the Zahara-El Gastor Reservoir . Once a Moorish outpost, the Arabs ruled Zahara de la Sierra until the early 15th century. You can still visit the remains of its Moorish castle, the town’s biggest highlight, but it’s also nice to wander the streets, check out the viewpoints, and eat lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the reservoir. How to Get There: If you’re based in Ronda, driving around the reservoir to Zahara de la Sierra is easiest. Just head west out of Ronda via A-374 and connect to A-2300 to follow the southwestern shores of the lake. If you’d like to make a quick stop, you’ll pass a nice walking area with exceptional views at Cola del Embalse de Zahara . After about 40 minutes, you’ll reach the village. You can also reach this white village from Seville, Málaga, and Cádiz. From Seville , head south and east via A-376/5 and A-384 for about 1.5 hours. From Málaga , plan for 2 hours by heading northwest via A-357 and connecting to A-384. If you’re taking this route, adding a few other white villages to the mix, including Olvera and/or Ronda, is super easy. From Cádiz , the 1.5-hour drive is particularly scenic, as you’ll take E-5 past Jerez de la Frontera and connect to A-382 and A-384. You’ll pass by Arcos de la Frontera, another white village worth a stop. Where to Park: In Zahara de la Sierra, the main road into town, CA-9104, is lined with free public parking spots overlooking the reservoir. What to Do/See: Besides strolling through the village and enjoying a meal, the highlight in Zahara de la Sierra is certainly the viewpoints. Some of the best include: Puerta de la Villa Viewpoint Zahara de la Sierra Muralla Urbana de Zahara de la Sierra Vistas Castillo de Zahara Mirador Zahara de la Sierra How Long to Stay: You only need about one or two hours in Zahara de la Sierra to enjoy the views, have lunch, and relax at the reservoir. To make the trip easier, plan to stay in the town of Ronda or at one of the boutique hotels outside Ronda . Perfect For: Zahara has some options for water sports at the reservoir during the summer months, but other than that, this village is best for those who enjoy nature, scenery, and a relaxed, quiet vibe. Pairs Well With: Grazalema, Olvera, Ronda Frigiliana The charming streets of Frigiliana Frigiliana is a beautiful village in the hills above Nerja , offering incredible views and a few hiking trails. Start with wandering the charming streets of the Old Town , stopping at art galleries and artisan shops, and admiring the historic architecture and viewpoints (you’ll find some good ones along Calle Santo Cristo and Calle Real ). Frigiliana’s two biggest draws are its 16th-century Molasses Factory and the remains of an Arab castle. There are a few routes up to the archeological ruins, with plenty of signage leading the way. The views are stunning, and Castillo Lízar
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