Want to discover authentic Andalusia? Here are the most beautiful villages in Andalusia, to grasp all the magic of this unique region!
Andalusia’s white villages have lived in man’s imagination for centuries. The white houses crushed by the sun, the flowery courses with Arab accents, the flamenco that sometimes embraces in duende ... All this participates in creating this unique atmosphere that is only found in Andalusian Spain. Without further delay, go to the discovery of the bleached alleys and mudéjar castles of the Al-Andalus era. Here are the 14 most beautiful villages in Andalusia!
1. Mojácar
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Located in the heart of Cabo de Gata, Mojácar enjoys an exceptional environment. Its beaches, which extend over 17 kilometers, are recognized worldwide for their beauty. But Mojácar is also among the famous white villages of Andalusia.
Its pretty alleys bleached with lime have a typical surviving charm of the region. Millennials of history mark them. Mojácar has seen many civilizations: Argares, Celts, Romans, Phoenicians, Visigoths, Arabs... You will see many vestiges of this past and cultural diversity.
2. El Rocío
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Among the most beautiful villages in Andalusia, El Rocío offers a moment out of time. It is that this small village is not like the others. His streets on the ground, his horse-drawn carts, his trapeous buildings, his white church... The decor seems straight out of a western. But Sergio Leone leaves his place Paco de Lucía Once the night has fallen, while the houses are animated and the flamenco escapes from the open doors.
Do not hesitate to lose yourself in the strange streets of del Rocío to impregnate you with its unique atmosphere!
3. Zahara de la Sierra
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As soon as you arrive in Zahara de la Sierra, you will take your eyes full. This white Andalusian village culminates 500 meters on the heights of Monte del Jaral. It is surmounted by a Moorish fortress, which offers an incredible view of the Sierra de Cadiz. You can reach it through the narrow white and flowery streets of the village.
As often in Andalusia, they are full of cultural details and influences, especially Muslim and Catholic. A real pleasure to discover!
4. Cazorla
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Located in the natural park of the Sierras de Cazorla, this charming village offers magnificent views of its environment, between olive groves and rocky reliefs. It is surmounted by the castle of the Yedra, a fortress with Roman and Arab origins. It now houses the Musée des Arts et Tradition populaires du Haut Guadalquivir.
In the heart of Cazorla, these are typical houses and picturesque squares that await you, in the tradition of Andalusian villages.
5. Setenil de las Bodegas
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Among all the villages of Andalusia, Setenil de las Bodegas is the only one to house troglodytic houses. Indeed, it is built on a huge rock.
The inhabitants used it to build some of their homes. They form an unusual landscape, which you can admire especially in the streets of the Caves of the Sun and Shadow.
6. Iznájar
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If Iznájar is among the most beautiful villages in Andalusia, it is above all thanks to its exceptional geographical location. Indeed, the village is located on a hill overlooking the waters of the eponymous dam.
You will have the opportunity to admire beautiful views while strolling to Iznájar. You will also find interesting monuments, such as its 8th century Arab church or castle. From the top of the mirador of the Cruz de San Pedro, the view is breathtaking.
7. Montefrío
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Located in the province of Granada, Montefrío is one of the most beautiful villages in Andalusia. Traversed by a golden rocky grove, it is formed by traditional white houses. He was a strategic point of the Reconquista and capitulated only in 1486 against the Catholic Kings.
You can enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the region. Indeed, the olive trees of the Sierra de Parapanda extend by thousands to the feet of Montefrío.
8. Segura de la Sierra
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Visit Cazorla Natural Park to discover one of the most beautiful villages in Andalusia, Segura de la Sierra. Located more than 1,200 metres above sea level, it is full of small treasures.
First of all, we notice the mudéjar castle of the Segura, which dominates the village. It offers a breathtaking view of the sierra. You will also have the opportunity to discover its parish church, its Arab baths or its arenas. But the pretty streets of Segura de la Sierra form a harmonious set that is worth a visit alone.
9. Pampaneira
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While under Arab domination the mountainous Alpujarra region specialised in silk making, Pampaneira has developed a clean culture thanks to its geographical isolation. If the village is now tourist, it has preserved a large part of its charm and authenticity.
Along its white alleys, you will find many traditional craft shops and workshops. Not to be missed if you want to discover the most beautiful villages in Andalusia!
10. Olvera
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The imposing silhouettes of his church and castle give Olvera a unique atmosphere. These two monuments dominate the village, which is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in Andalusia.
By strolling through its steep white streets, you will have the opportunity to see the typical Andalusian patios. A nice moment of escape!
11. Zuheros
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It is a moment of poetry that awaits you in Zuheros, a village located in the province of Cordoba. The whitewashed streets offer beautiful views of the surrounding area. Zuheros is located in the heart of a natural park. The hills sprinkled with olive trees and canyons are on the horizon.
The small squares of the village are inhabited by a perfume of flowers and by a gentle agitation. In balance on a rocky piton, you will find a church and the still vibrant ruins of an Arab castle.
12. Baños de la Encina
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Baños de la Encina is first of all visiting for its castle, the castle of Burgalimar or Burch Al-Hamma. It is an omeyade fortress built in the 10th century, which is among the best preserved Arab constructions of all Andalusia. Gigantesque, it has a large wall, fifteen towers, foundations of old buildings, a cemetery, etc.
Visiting this real architectural treasure is a journey in time. An opportunity to touch the past splendor of Al-Andalus!
13. Grazalema
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White houses, paved alleys, centuries-old religious buildings, a soft and vibrant atmosphere... No doubt, you're in Andalusia! This small white village is perched at more than 800 metres above sea level. All around, therefore, are mountain landscapes that spread.
You are here in the heart of the Natural Park of the Sierra de Grazalema. Many hikes give you the opportunity to discover the surrounding natural heritage: spectacular panoramas, biodiversity, pastoral traditions, etc. An ideal place to reconcile lovers of history and nature!
14. Bolonia
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Juanamari Gonzalez
Bolonia is a bit apart in this top of the most beautiful villages in Andalusia. Its interest lies in its exceptional environment: the Parc Nature del Estrecho. Its beach, a magnificent four-kilometre sandbank, ends with a dune that covers a pine forest.
Bolonia also houses the ruins of Baelo Claudia. This ancient city is an extraordinaryly well preserved witness of Roman urbanism. The fact that she is the feet in the water does not ruin anything... There you will find some curiosities, like a temple dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis. Bolonia is at the gates of Africa! Faced with the sea, you can see Morocco in clear weather.
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