Have you ever visited a place that feels like a portal to another world? That’s exactly what I experienced in Castellar de la Frontera, a tiny village perched atop a rocky hill in Los Alcornocales Natural Park. It’s a place where history whispers through ancient walls, where the air is fragrant with wild herbs, and where every sunset feels like a gift from the universe.
Staying at the Hotel Castillo de Castellar, a converted medieval fortress, was the cherry on top of this extraordinary journey. Here’s a glimpse into my unforgettable adventure in this hidden treasure of southern Spain.
Bornos is a small town tucked away in the Sierra de Cádiz. It’s easy to reach on the A-382 road (kilometer 44) between Jerez de la Frontera and Ronda. 5 km away you’ll find El Coto de Bornos, a picturesque hamlet originally developed from a colonial estate.
Getting to Bornos: Why a Car is Your Best Bet
Whilst Bornos is accessible from nearby cities and airports, its charm lies in being off the beaten path. Hiring a car is highly recommended to explore the area comfortably, as Bornos isn’t directly on a train line, and the nearest major transport hubs are a bit of a drive away. With a car, you’ll have the flexibility to take in the stunning scenery and visit nearby attractions.
Cádiz is the second-most populous city in the Bay of Cádiz and one of the most economically vibrant, driven largely by its shipbuilding industry, port activity, and a bustling free-trade zone. Its economy also relies heavily on tourism, which is boosted by stunning beaches, traditional festivities, and a remarkable historical heritage.
Known as the oldest city in Western Europe, Cádiz boasts an impressive lineage with archaeological finds dating back over 3,000 years to the Tartessians and Phoenicians. Romans and Visigoths also left their mark on the city, and from 711 AD, it was under Muslim rule. Located 124 km from Seville, Cádiz sits along the Guadalete River estuary within the Bay of Cádiz Natural Park, with a mild Mediterranean-Atlantic climate.
Benalup-Casas Viejas, a town rich in history and natural beauty, lies just over 60 km from Cádiz in Andalusia. With its origins linked to ancient Arabic settlements, this town showcases remnants of the past, from prehistoric cave art at sites like Tajo de las Figuras to the prominent Torre de La Morita. Known for its agricultural traditions, Benalup is also celebrated for its flavorful local cuisine.
Visitors can savor traditional dishes like spicy snails, asparagus soup, and game meats, along with artisanal sweets such as cortadillos and pestiños. Whether exploring the historic sites, hiking the lush landscapes of Parque Natural de los Alcornocales, or enjoying local festivals, Benalup-Casas Viejas offers a genuine taste of Andalusian culture and heritage.
