Castellar de la Frontera: Stepping Back in Time to Andalusia’s Soul

Castellar de la Frontera: Stepping Back in Time to Andalusia’s Soul

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.

Castellar Viejo and the hotel
Castellar de la Frontera: Stepping Back in Time to Andalusia’s Soul. Castellar Viejo and the hotel. Check out prices and availability over at booking.com.

Read more

Bornos: A Treasure in the Sierra de Cádiz

Bornos: A Treasure in the Sierra de Cádiz

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.

Read more

Benalup-Casas Viejas: A Hidden Gem of History, Nature, and Gastronomy

Benalup-Casas Viejas: A Hidden Gem of History, Nature, and Gastronomy

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.

Read more

Barbate: A Coastal Gem in Andalusia

Barbate: A Coastal Gem in Andalusia

Barbate, located on the Atlantic coast in the province of Cádiz, is a vibrant town with a strategic position bordered by Tarifa to the south, Vejer de la Frontera to the north, and the expansive Atlantic Ocean to the west. The town itself includes several charming coastal villages like Zahora, Caños de Meca, and Zahara de los Atunes, each adding unique appeal to this coastal gem.

Read more

Algodonales: Discovering the Water-Rich Jewel of the Sierra de Cádiz

Algodonales: Discovering the Water-Rich Jewel of the Sierra de Cádiz

Nestled at the base of the Sierra de Líjar, the village of Algodonales in Cádiz is renowned for its lush landscapes, abundant water sources, and traditional Andalusian charm. With an area of 135.5 km², this municipality enjoys an ideal location near Ronda, Seville, and Jerez, making it a crossroads of culture and a gateway to the Grazalema Natural Park.

Algodonales has become a favored destination for rural tourism and outdoor adventure, including free-flight sports like paragliding.

Additionally, it is celebrated for its skilled guitar artisans and excellent olive oil.

Read more