Route of the White Villages

A series of White Villages, or 'Pueblos Blancos', is situated in the north east of Cádiz Province. The outer walls of all the houses in each village are whitewashed to reflect back the fierce heat of the summer sun. These villages, which look like dazzling jewels on the hillside when seen from a distance, are typically characterised by narrow streets, steep slopes, small plazas, inner patios and decorative flower boxes.

Espera
Hillside village which has conserved much of its past. Rural tourism is now a big contributor to its economy. Chief monuments include Church of Santa María de Gracia and the moorish Fatetar Castle.
Population: approx. 4,000
Altitude: 235 metres

Bornos
Situated on the edge of its own lake. Streets and gardens of typical Andalucian style. Worth visiting: Fontanar Castle.
Population: approx. 8,000
Altitude: 182 metres

Villamartín
Town of prehistoric origins. Authentically Andalucian with its flower-filled patios and wide 'plazas', or squares. Worth visiting: Matrera Castle.
Population: approx. 12,000
Altitude: 175 metres

Puerto Serrano
Once a Roman settlement. The Moors brought their oil making tradition to this town and left behind some important constructions. Worth visiting: El Castellar wall.
Population: approx. 6,700
Altitude: 160 metres

Algodonales
Town dating back to Neolithic times. Must have been of some importance during Roman occupation, judging by the remains found. Right on the edge of Grazalema National Park.
Population: approx. 5,700
Altitude: 368 metres

Zahara de la Sierra
Remains of its old town wall survive. Was once surrounded by two walls, and indeed its castle was surrounded by three! About the castle, legends abound.
Population: approx. 1,500
Altitude: 511 metres

El Gastor
Beautiful scenery, pure air. Worth visiting: the Dolmen del Gigante (Dolmen of the Giant) and the well preserved 18th century church.
Population: approx. 2,000
Altitude: 520 metres

Olvera
Best known for its church (built between 1822 and 1843 on top of a gothic church) and a moorish castle of the 12th century. Was once surrounded by a wall, also moorish. Has a museum.
Population: approx. 9,000
Altitude: 643 metres

Setenil
Its origens are shrouded in mystery. There are caves and there was a Roman settlement nearby. Definitely occupied in medieval times. Though the town itself has monuments including a castle, it merits a visit for its beauty alone.
Population: approx. 3,500
Altitude: 640 metres

Alcalá del Valle
Its foundation dates back to when the Moors surrendered Setenil (see above). The locals asked the Catholics for permission to relocate. They converted to Christianity and built a church.
Population: approx. 5,000
Altitude: 697 metres

Torre Alháquime
Small village of typical, peaceful Andalucian streets. An ideal place to relax.
Population: approx. 1,000
Altitude: 500 metres

Grazalema Moorish origins. Old city wall remains in part. Known for being the wettest place in Spain! Rainfall is not common, but it's heavy when it comes. Population: approx. 2,500 Altitude: 823 metres

Grazalema, wettest place in Spain

Villaluenga del Rosario
Occupied by the Moors from 716-1485 before they were driven out by the Duke of Arcos de la Frontera in the name of the Christians. Served as a refuge for bandits during the 19th century. Known for its poets and writers.
Population: approx. 500
Altitude: 870 metres

Benaocaz
Founded by the Moors shortly after their arrival in Spain. As in Villaluenga, they were also driven out of Benaocaz by the Duke of Arcos de la Frontera.
Population: approx. 600
Altitude: 793 metres

Ubrique
Another town conquered by the Duke of Arcos de la Frontera! The Moors built a fortress (called Cardala), now a tourist attraction known as the Castle of Fátima. Famous for its production of leather, the first factories for which were established in the 18th century.
Population: approx. 18,000
Altitude: 337 metres

Prado del Rey
Prehistoric origins. Economy based on agriculture. Enjoyed periods of great prosperity. In 1877 its famous wine 'Pajarete' was honoured in the Madrid Exposition.
Population: approx. 5,700
Altitude: 440 metres

El Bosque
A village of more modern origin, its name meaning The Wood. It was constructed in an area favoured by the Dukes of Arcos de la Frontera for hunting, and originally its houses were for the accompanying hunting party.
Population: approx. 2,000
Altitude: 298 metres

Algar
Though its name is of Arab descent (Algar meaning Cave) it owes its origins as a populated place to Don López de Carvajal in 1773. Legend has it that he was shipwrecked and promised to found a village should he escape alive. Worth a visit: the church of St. Mary of Guadalupe, with a Mexican design.
Population: approx. 1,600
Altitude: 212 metres


See all the Routes from Arcos

Top of Page