Sierra de Cádiz

Why visit Sierra de Cádiz

The Sierra de Cádiz is the mountainous north-east of the province, a land of limestone peaks, olive groves and the famous pueblos blancos, the white villages that cling to cliffs and hilltops between Arcos de la Frontera and the borders of Málaga and Seville. At its heart lies the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the rainiest corners of Spain, where Spanish fir forests survive on the high slopes. Villages such as Grazalema, Zahara de la Sierra, Olvera and Setenil de las Bodegas each have a distinctive setting and character. It suits hikers, drivers on scenic routes and anyone drawn to traditional mountain life.

Main attractions in Sierra de Cádiz

Arcos de la Frontera, perched on a sheer cliff above the Guadalete, opens the classic White Villages Route, which continues to Zahara with its Moorish castle above a turquoise reservoir, Olvera with its castle and church on a hilltop, and Setenil, where houses are built into the rock overhangs. Grazalema is the base for hiking in the natural park, including the Garganta Verde gorge and the Pinsapar fir forest, both requiring free permits, while the Zahara-El Gastor reservoir suits kayaking and Algodonales is a well-known paragliding centre. Ubrique is known for its fine leather craftsmanship, El Bosque for its trout river and Villaluenga del Rosario for its payoyo goat cheese. Hearty dishes include game stews and cured meats from the mountain villages, and many villages celebrate Easter and summer fairs in style.