If you are planning a trip in Andalucia, Spain’s southernmost autonomous community, you probably already know to consider spending time in Sevilla, Granada, and Córdoba.
These cities are rich with both Spanish and Arabic influence. However, it is the more rural parts of Andalucia that provided me with one of my most unforgettable days traveling through the South of Spain.
Scattered between Sevilla, Granada, and the Costa del Sol are many whitewashed towns, known collectively as “Pueblos Blancos,” or “White Hill Towns.” The adorable towns are connected by a common Moorish style, which features striking white walls and impossibly narrow streets. They appear similar, and yet each one has its own history and personality. I was able to see many of them in a day of driving from Sevilla to the coastal city of Málaga. This was an experience I would, without a doubt, rate as a “must-see” among the other top destinations in Andalucia.
If you are looking to plan your own route, almost any of the Pueblos Blancos will provide a good place for a photo-op. The people there are also unbelievably friendly, and it is a lovely place to sip an espresso or enjoy traditional Andalucian food. However, if you cannot decide which of the towns to visit, these are my top three:
1. Arcos de La Frontera
We actually stayed a night in this White Hill Town, so I may be slightly biased. But, in my opinion, Arcos has the most breathtaking view of southern Spain’s countryside, as it snakes along the top of a small mountain. You can sip coffee from the town’s Parador, one of many historical buildings throughout Spain that have been converted into hotels. These Paradors are perfect for getting a drink or exploring. You can walk the streets of Arcos to stumble upon alleyways filled with flowers, Bed and Breakfasts, and unparalleled charm. If you’re driving through, though, do so with a small car. The streets are barely more than alleyways and have enough twists, turns, ups, and downs to test even the most expert drivers.
2. Zahara de la Sierra
This town also boasts one of the most beautiful panoramic views I have seen in Spain, but this time, the view is from the top of a castle. After a short hike to wake up your legs after some extensive driving, you can see for miles. Atop the castle, you can take in the combination of green landscape, tranquil water, and picturesque mountains that lie beyond the white town below. Within the town itself, you can find traditional Zahara sultana cookies, exceptional coffee, and tapas at one of the cafes along the one main street.
3. Ronda
This town is probably the most well known of the Pueblos Blancos, and has a slightly more urban feel to it (this is all relative though). What really sets Ronda apart is the enormous gorge that runs through the middle, which you can cross via the massive bridge that overlooks – you guessed it – another amazing landscape. You can also trek down to the base of the bridge and get an up-close look at the waterfall that runs through the gorge. Or, you can walk out to various other lookout points that get you close to the remains of ancient fortresses. Ronda also has a Parador where you can eat, drink, or even splurge and spend the night.
