Green landscapes, full of vegetation only dotted with the white of its villages and the marked Andalusian essence is what you will find in the mountain region of Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche, where you can start a very complete tourist experience that we are sure will surprise you.
Located in Andalusia, more specifically in the province of Huelva, but very close to Extremadura, this land evokes a rural air that is well worth getting to know. But it is not only its natural surroundings, but also its villages and the elements of its heritage that make the Sierra de Aracena one of the most sought-after destinations for tourists.
Any time of year is a good time to enjoy its charm, to stroll through its meadows and enjoy the exquisite Jabugo Denomination of Origin cured ham. A complete sensorial trip that you will want to repeat.
There are places you can't miss within the mountains of Sierra de Aracena, real gems that we are going to show you so you can enjoy a complete experience. Would you like to know what they are?
A perfect starting point is the village that gives its name to the area: Aracena. One of the most visited villages in the area, it also offers two of the most popular tourist attractions. The first of these is the Castle of Aracena, an impressive fortress which can be reached after walking through its steep streets. The view is worth the effort.
But the magic of Aracena does not end here. Below the castle is the best plan you can make: a visit to the Gruta de las Maravillas (Cave of Wonders). A cave in which the wonders you will find are numerous stalactites and lakes underneath that you can discover on a charming, guided tour. Especially recommended if you are travelling with children.
Almonaster la Real is another must-visit in the Sierra de Aracena, a village included in the list of Spain's Most Beautiful Villages (Pueblos Bonitos), with the town’s Mosque as the crown jewel.
There is also Alájar, a village you can enjoy at 360º from the Mirador de Peña de Arias Montano viewpoint, or the mosaics created with the stones that pave the streets of Linares de la Sierra, are visits you have to make.
It is also worth enjoying nature. While you're in the Sierra de Aracena, why not take a route through the area? Whether on foot or by bike, you will find countless meadows protected by the high mountains of the sierra.
And it is precisely in these meadows, where pigs roam freely, that the star product of the Sierra de Aracena is produced: Iberian ham. With its own quality label and Denomination of Origin.
In fact, there are organised visits to the ham curating sheds and some tastings of this product that will make you enjoy the most characteristic flavour of the Sierra de Aracena, although it is not the only flavour you can try here, since this area is known for elaborating meats with a lot of flavour, as well as for the artisan cheeses that you can also try here.
Vegetables and especially mushrooms are a constant feature of Aracena's recipes, which, combined with liqueurs and musts, chestnuts and quince jelly, will provide you with an explosion of traditional and hearty flavours.
