If you are thinking of travelling to Andalusia, we propose a plan that you will not be able to refuse: a visit to the Sierra de Grazalema mountains, a natural jewel that the provinces of Cadiz and Malaga are lucky enough to share and enjoy, and that we encourage you to discover.
Did you know that the Sierra de Grazalema is the area of the Iberian Peninsula with the highest rainfall record? Quite the opposite of what may seem to be the case in the rest of Andalusia, this area has a very special climate that conditions each of the natural corners that make it up.
If there is one thing you have to do, it is to walk through its terrain full of characteristic vegetation: the Spanish fir. It is a species of fir tree that grows only in Andalusia and is an endangered species. For this reason, it is important to respect and maintain these areas where you can go on numerous hiking routes. The Pinsapar route is one of the most popular, with medium difficulty, the little more than 10 kilometres to be covered will allow you to mingle with the pinsapar trees.
Immersing yourself in its natural charm is also possible if you follow some of its trails, among which we highlight the Majaceite River trail. It is not too difficult, so you can do it with your family while you enjoy the scenery along this river. On the other hand, the Garganta Verde route is one of the most difficult ones you will find here, but also combines water and vegetation. Before embarking on this route, however, you must ask for a special authorisation.
You can also explore the Llanos de Rabel route with authorisation, although it is practically without difficulty. This route also takes you through forests full of Spanish firs.
The Sierra de Grazalema has many villages that are well worth a visit, starting with Grazalema, which is one of the most beautiful in Spain, and also one of the most visited in the area. Here you can visit the Town Hall and the church, which was built on the site of a mosque.
Another must is Zahara de la Sierra, in the province of Cadiz. A visual and heritage spectacle to enjoy as you stroll through its streets, which will take you to the highest point, where you can spot the tower and the Nasrid settlement.
If you want to get to know the Pueblos Blancos (White Towns) route from inside, there is none better place to start than El Bosque. Its lively streets and its tradition will allow you to enjoy a pleasant stroll where you will find its famous windmills and the church of Santa María de Guadalupe. Another white town to visit is Algodonales, which marks the entrance to the Sierra de Grazalema, where you cannot miss the Cerro de la Botinera archaeological site, where you can still see the ruins of the walls of an ancient settlement.
To finish a complete route through its villages, you cannot miss Benamahoma and Benaocaz, two essential places where you can visit the Water Ecomuseum and the Viewpoint of del Cintillo respectively.
A visit to the Sierra de Grazalema is not complete until you enjoy its gastronomy.
One of the star dishes of its cuisine is Sopa de Grazalema, a soup elaborated with eggs, chorizo sausage and bread; and lamb dishes such as caldereta (lamb stew). Cheese lovers also have a real amusement park of flavours here, especially in the town of El Bosque.
Without a doubt, Sierra de Grazalema is a place to enjoy.
