10 must-visit "Pueblos Blancos" in southern Spain

The unique geographic location and the collision of cultural traditions have given the southern Spanish province of Cádiz a beautiful landscape - the "Pueblos Blancos" or "White Towns". The white houses and lush greenery complement each other, creating an incredibly beautiful scene. Today, let's enjoy together the 10 most beautiful and unique towns on the "White Towns" route!

Arcos de la Frontera

Arcos de la Frontera is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Spain. The town boasts a rich cultural heritage left by prehistoric humans and ancient Romans; however, the greatest contributions were made by the Arabs, who built the white houses that now attract countless tourists. The narrow and steep streets, majestic palaces, unique houses, and numerous arches are all sights worth seeing in this town.

Setenil de las Bodegas

You must visit this small town! It is the most unique and spectacular place in the mountains of Cádiz. The houses here are built on the rocks on both sides of the Guadalporcún River gorge, some above the rocks, some below the rocks, and some inside the rocks. The two caves here—Cave of the Sun (Cuevas del Sol) and Cave of the Shadow (Cuevas de la Sombra)—are located at different altitudes, each offering unique and breathtaking views, making them worth a visit.

Grazalema

The reason this small town is on the list is the perfect combination of the white houses and the green vegetation. In this scenery where humanity and nature blend seamlessly, the local architecture is listed as a historical monument, and the natural landscape is also included in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. When you come here, you must check out the Baroque-style cathedral and the nearby village of Benamahoma; you will be pleasantly surprised.

Ubrique

Although this small town has been highly praised by some magazines, it is indeed worth a visit. The town is surrounded by two natural parks—Grazalema and Los Alcornocales—making it a favorite among hikers and bird watchers. Stroll through the streets here, and every snapshot you take could be a postcard!

Olvera

The most striking scenery on the White Towns Route is undoubtedly the white houses of Olvera. Walking up the mountain path, you are flanked by stunning expanses of white houses. An Arab castle and a small chapel along the way add small touches to the route. The maze-like streets, numerous historical sites, magnificent architecture, and Andalusian-style alleys here have all become valuable historical and artistic heritage of the area.

Zahara de la Sierra

This small town is located in the heart of the Grazalema Natural Park and is one of the most beautiful towns in Spain. It is also the place where tourists visiting the province of Cádiz take the most beautiful photos. Among the many historical sites in the town, the main tower of the Arab castle and the ancient mosque are the most worth seeing. Viewing platforms occasionally appear on the streets of the town, allowing visitors to take in the beautiful scenery.

Villaluenga del Rosario

This small town is the smallest and highest town in the Cádiz region, located among towering rocky mountains. As you walk up the steep streets, you will be pleasantly surprised by the town's charm and uniqueness. Scattered throughout the town and its surroundings are many Muslim and medieval historical relics, built on such rugged terrain, which is truly breathtaking.

El Gastor

Standing at the highest point of the town of El Gastor, you can take in the view of many white towns in the Cádiz region, earning it the nickname 'The Balcony of the White Towns.' Since prehistoric times, this has been a densely populated settlement, and there are many historical sites worth seeing here.

Villamartín

Villamartín is one of the most popular towns on the White Towns Route. Thanks to its unique geographical location, it has become a road hub in the area. Its long history has endowed it with rich historical relics, and the strong artistic atmosphere has created some of the most representative architecture of Andalusia.

Torre Alháquime

The essence of the various towns along the White Towns Route is embodied here. This town in Cádiz was once adjacent to the Kingdom of Granada and the Kingdom of Castile, so a visit here should not miss the ancient town wall, which once served as a defensive fortress. Of course, the numerous Christian relics here are also worth seeing.