Zahara de la Sierra

Zahara de la Sierra is a stunning whitewashed village in Andalusia, offering panoramic views, medieval castle ruins, and rich Moorish history in the heart of nature.

Zahara de la Sierra is a charming whitewashed village located in the heart of Spain's Andalusia region, within the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. Perched on a steep hill and crowned by a medieval castle, Zahara offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the turquoise waters of the Zahara-El Gastor Reservoir.

The village has a rich history that dates back to the Moors, who recognized its strategic importance due to its elevated position. The remnants of the 13th-century Moorish castle, which once served as a fortress, still dominate the skyline. Visitors can hike up to the castle to explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the stunning landscape.

Zahara de la Sierra is also known for its traditional Andalusian architecture, with whitewashed houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and vibrant flower-filled patios that create a picturesque setting. The village's main square, Plaza Mayor, is home to the Church of Santa María de la Mesa, a beautiful Baroque-style church that adds to the town's historical charm.

The surrounding natural park, Sierra de Grazalema, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including a dense forest of Spanish fir trees, and offers numerous hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to explore caves and gorges. 

Nearby Attractions

See all attractions in Seville
Jerez de la Frontera
Jerez de la Frontera is a charming city in the Andalusia region of southern Spain, known for Sherry wine production, Flamenco, and equestrian culture.
Carmona
Carmona, a historic Andalusian town near Seville, offers ancient ruins, charming streets, and stunning views, blending Roman, Moorish, and Christian heritage.
Ronda
Perched on the edge of the El Tajo Gorge, Ronda is divided into two parts: the old Moorish town (La Ciudad) and the more modern Mercadillo quarter, connected by the iconic Puente Nuevo (New Bridge).
Grazalema
A picturesque Andalusian village famed for its scenic mountain setting, traditional white houses, and the lush Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park.
Gibraltar
Gibraltar, a British territory, offers stunning Mediterranean views, the iconic Rock, historic sites, and free-roaming monkeys in its famous Nature Reserve.
St. Michael's Cave
It’s the most famous of Gibraltar’s more than 150 caves and has been a popular attraction for centuries due to its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, which create a surreal, cathedral-like interior.

Related Tours

Ronda, Zahara de la Sierra & Grazalema: Private Trip from Seville

In addition to its impressive historic cities, the region of Andalusia in southern Spain is also known for its Pueblos Blancos (White Villages), a picturesque series of quaint towns and villages dotted across the countryside and characterized by whitewashed buildings offering an outstanding natural beauty. From the dramatic clifftop views of Ronda to the Moorish influences in Zahara de la Sierra, and the lush green landscapes of Grazalema, each stop of our private day trip offers a unique insight into Andalusia's cultural heritage.

On your private day trip, you will:

  • Enjoy a scenic route through the Andalusian countryside;
  • Visit a traditional Almazara and taste top-quality Spanish olive oil;
  • Learn about the history of the region through its charming white villages;
  • Take in the stunning views from Zahara de la Sierra;
  • Journey through the rugged mountains and lush forests of Sierra de Grazalema National Park;
  • Explore the gorgeous town of Grazalema and its picturesque streets that have inspired artists and poets for centuries;
  • Discover the treasures of Ronda, from its romantic alleys to the breathtaking El Tajo gorge;
  • Cross the impressive Puente Nuevo Bridge to admire the stunning views.

On this full-day trip to the charming white villages, you will soak in the spectacular scenery of the Sevillian countryside. Your private driver-guide will pick you up from your accommodation in central Seville and embark upon a comprehensive itinerary of rural gems.

Once you leave behind the hustle and bustle of Seville, we will head towards the mountains and our first stop, an Almazara (olive oil mill). You will learn about traditional methods of elaboration and extraction of Spanish olive oil, one of the country’s most important exports. Your visit will include a tasting so you can try one of the best Extra Virgin Olive Oils in the region.

The next stop will be the first white village of the day: Zahara de la Sierra. From its privileged position on a hilltop, you can enjoy wonderful views of the reservoir below as well as the greenery of Sierra de Grazalema National Park. You will have the chance to wander the narrow streets of the village replete with the whitewashed buildings you have heard so much about and see the ruins of a Moorish castle.

As you move further into the national park, you will see some of the autochthonous flora and fauna, such as Spanish Fir trees and Payoya goats. This species is unique to the area and famously produces Payoyo Cheese, a much-loved Andalusian delicacy. Nestled in the heart of the national park, you will find your next destination: the eponymous town of Grazalema. This quintessential white village dates back to Roman times and is known for its tranquillity and superb cuisine derived from top-notch produce sourced in the surrounding area. You will once again have time to explore the town on your own and enjoy the mountain views. Should you wish to stop for lunch, (not included), your guide will happily give recommendations for where to try delectable local dishes.

Following another pleasant jaunt through scenic forests and mountains, the final stop of the day is Ronda. Perhaps the most famous and impressive of all the pueblos blancos, the town is dominated by the awe-inspiring El Tajo gorge. This natural wonder quite literally cuts the town in two, with both parts connected by the iconic Puente Nuevo Bridge. As you make your way to Ronda, your guide will provide you with an overview of Ronda’s rich culture and history so you can decide which of its main monuments to explore independently once you arrive. There are many options to choose from including the medieval Baños Árabes (Arabic bathhouses) and the oldest Plaza de Toros (bull ring) in all of Spain.

After you take in the sites of Ronda, your driver-guide will take you back to Seville feeling refreshed by the country air and bucolic surroundings. You will be dropped off at your hotel or another central location of your preference in Seville with a deeper appreciation for the exceptional beauty and cultural legacy of the white villages.

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