No trip to Andalusia is complete without visiting some of the famous white villages of Spain. These unique settlements have existed since ancient times but started attracting tourists in the late 20th century.
The villages are known for their whitewashed walls and red or brown tiled roofs. According to some sources, whitewashing first appeared during Roman times to help cool down the houses.
However, during the Middle Ages, when the plague was ravaging Europe, the houses were painted white with lime to disinfect them. Today, there are around 40 towns and villages that still keep this tradition alive. Here are five you shouldn’t miss.
Arcos de la Frontera
Arcos de la Frontera is the most accessible of all the villages. Founded during Roman times, it was an important border post between the Christians and the Moors for more than 200 years.
The old town of Arcos stands proudly on top of a hill overlooking the Andalusian plain. The small Guadalete River meanders around the town until it reaches the Arcos reservoir.
The town’s highlights include the 11th-century Alcázar, the 16th-century Basílica de Santa María de la Asunción, the 16th-century San Pedro Church, and the 17th-century Mayorazgo Palace.
The best hotel in town is the historic Parador de Arcos de la Frontera, a luxury hotel housed in the former magistrate’s residence. It offers elegantly decorated rooms, some with spectacular views.
Zahara de la Sierra
The next village on our list sits at the entrance to the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. Just like Arcos, it is an ancient town that gained importance during Muslim rule.
Zahara lies in the middle of the mountains, beneath a hill crowned by a Moorish fortress. It overlooks the man-made Zahara–El Gastor Reservoir.
In Zahara, you must visit its 13th-century Moorish Castle. The views from there will take your breath away. Other landmarks worth seeing are the 18th-century Church of Saint Mary (Santa María de la Mesa) and the 19th-century Capilla de San Juan de Letrán.
Our favorite hotel in Zahara is Al Lago. Located just a short walk from the town center, it’s a perfect base for exploring the area. All rooms come with balconies overlooking the reservoir.
Grazalema
Deeper inside the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park lies the town that gave the park its name: Grazalema. Originally a Roman settlement, it became famous in the 17th century for its blanket production.
Grazalema sits amid green hills, surrounded by peaks over 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) high. As the sun sets, their shadows cover the entire town.
Every visitor should spend time on its charming squares. Plaza de España is home to the 17th-century Church of Our Lady of Aurora, while Plaza de los Asomaderos serves as the town’s main viewpoint.
We recommend staying at Hospedería Casa de las Piedras, a beautiful traditional white house in the town center with a lovely patio, the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere.
Setenil de las Bodegas
Setenil de las Bodegas is probably the most famous village on this list. Its origins are uncertain, though a Roman settlement likely existed here. The name Bodegas comes from the vineyards that flourished between the 15th and 19th centuries.
You’ve probably seen photos of Setenil’s streets built under massive rocks. The most famous are Cuevas del Sol (sunny caves) and Cuevas de la Sombra (caves in the shadow).
Setenil’s highlights include its cave streets, the 12th-century Nazari Castle, and the 17th-century Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation (Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación).
In Setenil you have to stay in a cave house, it’s an unforgettable experience. The best ones are often booked weeks in advance, so reserve early. Our top picks are Casa Cueva Las Chicas del Puente and Casa Cueva La Luna.
Ronda
The last stop on our list, Ronda, is also its oldest and largest town. Archaeological excavations have revealed settlements here dating back to Neolithic times. Over the centuries, Ronda was ruled by Celts, Phoenicians, Romans, Visigoths, Moors, and Christians.
Ronda is world-famous for its dramatic blend of nature and architecture. The Tajo de Ronda, a deep gorge, divides the city in two, with the Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) connecting them above.
Besides the bridge, Ronda’s main attractions include Plaza de España, the 13th-century Baños Árabes, the 18th-century Plaza de Toros, and the 17th-century Church of Santa María la Mayor.
Ronda has several exceptional hotels, but our favorite is the Parador de Ronda, located on the main square. Its history, outdoor pool, and breathtaking views make it an unbeatable choice.
How to Visit the White Villages
Visit all five towns and villages if you can. The easiest way is to rent a car and drive. For example, pick up a car in Seville and drop it off in Ronda. You’ll need at least two to three days to visit them all.
If you’re short on time, visit Arcos de la Frontera on a day trip from Cádiz or Jerez. There are frequent and easy-to-find bus connections.
If you’d rather focus on Ronda, you can reach it by train from Córdoba or Algeciras, although it’s quite slow. Alternatively, there are direct buses from Seville, Marbella, and Málaga.
To get to Setenil, take a direct bus from Málaga or change buses in Ronda. Both Zahara and Grazalema are only connected to Ronda by bus. You can also visit 3 white villages with this day trip from Seville, or 2 on this one from Malaga.
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