Even though most of us associate Cádiz with beautiful sandy beaches, there is a hidden gem in the northeastern region of the province, bordering Málaga.
If you love hiking and mountains, the Sierra de Grazalema, which was declared a UN Biosphere Reserve in 1977, is a must. It is located in the Cordillera Penibética, and it is the perfect sport for a nature getaway. Hikers can choose from about 20 different routes, with varying degrees of difficulty.
Hiking routes in Sierra de Grazalema
The ‘Calzada Romana’ route is about 3.5 km long, and is considered one of the easiest, as the terrain is pretty even throughout. It runs between Benaocaz and Ubrique, and it is extremely well preserved. The archaeological remains show the many peoples – Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs… – that have inhabited this area across the centuries. Each of them has left their mark, and influenced traditions and customs.
The mountains are named after the village of Grazalema, which is located across Puerto del Boyar. Its magnificent whitewashed houses are definitely a sight to see. So much so, that the village recently joined the Most Beautiful Villages in Spain association.
Grazalema is also a part of the Andalusian Pueblos Blancos route, running across Cádiz and Málaga. Other towns included are Ubrique, Zahara de la Sierra and Ronda.
The local cuisine will also surprise you. One of the best products is doubtlessly ‘payoyo’ cheese, made with payoya goat and merino sheep’s milk, both native breeds to the Sierra. It is as delicious as the wines, made with local grape types such as ‘Tintilla de Rota’.
What are you waiting for? Come rediscover Cádiz!