Europe's Best Drives

Zahara de la Sierra overlooking the lake ©Nimux Vale

Translated into English, Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos means ‘Route of the White Villages’ which beautifully describes the nature of this scenic drive. The route passes through many different towns and villages located in the Cádiz province of Andalusia, all of which feature the iconic bright white houses and buildings for which this area is so famous for. Far more than merely just looking good, this whitewash regularly applied by the residents reflects the strong heat of the midday sun, inadvertently creating a dazzling display which is beautiful to behold.

This driving route captures the essence of Andalusia, and also Spain as a whole. You can really soak up the history and atmosphere in each of the small towns and villages you pass through, unspoiled by tourism of large waves of visitors often associated with other parts. This area has both a Muslim and Christian past, which can clearly be seen in the different buildings and architecture of the area.

Arcos de la Frontera ©Cayetano

The drive traditionally starts at Arcos de la Frontera, however it can be taken in the opposite direction or started at any of the points on route. Arcos de la Frontera is a Historic Artistic Site and features many beautiful Churches. It’s location high up on a large mountainous rock means that it was utilised by the Romans for it’s defensive vantage point and strategic location. Continuing on from here, the route passes along the historically significant River Guadalete (site of the Muslim invasion of the area in the Battle of Guadalete) and onto further villages dotted in the green hillsides.

Olvera is a town nestled within the olive plantation hills of Andalusia, producing quality olive oil as it’s main economy. There are also the features of a beautiful Church and Arab castle, testaments to different eras of this area’s history. Of note to those interested in wildlife, there is large colony of Andalusian Leonado Vultures on a rocky section near to the town centre.

Ubrique ©Trabajo propio

Zahara de la Sierra is in a beautiful location, high on a mountain top only to be reached by travelling over the lake over which it looks. It is an important town on the Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos, featuring an old Moorish castle and also an English speaking tourist bureau to help with directions and information for the area. The route also passes through the town of Ubrique which still has a strong memory of it’s Arab past, El Bosque with it’s Roman castle, and many many other locations.

This is a beautiful drive to fully submerge into the Andalucian countryside and Spanish way of life. With spectacular scenery and beautiful villages, this route allows you to see the best of the area, while still keeping off the main tourist track.