The white villages

The White Villages (Pueblos Blancos) are a series of traditional Andalusian villages, most of which are located in the provinces of Cadiz and Malaga. Nestled on the mountainside, they are recognizable by their whitewashed houses, red tile roofs, narrow streets and flowery patios.

A picturesque road in Andalusia

The history of these villages is linked to the Al-Andalus period. Many of them were built during the medieval era, a time characterized by widespread insecurity. Their strategic positions, often perched atop hills, served as defensive strongholds for the Moors. The walls of the houses were coated with white lime, whose antiseptic properties effectively helped prevent the spread of epidemics. The use of white also reflected the sun's heat, keeping the houses cool during the intensely hot Andalusian summers.

After the Reconquista, the Christian Monarchs conquered these fortresses one by one, but the Moorish architecture and urban planning were preserved. These villages are therefore unique places.

Visiting the white villages from Seville

The best way to get to the White Villages from Seville is by renting a car. It's by far the most flexible and convenient option, as the villages are scattered throughout the mountains and the bus network between them is limited. The roads are well-maintained and the scenery is spectacular.

If you don't want to drive, many agencies in Seville offer day trips to the White Villages. This is a good alternative, although it doesn't allow you to explore at your own pace.

Similarly, there are bus routes between Seville and some villages, such as Ronda or Arcos de la Frontera, but it can be more complicated to visit several villages in one day.

The must-see white villages near Seville

Here is a selection of the most iconic villages easily accessible from Seville:

• Often considered the gateway to the White Villages Route, Arcos is a spectacular village perched on a steep rock. Its cobbled streets, parish church, and castle offer breathtaking views over the Guadalete River valley.
• Recognizable by its Moorish castle overlooking the village, Zahara de la Sierra is located in the heart of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. The views of the lake and mountains are breathtaking.
• The village of Grazalema, nestled in the mountains, is known for being the rainiest in Spain. Its unique microclimate gives it lush vegetation, a striking contrast to the rest of Andalusia. It's an ideal starting point for hikers.
• Setenil de las Bodegas is undoubtedly the most surprising village on the route. It's famous for its cave houses, built directly beneath enormous cliffs. The streets are literally gorges, and it's a unique architectural experience.
• Although more of a city than a village, Ronda is the jewel of the White Villages Route and a must-see. It's famous for its impressive Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), which spans a 100-meter-deep canyon, as well as for its bullring, the oldest in Spain. Ronda is a destination in its own right, but it can easily be included in a White Villages itinerary.