Ronda: 10 things to see beyond the Tagus
Travel to Grazalema. A Cádiz village with personality
Grazalema is located right in the heart of the White Village Route and inside the Natural Park of the same name. This small Cádiz village is curiously the only village in Cádiz where it snows. Today, it is one of the main destinations for rural tourism in Cádiz province, since this locality is visited by tourists who want to spend a weekend in nature or relaxing.
Here you will find out all you need to know, see and enjoy in this wonderful village that we are sure you will fall in love with.
HOW TO GET TO GRAZALEMA
The only way to get to this village is by motorway, since the nearest airport is in Jerez de la Frontera, which is 80 miles away, and if you come by train, the nearest station in Ronda, just 19 miles away.
We recommend you rent a car if you don’t have your own, but be careful, especially in winter, because it is a mountain motorway and sometimes chains need to be used.
5 ways to get to Grazalema, a natural destination between Cádiz and Málaga
WHAT TO SEE
Church of Our Lady of Aurora
This church is located on Plaza de España and was built in the 18th century. It is the most representative church of Grazalema. Though it is now in ruins and the interior cannot be seen, all its beauty can be seen from outside. Also, if you take a seat on the square, you can perfectly enjoy its simple Neo-classical façade.
Church of the Incarnation
Also located on Plaza de España, but next to the Town Hall, is the Church of the Incarnation, one of the village’s main churches. It stands on an ancient Muslim building and consists of several side chapels and three naves. Its façade is Baroque. Its interior is particularly outstanding and home to works of art of such calibre as the image of St. Athanasius dating from the early 17th century.
Museum of Textile Arts and Crafts
This museum is located on the motorway connecting Ubrique and Ronda. This interpretation centre reminds us of the origins of this textile industry and reproduces the loom work done back then. Inside this centre you can find arts and crafts made and manual looms that were used for this purpose.
WHAT DO TO
Grazalema is an amazing place for hiking, horse riding or cycling. When following these routes, we recommend you visit Pinsapar, Salto del Cabrero or Garganta Verde.
Put on your boots and explore the 20 best Grazalema hiking trails
We also recommend you enjoy the famous White Village Route. These villages are distinguished for the limestone wash on their façades. You can also visit the city of Tajo, since it is a mere 19 miles from away
SHOPPING
Here it is traditional to buy arts and crafts. The woven baskets are particularly famous and can be bought in small private workshops and in shops. But the most characteristic souvenir is actually the blankets made from pure sheep’s wool.
GASTRONOMY
When we talk about gastronomy, it is important to highlight Grazalema soup, which is made with caldo del puchero, mint leaves, bread, egg and chorizo. As an aperitif, delicious cold cuts or cured pork are a must, along with payoya goat’s cheese.
Where to eat
La Garrocha
Located on Plaza Pequeña, this is a restaurant with local specials, such as trout, game, seasonal vegetables, etc… Not forgetting, of course, Grazalema soup and Iberian pork sirloin.
Cádiz el Chico Restaurant
On the central Plaza de España you will find Cádiz el Chico Restaurant, the perfect place to try the best mountain gastronomy. It also has original dishes, such as acorn tart and baked venison. A characteristic aspect of this place is the wine menu, which is extensive with over 80 wines.
La Merina Brasa Autóctona
La Merina Brasa Autóctona, a prominent restaurant in Grazalema, offers grilled meats and Mediterranean dishes in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. With a diverse menu including homemade croquettes to retinto Milanese, it’s the ideal spot for a unique gastronomic experience in Cádiz.
Casa Martín 1920
A renowned restaurant in Grazalema’s town centre, known for its menu focusing on local products such as cheeses and cured meats. Recommended by travelers and locals alike, it offers the chance to taste local cuisine and purchase products to take home as a unique souvenir of the experience.
Restaurante La Maroma
La Maroma, located in the heart of Grazalema, blends tradition with innovation. Highlights include tapas like potato salad, gazpacho, grilled goat cheese, and the Inés Rosales cake. Quality products and house recommendations complete the gastronomic experience in a charming setting.
Mesón el Simancón
Situated in Grazalema’s tourist area, Mesón el Simancón is known for its gastronomic tradition and quality products. Recommended for trying the fried cheese and a variety of meat dishes. Perfect for enjoying local cuisine in a tourist-friendly atmosphere.
NIGHT LIFE
Grazalema does not have a lively night life, since it is a small traditional village, but visitors do have several small bars and pubs to choose from to have a drink. While it is quiet at night, the village does liven up on Sunday mornings.
Grazalema interesting facts
- Natural Park: It is located within the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve declared in 1977, famous for its scenic beauty and biodiversity.
- Textile Industry: It has a long tradition in wool blanket production, dating back to the Arab period. Today, workshops can still be found keeping this craftsmanship alive.
- Traditional Architecture: Its narrow, steep streets are lined with white houses with Arab tile roofs, reflecting the typical architecture of Andalusian villages. It is part of the White Villages of Andalusia route.
- Unique Microclimate: Its location between mountains gives it a special microclimate, with cooler summers and a more moderate temperature compared to other nearby areas.
- Rainfall and Rivers: Grazalema is one of the rainiest places in Spain, giving rise to rivers and springs that flow through the region, such as the Majaceite River.
- Fauna and Flora: The Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including endemic species such as the pinsapo, a type of fir that only grows in this region and some areas of Morocco.
- Traditional Festivals: In addition to Water Day, Grazalema celebrates other festivities such as Holy Week, the Royal Fair in honor of the Virgin of the Angels in September, and the San José Fair in March.
- Outdoor Activities: It is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, bird watching, and horseback riding due to its impressive natural environment.
- Cheese Production: It is famous for its payoya goat cheese, which is traditionally made in the area and highly appreciated for its distinctive flavor.
- Cueva de la Pileta: Nearby is the Cueva de la Pileta, with prehistoric cave art dating back over 25,000 years.
Put on your boots and explore the 20 best Grazalema hiking trails
25 things you cannot miss from Grazalema and Ronda
Where to stay
Hotel Fuerte Grazalema
If you travel to Grazalema, where better to stay than Fuerte Grazalema Hotel. The hotel has 77 rooms with private balcony and spectacular views of the Guadalete Valley. Among the most praised services are the outdoor pool and jacuzzi with views of the Grazalema Sierra. Its 60 plus years of experience are the best guarantee.
