Want to avoid the crowds at Andalucia’s main attractions?
The region still has a few hidden gems for you to discover. These secret spots in Andalucia aren’t completely secret (nothing is), but you’ll find far fewer tourists.
Volcanoes, beaches, rock formations, villages… Let’s discover Andalucia off the beaten track. And find out more in our list of other places far from the crowds!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Secret places in Andalucia: facts, selection, map
Is it still possible to go off the beaten track these days? Not really, no place is really secret. And this notion is a matter of perception.
We chose lesser-known places, where we met fewer people and where the tourist buses don’t stop (and which don’t necessarily require a 5-hour walk!).
But by bringing them to the fore, these gems won’t stay hidden!
Here’s a map of the places we’ve selected for you to discover:
1. Cerro del Hierro
Why we love
If, like us, you’re a fan of amazing rock formations and other geological wonders, Andalucia has some jewels for you. Andalucia’s natural heritage bears witness to the forces of nature that have shaped this diverse region over millions of years. We discovered Cerro del Hierro in the north of the region, a surprising natural monument known for its karstic landscape.
Location
- In the Sierra Norte de Sevilla, north of Sevilla and west of Cordoba
- from Sevilla = 1h30min by car
- from Cordoba = 1h45min by car
Useful tips
- Allow around 3 hours for your visit, preferably at an early hour to ensure good light and cool temperatures.
- Wear hiking boots with good grip and protect yourself from the sun, as the route is not sheltered.
- Remember to take a water bottle, as there are few water points on site and temperatures can rise quickly.
- Respect the signs and stay on the marked paths without going off-road.
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2. Puerto de las Palomas road
Why we love
South of the Zahara de la Sierra, the Puerto de Las Palomas region is not very popular with tourists, but some of the scenery on the road was truly breathtaking! Between the white village, the lake with its colorful shores and the mountains, we took in the sights… It was breathtaking! Don’t forget to stop off at Puerto de las Palomas to admire the lake from above.
Location
- Between the Zahara de la Sierra to the north and the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park
- from Ronda = 1h by car
- from Sevilla = 1h45min by car
Useful tips
- Renting a car allows you to explore this scenic route and the villages it passes through, such as Setenil de las Bodegas and Grazalema.
- Travel in spring or autumn to avoid intense heat
- Be careful on the road, which has many curves.
- Remember to take water and a snack, as the villages are sometimes far apart.
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- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a compact car, as some villages have very narrow streets!
- Think ofcomprehensive insurance for the same reason
- Book early for choice.
3. Zuheros, our favourite white village
Why we love
Zuheros is a small white village that is much less well known because it is further away from the main tourist centers. It offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty with its canyon and authentic Spanish charm. In our opinion, this is the most beautiful white village in Andalucia of all those we visited.
Nestled beneath limestone cliffs in the Sierra Subbetica Natural Park and surrounded by olive groves, we found it particularly charming. It is also dominated by a 9th-century castle set into the rock face. Impressive!
Location
- North of the Parque Natural de las Sierras Subbéticas
- from Cordoba = 1h15min by car
- from Granada = 1h30min by car
- from Malaga = 1h30min by car
Useful tips
- The best vantage point for observing the village as a whole is at the entrance on arrival.
- The streets are steep and the village slopes steeply, so good shoes and comfortable clothing are essential.
- Wear breathable clothing and cover up if necessary, as the weather is changeable.
WHERE TO STAY IN Andalucia
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4. Lake Negratin
Why we love
Do you know Lake Negratin, north-east of Granada and above the Sierra de Baza Natural Park? This off-the-beaten-track (and therefore off-crowd) location is not usually on the tourist map. But we’ve discovered that the locals are particularly fond of it.
This reservoir revealed colorful landscapes with red, orange and white rocks around the deep blue of the lake water. An almost lunar panorama!
And you’ll notice that the riverbanks are very different from one side to the other, so don’t forget to drive around if you have time. In our opinion, it’s one of the region’s off-the-beaten-track gems and a must on your list!
Location
- North-east of Granada and above the Sierra de Baza Natural Park
- from Granada = 1h20min drive
- from Jaen = 1h50min by car
- from Almeria = 1h45min by car
Useful tips
- There are food outlets in the vicinity, but remember to take a snack with you.
- Swimming and water sports are possible and enjoyable in summer.
- after passing the dam, don’t forget to climb up to the Mirador de Negratin for an exceptional view of this enchanting natural site.
5. Gorafe Megalithic Park
Why we love
Did you know that the Gorafe Megalithic Park is home to one of the largest concentrations of dolmens in Europe? With hundreds of funerary monuments dating back to the Bronze Age, this archaeological site offers a fascinating insight into prehistoric life. We were fascinated by the panorama: thousand-year-old dolmens scattered across a spectacular desert landscape. The park offers marked trails so you can explore these ancient structures and admire the panoramic views over the valley in safety. In fact, it’s one of the best archaeological sites in Andalucia!
Location
- West of the Sierra de Baza Natural Park
- from Granada = 1h10min drive
- from Almeria = 1h30min drive
- from Jaen = 1h45min drive
Useful tips
- On your tour, stay on the paths and follow the safety instructions.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the desert heat
- Allow half a day to explore all the nooks and crannies of the park and the many dolmens.
- Wear good hiking boots
- Bring a drink and a snack, as there are few options in and around the site.
- If you don’t want to drive, you can include this visit in a guided tour, but you won’t have as much freedom of movement.
FUN in Andalucia: activities
- Cooking course in Sevilla
- Canyoning from the Costa del Sol
- Caminito del Rey guided hike
6. The charming village of Montoro
Why we love
Montoro is a very photogenic town nestled in a bend of the Guadalquivir River.
It’s best known for its views from different vantage points around it, with the contrast of its plank houses, the ochre color of the tower and the green of the fertile valley.
You can capture its beauty from the surrounding area as you approach, or from the 16th-century bridge.
Location
- East of Cordoba
- from Cordoba = 40min drive
- from Jaen = 1h05min by car
Useful tips
- Fewer tourists in this picturesque village
- The access road is fairly easy
- The winter months are less favorable for visiting due to weather conditions.
- Temperatures can be extremely high in summer
7. Acinipo ruins
Why we love
Head for Acinipo in the northeast of Sierra Grazalema National Park. Just a few km from Ronda, Acinipo is a small archaeological site, off the beaten track, that won us over. The remains of the Roman theater, including part of the 1st-century wall and the still-visible stands, take us back through centuries of history.
Another part of the ruins on this site even comes from a Bronze Age settlement. On site, you’ll also enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and mountains. They’re not as massive as those at Italica, near Sevilla, but if you get there early, you may be lucky enough to be virtually alone during your visit.
Location
- Northeast of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park
- from Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas = 30min drive
- from Malaga = 1h30min by car
- from Sevilla = 1h40min by car
Useful tips
- The road is fairly easy to get to, but the journey takes longer.
- Allow about 45 minutes for on-site visits
- Note the sloping ground on the archaeological site
- Check opening times on the official website here, as the venue is not open 24/7.
8. Alhama de Granada
Why we love
Alhama de Granada is a charming Andalucia town in the province of Granada. Perched on a rocky outcrop, it revealed spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding gorges and the Rio Alhama. You’ll see that the town is famous for its thermal baths, whose history dates back to Roman times. Its historic center, with its narrow, winding streets, is home to numerous monuments testifying to its rich past, particularly under Muslim rule. Take time to visit the surrounding area, which is also remarkable. We enjoyed a fascinating variety of landscapes, from the Sierra de Loja in the north to the vineyards and pine forests of the Sierra Tejeda in the south.
Location
- North-west of the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park, south-west of Granada
- from Granada = 1h drive
- from Malaga = 1h20min drive
- from Cordoba = 2h drive
Useful tips
- The alleys of this pretty historic town are quite narrow and the historic center steep, so take good shoes.
- It’s best to visit in spring, autumn or even winter, as summer is very hot and visitors can be a little more numerous.
- Exploring the surrounding area will be easier if you rent a car.
9. Jaen
Why we love
Jaen is a much less touristy city nestled in the mountains, famous for its cathedral and the views from the top of the old town. Let’s be honest, it’s a big city, so it’s quite busy by definition. However, it’s not a tourist city, not in the same way as Cordoba, Sevilla and Granada.
In our opinion, it has a few points of interest that are worth a detour if you have the time: for example, you’ll enjoy magnificent views from its narrow streets high above the city, its cathedral stands out from the landscape and its hills covered with olive trees add a certain charm to this almost artistic picture!
Location
- West of Sierra Magina Natural Park and north of Monte de la Sierra National Park
- from Granada = 1h20min drive
- from Cordoba = 1h20min drive
Useful tips
- Allow half a day to explore the city
- Note that there are hills and old sidewalks in the historic center.
- Driving in Jaen was very complicated compared to other cities in Andalucia. We recommend that you quickly find an underground parking lot and get around the city on foot.
10. Medina Sidonia
Why we love
The old center of Medina Sidonia blends different types of architecture, the legacy of several eras. We loved the main entrance with its Moorish-style door. This is where our exploration began.
Then enjoy the 16th-century buildings in the lower parts of the town. Or head to the top, through the narrow streets, to visit the church on the hill and the castle ruins. There are so many beautiful white villages and towns in this rich region, that some are not fully appreciated by tourists. In our opinion, this is one of them.
Location
- West of Andalucia, south of Jerez de la Frontera
- from Cadiz = 35min drive
- from Tarifa = 1h10min drive
- from Sevilla = 1h20min drive
Useful tips
- Spring and autumn are good times to visit.
- You’ll be at altitude, so the streets are steep. Don’t forget good shoes and sun protection (you’ll be inland, even if the Atlantic Ocean isn’t far away).
- Park your car when you arrive and visit the area on foot for greater convenience.
5 places to see in Andalucia away from the crowds
These places are not considered off the beaten track or “secret”, as there are tours to get you there, for example. However, tourist numbers are much lower than in other places.
1. Cabo de Gata Natural Park
In Cabo de Gata National Park in south-east Andalucia, we were captivated by the shades of color and transparency of the water on the beaches, some of which are wild and isolated, like Cala de Enmedio. The combination of volcanic landscapes and colorful rocks is just as breathtaking! This natural park is not considered off the beaten track, but there are generally fewer tourists.
2. Tabernas Desert
The Tabernas Desert, covering an area of around 280km2, is considered to be the only true desert in Europe. The region features a spectacular “badlands” topography, characterized by ravines, dry riverbeds and striking rock formations.
Did you know that this desert has been the backdrop for many films, especially westerns? This has earned it the nickname “Andalusian Hollywood”! You can explore old film sets and discover the landscape that captivated filmmakers for decades.
3. Guadix and surroundings
Guadix is a different town again, quite famous for its unique troglodyte houses. Explore the cave district, where rock-cut dwellings bear witness to a traditional way of life. At the center of the city, you’ll see the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress with impressive panoramic views. A fascinating glimpse into the city’s medieval history!
4. Antequera
Antequera boasts a wealth of historical and natural treasures that cannot be ignored. A beautiful alliance that also makes it a cultural crossroads.
Antequera links up with major cities such as Málaga and Granada, making it an ideal starting point if you plan to explore the region. Its authentic atmosphere and monuments really appealed to us and make this city a fascinating place to discover.
Don’t overlook this central Andalucia city, where you’re sure to travel back in time! What we liked best: the fort and its views over the town, the 3 Bronze Age dolmens, each very different from the next and a UNESCO World Heritage site, not forgetting the Roman baths and palaces.
Stop off at the Parc Torcal de Antequera, not far away. This geological area is quite enchanting, with rocks stacked one on top of the other.
5. Parque El Torcal
If, like us, you’re a fan of amazing rock formations and other geological wonders, Andalucia has some gems for you. Andalucia’s natural heritage lets you admire the forces that have shaped this diverse region over millions of years. Drive to Parque El Tocal (or Parque Torcal de Antequera) and learn more about this extraordinary set of limestone formations, sculpted by millions of years of erosion. Don’t you think these thousand-year-old rocks look like pancakes stacked on top of each other?
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Other places off the beaten track in Andalucia
And if you have a lot of time on your hands, you may also want to consider:
- Sierra de las Nieves National Park: less famous than other national parks in Spain, striking diversity of landscapes
- Prehistoric caves of Benaojan in the Sierra de Grazalema (Cueva del Gato): spectacular network of caves with underground rivers and waterfalls, difficult access and lesser-known but one of Andalucia’s most beautiful landscapes.
We often see these places listed in articles, so we’d like you to know that they’re not secret places!
- Sevilla during Semana Santa before Easter
- Ronda and its Puente Nuevo
- Caminito del Rey
- The village of Setenil de las Bodegas
- Bolonia Beach near Tarifa
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Andalusia
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SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
