Hidden Gem Hill Town in Spain, Loved by Rick Steves, Escape for Most Travelers
In the heart of Andalusia, nestled among the picturesque cliffs, lies the enchanting white village of Arcos de la Frontera. This hidden gem is a favourite among travellers, particularly those guided by the wisdom of Rick Steves, who highly recommends it as part of an Andalusian sightseeing circuit.
Arriving in Arcos de la Frontera is a journey through the scenic Andalusian countryside, either by car or guided tour. Upon arrival, the old quarter awaits, a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, whitewashed walls, and stone archways that reveal breathtaking panoramic views from the cliffside viewpoints.
A visit to the cloistered convent is a cultural highlight, offering a unique moment to immerse oneself in local traditions. Here, traditional baked goods can be purchased, and a sweet treat from the Convent of the Mercedarias Descalzas, such as cookies or cupcakes, is a delightful souvenir.
For those seeking a broader cultural context, nearby Jerez de la Frontera, known for sherry and flamenco, is a popular addition to the itinerary. A tapas lunch, exploration of its old quarter, and visits to the Royal Andalusian riding school or sherry bodegas make for an unforgettable experience.
The town of Arcos de la Frontera, located about an hour south of Seville, reflects a rich mixture of cultures that is evident in its architecture, traditions, and daily life. The historic heart of Arcos de la Frontera is Plaza del Cabildo, home to several monuments like the Basilica of Santa María de la Asunción, the Town Hall, the Ducal Castle, the Parador de Turismo, and the Convent of the Mercedarias Descalzas.
Food lovers will find the market in Arcos de la Frontera to be the culinary heartbeat of the town. Women in the market often push banderillas, a type of skewer with savory pickled vegetables. Churros and chocolate, along with a café con leche, can be found at many local cafes as a delicious morning snack.
For accommodations, the Parador de Arcos de la Frontera is the most popular lodging option, while La Casa Grande offers charming boutique rooms with panoramic terraces and traditional Andalusian decor. Hotel El Convento is a great mid-range hotel, perfectly located with balconies overlooking the surrounding countryside.
Bodega Huerta de Albalá, located about a 15-minute drive from town, offers a full tasting experience of Andalusian wines. Arcos de la Frontera is also a place where one can get an authentic meal, similar to what abuela used to make. Taberna Jovenes Flamencos is a popular and authentic restaurant, serving an array of traditional Spanish dishes.
Rick Steves, the renowned travel writer, has classified Arcos de la Frontera as one of his favourite destinations in Europe and even wrote a blog post titled "Daily Dose of Europe: Arcos de la Frontera - Pickles, Nuns, and Donkeys in the Bell Tower".
While in Arcos de la Frontera, the "word to know" is jamón, a type of ham. The town is located in the province of Cádiz, a region renowned for its sherry wine and fino. The Mirador de la Peña Nueva offers panoramic valley views and is a popular viewpoint in Arcos de la Frontera.
Visiting Arcos de la Frontera by car allows easy access to other nearby white-washed villages like Grazalema, Zahara de la Sierra, or Ronda. Driving in the old town is difficult, so it's recommended to park in the lower town and walk. Buses run from larger cities like Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz, and Seville, but they can be infrequent.
In conclusion, Arcos de la Frontera is a must-visit destination in Andalusia, Spain. Its blend of history, architecture, and local customs make it a fitting stop on any Andalusian sightseeing circuit.
While exploring the charming white village of Arcos de la Frontera, take time to marvel at the local lifestyle and colorful home-and-garden scenes, often showcased in the narrow alleyways and quaint squares. Additionally, after immersing yourself in the town's culture and traditions, consider expanding your travels to neighboring regions, such as Jerez de la Frontera or nearby white-washed villages like Grazalema or Ronda, for a holistic Andalusian experience.
