Free walking tours in Niebla and what to see

Must-sees

Niebla is in the Condado de Huelva, on a hill above the Tinto river, less than half an hour from the city of Huelva. The first thing that strikes you is its Almohad wall, about two kilometres long, which still embraces almost the whole old town. You enter through any of its fortified gates, such as the Socorro, Sevilla or Agua gates, and it's worth walking part of the perimeter outside to see the towers.

Inside, the castle of the Guzmanes occupies the north side and can be visited. The church of Santa María de la Granada was built on a former mosque and keeps a Visigothic-era bishop's chair. Of San Martín, very photogenic Gothic and Mudéjar remains survive. On the way out, go down to the Roman bridge over the Tinto river, whose reddish water is quite a sight.

Free tours and guided visits

Niebla is one of the few towns in the area with a free walking tour: a walk around the walled enclosure and its churches. You can also opt for a private tour of the walls, more flexible if you're in a group or with children. The castle also has guided visits organised by the town council, and from Huelva or Seville it's easy to combine Niebla with other Condado towns.

How long to spend

The old town is small and half a day is enough: a walk along the walls, the castle and the two churches, and a trip down to the Roman bridge. To make a full day of it, add La Palma del Condado or Moguer in the afternoon, both close and with plenty to see. In summer, the castle hosts a theatre and dance festival, a good excuse to stay for dinner.

Where to stay

Accommodation inside Niebla is limited: a few apartments and houses in the old town or by the access road. Sleeping inside the walls has the charm of strolling at night by the floodlit stone with very few people around. If you can't find a room, Huelva is about thirty kilometres away with far more choice, and La Palma del Condado is also very close.