Free walking tours in Olvera and what to see

Must-sees

Olvera can be seen from afar: a hill covered in white houses crowned by the castle and the church. The castle, of Andalusi origin, is small but offers one of the best views of the Cádiz mountains. Right next to it is the Neoclassical church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, and La Cilla, an old granary that now houses a museum about the frontier and its castles.

It is worth wandering the Barrio de la Villa and walking up to the sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios on the outskirts. Olvera is also the starting point of the Vía Verde de la Sierra, an old railway line with tunnels and viaducts. One of its stretches passes the Peñón de Zaframagón, home to a large colony of griffon vultures.

Free tours and guided visits

Free walking tours are uncommon in Olvera. Most people explore the village on their own or with a guided visit to the castle and historic centre, usually arranged through the tourist office. What people book most are excursions: bike rides along the Vía Verde, birdwatching at Zaframagón and trips along the white villages route, stopping at Setenil de las Bodegas, Zahara de la Sierra or Ronda.

How long to spend

Four or five hours are enough to see the village: the morning for the castle, the church and La Cilla, then a stroll through the streets and to the sanctuary. If you want to do the Vía Verde, even just a stretch, add another day. With two or three nights you can use Olvera as a base for exploring other mountain villages at a relaxed pace.

Where to stay

The most convenient choice is to sleep in the old town or the streets near the town hall square, a few minutes’ walk from the castle. Bear in mind that the slopes are steep and parking up top is hard. If your plans revolve around the Vía Verde, the rural cottages and places to stay near the old station are a good option, as you set off by bike from the door.