Free walking tours in Ubrique and what to see

Must-sees

Ubrique is a white village in the Cádiz mountains, set between the Sierra de Grazalema and Los Alcornocales natural parks. It is known for its leather goods, and the best way to understand that is the Leather Museum, housed in the 17th-century former Capuchin convent. The friars’ old cells tell the history of the craft, and the cloister displays old and modern machines. The convent church is still in use.

The old town climbs in steep, whitewashed streets towards the parish church of Nuestra Señora de la O. From the viewpoint of the church of San Antonio you get a complete view of the village and the surrounding mountains. On the outskirts, atop the Salto de la Mora, are the remains of the Roman town of Ocuri, with a wall, baths and a mausoleum. Close by starts the Roman road that climbs to Benaocaz.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free walking tours in Ubrique. Civitatis lists a guided tour of the village of just under two hours, covering its history and including entry to the Ubrique history interpretation centre and the San Antonio church viewpoint. The Leather Museum and Ocuri are usually visited on your own, and there are hiking and climbing companies in the mountains.

How long to spend

A day is enough for the old town, the museum and some leather shops. With two days you can walk the Roman road, about three and a half kilometres downhill from Benaocaz, and visit Ocuri. If you have more time, Grazalema, Villaluenga del Rosario and El Bosque are close for continuing along the white villages route.

Where to stay

Ubrique has small hotels, guesthouses and apartments, both in the old town and in the lower part, flatter and easier for parking. If you want more silence, the neighbouring mountain villages and the countryside have rural cottages with views. Bear in mind that the upper streets are very steep and a car is almost essential for getting around the area.