The prettiest villages in Andalucia

The most beauitful villages in Spain were voted for by readers of El Pais several of the most notable are here in Andalucia. If you haven’t visited some of these charming historic whitewashed villages, then perhaps now is a great time.

Frigiliana, Málaga
It is easy to see why this network of elegant cobbled streets just north of Nerja is so popular coming in at number 11. The award-winning Mudéjar barrio is the bohemian village’s crown jewel and the exquisite sea views provide a perfect setting to enjoy some much-loved tapas.

Grazalema, Cádiz
The mountain village of Grazalema is surrounded by limestone peaks of 1,500m in the heart of the Sierra de Grazalema natural park. This was once the centre of Spain’s wool industry, and has been declared a site of historical interest.

Cazorla, Jaén
Founded by the Romans Cazorla is renowned for its high-quality olive oil production. This ancient town boasts two well-preserved castles, the Moorish La Yedra and the Christian Cinco Esquinas, making for an interesting view into history, located in one of the largest protected areas in Spain.

Pampaneira, Granada
Clinging to the slopes of Barranco de Poqueira at 1,000m this tiny village is one of a trio of gorgeous settlements, the others being Bubión and Capileira. The village centres on a pretty square where travellers will find the 16th-century Mudéjar church, the Iglesia de Santa Cruz.

Setenil de las Bodegas, Cadiz
Located on the edge of a mountain range, some of the houses here literally emerge from the rock in the street Cuevas de la Sombra. It is a fascinating place, some of the roofs having olive groves growing over them. Surrounding by fertile fields this charming village is worth wandering around.