A Sunlit Journey through Southern Spain: From Valencia to the Heart of Andalusia

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~ 1216 km, 9 days
Arrival in Villena
Today marks the beginning of your motorhome journey through Spain. After picking up your vehicle near Valencia, you’ll head southwest to the town of Villena, known for its rich history and impressive castle.

Depending on your arrival time in Villena, you may have the opportunity to explore a bit. Take a stroll through the historic center, visit the town’s main church — the Iglesia Arciprestal de Santiago — or relax in the central square, Plaça Major. The most prominent landmark, visible from afar, is Atalaya Castle. In the evening, you can find a campsite nearby, possibly with a view of the castle.
Points of interest
A historic city in Alicante Province, located at the foot of Mount San Cristóbal. The city has a rich past linked to the Iberians, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors, all of whom left their mark on its appearance. Walking through the old streets lets you feel the atmosphere of bygone eras.
A powerful fortress dominating the city. The castle has Moorish origins (12th century) but was significantly rebuilt after the Christian reconquest. Note the double defensive wall and the tall main tower (Torre del Homenaje) with distinctive battlements. The castle played a crucial strategic role on the border between Castile and Aragon.
The main church of Villena, built in Gothic style during the 14th–15th centuries. It is considered one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture in the Valencia region. Inside, you'll find impressive vaults and spiral-decorated columns—an unusual feature in Spanish Gothic that gives the interior a unique expressiveness.
The central square of Villena, considered the heart of public life. It houses the town hall and other historic buildings. The square is a traditional spot for strolls, terrace cafés, and public events.
From Villena to the Coast: Almería and Cabo de Gata Park
Today you leave the inland regions and head for the Mediterranean coast of Andalusia. Your destination is Almería, a city with a rich history and home to the largest Arab fortress in Spain.

In the morning, you’ll drive from Villena to Almería. Upon arrival, take time to explore the old town and visit the magnificent Conjunto Monumental de la Alcazaba de Almería, which offers panoramic views over the city and port. After settling at a campsite near Almería, consider heading to the unique Parque Natural del Cabo de Gata-Níjar, famous for its volcanic landscapes and wild beaches.
Points of interest
An impressive Moorish fortress founded in the 10th century. It is considered one of the largest Muslim citadels in Spain. The complex includes several levels of walls, towers, residential buildings, gardens, and water features. From the upper terraces of the fortress, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, port, and sea.
The first maritime and land natural park in Andalusia, located east of Almería. The park has volcanic origins, which give rise to its unique geological formations, rugged coves, and dark sands on some beaches. It is a place with an arid climate, distinctive flora and fauna, and many beautiful, often secluded beaches and coves.
Exploring the Treasures of Cabo de Gata Park
This day is dedicated to exploring the extraordinary Parque Natural del Cabo de Gata-Níjar. You’ll visit its most iconic locations — from scenic lighthouses to wild beaches and impressive viewpoints.

Your route may include the Faro de Cabo de Gata, offering views of cliffs and sea. Then explore various beaches in the park: Las Salinas de Cabo de Gata with its salt flats, Playa de Mónsul made famous by film, the tranquil Playa de los Genoveses, and the breathtaking but remote Los Muertos Beach. Don’t miss the views from Mirador de La Amatista. You can also visit the fishing village Cabo de Gata or nearby Las Amoladeras. Overnight stay is again planned at a campsite in the Almería area.
Points of interest
An active lighthouse located on a prominent cape — the southeasternmost point of the Iberian Peninsula. Built in the mid-19th century on the ruins of an old castle. From the lighthouse and nearby viewpoint, there are panoramic views of the rocky coast, the Sirens Reef (Arrecife de las Sirenas), and the Mediterranean Sea.
The park’s longest beach (about 5 km). Its main feature is the salt flats (salinas) nearby, where salt is extracted and birdwatching is popular, especially for flamingos. Near the beach is the distinctive San Miguel Church (Iglesia de San Miguel) — a popular photography spot.
One of the most famous and photographed beaches of the park. Known for its dark volcanic sand, clear water, and a massive volcanic rock (Peineta de Monsul) right on the shore. The beach is surrounded by dunes and cliffs, giving it a secluded atmosphere.
A wide beach with shallow golden sand, located in a large bay. Considered one of the best for family holidays due to its gentle water entry and lack of strong winds. Surrounded by low hills with sparse vegetation.
Regularly listed among Spain’s most beautiful beaches. Known for its crystal-clear water and pebbles instead of sand. Access requires a descent along a steep path (about 15–20 minutes), which keeps the beach relatively uncrowded. The name is linked to legends of sailors' bodies washing ashore after shipwrecks.
Located along the coastal road between Rodalquilar and La Isleta del Moro. Offers panoramic views of the jagged shoreline, volcanic rock formations with unique shapes and colors, and the sea. A perfect spot for photographing the park’s landscapes.
A small fishing village that gave its name to the entire park and cape. It retains the charm of a traditional seaside settlement with whitewashed houses and boats on the shore. There are restaurants here serving fresh seafood.
A spacious sandy beach located near the village of Cabo de Gata and Las Salinas Beach. It features a protected sand dune as its main landmark. Easily accessible and ideal for walks.
Through the White Villages of Alpujarra to the Sierra Nevada
Today you say goodbye to the Cabo de Gata coastline and travel inland toward the Sierra Nevada mountain range. In the morning, you’ll head to the Alpujarra region, known for its stunning mountain scenery and characteristic white villages (pueblos blancos).

The main part of the day will be spent driving a beautiful route that starts in Bérchules and passes through several of the Alpujarra’s most famous villages. You’ll visit Trevélez, one of the highest-altitude villages in Spain, then continue to the charming Capileira and Pampaneira, known for their architecture and handicrafts. The route then leads through Órgiva, the regional hub, and ends in Lanjarón, famous for its mineral springs.
Along the way, you can stop for lunch in one of the villages or enjoy a picnic with mountain views. In the evening, you’ll head to your overnight spot near Beas de Granada, where you’ll have views of the Sierra Nevada slopes.
Points of interest
A typical village of the Alpujarras, located at an altitude of about 1300 meters. Known for its narrow streets, whitewashed houses with flat roofs, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Bérchules is also famous for its unusual New Year's celebration held in August.
One of the highest mountain villages in Spain (about 1476 m). Trevélez is famous for producing high-quality Serrano ham, which is cured in the pure mountain air. You can visit ham-drying facilities (secaderos) and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
A picturesque village located on the slope of the Poqueira Gorge (Barranco de Poqueira), together with Pampaneira and Bubión. Capileira is the highest of the three and offers beautiful views over the gorge and the Sierra Nevada. Known for its well-preserved Berber-style architecture with flat roofs and chimneys.
The lowest and one of the most visited villages in the Poqueira Gorge. Pampaneira attracts tourists with its colorful streets decorated with flowers, and many handicraft shops selling rugs (jarapas), ceramics, and other local goods. The central square with a fountain is a popular place to relax.
The largest town and commercial center of the Alpujarras region. Unlike the high mountain villages, Órgiva lies in the valley of the Guadalfeo River. You can see a 16th-century church with twin towers here and enjoy a livelier, more urban atmosphere.
A town known for its healing mineral springs and the production of bottled water under the same name. Located at the western entrance to the Alpujarras. The town has a spa resort (balneario) and ruins of an Arab castle.
The Treasures of the Alhambra or the Trails of the Sierra Nevada
Today you'll spend your day in the surroundings of Beas de Granada, with two exciting options: visit one of Spain’s most iconic monuments or explore the mountain trails.

Option one — a trip to Granada to visit the world-famous Alhambra palace-fortress complex. This will take up most of the day. Option two — an active day in the Sierra Nevada National Park, where you can choose from several hiking routes, such as the longer trail Camino del nacimiento del río de Beas near Beas de Granada or the popular Ruta senderista los Cahorros de Monachil along the Monachil River. Overnight stay is again planned in the Beas de Granada area.
Points of interest
The capital of the province of the same name, located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Granada is known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, especially the period of Moorish rule, whose crown jewel is the Alhambra. The city is also famous for its university and vibrant atmosphere.
A majestic architectural and garden complex that includes palaces, fortress walls, and gardens of the last Muslim rulers of Spain (Nasrid dynasty). Considered the pinnacle of Moorish art in Western Europe. The complex features exquisite carvings, intricate tilework, arches, inner courtyards with fountains, and panoramic views over Granada and the surrounding area.
A mountain range in southern Spain, home to the highest peaks of the Iberian Peninsula (Mulhacén, Veleta). The park offers diverse landscapes—from snow-capped summits to green valleys and gorges. It is a popular destination for hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife observation. (The link points to the general area of the park.)
The area around Beas de Granada has various hiking trails offering beautiful views of the Sierra Nevada foothills. One of the routes is a moderately long walk (about 16 km) through hilly terrain with scenic landscapes. (The link points to a search for trails in the area.)
A popular and scenic trail through the Monachil gorge. Highlights include hanging bridges, narrow cliffside paths, and small waterfalls. The trail is relatively easy and short (about 4 km round-trip on the main route), making it suitable for families with children. (The link points to the parking area near the trailhead.)
Ronda: The City Above the Gorge
Today you travel from the foothills of the Sierra Nevada to one of the most spectacular towns in Andalusia — Ronda. The city is famous for its dramatic location on the edge of the El Tajo gorge, which divides it into old and new districts.

After arriving and having lunch, spend your afternoon exploring Ronda. Start with a walk through Alameda del Tajo park, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Nearby is one of Spain’s oldest bullrings — the Bullring of the Royal Cavalry of Ronda. Continue along Ernest Hemingway Ronda Sculpture boulevard to the city’s iconic Puente Nuevo. Centro de Interpretación bridge. Then descend into the old town, stroll through the Arab San Miguel quarter Puente San Miguel, and visit the well-preserved Arab Baths Archaeological Site. Overnight stay is planned in the Ronda area.
Points of interest
A 19th-century public park located on the edge of a cliff near the bullring. The park features shaded alleys with ancient trees and scenic balconies ("Balconies of Ronda") hanging right above the gorge. From here, you get panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
One of the oldest (built in 1785) and most revered bullfighting arenas in Spain. Entirely constructed of stone, it is known for its elegant architecture and is among the largest arenas in the country. Considered the birthplace of modern bullfighting on foot. A museum dedicated to the history of bullfighting operates inside.
A picturesque riverside promenade running along the edge of the gorge from Alameda del Tajo Park to Puente Nuevo Bridge. Named after the American writer who was a great admirer of Ronda and visited often. The boulevard offers stunning views of the gorge and the New Bridge.
A monumental stone bridge spanning the El Tajo Gorge, connecting the old and new parts of Ronda. Completed in 1793, it rises nearly 100 meters high. This is Ronda's most iconic landmark and a major engineering feat of its time. The central arch once housed a prison.
A part of Ronda’s old town located below Puente Nuevo on the slope of the gorge. This area preserves elements of medieval Arab architecture with narrow, winding streets. It’s home to the Arab Baths and the Santo church.
The best-preserved Arab baths on the Iberian Peninsula, dating back to the 13th–14th centuries. Located at the foot of the old town, near a stream. The complex includes cold, warm, and hot rooms with signature vaulted ceilings and skylight openings. Remains of the water system are still visible.
Heading to the Atlantic: Arrival in El Rocío
Today is devoted to the journey from mountainous Ronda to a unique region by the Atlantic Ocean, home to Doñana National Park. Your destination is the colorful village of El Rocío, which serves as a gateway to the park.

Most of the day will be spent on the road. Upon arrival in El Rocío, you'll have time to settle in and explore this unusual village. Stroll along its sandy streets and visit its main landmark — the large white church Santuario de Nuestra Señora del Rocío. Be sure to walk the marshfront promenade Centro Ornitológico Francisco Bernis, overlooking the Madre de las Marismas O del Rocío, where you may spot grazing horses and various bird species. Take note of the unique architecture of the Brotherhood Houses scattered throughout the village. Overnight stay is planned in the El Rocío area.
Points of interest
A unique settlement on the edge of the Doñana National Park wetlands. El Rocío looks more like a Wild West town than a typical Andalusian village: its streets are unpaved and covered in sand, and hitching posts for horses are common in front of houses. It is a major pilgrimage center, especially during the annual Romería del Rocío. The town also serves as a convenient base for visiting Doñana Park.
The main church and spiritual heart of El Rocío. This impressive white church, built in the 20th century, houses the revered statue of the Virgin of El Rocío. It is located on a picturesque square with views over the Doñana (Marismas) marshes.
A walking path along the edge of the Marismas wetlands near El Rocío. It offers excellent views over the vast marshlands, where you can observe wild horses, cattle, and a variety of bird species — including flamingos (depending on the season and water level). There are several viewpoints along the route.
Part of the vast wetland system of the Doñana National Park, directly adjacent to El Rocío. These seasonally flooded lands are home to countless birds and other wildlife. The view of the Marismas is an essential part of the El Rocío landscape.
Hermandad Brotherhood Houses
Scattered throughout El Rocío are houses owned by various religious brotherhoods (hermandades) from across Andalusia and Spain. These houses are used by brotherhood members during the annual Romería del Rocío pilgrimage. Many of them feature distinctive architecture and signs bearing the name of the brotherhood. Observing them from outside gives a clear impression of the scale and traditions of this pilgrimage.
Exploring Doñana and the Costa de la Luz Coast
This day is dedicated to discovering the region’s natural wonders: Doñana National Park and the Atlantic coast.
Spend the morning on a guided tour of Doñana National Park. These are often done in specialized off-road vehicles that traverse the park’s varied ecosystems — marshes, dunes, and pine forests — areas usually inaccessible to independent travelers. This is the best way to see the park’s unique flora and fauna, including the elusive Iberian lynx (if you’re lucky) and many bird species.

In the afternoon, head to the coast and the seaside town of Matalascañas. Relax or take a walk along the vast Matalascañas Beach and see its curious ruined tower, Tapón De Matalascañas. In the evening, return to El Rocío for your overnight stay.
Points of interest
A unique nature reserve in the delta of the Guadalquivir River, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is renowned for its biodiversity, especially as a habitat and wintering ground for vast numbers of migratory birds, including flamingos. Its landscapes include extensive marshes (marismas), shifting sand dunes, pine forests, and kilometers of wild beaches. Access to some areas of the park is restricted and only possible as part of organized tours.
One of the main visitor information centers for Doñana National Park, located near Matalascañas and El Rocío. Here you can learn about the park, its flora and fauna, and start several short hiking trails via wooden boardwalks that pass through pine forest and lagoon areas, where birdwatching towers are available.
A wide beach with fine golden sand stretching for several kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean. It features a broad shoreline, ideal for long walks. The beach is also known as "Castilla Beach" (Playa de Castilla) in its more wild section, which borders Doñana Park.
The ruins of a 16th-century watchtower located directly on Matalascañas Beach. The tower was built to protect the coast from pirates but was eventually destroyed by an earthquake and the advancing sea. Its remains, often partially submerged at high tide, have become a recognizable symbol of the beach and a popular photography spot.
Ending the Journey in the Heart of Andalusia: Seville
Today your journey through southern Spain comes to an end. In the morning, leave the unique region of El Rocío and head northeast to the capital of Andalusia — Seville.

Your main task for the day is returning the motorhome in Seville. The drive takes about an hour, allowing you to complete this without rushing. After handing over the vehicle, your journey along this route concludes.
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