9 Best Things to Do in Olvera, Cadiz
The white-painted towns in Southern Spain are unique and offer a different experience to the lively big Andalusian cities like Sevilla, Granada and Malaga, and Olvera exactly does that.
It’s among my favourite towns in Cadiz. Nestled in the mountains, it makes you disconnect from the crowds. It has a relaxing atmosphere, it’s charming, and it has plenty of history despite its size.
During my recent visit to Olvera, I enjoyed learning about its Moorish roots, wandering its hilly cobblestone streets filled with flowers, admiring its stunning views from the castle, and tasting some of its local products.
If you don’t want to miss a thing on your trip, I have included the top attractions in Olvera and other nearby towns you’ll want to include in your itinerary in this guide based on my personal experience.
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Things to do in Olvera
1. Visit the Arab Castle and its museum
An unmissable thing to do in Olvera is to visit the castle. Like many other towns in Southern Spain, the Moors spent some time in Olvera, and nowadays this is still visible in buildings like the castle and arched gates found around the centre.
This castle was built in the late 12th century, and its main objective was to be part of the defensive system of the Emirate of Granada.
I must tell you that there isn’t a public entrance to the castle. I was a bit confused because I could see the castle tower but not the entry, so I headed to the tourist office opposite the Olvera sign. I asked the woman behind the counter, and she said tickets to the office are bought there.
The entry ticket is only 2 euros per person, and it also includes a visit to the museum.
I recommend starting with the museum, accessible via the tourist office, followed by the castle.
Unfortunately, most of the information around the museum is in Spanish, but there are many things to see, including small objects and a mock-up of the town, so it’s very visual.
Once you are ready to go to the castle, let the person at the tourist office know, and someone will take you to the castle entrance.
Be ready for a workout, as there are plenty of stairs to reach the art gallery room and the walls. The stairs are quite steep and small, so going up to the castle isn’t for everyone. However, the views are so rewarding. You get the best vistas of Olvera!
2. Stop by Church Nuestra Señora de la Encarnacion
Alongside Olvera Castle, this specific church is a must-see historical building. Built where a former Gothic and Mudejar temple was, the church is in a strategic location overlooking the town and next to the core of the town.
The Duke of Osuna instructed the construction of the church at the end of the 18th century, but it wasn’t until 1843 that the church was completed.
The architectural style is Neoclassical, and the building has three main naves.
If you have the opportunity, visit the church; unfortunately, it was closed when I went. However, it was still very impressive to see from the outside.
3. Take a photo with the Olvera sign
Next to the Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, you’ll come across the Olvera sign, a popular photo spot for travellers. The truth is that this colourful rainbow-like sign stands out among the surrounding buildings.
Stop by and why not take a photo to capture the moment and remember it in the future.
4. Admire the views from Calle Calzada
Calle Calzada is the most emblematic street in Olvera; its white-painted wall with hanging terracotta flower pots on the right side, wide stairs and views of the church at the end of the street make it so picturesque. I totally think it’s a photo stop! I mean, I couldn’t resist taking photos here.
5. Wander the picturesque Barrio de la Villa
Barrio de la Villa is the most beautiful neighbourhood in Olvera, and not only did I see it online, but I was recommended to visit by one of the people working at the tourist office, and I’m glad I did.
This part of Olvera was once the Arab almedina, characterised by its irregular terrains and narrow, secluded streets, which you can still see today.
Visiting this area is easy to include in your Olvera itinerary because it’s next to the church and main square. Wander its cobblestone streets and take a moment to appreciate traditional whitewashed buildings surrounded by plants and other lovely handmade decor.
Calle Mirador and Calle Manco are two of the prettiest streets in the neighbourhood. You can even see an engraved tile saying “Olvera’s most beautiful street in 2021” on the wall next to a water fountain.
It’s a local tradition to keep the facades and streets neat and beautiful, and there have been competitors to reward those who do so.
6. Check out Plaza de Andalucia and Sagrado Corazón
Plaza de Andalucía is among the most important squares in the town; it was where the royal troops camped in 1327 to strategically plan the attack against the Muslims who lived in Olvera.
From this square, you can see the Peñón del Sagrado Corazón, a garden on the top of a hill with abundant vegetation, but what stands out is its monument: Monumento al Sagrado Corazón (the Sacred Heart of Jesus).
Take the stairs to get closer to the monument and enjoy a different and beautiful panoramic view of Olvera.
7. Taste Torta del Lunes
Do you love trying local delicacies? Then you have to trust me in this one. You have to buy Torta del Lunes, a typical cake from Olvera.
One of the top local ingredients is olive oil, which is essential for making this delicious and spongy cake. In addition, it also has almonds, lemon, aniseed, sesame seeds and cinnamon.
I got mine from the tourist office, and to my surprise, they were made that morning. In fact, it was still warm when I got it.
8. Cycle the Vía Verde
If you’re going to stay in Olvera or a nearby town and you love a bit of adventure, you’ll want to cycle the Via Verde, a 36-km greenway that runs along an old railway line, which, by the way, was never used.
The trail is remarkably well-preserved and takes you through incredible spots where you won’t be able to resist admiring the stunning mountain views.
This isn’t definitely for everyone, but if you’re up for a challenge, I’d look into doing this activity.
9. Explore another nearby town
It won’t take you a whole day to see everything Olvera has to offer. I did all the activities above, except cycling the Via Verde, in a couple of hours, so my advice is to pair Olvera with another nearby town. In my case, I chose Zahara de la Sierra, recognised as one of the “Pueblos más bonitos de España” (one of the most beautiful towns in Spain).
Zahara de la Sierra is also charming, picturesque, and, personally, I think one of the most stunning views of the area. My partner and I could have spent hours admiring the artificial reservoir with the tall mountains in the background.
Other towns that you can visit while exploring this part of Andalucia are:
- Setenil de las Bodegas
- Algodonales
- Ronda
- Montejaque
How to get to Olvera
The best and most convenient way to get to Olvera is by car. It’s pretty remote compared to any coastal towns on the Costa del Sol or even some villages like Frigiliana.
While driving is an option, I totally recommend a private day trip because you don’t need to worry about the logistics of getting to the town or where to park.
I also include driving through Olvera as it isn’t easy at all. The streets are steep, hilly and very narrow, and in this case, it’s better to leave the driving task to someone who is used to driving through them. I wouldn’t see myself driving here.
I booked this private day trip to Ronda, Zahara de la Sierra and Olvera and couldn’t be any happier with the decision. The driver was very professional, friendly and flexible with the itinerary.
Where to stay in Olvera
On this occasion, I only explored Olvera for a few hours, but some accommodations that I have been suggested for future trips are the following:
Conclusion: Is Olvera worth visiting?
It’s a big yes from me! Olvera ticks off all the boxes for a tranquil and off-the-beaten-track destination with interesting things to do. I barely saw any travellers during my visit and thoroughly enjoyed the quiet atmosphere.
For more inspiration and tips, check out my guides below and join my biweekly newsletter, where I share upcoming events in Andalucia and other insider tips.
Enjoy your time in Olvera!
Cristina
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