10 Best Things to Do in Zahara de la Sierra

If you’re chasing pretty towns in Spain, you must check out Zahara de la Sierra.

This inland village in Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park is one of a kind. Despite its small size, it’s beautiful, charming and great for anyone who loves nature. 

I didn’t have many expectations about Zahara. I just knew it would be a perfect little town to explore without the crowds. But let me tell you that it really surprised me.

The numerous viewpoints from Zahara are stunning. My partner and I could have spent hours contemplating the reservoir surrounded by mountains. 

Whether you plan to explore it for a few hours like I did or stay, I’ve compiled a list of the best things to do, the easiest way to get there and other personal tips from my recent trip. 

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Things to do in Zahara de la Sierra

1. Visit Zahara Castle

Zahara Castle is at the top of a hill and can be seen from miles away. I had the impression that it would be easier to access the castle, but once I arrived in Zahara, I realised how far the castle is from the main square. It’s probably one of the tallest castles I’ve seen in Southern Spain, so be ready for a good workout.

The castle was built during the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada, and it was an important medieval fortress palace with a great defensive system during the 13th and 15th centuries. Torre del Homenaje is the tallest tower and point in the whole castle, and the most interesting part for me is the fusion of Nasrid and Christian architecture. Fortunately, this is still preserved.

In 1985, the castle was recognised as a Bien de Interés Cultural (which can be translated as a cultural heritage building or item).

It definitely offers the best panoramic view of Zahara.

2. Contemplate Iglesia de Santa Maria de la Mesa

Situated in Calle Fuerte and opposite the town hall, Santa Maria de la Mesa is Zahara’s main church.

The church was built in 1742, but its construction didn’t finish until 1779. The interior consists of a Latin cross-type floor and three pillars. One of the most impressive elements inside the church is the 18th-century organ.

Unfortunately, it was closed when I was there, but the outside of the building is absolutely stunning. You can appreciate Baroque architecture and some early signs of the Neoclassic style. 

Not only is the front of the church beautiful, but I also loved contemplating its tower from Rincón La Perica, located at the back of the church.

3. Follow Ruta de los Miradores

Zahara is home to many viewpoints, so why not follow the viewpoint route suggested by the council? If you go to Torre del Reloj, there’s a map with the most photographed viewpoints in the town.

There are eleven viewpoints in total, but here are my favourites:

• Alameda de Lepanto
• Tres Provincias 
• Plaza del Rey

Tres Provincias is my preferred because you can see three provinces from it: Malaga to the east, Sevilla to the west and Cadiz, where you are.

4. Explore its streets

One of my favourite things to do in small Andalusian towns like Zahara is to walk its charming, narrow and hilly streets. You can always be surprised by its buildings, doorways and independent shops.

While in Zahara, I recommend walking on Calle Fuerte and Calle Rueda, which are in the middle of the centre anyway, so you’ll probably pass them. Here, there are some lovely indie shops like La Despensa de Zahara selling local products like ham, olive oil, biscuits and boater hats, and restaurants.

After walking on these, explore the connecting streets as well.

5. Check out Capilla de San Juan de Letrán

Another church, smaller than Iglesia de Santa Maria de la Mesa, is Capilla or Ermita de San Juan de Letrán. 

It’s in Plaza San Juan Square, and it was built in 1956, replacing a former mosque. 

Despite its size, it’s a very important church to the town as it’s home to Nuestra Señora de los Dolores, the patron saint of Zahara. 

6. Read Spanish poetry at Paseo de los refranes

If you walk down the Mirador Boquete viewpoint, pay attention to the short walls on the right side, as they have rectangular and square tiles with poems and proverbs like the one you can see in the photo above. They’re all in Spanish, but if you have a good understanding of the language, it’s worth checking them out.

7. Stop by Plaza de Lepanto

Plaza de Lepanto is one of Zahara’s main squares. It isn’t as lively as other parts of the town, but it’s definitely the square that offers the best views. You can contemplate the whitewashed houses against the green mountains or the castle.

Apart from the views, it’s a great spot to relax, when it isn’t very hot, as there are some benches.

It’s also one of the best viewpoints to take sunset photos.

8. Spot the Puerta Arabe

If you walk up at the beginning of Calle Rueda, you’ll find this Arab door. It’s very easy to miss, in fact, I missed it the first time.

I couldn’t find information about this picturesque doorway, but I guess it’s pretty old, and it’s another proof of the Muslim influence in Zahara.

9. Visit La Playita de Zahara

Wait, but Zahara is surrounded by mountains, and you’re telling me there’s a beach? Yes, that’s right.

Well, it’s an artificial beach perfect to cool down in the summer months, so you don’t need to drive far from the town. It’s popular among locals and travellers, especially national travellers, as Zahara isn’t famous (yet) among international tourists.

It’s in the area of Arroyomolinos, right next to the reservoir, and not only can you swim, but picnic, and kids can zip-line.

It’s open from mid-June to mid-September, and it has an entry fee of 3.50 euros per day.

How to get to Zahara de la Sierra

No matter if you’re travelling from Malaga, Cadiz or Sevilla, the best way to get to Zahara is by car.

I always recommend renting a car for visiting remote villages like this one. Most of them aren’t well connected by public transport, and having a car allows you to stop at other places along the way.

Discover Cars is great for checking and comparing prices. You’re guaranteed the best rental car deal. 

If you don’t drive, consider a day trip like the one from Daytrip.

Where to stay in Zahara de la Sierra

Zahara de la Sierra doesn’t have many hotels, but apartment and house rentals. These are some of the most popular accommodations:

• Hotel Tugasa Arco de la Villa (cosy, great views and good onsite restaurant)

• Hotel Rural los Tadeos (countryside-style rooms, outdoor pool, and good breakfast)

• Casa Rural Candelas (great location, beautiful rooms and communal kitchen, which is great for longer stays)

Read more about other charming towns in Andalucia

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• Soportujar, Granada: Ultimate Guide to the Haunted Village
• 20 Best Things To Do in Mijas Pueblo
• A Guide to Ojen, a Pretty Town Near Marbella