Zahara de la Sierra is a quiet town on the route of the Pueblos Blancaos (White Towns). The White Towns, built in the Moorish style with whitewashed walls, are known for their dazzling rows of pristine white buildings built on hillsides.

 

At the top of the hillside stand the remnants of a large castle. Zahara de la Sierra’s houses and businesses fan out below the castle. When you enter Zahara, it is like entering a land that time forgot.

Much of Zahara’s history revolves around the Nazarit Castle. The castle was one of the strongest in the area - so strong that many military leaders fought to gain control of the area because of it. Nazarit Castle offered great views of the area allowing armies to see the enemy coming from miles away. The steep hillside slowed advancing armies down. Those behind the walls of the fortress were secure.

 

For many years, the Moors dominated the area of Zahara. The land was familiar to the villages they left behind. They reigned for years before Christian leaders won battles and took over. The Moors made many attempts to reclaim their homeland. While they were successful once, their success did not last. In the 15th century, Rodrigo Ponce de León and his armies claimed the area permanently.

Zahara is located in the middle of the Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema. The local information office is open Monday through to Saturday (closes at 2.00 pm and reopens in the afternoon) and on Sunday mornings only. The information office provides maps of the hiking trails and offers guided tours. If you can, try to book a guided trail ride. The horse rides through the area are one of the neatest ways to tour the park.

 

Nazarit Castle was built by Moors during the 10th century. The remnants of the castle have been restructured many times through history. The castle offers a view into the architecture of many centuries. Nazarit Castle is viewable if you can handle the ten-minute uphill hike to the castle grounds. Be sure to take in the views of the countryside below.

 

Two area churches offer a peaceful spot to relax and pray. Iglesia San Juan de Latrán was built during the 20th century and holds regular church services. Iglesia Santa María de la Mesa was built during the 18th century. Inside, you will find many 18th century architectural details. Do not miss the 16th century statue of Madonna and the lavish gardens surrounding the church.

 

The narrow, cobble streets wind throughout the town. Streets are lined with orange trees adding colour and beauty to the scenery. At the bottom of the hill lie impressive groves of olive trees. If you are lucky, you’ll catch workers beating the ripe olives from the trees.

 

 

The city undergoes a daily siesta usually between the hours of 2.00 pm and 4.00 pm.  If you are out and about during those hours, keep in mind that many families may be resting, though there will always be someone up observing tourist activity.

Zahara de la Sierra is an agriculture community. Fresh vegetables, olives, and cotton are harvested regularly. Olives and cotton both grow well in the warm, sunny climate. Tomatoes thrive in the heat.

 

With the El Embalse de Zahara well stocked with bass, barbel, and carp, freshwater fish are another beneficial ingredient to the local economy. Fishermen do well in the area.

 

Other occupations include: innkeepers, carpenters, shop owners, cashiers, tourism agents, bakers, and teachers. The majority of residents in Zahara make a living remaining in their own town.

Because tomatoes, olives, and fresh water fish are abundant in Zahara, they are used regularly in the area’s cuisine. Fish baked with hearty red wine, tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic is a typical dish.

 

Honey is produced by local farmers in large amounts. Wild game is plentiful. Crops such as wild asparagus, figs, almonds, and mushrooms all grow with success. As the focus of local cuisine is on local produce, you can imagine how easy it is to provide fresh and succulent meals. Local specialties include Chorizo al Viño (homemade chorizo sausage fried and then steamed in red wine), Champiñones al ajillo (Mushrooms sautéed in garlic and olive oil), Boquerones en vinagre (fresh sardines cooked in vinegar), Ensaladilla Rusa (fresh vegetables that are diced and tossed with fresh tuna), and more.

Surprisingly, for a small town Zahara comes to life at night. There are a couple of discos that focus on different styles of music, including flamenco. Dancing begins late and night and lasts until the early hours of the morning.

 

Tapas bars are always a hit. Locals seek out tourists and quite often will insist on paying for your drinks if they find you intriguing enough. If you can, head for Bar Naranjos where the outdoor patio is covered and lined with orange trees that scent the air.

Zahara de la Sierra is a town that will appeal to both young and old. The lake draws quite a crowd on a hot summer’s day. The tapas bars offer a casual dining experience to hungry and thirsty patrons.

 

Friendly locals add to the ambience of the area. With locals treating you like a treasured guest, it is easy to picture yourself returning repeatedly.