Southern Spain: Ring Around the Pueblos Blancos

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Arcos de la Frontera, one of Spain's Pueblos Blancos

The Pueblos Blancos (White Towns) of Southern Spain are some of the prettiest towns in the country. All feature clusters of whitewashed houses, narrow, winding, cobblestone streets, and ornate churches atop cliffs and river gorges, and offer rolling views of the sierras (hills) below.

Sure, they’ve got charm, but here you’ll also find Andalusia’s famous sherries, miles of wildflowers and olive groves, and about 1000 years of history. Increasingly popular with tourists, they’re touted as “The New Tuscany.”

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Southern Spain: Sherry, Horses, and…Moor in Jerez de la Frontera

 

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Streets of Jerez de la Frontera - Photo by Light+Shade

Jerez de la Frontera makes a perfect driving day trip from Sevilla; it’s about one hour southwest via the A4 toll road. The drive is dusty, beige and not especially pretty, but hey — at least you’re in Spain.

Once you’re in Jerez, the streets are lined with orange trees and oak barrels, and there’s plenty to do (and drink). [Read more...]