The Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche, in northern Huelva, is the green, secret side of Andalusia: a landscape of holm-oak and cork-oak dehesas where the Iberian pigs behind the finest ham graze, charming whitewashed villages, chestnut forests and a spectacular cave. It's a peaceful, cool and delicious destination, ideal for a motorhome away from the crowds. Here's the guide.
The dehesa and Iberian ham
The natural park protects the dehesa, that unique holm-oak ecosystem where the acorn-fed Iberian pig is raised. Jabugo and its surroundings produce some of the finest hams in the world; visiting the bodegas and curing houses and tasting the acorn-fed Iberian ham is an experience in itself (see food routes). Nature and gastronomy hand in hand.
The Gruta de las Maravillas
Beneath the village of Aracena lies the Gruta de las Maravillas, one of the most beautiful show caves in Spain, with underground lakes and spectacular formations (see caves). An absolute must.
Whitewashed villages and nature
- Aracena (with its castle), Alájar and the Peña de Arias Montano, Almonaster la Real with its mosque.
- Chestnut forests, spectacular in autumn.
- Hiking among dehesas and villages (see hiking).
Practical tips
- Spring and autumn are ideal; autumn brings chestnuts and colour.
- Cool climate: a break from the Andalusian heat in summer.
- Small villages: use designated areas and respect local overnight rules.
- Enjoy Iberian ham straight from the producer.
In summary
The Sierra de Aracena is the green, secret side of Andalusia: dehesas with the finest Iberian ham, the spectacular Gruta de las Maravillas and whitewashed villages, all cool and peaceful. The step to take today: combine a visit to the Gruta de las Maravillas with a tour of the dehesa and the whitewashed villages (Alájar, Almonaster), tasting the local acorn-fed Iberian ham; a plan combining nature and gastronomy. Combine it with the routes through Andalusia.