Hiking in the Subbetica
Explore ancient olive groves, peaceful river valleys and hidden sierras on foot. The Sierra Subbetica Natural Park is a mountainous region in the centre of Andalucia, half way between Granada and Cordoba. Go walking on old drover´s trails or olive farmers´ tracks. Combine a scenic hike with lunch in a traditional white village, or head out from the hotel with our dog, Ruby, as your walking guide. Suggested routes provided with a navigation app or detailed walking notes and map. Watch our video - hiking in the Subbetica, Andalucia.
Self-guide walking holiday
With 300+ days/year of sunshine, rural Andalucia is a great location for a walking trip, especially in autumn, winter and spring. Even in the heat of summer (July/August) it´s possible to go hiking here, but you need to head out early morning or late evening when it´s cooler. Casa Olea is a hiker-friendly hotel - offering downloadable hiking routes, maps and notes, reference books on birds and wild flowers; plus a stunning pool, healthy evening meals and local wines to help recharge! Packed lunches can be provided for picnics.
Recommended hiking routes
Casa Olea offers a wide range of walking routes, leaving from the hotel or from villages in the Subbetica Natural Park a short drive away. The walks range from 1.5 to 5 hours in length and vary in difficulty and terrain. Some combine with local white villages while others are in park away from civilization. Whichever you choose, there will be very few other people on the trail! The routes are provided either as a laminated paper copy and map, or downloadable to your phone with a navigation app.
Bailon gorge walk Zuheros
This hike is one of the “must-dos” of the Subbetica! Its length (5.5km) means it is possible in all seasons and for all abilities. Zuheros is one of Spain´s prettiest white villages and the sheer limestone cliffs are spectacular. There are caves where prehistoric artefacts (now in the town museum) have been found, Ibex roaming, griffon vultures soaring and local goat farmers wandering with their herd. For those who prefer the flat, walk on the Via Verde greenway closeby then drive up the mountain for views over the gorge!