By Rachel Webb 
The tiny town of Zuheros, just over the border from my home province of Jaén into Córdoba province, is just one of Spain´s ‘official’ pretty towns or villages. It sits nestled into the rock face of the Sierra de Subbéticas mountain range which rise up behind it. This delightful little enclave with steep streets, narrow cobbled roads, plenty of steps and cute little view points is certainly pretty.
The 9th century Moorish castle overlooks the olive groves beyond and the view point and church beside it are the central point of the town. Gaily coloured flower pots and bright blooms adorn corners and whitewashed walls all around the town.
Approaching Zuheros
What to See in Zuheros
If you plan your visit well you might taste some of the local and national delicacies in the September ‘Cheese Fair’. The local, prize-winning goat cheese is a must try for any cheese lover. The Cuevas de Murcielagos or Bat Caves are an interesting descent underground with cave paintings and resident bats. It´s a hairpin drive into the rocky landscape above Zuheros town. If you prefer to keep your feet planted overground then a stroll on the Via Verde de la Subbetica a network of ‘Greenways’ that have been reconditioned for walkers or cyclists maybe your thing.
The Greenways are what used to be the steam train lines that were used to transport olive oil down south for export. These days they have been reconditioned with excellent surfaces for wheelchairs and pushchairs too. There are many different routes that interlink.
If walking is on your list to do then avoid the hottest months of July and August and choose spring for the abundant tapestry of wild flowers or autumn for a cooling breeze to be able to enjoy the spectacular scenery outdoors
The Museo de Costumbre y Artes Populares should be on your list, with 28 different exhibitions showing the tough way of life the locals had from XlX to the present day.
Where to Stay in Zuheros
There are many holiday homes to choose from in this quaint, hilly town and two hotels. Hotel Zuhayra right in the centre is a good choice both to stay at and to eat in.
Zuheros is one of the growing towns in the network The Most Beautiful Villages in Spain – Los Puebles más Bonitos de España.
Rachel Webb
