dossier

Hidden Valleys of Cordoba

HIDDEN VALLEYS OF CORDOBA - DAY BY DAY

Hotel Zuhayra** Zuheros

The typically Andaluz Hotel Zuhayra is the perfect base from which to explore the Sierra Subbetica and the surrounding villages. The homely country atmosphere is immediately apparent in the beamed wooden bar, and you will enjoy relaxing on the enclosed patio at the back of the hotel where evening meals are served. Breakaway guests will also enjoy a complimentary 1/2 bottle of wine with their evening meal. The clean white washed rooms are all ensuite and have tiled floors, wooden furniture and shuttered windows giving views over tiled rooftops to olive groves in the valley beyond.

Day 1  Arrive in Zuheros

We arrange a private taxi from Malaga airport to Zuheros (90 mins).

Day 2  Cerro de Bramadero  13km/8mi/4hr

A path climbs gently through almonds above Zuheros before descending into the spectacular gorge of the Rio Bailon, then with golden eagles soaring above, you reach Cerro de Bramadero hilltop where you can relax under holm oaks enjoying wonderful valley views. You return past walnut trees and ancient wells on the way to the verdant river gorge that leads back into Zuheros.

Day 3  Virgen de la Sierra  19km/12mi/5.5hr or 21km/13mi/6hr

We take you to the 14C whitewashed hilltop chapel of Virgen de la Sierra (at 1216m it deserves its nickname - “The Balcony of Andalucia!”). You descend to valleys sprinkled with white narcissi,  yellow daffodils and red peonies. Then after lunch by a sparkling waterfall hidden in the valley side, the trail returns under limestone cliffs and past huge holm oaks to Zuheros in time for a cold drink in the village square.

Day 4  Free day

You could take an easy - and panoramic - walk along the Via Verde to the El Salobral lagoon - a wildlife refuge and haven for flamingos in season. Or perhaps take a taxi to Córdoba (Antonio will happily arrange) and spend the day exploring the fabulous cathedrals, palaces and Mezquita sparkling like jewels in the Moorish crown.

Day 5  Monte Abrevia  16km/10mi/5.5hr

You may meet olivereros (olive farmers), with their mules this morning, diligently tending their olive trees on the hills above Zuheros, as you make the gradual ascent to Monte Abrevia (1129m), for lunch. Here you’ll enjoy the best views of the week. A thyme scented descent affords perfect views of Zuheros as you approach the village along the Via Verde.

Day 6  Zagrilla Alta  16km/10mi/5.5hr

Look out for protected griffon vultures soaring high above you today as you pass through remote Spanish cortijos (farms) in beech and oak shrouded valleys and enjoy stunning views east towards Sierra de la Pandera – the next range of hills. Before long the olive orchards of Zagrilla Alta are visible below, and when you arrive you can enjoy a cold drink by the natural spring in the village before we meet you and take you back to Zuheros.

Day 7  Luque  16km/10mi/5hr or 18km/13mi/5.5hr

This morning sees you striding out east along the Via Verde passing whitewashed farms and olive groves. A short climb brings you to Luque with its imposing castle and elegant square - a good lunch stop. Then up into the National Park - stunning views - before winding down through wild herbs as you descend towards Zuheros.

Day 8  Leave Zuheros

After breakfast, a private taxi takes you to Malaga airport.

WALKING DETAILS

This holiday has walking on farm tracks, narrow paths and over green countryside. There are great views but no dizzy heights. Walking boots are essential.