AFAR magazine recently updated its recommendation list of the 10 most beautiful villages in Spain. These villages boast distinctive features like medieval walls, Moorish fortresses, and seaside cliffs. This selection is based on the 126 settlements chosen by the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in Spain since 2011, highlighting some of the most representative destinations. It provides travelers with alternatives away from major cities like Barcelona and Madrid.
Morella: Ancient Fortress on a Rocky Mountaintop
Located in eastern Spain, Morella sits atop a rocky hill, boasting an imposing castle and medieval walls. The ancient fortress combines Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles and has been considered an ideal filming location for historical productions. Morella is also renowned for its traditional crafts, including wool blankets produced since the 13th century, as well as local delicacies like the special pastry ‘flaons’ and the fortified wine ‘mistela’. The town also has a dinosaur museum showcasing prehistoric fossils discovered in the region.
Ronda: Dramatic Scenery of the El Tajo Gorge
Ronda, in southern Spain, is less than a 90-minute drive from Málaga and is famous for the 394-foot-deep El Tajo gorge that cuts through the town. The Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), built in 1793, connects both sides of the gorge. The town is considered the birthplace of modern bullfighting. Visitors can tour the Real Maestranza de Caballería de Ronda (Royal Cavalry Bullring), designed in 1785, and its accompanying museum to learn about the history and artifacts of bullfighting.
Chinchón: Medieval Atmosphere in the Main Square
Just 28 miles from Madrid, Chinchón’s Plaza Mayor is surrounded by 234 green wooden balconies, creating a unique, tiered spectacle. The square often hosts medieval festivals, bullfighting performances, and theatrical events, while surrounding restaurants offer local specialties like wood-fired roasted suckling pig. Chinchón’s convenient location makes it an excellent day trip destination from Madrid or Toledo.
Albarracín: Moorish Heritage and a Canyon Village
Situated in eastern Spain and built within a rocky canyon, Albarracín preserves its Moorish dynasty-influenced architecture from the 9th century onwards. This includes narrow cobblestone streets, 11th-12th century houses, a Gothic cathedral, and the ruins of a Moorish fortress. The village was once voted one of the most beautiful in the country by the Spanish public. Some of its buildings were restored after the Spanish Civil War.
Frigiliana: A White Village of Andalusia
Located on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain, Frigiliana borders a natural park. It is characterized by a labyrinth of whitewashed houses and steep cobblestone alleys decorated with hand-painted ceramic mosaics. The ruins of a 9th-century Moorish castle at the top of the village offer panoramic views of the surrounding sea. Each year, the town hosts the Festival of Three Cultures, celebrating the fusion of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish traditions.
