When we think of the favorite spots of celebrities when it comes to disappearing from the spotlight and disconnecting, it is easy for us to imagine villas facing the sea or exclusive developments on the beachfront. And even more so if we talk about Cádiz. However, the place where Alejandro Sanz decided to establish one of his main refuges has nothing to do with that image. The singer chose Alcalá de los Gazules, a white town in the interior of Cadiz surrounded by the Los Alcornocales Natural Park, where the sound of cicadas replaces that of the waves and the views are of mountains covered with cork oaks.
Although the details of the artist's residence remain private, it has been known for years that he owns a property in said municipality, where his mother is from and where he has a street named after him. Alcalá de los Gazules has that leisurely air of mountain towns that still live outside mass tourism and where nature is the protagonist. Therefore, here you don't come looking for boardwalks or piña coladas in the sand. It literally comes to disconnect.
Luis Rogelio HM
What to see in Alcalá de los Gazules
The greatest charm of Alcalá de los Gazules is precisely in the fact that you can explore it without rushing. Its narrow, steep and whitewashed streets invite you to get lost among the postcards of white facades adorned with flower pots until you reach one of its numerous viewpoints.
In the upper part of the municipality are the remains of the old castle of Islamic origin, from where you can get one of the best panoramic views of the town and the immense green blanket of Los Alcornocales. Nearby, it is also worth stopping at the main church of San Jorge, one of the most representative religious buildings of the town, built between the 16th and 18th centuries on previous constructions.
Alcala de los Gazules Town Hall
Another of the most photographed corners is the Plaza Alta, the authentic heart of the historic center, surrounded by stately homes and bars. Furthermore, if the visit coincides with one of the market days or local festivals, the atmosphere changes completely and allows you to discover a much livelier side of the municipality.
But, above any monument, the main protagonist is the Los Alcornocales Natural Park. With one of the best preserved cork oak forests in Europe, this protected area turns Alcalá de los Gazules into one of the best gateways to discover trails, humid forests and hidden gorges.
Alcala de los Gazules Town Hall
Where to eat delicious and cheap in Alcalá de los Gazules
A getaway here also involves sitting at the table. The gastronomy of the area revolves around Retinto meat (one of the purest and most valued native cattle breeds in Spain), venison, Iberian pork and traditional stews from the Cadiz mountains.
One of the most recommended options for tasting them is La Cabaña, well known among locals and visitors for its grilled meats and homemade dishes at good prices. Although the house specialty continues to be retinto meat, one of the star products of the region.
Those who prefer traditional cuisine with a higher level can make a reservation at Restaurante Pizarro, a classic in the municipality where they continue to rely on Andalusian recipes made with local products, from artisan sausages to meats from local livestock farms.
Another good alternative is El Campanero, especially known for its charcoal-grilled meats, its mountain stews and a menu that also includes rice and fish. All this with prices far from haute cuisine and a very familiar atmosphere.
What to do around Alcalá de los Gazules
Although the town is worth a visit on its own, a good part of the experience is exploring everything that surrounds it.
One of the most popular routes is the climb to Picacho, a path of medium difficulty that reaches almost 900 meters in altitude and rewards the effort with spectacular views over the Los Alcornocales Natural Park. On clear days it is even possible to distinguish the Strait of Gibraltar and the Bay of Cádiz.
Tanja Freibott
It is also highly recommended to visit the El Aljibe Visitor Center to better understand the natural wealth of the park before entering one of its trails, among canutos, cork oaks and small water courses that turn this space into one of the most unique ecosystems in southern Spain.
And if after a few days of nature you feel like changing the landscape completely, just drive an hour to reach some of the most beautiful beaches in the province. Arenales such as those of Bolonia, Zahara de los Atunes or El Palmar allow you to complete a getaway that combines mountains and sea without having to give up either of the two.
Cadiz Tourism
Alcalá de los Gazules is a constant demonstration that, sometimes, true luxury is not sleeping in front of the Mediterranean. Alejandro Sanz had the eye to see it when choosing this hidden corner among ancient forests to disconnect and disappear.
Cover photo | Alcalá de los Gazules Tourism and Alcalá de los Gazules Town Hall
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