Via Verde De La Sierra

Winding along a former railway line through the rugged Sierra de Grazalema and the foothills of the Serranía de Ronda, the Via Verde de la Sierra offers a unique way to experience the dramatic landscapes of Cádiz province. This 36-km greenway, one of Spain’s most scenic, is traffic-free and open to walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. Stretching from Puerto Serrano to Olvera, it passes through tunnels, over viaducts, and past whitewashed hilltop villages that seem to cling to the cliffs. For international travellers, it’s a chance to combine gentle outdoor adventure with deep immersion in Andalusian culture and history.

Highlights & What to See

• Railway heritage: The route follows the abandoned Jerez-Almargen railway, with restored stations, old signal boxes, and interpretive panels explaining the line’s history. The tunnel at Peñón de Zaframagón is a highlight – it’s 800 m long and inhabited by bats.
• Peñón de Zaframagón: This limestone crag is home to one of Europe’s largest colonies of griffon vultures. A viewpoint near the tunnel offers superb birdwatching, especially in spring and autumn.
• White villages: The trail connects several pueblos blancos, including Olvera (with its Moorish castle and church) and Algodonales (famous for flying sports). Stop for tapas and local olive oil.
• Viaducts and tunnels: The line crosses 30 viaducts and passes through 20 tunnels, including the spectacular Puente de los Pescadores (a 100 m-long bridge over the Guadalporcún River).
• Cycling and walking: The mostly flat gradient makes it ideal for families and casual cyclists. Bike rental is available at several points, including Puerto Serrano and Olvera.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow half a day to ride or walk the full 36 km (about 3–4 hours by bike, 8 hours on foot). Most visitors start at either end and go as far as they wish, then return. A popular option is to cycle the entire route one way and use a shuttle service to get back. If you’re short on time, a 2–3 hour section from Olvera to Algodonales gives you the best mix of scenery and villages. Combine with a morning in Olvera and an afternoon in Grazalema for a full day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Grazalema Natural Park – Andalusia’s wettest spot, with limestone peaks, deep gorges, and excellent hiking (e.g., the Garganta Verde).
• Ronda – The iconic ‘city of dreams’ perched on a gorge, with its Puente Nuevo, bullring, and Arab baths. 45 min drive.
• Setenil de las Bodegas – A village built under and into massive rock overhangs, with cave houses and restaurants. 30 min drive.
• Zahara de la Sierra – A stunning white village with a castle overlooking a reservoir, perfect for kayaking or a swim. 20 min drive.
• Jerez de la Frontera – Sherry country: visit bodegas, the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, and the Alcázar. 1 hr drive.

Please check official sources for current details.