After our varied and active trip in Portugal, we continue our journey to southern Spain. We start in the beautiful nature of Doñana National Park.
Parque Nacional de Doñana
In Matalascañas, I find a great spot next to the park, close to the beach and the sea. We start the day with a wonderful walk on an empty beach. The weather is gorgeous; I’m still in my shorts.
The weather isn’t always good, recently a storm washed away a chunk of the coastline. There are buildings on the cliff edge that could collapse at any moment. We’re not doing any urban exploring this time, it’s too dangerous ⚠️
Playa de Matalascañas
I meet Spanish Mariano, the male version of Marian? He’s created a small garden next to his camper. We talk about the storm and hear that people still live in the damaged houses, bizarre. The day ends with an amazing sunset.
Sand roads & cowboys in El Rocío
In the village of El Rocío, the streets are made of sand. I see horses, white houses & churches, and I feel like I’m in the Wild West. There are many churches, and during Pentecost, the village is overrun with pilgrims.
A tourist hotspot, but funny detail, you can walk along a paved stone path past the village. And from there, you have a view of another part of Doñana National Park, lovely!
Rota
It’s lovely to walk in the charming village of Rota! On the beach, along the boulevard, through the dunes and along wooden paths in the forest.
Walking on the beach can be a challenge sometimes. The tides are rising, and we can’t go any further. So we have to go back, oh no we’re closed in! We climb over the boulders back. Leo loves it, for him it’s a play. Such a nice dog, so much fun together!
On Saturdays, the Spanish go fishing for large squid. Wearing fishing clothes such as high trousers, they walk into the sea and catch the squid just off the coast.
El Puerto de Santa María
In El Puerto de Santa María, we stroll along the beach; on the other side you can see the bridge of Cádiz. Then we chill out by the campervan. Well, chill out… this place is a bit noisy. It’s a national holiday related to the constitution, and the locals are celebrating this day. Until late at night, little sleep in Puerto Santa Maria…
Arcos de la Frontera
On to a beautiful white village on the hill: Arcos de la Frontera!
Lago de Arcos is a gorgeous lake perfect for a stroll. And the historic town is fantastic! We climb a long flight of stairs. Then come narrow streets where cars still drive… OMG. Characteristic houses, beautifully decorated churches, stunning views, and crowded terraces. The weather was glorious again!
Grazalema National Park
A stunning route to Puerto de Las Palomas at an altitude of 1357 meters. We see vultures flying, which is fantastic. Driving in the mountains is pure enjoyment! The views are magnificent, but you have to stay alert, you never know what’s around the bend.
Grazelema is still in its autumn colors, I was here last year too. A pretty village with lovely walks nearby.
Casares in the Christmas spirit
We’re heading back to the coast, but first, one more stop in the famous white village of Casares. I’ve arranged to meet Mikael there for a friendly chat. The village has been transformed into a festive Christmas village.
We continue our journey along the coast, and our next stop is Nerja. Please follow our journey!
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