El Gastor

It may be located in the same province as the bustling resorts of the Costa del Sol, but the picturesque mountain village of El Gastor present a more sedate slice of life in Andalusia. With picture postcard whitewashed houses and narrow cobbled streets, visitors to El Gastor can enjoy a glimpse of traditional Spanish life over freshly prepared tapas and local wines. Whilst it’s located away from the coast, El Gastor can boast a number of swimming options to allow visitors to cool off from the Spanish sun. Lake Zahara is the perfect place to either enjoy a dip or go paddleboarding, canoeing or kayaking in gorgeous surrounds. The verdant Grazalema National Park also houses La Playita, a small lake which attracts swimmers from the region. Furthermore, the town houses a popular swimming pool complete with full amenities, whilst those who a desperate to get to the beach are close enough to visit the Costa del Sol with a hire car.

 

What you’ll love most about El Gastor

• Explore the stunning reservoir of Embalse de Zahara-El Gastor, nestled amidst picturesque hills and olive groves. Enjoy activities like kayaking, fishing, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere
• Admire the Roman bridge, Puente Romano, a historic landmark that spans the Guadalete River. Take a leisurely stroll across the bridge, soak in the scenic views, and imagine the area’s ancient past
• Visit Mirador de la Atalaya, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside, including Zahara de la Sierra and the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers
• Discover the charming hermitage of San Isidro, perched atop a hill overlooking El Gastor. Explore the quaint chapel, surrounded by olive trees and wildflowers, and enjoy peaceful moments of contemplation
• Venture to the nearby Cueva de la Pileta, a fascinating cave adorned with prehistoric rock art dating back thousands of years. Take a guided tour to marvel at the ancient paintings and learn about the region’s rich archaeological heritage
• Indulge in the local gastronomic delights of El Gastor, with traditional Andalusian dishes like gazpacho, salmorejo, and hearty stews made with locally sourced ingredients. Don’t forget to sample the region’s renowned olive oil and delicious pastries like pestiños and torrijas