Among endless olive trees and rolling hills, the province of Jaén holds a treasure that many people overlook: Alcalá la Real. This municipality, located in the extreme southwest of Jaén and bordering Granada, is a strategic stop for those who travel through Andalusia by motorhome. Today we delve into its history, its flavor and its landscapes.
We propose a route to savor the area calmly, enjoying the pleasure of traveling at your own pace, with all the comforts offered by the Alcalá Camper Park motorhome area at the end of the road. Will you join us?
Alcalá la Real: between the border and the olive grove
For centuries, Alcalá la Real was a key military post on the border between the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada and Christian Castile. Hence its impressive defensive legacy: the Fortaleza de la Mota, a walled city on top of the hill, which houses towers, church, ancient neighborhoods and even a subway cistern. It is not a simple visit, it is an immersion in medieval history.
In addition, the town center offers pleasant walks among Renaissance churches, baroque convents and streets with Andalusian flavor. It is worth a visit:
- The Iglesia Mayor Abacial, inside the fortress.
- The Palacio Abacial, which houses the Local Archaeological and Historical Museum.
- The Barrio de las Cruces, with its popular charm and views of the olive groves.
Active nature: trails and routes nearby
For travelers who enjoy active tourism, Alcalá la Real and its surroundings are a paradise. You can combine culture and sport with routes such as:
- Camino Viejo al Castillo trail, short but charming, ideal for walking up to the Mota.
- Route of the Llanos de Ermita Nueva, perfect for those seeking tranquility among almond and olive groves.
- Route of the Chorreras de San Juan ( about 20 minutes by car): small waterfall in an environment of great geological value, ideal for a picnic or a day of light hiking.
- Sierra de la Martina, which is part of the Sierras Subbéticas Natural Park, if you want to get into a more rugged and mountainous landscape.
In addition, for cyclists, the Vía Verde del Aceite is about 25 minutes away by car. It is an old railway line that crosses landscapes of olive groves and white villages, with a road surface suitable for bicycles and walkers.
Gastronomic tourism: from stoves to olive oil
Jaén is a land of extra virgin olive oil, and Alcalá la Real is no exception. In its oil mills you can find some of the best EVOO in the province. If you are interested in olive oil tourism, we recommend you:
- Take a guided tour of a local olive oil mill, where you can learn about the production process and taste different varieties.
- Taste traditional dishes such as ajoharina, rin-ran, andrajos or pipirrana, always accompanied by bread and good olive oil.
- Enjoy the convent’s confectionery, especially in the Convent of the Poor Clares, where they still make sweets such as yemas or pestiños.
In the city you will also find bars and restaurants that fuse traditional cuisine with more innovative proposals. Ideal to close the day with a tapa in the sun.
Excursions from Alcala: charming villages and heritage
One of the great advantages of staying in Alcalá la Real with your motorhome is its strategic location, which allows you to discover other fascinating corners of the province on short routes.
Here are some recommended destinations:
1. Almedinilla (30 km, 30 min by car)
Small town with great Iberian and Roman heritage. Do not miss the Roman Villa El Ruedo and its Historical Museum. It also has a very active Cultural Park with workshops, dramatized visits and themed cuisine.
2. Priego de Córdoba (40 km, 40 min)
One of the most beautiful villages of Cordoba, with a historic center of white narrow streets, baroque fountains and houses adorned with flowers. Ideal for a half-day getaway.
3. Locubín Castle (15 km)
Famous for its cherry (don’t miss the fair in June), but also for its medieval castle, Renaissance church and views of the olive groves. Perfect for a quiet afternoon.
4. Montefrio (35 km)
Already in Granada, but very close, Montefrio has been listed by National Geographic as one of the villages with the best views in the world. The panoramic viewpoint and the circular church of the old convent are worth a visit.
5. Valdepeñas de Jaén (35 km)
Ideal for those seeking nature, fresh air and more demanding mountain routes. You can get close to the source of the San Juan river or walk through the Pandera mountain range.
Motorhome area: Alcalá Camper Park, your perfect base
And as a finishing touch, nothing better than resting in an area designed for motorhomers. Alcalá Camper Park offers all the services you need in a quiet and natural environment:
- 🅿️ 24 level and wide seats
- 🔌 Electrical connection in each plot
- 🚿 Toilets and showers, plus washing machine and sink area
- 💧 Grey and black water drainage
- 📶 Free Wifi
- 🐶 Pets allowed
- 🌳 Garden area with picnic and relaxation tables
- 🚶♂️ Access to hiking trails directly from the area
- 📍 Very well communicated, a few minutes from the historic center.
The ideal place to spend several days and discover the richness of the region at your own pace, with the freedom that only traveling on wheels can give you.
