50km - 1 hour

Follow signs for Ronda Gaucin the C341. One km our of Ronda there is a crossroads. If you have time take the road on the right following signs for the 'Ermita' The rough track is a couple of km long. The view, one the best in Andalucia is worth loosing your suspension for.

Back on the windy main road. This is a scenic road, which provides a bird's eye view of the deep Guadiaro and Genal valleys. This road was once an artery for the produce of the surrounding valleys and the villages were linked to it by tracks hidden beneath the trees. Somehow, they have miraculously survived the passage of time and can be spied in the distance, like so many snowflakes. Depending on the time of year, you may be treated to brilliant cherry and almond blossom on the outskirts of the village of Algatocin.

Continue on the same road until you spy Gaucin which is crowned by a 13th century ruined castle and open to visitors during the morning. This pretty village has all the ingredients which make the pueblos blancos (white villages) so special; steep whitewashed streets, colourful plants and balconies, small plazas and fountains, not to mention the characterful locals, down to earth cuisine and clean, invigorating mountain air.

Don't risk entering the village in a car. Go just past the village and park near the petrol station.

To continue on our Gaucin to Casares route. Turn left opposite the petrol station into the village but in 100m turn right out of the village.

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