Central Guadalquivir Valley

A few kilometres northwest of Cordoba is the ruined Moorish palace of Medina Azahara © Michelle Chaplow
A few kilometres northwest of Cordoba is the ruined Moorish palace of Medina Azahara

Central Guadalquivir Valley

Posadas is worth visiting solely for its location, on the very edge of the Guadalquivir River. It has about 7,400 inhabitants.

Palma del Río is particularly stunning when the orange trees that line its street are out in flower and the fragrance of orange blossom fills the town. It has about 21,100 inhabitants.

La Victoria is home to some exceptional archaeological remains at Pago de Riaza. The village has about 2,300 inhabitants.

Hornachuelos is located on the Ruta de los Castillos, highlighted by the remains of its Arab fortress. The town is a destination that is especially appropriate for rural tourism devotees, with the… More →

Guadalcázar has preserved various archaeological remains which have become its principal tourist attraction. The town welcomes visitors who want to enjoy the tranquillity and peace of mountainous… More →

Fuente Palmera has two unique and legendary traditions that take place in December called ls danza de los locos (the mad people's dance) and la danza del oso (the dance of the bear). It has about… More →

Almodóvar del Río is situated on the banks of the Parque Natural Hornachuelos, and is famous for its castle built by the Moors in 740. Today the famous Castillo de Almodóvar, which was used in the… More →

Book Hotels in Central Guadalquivir Valley

Casas de Alisné

Set 24 km from Medina Azahara, Casas de Alisné offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony. The property has lake and garden views, and is 30 km from Cordoba Mosque. The country house also offers free WiFi, free private parking and facilities for disabled guests.

 

The Río Guadalquivir flows slowly westwards towards Seville through the fertile heart of Cordoba province, with some interesting towns situated on the river plain.

On its banks is the provincial capital of Cordoba, established by the Romans but most famous for its Moorish heritage. In the 10th century it was the western capital of the Islamic empire. Today, it is a friendly city popular with visitors to its celebrated mezquita (mosque). Next to the mezquita on the riverbank is a woodland wildlife haven in the heart of the city centre, Los Sotos de la Albolafia Natural Monument.

A few kilometres northwest of Cordoba is the ruined Moorish palace of Medina Azahara. Further downstream is Almodóvar del Río, with an impressive hilltop castle looming over the town. From the castle are superb views of the Guadalquivir valley. Palma del Río is also worth visiting, especially for its 15th-century monastery, now converted into a sumptious hotel, the Hospedería de San Francisco.