Arcos De La Frontera property & accommodation

Arcos de la Frontera - one of Spain's best kept secrets

The views from the cliff-hanging terrace in this historic centre of this old Arab town may be some of the most riveting in Spain and should not be missed.
Legend has it that Noah founded Arcos although it is thought to have been more likely founded by the Iberians.

Dramatically perched on a crag crowned by a Moorish castle the sheer cliff face plunges down to the fertile valley of the river Guadalete below.

Arcos was built in the form of a natural amphitheatre and was declared a national historic-artistic monument in 1962 in recognition of its exceptional architecture and impressive location. Its winding cobbled streets, some no more than a few feet wide, lead up to a sandstone castle, the Castillo de los Arcos.

As you take in the spectacular views you will understand why this view moved Charles de Gaulle to write his memoirs whilst staying at the Parador Casa del Corregidor.

The tourist office is on the Plaza del Cabildo (Mon-Sat 10.00-14.00 and 15.30-19.30, Sun 10.00-14.00).

Unspoilt by mass tourism, Arcos de la Frontera is little known outside of Spain although it has always been popular with Spanish holidaymakers. They come here to see the narrow streets, fascinating monuments, and to savour traditional Andalucia.

This beautiful, unspoilt place is worth a vist, particularly the Plaza del Cabildo for the views. Make sure you see the Castle, Santa Maria Church, San Pedro Chapel (a striking building perched on the edge of a cliff formed by the Rio Guadalete) and Palacio de Mayorazgo which has an ornate Renaissance facade.

Classic Gothic architecture

Basilica de Santa Maria

Having taken 300 years to build and situated in the Plaza del Cabildo, the entrance to this Gothic church is a magnificent sight to behold with its elaborately decorated stonework and arches.