Further Afield

Activities | Days Out | In Olvera | Further Afield

Some of the attractions in the region are a little further afield. Although you can visit them in a day, many people like so spend a little more time there. At Casa Marroc, we can make the travel arrangements on your behalf, including transport and accommodation. Just let us know what you want and we will do the rest!

Granada

A city of fascinating history and exquisite beauty, Granada is one of Spain's most cherished treasures - in fact, you'll quickly see why Granada has garnered the nickname "Moorish jewel." Situated in the southeastern part of the autonomous community of Andalucía, Granada comprises an important pillar of Spain's most folkloric region. It's the Spain of endless sunshine and popular imagination, the land of spirited literary heroes and passionate bullfighting, and the birthplace of delectable tapas and fiery flamenco.

Visit the Alhambra & Generalife Harmoniously integrating nature and architecture, the utter beauty of the lavishly exotic Islamic complex's palaces, patios, and gardens will leave you wide-eyed in awe. Very fittingly declared a World Heritage Site, the Alhambra reflects the unrivalled brilliance and extravagance of Granada's affluent Islamic history. Tickets must be booked in advance, and we can do that for you.
Walk the Albaicín The winding alleys and white-washed buildings of Granada's historic Islamic quarter is not only the oldest neighborhood but is also the most characteristic, complete, and genuine Islamic district in all of Spain.
See the Capilla Real Constructed as a fitting mausoleum for Spain's most famous monarchs- who rather symbolically chose the final city of their Christianizing "reconquista" as their resting place- the Capilla Real (Royal Chapel) is even more impressive than Granada's much larger adjoining Cathedral. Step through the doors of this marvelous Isabelline Gothic structure, take in the beauty of the chapel, and seek out the elaborate marble tombs of Fernando and Isabel along with their daughter and son-in-law.

Cordoba

As the capital of Al-Andalus, Cordoba stood as the most powerful and significant city not just in Spain but also in Europe during the “golden rule” of the Moors. Cordoba also boasts of a rich historical background – Iberian, Visigoth, Roman, Moorish, Jewish and Christian civilizations contributed to Cordoba’s unique personality and vitality.

Visit La Mezquita The grand Mosque of Cordoba is one of Spain’s historical and architectural treasures and among the most visited sites in the country. It's marvelous design and it's graceful columns and delicate arches are a wonder to behold. It is, without a doubt, one of the best examples of Islamic architecture in Spain.
Absorbe the Culture, Art, and People
Cordoba has a lot to boast of in terms of culture, music and art. It is the birthplace of the philosopher Seneca, the Jewish physician Maimonedes, and Averroes. Cordoba’s historic quarter is considered the largest in Spain. Cordoba is also home to the International Guitar Festival, as well as the largest olive groves. You will get to witness two of the staples of Spain’s culture – flamenco and bullfighting. What’s more, there is a popular saying that most of the beautiful women in Spain are from Cordoba.
Visit the wealth of museums Cordoba’s museums cover a wide range of interests and subjects, such as art, history and science. There is the Archaeological Museum that sits inside a Renaissance palace. It boasts of a grand exhibit of Iberian, Roman, Visigother, Mudejar, Renaissance and Muslim eras. Drop by the Bullfighting Museum which pays tribute to renowned bullfighters like Machaquito, Monolete, El Cordobes, Lagartijo, and Guerrita. Fascinated about jewelry? Visit the Regina Museum, which houses ancient jewelry, particularly those made in Cordoba. After visiting these museums, there are still so many things to see and discover in Cordoba’s other museums.

Mérida

This is one for the history buffs. The capital of the region of Extremadura may be small and have only one truly important aspect to come and see - its Roman ruins - but there are so many ancient remains here in Mérida that you'll be kept very busy during your stay!

Five things to see in Mérida

The Roman Theater and Amphitheater Excellently preserved theater and amphitheater, conveniently situated side by side.
The Roman Bridge (Puente Romano) One of the longest bridges built by the Romans.
The Templo de Diana Ruins of an old temple.
Circo Romano Hippodrome The ruins of an ancient stadium where chariot races would have been held. Nearby is an old aqueduct - watch out for the storks!
The Zona Arqueológica de Morería Archeological diggings.

Portugal

Portugal is only 250km from Olvera, so if you combine this with a visit to Morocco, you can see 3 countries in one holiday. With lovely sandy beaches, fantastic food and friendly people, Portugal is well worth a visit.

Morocco

The wonderful country which has so influenced the design of Casa Marroc can easily be visited from Olvera. Take a look at what Morocco has to offer at Lonely Planet and our section on how we can get you there.