Cortegana is a village of about 4,600 people in the mountains of northern Huelva. At 689 m, it lies in the Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche natural park, a green landscape of cork oaks, holm oaks and chestnut woods near the Portuguese border.
Why visit Cortegana
For a medieval castle with views over the sierra, walks through some of Andalusia’s greenest countryside and the region’s famous Iberian ham, in a quiet village far from the crowds.
Top things to do in Cortegana
The castle
Built on the old frontier between Castile and Portugal and documented in the 13th century, the castle dominates the village. Every summer it hosts the popular Medieval Days.
The church of the Divino Salvador
The village’s most emblematic church, on its own square, shaped by several building phases.
Walks in the sierra
Paths lead through chestnut and oak woods, past streams and old mills. Autumn colours and the chestnut harvest make it especially beautiful.
Day trips from Cortegana
Jabugo, famous for its ham, is close by. Aracena, with the Gruta de las Maravillas cave, and the hilltop village of Alájar are within half an hour, and Portugal is a short drive west.
Best time to visit Cortegana
Spring and autumn are ideal. Summer is warm but cooler than the lowlands; winter is cool and green.
Getting to and around Cortegana
Seville is about 1 hour 45 minutes away by car, and Seville airport is the nearest. A car is essential to explore the sierra.
What to eat in Cortegana
Jamón ibérico de bellota and other Iberian pork cuts such as presa and secreto, wild mushrooms in autumn, chestnuts and local sweets.
Cortegana FAQ
When are the Medieval Days of Cortegana?
They are held at the castle in summer; check the town’s programme for the exact dates.
Is Cortegana near Jabugo?
Yes, Jabugo, the ham village, is only a few kilometres away.
