From Jaén: Alcalá la Real and Alcaudete Castles Tour

Traveling through Andalusia often means uncovering ancient fortresses and stories etched into stone. This particular tour offers a chance to visit two striking castles just a few kilometers from Jaén, surrounded by olive groves and scenic hills. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or someone who loves picturesque landscapes, this experience might just fit the bill.

What we like about this tour is how it combines two very different but equally fascinating sites — the medieval fortress of La Mota and the elliptical Alcaudete castle. It’s a compact journey that packs in history, architecture, and impressive views. However, a potential consideration is that this tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues, as exploring castles can involve some uneven terrain and walking.

This tour works best for travelers interested in history, architecture, and scenic vistas, especially if you enjoy a small-group setting that allows for a more personalized experience. It’s a full-day outing that provides a taste of Andalusia’s strategic past, with enough flexibility to soak in the atmosphere and take photos along the way.

Key Points

• Historical sites: Visit two distinct castles, each with its own unique story and architecture.
• Scenic views: Enjoy vistas from hilltop locations that overlook olive groves and the surrounding landscape.
• Small group: Limited to just 2 participants, making the experience more intimate and flexible.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve now, pay later.
• Guided experience: Tours are led by an English or Spanish-speaking guide, adding depth to the visit.
• Weather considerations: The tour takes place rain or shine, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Entails

This 8-hour journey kicks off with a pickup from Jaén, setting the stage for an exploration that’s both educational and scenic. The highlight is Fortaleza de la Mota in Alcalá la Real, a fortress that dates back to the Nasrid period of Moorish rule. The fortress is like a living museum, with its old medina, citadel, and several towers, including the famous Torre de la Vela, the Mocha tower, and the Torre del Homenaje. We loved the way the guide shared stories about how this fortress was a defensive stronghold for centuries, giving us a real sense of the strategic importance of Alcalá la Real.

After exploring the fortress, the tour heads to Alcaudete, situated in Sierra Sur. The castle here is quite different from La Mota — elliptical and perched on a hill, it offers panoramic views that are hard to beat. Originally built to fight internal conflicts during the Caliphate of Córdoba, the castle was later expanded by the Almohads and then adapted by the Christian Calatrava order. Its history of military use and architectural evolution makes it a compelling site to walk around, with the scenery around it equally captivating.

Throughout the day, you’ll drive through vast olive groves, which are characteristic of the region. These trees create a peaceful backdrop and give you a real sense of Andalusia’s agricultural roots. The varied landscape combined with the historic sites makes this tour a balanced mix of nature and culture.

Visiting Alcalá la Real: Fortaleza de la Mota

The Fortaleza de la Mota is arguably the star of the tour. It’s a significant medieval fortress that served as a defensive bastion for the region. As you walk through the old medina, you can breathe in the atmosphere of centuries past, with narrow streets and remnants of old walls. The citadel and towers are impressive, and the guide did a good job explaining their roles and historical significance. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guide brought the history to life, making the fortress feel like a living part of Andalusia’s past.”

The fortress’s strategic location on a hill provides sweeping views of the surrounding olive groves and the town below. It’s a perfect spot for photos and contemplating how these structures once guarded the region.

Exploring Alcaudete’s Castle

The Alcaudete castle is less extensive but just as intriguing. Its elliptical shape fits well with the terrain, and the views from atop are breathtaking. Originally built to serve military purposes, the castle has been expanded and fortified several times over the centuries, reflecting the region’s turbulent history. Walking around the castle, you can imagine the battles and everyday life of those who once lived there.

Visitors have commented on how well-preserved the site is, and its position on a hill offers outstanding vistas, especially at sunset. This makes it a favorite spot for photography and quiet reflection after a day of sightseeing.

Practical Details

What makes this tour appealing is the small-group setting, limited to only two participants. This means more personalized attention from your guide and the flexibility to ask questions or spend extra time at sites that pique your interest. The experience is led by bilingual guides in English or Spanish, which helps in understanding the nuances of each location.

The tour’s price provides good value considering the transportation, guided commentary, and exclusive access to these two sites. Keep in mind, the tour runs rain or shine, so check the weather forecast beforehand and dress accordingly. Since it’s a full-day experience, wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.

Booking is straightforward, with options to reserve now and pay later or cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is handy if your plans are still a bit uncertain.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transportation and Logistics

Transportation is arranged for the entire day, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about navigating. The timing is structured to maximize your time at each site, with enough leeway to take photos and absorb the atmosphere. Since the group size is limited, you’ll find it easier to interact with your guide and get personalized insights.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid introduction to Andalusia’s medieval history through its castles. It balances engaging storytelling with stunning vistas, making it suitable for history lovers, architecture fans, or anyone wanting a scenic day trip from Jaén. The small group setup adds a personal touch that larger tours can’t match, and the flexibility around booking and cancellations makes it convenient to plan.

While it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or anyone looking for a leisurely, museum-style visit, it’s a very good choice for active travelers who don’t mind walking and exploring ruins. If you’re after a meaningful, intimate experience that combines history with landscape, this tour will likely satisfy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking around castles and uneven terrain, so it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility impairments. It’s best suited for curious older kids or teens comfortable with walking and exploring.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 8 hours, including transportation, guided visits, and time for photos and breaks.

What should I bring?
Make sure to carry your passport or ID card, wear comfortable shoes, and bring water. Since the tour runs rain or shine, pack a rain jacket if necessary.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This offers some flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is the tour bilingual?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, so you can choose your preferred language or enjoy a bilingual experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour proceeds rain or shine, so dress appropriately. The sites are mostly outdoor, so be prepared for weather conditions.

If you’re in Jaén and craving a day of exploring Andalusia’s castles and landscapes, this tour offers a well-rounded, manageable way to do so. It’s a chance to step back in time and enjoy some of the best views the region has to offer, all wrapped up in a relaxed, small-group experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: