An Amazing Image Within the Cliffs You Have Not Seen
While in Spain, we drove to Setenil de las Bodegas. I had not heard of this place. It was my husband’s idea to visit based on an online photo he’d seen. The photo convinced me. There was no doubt in my mind. So, instead of driving to Gibraltar, we took a detour to Setenil de las Bodegas.
Driving an hour and forty-five-minutes through winding cliffs and narrow roads was relaxing. We drove through the back roads to enjoy the views. A lonely but lovely ride. Once we arrived, we parked about 2 miles from the entrance.
Setenil de las Bodegas is a place like no other. Established in the 14th century, these are whitewashed houses and shops built into the cliffs. Their roofs are overhanging cliffs and the home/shop’s interior are rock walls. The premises are small but well planned and designed.
River Tejo (Rio Trejo) divides the two roads. One side of the river is Calle Cueva del Sol (Sun Street of the Cave) where the cliff hangs over the homes and shops, but it’s not enclosed. On the other side is Calle Cueva de la Sombra (Shade Street of the Cave). Cliffs are on both the right and left side of the street and it’s a pass-thru cave with homes and shops on both sides. Even though these streets are very narrow, they are open to vehicle travel but only for residents.
Setenil de las Bodegas was crawling with tourists. Getting to work through the congested road must frustrate the residents. We arrived at 11:00 a.m. and there were many tourists. But I’m sure the residents embrace the tourists since the community relies on sales of local shops, restaurants, and souvenir shops along both roads.
La Dehesa (Museo del Jamon y El Vino) was our chosen spot for a quick lunch. It’s a cozy, small restaurant nicely decorated where we enjoyed a simple fresh-cut “Iberian ham” sandwich in a fresh-baked bread and a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
Other shops, like “La Cueva de la Sombra” (Shadow Cave) are just a natural canvas. Its only decorative items are the local artists’ handmade plates they sell. A wonderful day at an amazing place. I will return to Setenil de las Bodegas and recommend you to visit.
Originally published at http://travelerwows.com on December 3, 2019.
