Selfdrive
Palma del Rio – Ecija – Estepa
Discover Andalucia on your own pace.
Take the time to soak it all in and enjoy the vistas, scenery, nature, culture and gastronomy.
Andalusia’s Moorish Past
30 km – 30 min
40 km – 40 min
Stage 4 of our self-drive tour unfolds like a journey through a living tapestry, connecting the historic gems of Palma del Río to the enchanting town of Écija, and finally leading to the picturesque destination of Estepa. As you traverse this route, be prepared to be captivated by the blend of Andalusian landscapes, cultural richness, and the warm embrace of southern Spain.
As we drive across the river and my eye catches the shady promenade. We park our car and decide upon a siesta under the stately poplars. We close our eyes, listen to the silence, the rustling of the trees and the rippling of the water. No living soul for miles around, because this city is known as the ‘frying pan’ of Andalusia. No shit. It’s 6 pm and 35 degrees in the shade. No wonder we are exhausted.
After this enjoyable break we are ready to attack the city, which seems deserted. It feels like everyone fled town.
The compact center is dotted with Gothic and Mudéjar palaces, churches and baroque towers, hence its nickname ‘la ciudad de las torres’ or ‘city of the towers’. The Roman ruins, on the other hand, bear witness to a rich Iberian center. The city flourished in the 1st and 2nd centuries under the name Colonia Augusta Firma Astigi and provided the Roman Empire with olive oil, among other things.
Off the beaten track
Ecija
a 30 minute drive from Palma del Rio. ara.
Ciudad de las Torres
Towers and churches
The centuries-old buildings stand like guardians, their weathered facades adorned with intricate wrought-iron balconies and wooden shutters. Each step echoes with the tales of generations past, as the walls seem to whisper secrets of bygone eras.
Follow the melodious chiming of church bells that punctuate the air. Écija is home to numerous churches, each a masterpiece of architecture. The sound of bells creates a timeless soundtrack, a harmonious blend of spirituality and daily life.
In 1755 a devastating earthquake destroyed much of the town and many of the current church towers date back to the time when everything was rebuilt.
One of the more beautiful is the tower of the Santa Maria church, which is located on a square just off the Plaza de España.
History
Close by is the most iconic building of Ecija, the Palacia de Peñaflor. The 18th century palace cannot be visited inside, but you can enjoy the beautiful exterior with its curved facade, ornamental portal, wrought-iron balconies and remains of flamboyant frescos
Desperate for some refreshment, we flee into a cafe, but the air conditioners can’t handle the temperature, so we take to the terrace near the Santa Maria church and enjoy a refreshing cola and the view. Still only a few souls on the street. Is the Spanish interior really emptying ? Are all youngsters fleeing the countryside and go abroad to find jobs ? Many houses are for sale, but lots of buildings are also being renovated and refurbished. I sincerely hope that these beautiful white villages and towns will remain populated and that the soul, richness and history of the ‘real and authentic Spain’ will be preserved.
We will do our very best to keep promoting the beauty and authenticity of the Campo.
Balcon de Andalucía’s Revelation
Not looking at the map, we follow our gut feeling and wander through the narrow streets, discovering picturesque squares, colorful facades and shady parks.
Wandering through these narrow streets of Écija is like stepping into a living canvas where history, culture, and tradition converge. As you navigate the labyrinthine alleys, a sensory journey unfolds, inviting you to immerse yourself in the tapestry of this charming Spanish town.
Off the beaten track
Estepa
a 40 minute drive from Ecija
Balcón de Andalucía
Incredible views
From a distance we see the whitewashed town perched against the hillside. Following the signs to ‘Cerro de San Cristobal’ and ‘Castillo’, we drive up to the highest point in the city.
The viewpoint lives up to its name, offering a balcony-like perspective of the sprawling valleys and mountains. The sunset here is a spectacle, casting a warm glow over the Andalusian panorama.
A perfect end to a perfect day.
This road trip is not just a physical journey; it’s a passage through time and culture, where each bend in the road reveals a new facet of Andalusia’s captivating story.
