The Spanish cave town built into a canyon known for its wine, food and spectacular castle

A UNIQUE town in Spain built into a canyon is described as one of the best hidden destinations in the country.

Visitors are able to enjoy local wines and food in bars and cafes carved into caves, while they can also take in the town from a castle overlooking it from a hilltop.

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Located in Andalusia, Setenil de las Bodegas has been labelled as “the most unique of all the white villages” in the region, with its houses and restaurants, all painted gleaming white, built into a rocky crag.

Guests can stroll around the narrow streets between rocky walls and beneath boulders as they experience life in the one-of-a-kind town.

Originally, Setenil was chosen as a place to live by people looking for shelter from the warm Spanish sun – with the shady caves providing the perfect place to cool down during the summer.

Since then, it has developed into a thriving town, with tourists and residents thriving amid the rocks.

The main street in the town is called Calle Cuevas del Sol, which means Caves of the Sun Street.

It has been built below a slab of overhanging rock and is home to several restaurants, bars and other businesses that sit beside the river that flows through the town.

Travel blogger Salt in Our Hair recommends popping into one of the many places serving food there to try the wild asparagus soup – a typical delicacy of the village.

They also recommend wandering through the streets to the very top of the to see the remains of the historic Arab castle that overlooks Setenil de las Bodegas.

The castle once had 40 towers and would’ve been much more imposing than it is today.

However its one remaining tower still provides spectacular views out over the valley and can be climbed for just €1 (85p).

Salt in Our Hair wrote of the town’s viewpoints: “Start by walking along the river, crossing the bridges, and seeing the views of the cave houses and canyon.

“Once you’ve done that, wander the streets higher up in the village to find other great spots to watch the sunset or take some photos.”

Aside from its unique aesthetic, a lot of people come to the town to learn about the history of wine-making in Andalusia.

Guided tours through the town explain all about the local tipples, as well as its rich history of food production.

Costa Excursions explained: “The main draw for Setenil de las Bodegas is the bodega tour – which takes you through some of Spain’s oldest wineries on a guided journey.

“You’ll learn about Spanish wine-making techniques, get to sample incredible wines and hear all about native varietals and flavours that make this region so unique.

“Plus, your guide will give insight into traditional gastronomy with visits to local restaurants specialising in tapas or paella – it’s an amazing opportunity to try authentic dishes>”

The closest airport to Setenil de las Bodegas is Jerez, but it’s very small and serves maily domestic flights.

However, Malaga isn’t too far away and much more accessible for international travellers.

A night for two in the cave town can be booked from around £45.

Other hidden Spanish towns have caught the imagination of holidaymakers who have been left surprised by how few tourists visit.

Parauta

Parauta has been added the list of most beautiful locations in Spain, put together by Los Pueblos mas Bonitos de Espana.

To be included, towns must pass an audit by scoring at least 40 points across several categories, proving its beauty.

The association was charmed by its whitewashed buildings that stand out among the forests and mountains where the town is found.

Javea

Found in the heart of Spain’s Costa Blanca is a quaint seaside town that a lot of people haven’t heard of.

Called Javea (or Xàbia in Valencian dialect), this hidden gem is known as one of the most beautiful spots on Alicante’s Mediterranean coastline.

Blanes

Locals and visitors have started heading to the town of Blanes in Spain, which can be reached very easily from Girona airport, or by train from Barcelona.

One of the main draws to Blanes is the Cala de Sant Francesc beach, which offers visitors “beautiful coloured water and excellent snorkelling” according to one visitor on TripAdvisor.

Others have been as impressed with the bay, which is said to remain fairly quiet compared to others in the area.

Meanwhile, this budget Spanish town has the most sunny days per year.

And this must-visit Spanish town is away from the crowds and was a filming location for Game of Thrones.

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