
Burgalimar Castle Baños de la Encina
Burgalimar Castle, Spain's oldest fortress, offers a remarkable glimpse into Umayyad military architecture with stunning views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Breathtaking views, fewer crowds

Burgalimar Castle Baños de la Encina
Best Time
Breathtaking views, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Burgalimar Castle, Spain's oldest fortress, offers a remarkable glimpse into Umayyad military architecture with stunning views.
"A great visit to the oldest castle in Spain, worth it for the view!"

🎯 Check Opening Days
Confirm opening hours before your visit, as some attractions may be closed on certain days. :calendar:
👟 Climb for the Views
Many steps to the tower top, but the panoramic views are absolutely worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Burgalimar Castle
Baños de la Encina
Spain's oldest standing castle, a remarkably preserved 10th-century Umayyad fortress.

Torre del Homenaje
Burgalimar Castle
The Keep Tower, added in the 15th century, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Baños de la Encina Village
Surrounding the castle
A charming white-washed village perched on a hill, offering picturesque streets and rural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Accessibility & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Opening Days
Confirm opening hours before your visit, as some attractions may be closed on certain days. :calendar:
👟 Climb for the Views
Many steps to the tower top, but the panoramic views are absolutely worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Sunrise Magic
Arrive at sunrise for stunning vistas and a peaceful experience. :sunrise:
🗺️ Explore the Village
Wander through the charming white-washed streets of Baños de la Encina. :villagereden:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Opening Days
Confirm opening hours before your visit, as some attractions may be closed on certain days. :calendar:
👟 Climb for the Views
Many steps to the tower top, but the panoramic views are absolutely worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Sunrise Magic
Arrive at sunrise for stunning vistas and a peaceful experience. :sunrise:
🗺️ Explore the Village
Wander through the charming white-washed streets of Baños de la Encina. :villagereden:
🗣️ English Information
Information boards and recordings are available in English for a better understanding. :information_desk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Burgalimar Castle for its historical significance as Spain's oldest fortress and its remarkably well-preserved state. The stunning panoramic views from the tower are a major highlight, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape and the charming village. However, some visitors have been disappointed by unexpected closures, particularly on Tuesdays, highlighting the importance of checking opening hours in advance.
"Was a great visit to the oldest castle in Spain, there is a recording with English subtitles and all the information boards have English too. Quite a few steps up to the top of the tower, but worth it for the view."
Christine Smith
"Stunning view all over the area. We arrived at sunrise, around 7 in the morning, for a quick stop on our way to Seville. The castle and the village are breathtaking."
Giorgos F.
"We enjoyed going to the castle which had great views."
Sherif Labib
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Burgalimar Castle is located in the town of Baños de la Encina, Jaén, Spain. The easiest way to reach it is by car, as it's situated in a rural area. There are parking facilities available near the castle. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus schedules in advance is recommended if you're not driving.
While Baños de la Encina is a beautiful destination, public transport can be less frequent compared to larger cities. It's advisable to check bus routes and schedules from Jaén or nearby towns. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the region and reaching the castle.
Jaén province is best accessed by flying into a major Andalusian airport like Seville (SVQ) or Malaga (AGP), and then renting a car or taking a train/bus to Jaén city. From Jaén, you can then drive to Baños de la Encina.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and it's crucial to check in advance. Some visitors have noted that the castle may be closed on Tuesdays. It's best to confirm the current schedule on their official website or by contacting them directly to avoid disappointment.
Information on ticket prices is best obtained directly from the castle's official sources or local tourist information. Many visitors find the entry fee to be reasonable for the historical significance and views offered.
While online booking options may be available, it's always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on ticket purchasing. This can help you secure your entry, especially during peak seasons.
The castle is generally open year-round, but specific days and hours can change seasonally or due to local holidays. Always verify the current operating schedule before planning your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Burgalimar Castle, one of Spain's oldest fortresses, offers a glimpse into Umayyad military architecture. You can explore its ramparts, towers, and the Keep Tower (Torre del Homenaje). Information boards and recordings provide historical context, often with English subtitles.
Guided tours might be offered, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's recommended to inquire about tour availability and schedules upon arrival or check the castle's official website.
For photography, sunrise offers magical light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the castle's silhouette and the surrounding landscape. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
The castle has many steps, particularly to reach the top of the Keep Tower. While the lower areas might be accessible, visitors with mobility challenges should be aware that extensive climbing is involved to experience the full site.
The views from Burgalimar Castle, especially from the Torre del Homenaje, are spectacular. You get panoramic vistas of the charming village of Baños de la Encina, the surrounding Sierra Morena, and the nearby lake.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the charming village of Baños de la Encina has several restaurants and bars offering local cuisine. You can enjoy traditional Andalusian dishes after your castle visit.
Expect hearty Andalusian fare, often featuring local produce. Restaurants like @buryrestaurante are mentioned for their focus on local ingredients with a modern twist.
While there might not be designated picnic areas within the castle itself, the surrounding village and nearby natural areas offer opportunities for picnics with scenic views.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire castle offers stunning photographic opportunities. Key spots include the imposing rammed earth walls, the crenellated towers, and the panoramic views from the Keep Tower. The village itself, with its white houses, also makes for beautiful shots.
Sunrise provides a dramatic and serene atmosphere, ideal for capturing the castle's silhouette against the morning sky. Golden hour in the late afternoon also offers beautiful, warm light.
Drone regulations vary by location and are subject to change. It's essential to check local aviation laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over or near the castle and its surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through History: Burgalimar Castle's Origins
Throughout the Reconquista, the castle changed hands multiple times between Muslim and Christian forces, a testament to its strategic value. It was finally captured by Ferdinand III in 1225. The addition of the Torre del Homenaje (Keep Tower) in the 15th century further altered its defensive capabilities and silhouette. This layered history makes Burgalimar Castle a fascinating site for anyone interested in medieval Spain and Andalusian heritage.
Exploring Baños de la Encina: More Than Just a Castle
For breathtaking views that extend beyond the castle walls, head to the Mirador Peñalosa. This viewpoint provides stunning vistas over the village, the castle, and the nearby lake within the natural park. It's an excellent spot for photography and to appreciate the natural beauty of the Jaén province. The village also offers local dining experiences, with restaurants serving regional specialties.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit