Heard of the 'white city' of El Rocío, Andalusia?

Adventure Culture History Oct 13. 2022

Riding into the white town of El Rocío is the closest you can get to life in the Wild West, whilst the town plays host to one of Spain's largest pilgrimages

The Kukutana Team

The intriguing village of El Rocío is located in the marshlands of the Guadalquivir River delta on the edge of UNESCO World Heritage site Doñana National Park.

One of the renowned Andalusian white villages, or pueblos blancos, that scatter the region, El Rocío is steeped in culture and tradition, and feels very much like a scene out of a Wild West movie.

The primary mode of transport is horseback, with horse-drawn carriages a frequent sight in the town and the woodland trails surrounding it.

Streets are wide and sandy and lined with veranda-clad houses. Wooden railings and hitching posts outside restaurants enable riders to tie up their steeds in order to enjoy a bite of lunch, while outdoor bars are often raised, so thirsty locals can enjoy a drink without even dismounting.

Romería de El Rocío

Andalusia is famed for its pilgrimages or Romerías – so named as pilgrims traditionally walked to Rome and therefore become known as Romeros. These pilgrimages, typically now leading to popular shrines in the region, have evolved over time into lengthy, lavish fiestas.

One of the most spectacular Romerías in the region is devoted to the Virgen del Rocío. Every year, in May during the festival of Pentecost, around a million people from across Spain descend on El Rocío. Visitors flock to The Hermitage of El Rocío, the town’s striking cathedral, within which lies an ornate gold altar housing the venerated statue of Our Lady of El Rocío.

The pilgrims arrive for this vibrant, colourful festival on horseback and in brightly adorned wagons that form a miles-long trail that snakes in to the town and transforms it into a riot of colour and noise. Women parade the streets in pretty flamenco dresses, while men appear in the traditional dress of grey trousers, short riding jackets and wide-brimmed hats, all to the backdrop of lively Spanish rhythms.

It’s a remarkable spectacle and not to be missed; impromptu fiestas, open-air masses and horse races in the streets keep pilgrims and visitors alike entertained night and day.

In addition to the cathedral, the attractive church of Nuestra Señora del Rocío is worth a visit for its bright white brickwork and interesting architectural features, while El Rocío is home to numerous excellent restaurants serving delicious traditional Andalusian cuisine.

We offer our guests a range of activities and privately guided excursions from Kukutana. Take a half or full day trip to the fascinating village of El Rocío and marvel at the captivating history and uniqueness of a place that time forgot. You will be offered a tailor-made itinerary and accompanied by one of our private guides, all of whom have excellent knowledge of the local area, history, culture and customs of Southern Spain.

Welcome to Kukutana

Our fully serviced farmhouse is available for private hire. Comfortably sleeping 12 in six double bedrooms, guests have full use of this beautifully appointed Andalusian family house. Hosted by the delightful owners in order to experience first-hand the culture, traditions and gastronomy of this magical corner of Andalusia, visitors will quickly feel like they are one of the family.

The setting of Kukutana, nestling on the edge of a national park brimming with diverse flora and fauna, is breathtaking; the tranquil grounds of this impeccably furnished farmhouse tumble into ancient woodland. An ancient bull fighting ring sits on the edge of the garden and a number of horses, very much part of the family, are stabled around the courtyard.

Home-cooked meals are lovingly prepared by experienced cook Isabel using fresh local ingredients and produce grown in our own gardens. All food, drinks, activities and excursions are included in the price, giving you the opportunity to explore the beauty of Doñana National Park on foot, horseback, bicycle or 4X4. At the end of a long day, relax and unwind by the pool with a glass of Rioja or a crisp sherry produced in the bodegas nearby to the soothing hum of the cicada.

To learn more about Kukutana and organise your stay, please get in touch with the team who would be delighted to help.

I’m struggling to put into words everything that we have experienced these past days, from the very first moment it has all been exceptional. The team and the hosts are marvellous, the experiences unforgettable - we will cherish these days forever.

Guest, Madrid

A unique experience surrounded by friends and hosted by this wonderful family who have poured their dreams and love into this project. The most memorable G&T in history! We will be back soon.

V.U. Madrid

The magic of southern Spain and the warmth with which we have been received have made these days unforgettable. What an incredible project you have created!

A.L. Germany

Thank you for the most magical few days in this piece of Paradise! It was the most memorable time and holiday that we have ever had. The food was delicious, the horses were beautiful and cannot believe that we saw a Lynx! We cannot thank you enough for all you have done. Hope to see you again soon and best luck for the creation and adventures that you plan.