3 ideas for rural tourism in Spain, for a more peaceful kind of holiday

Considered one of the prettiest villages in the Sedano valley in Burgos, Orbaneja del Castillo has something that makes it unique – a spectacular waterfall cuts through it, gradually forming little pools of turquoise-blue water. The torrent of water flows down from on high through the little streets of the village from the Cueva del Agua, a wonderful rocky hollow where you can see a few little samples of cave art. It's no surprise that the village has been awarded the status of Property of Cultural Interest as a historical site.One of the best ways to get there and to enjoy the scenery at the same time is on foot, walking for 5 km along the banks of the Ebro river from Escalada. When you arrive, you'll find little medieval houses with wooden balconies overflowing with flowers of every colour. The waterfall has plenty of water throughout the year, and from here there are hiking routes that'll allow you to enjoy the magnificent natural landscapes. 

Zahara de la Sierra is a tiny village in the province of Cádiz in Andalusia that sits at the heart of Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park between the rivers Guadalete and Bocaleones. Well known as part of the White Towns Route, you'll fall instantly in love with the stunning, colourful scenery around it.  If you walk along the Calle Ronda you'll discover Alameda de Lepanto, a square where nobody can resist snapping a photo from the viewpoint. As you look out from here, you'll see how the reservoir curls around the village, and you can follow the paths leading to the Garganta Verde, a 40 metre high canyon, with your eye. Continuing along the same street you can also reach the Plaza de San Juan, where the chapel of San Juan de Letrán and the Torre del Reloj stand. Finally, make your way slowly upwards until you come to the impressive legacy of the Nasrid dynasty at the top of the village, the castle and the famous Torre del Homenaje.