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The most noteworthy hams are from Jabugo and Trevélez.

The Mesón Sánchez Romero Carvajal in Jabugo is one of the top producers of the local jamón ibérico (see Jabugo).

This hike begins in Pitres and descends south, to arrive first at Mecinilla, then along a ravine to Mecina-Fondales. From here, you take the short or long route to Ferreirola, climb up to Atalbéitar and then back to Pitres.

The Sierra de Aracena is defined by soaring cliffs, wooded valleys and whitewashed villages. A good hike along the marked trails is the 6-km (4-mile) route from Alájar to Linares, via the hamlet of Los Madroñeros. It begins at the main square in Alájar and follows the old road, with only one steep section.

Leave Rute on the A331 south, veer left at the fork and then take the trail on the right about 500 m (550 yd) further on. This leads down to the reservoir; turn right and continue to a rocky promontory. Enjoy the views, then go up the hill and cross the bridge to the scenic village of Iznájar.

Andalucía is blessed with sierras in which to hike, from verdant, to desert-like, to rocky (see Nature Reserves). If mountaineering appeals, head for the Sierra Nevada. Maps and lists of refuges are available from the Federación Española de Deportes de Montaña (FEDME).

Although gypsies have remained outsiders throughout their history, they found a more congenial civilization in Andalucía than anywhere else. The culture was decidedly Middle Eastern and not dissimilar to that of their native land. With the Christian reconquest, however, “pagan” gypsies were forced into hiding or into further wanderings.

The bullfight may have roots in primordial religions involving bull sacrifice.

Andalucía is renowned for breeding some of the finest horses in the world, so one would expect to find a range of riding options. There are trails and schools in every province.