Holiday rentals and lettings in Jaen

Jaen in Spain is a burgeoning tourist destination with a unique flavour, a historic city which is famous for its superb olive oil, majestic cathedrals, lush parks, historical buildings and excellent tapas. Want to be in the heart of the intricately drawn streets of the city centre? As you look at the city map, the further the holiday rental is to the west, the higher it is up the steep hill the town is built on, and the more spectacular the views. To the east, the town ends abruptly and makes way for the expansive countryside. Look south east of the town for the most spectacular settings.

The city of Jaen is made up almost exclusively of flats, many affording fantastic balcony views over the historic centre, the spires of the majestic cathedral, and surrounding countryside. Travelling in a large group? There are houses to rent on the edge of the town and surrounding countryside, perfect for lovers of tranquillity, where you can practice yoga, relax or simply read a book.

Jaen is located in the south of Spain at the entrance to the province of Andalucia. The nearest airport is Granada, a beautiful hour’s drive away through the mountains. The densely woven town climbs like an urban carpet up a steep hill, culminating in the Castillo de Santa Catalina that affords unrivalled views over the town.

Far too many visitors miss Jaen and stop only at the nearby towns of Úbeda and Baeza. They are indeed a must-visit, but there is so much more to see in and around Jaen, including numerous natural parks and gorgeous villages such as Cambil and Torres.

Jaen is strikingly beautiful, but almost completely unknown among international hikers, who tend to congregate in the nearby Sierras of Granada. The landscape is wide and spectacular, with 20 percent of the land protected by natural parks. Head to the Natural Park of the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas, the second largest natural space in Europe. The highlight is the Borosa River Trail, a 6-hour route which runs along a river past beautiful pools and waterfalls.

Jaen is a fascinating mix-match of densely-packed buildings and passageways that are draped like a carpet over the otherwise olive strewn countryside. The nucleus of Jaen’s architectural heritage is located in Santa Maria Square. Jaen Cathedral is an imposing building that dominates the city skyline and is a classy epitome of Renaissance architecture. The ornate decorations both inside and outside the cathedral can take one’s breath away. The magnificent Moorish Castillo de Santa Catalina sits on the Cerro de Santa Catalina and watches over the city and hills beyond. The views from the castle over the town and seemingly never-ending expanse of olive groves beyond are stunning.

A short drive from Jaen, Ubeda and Baeza are the best places to encounter Renaissance architecture outside of Italy, and have been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. A wonderful day out!

The province of Jaen accounts for half of Andalucía’s olive oil production, and a tenth of the entire world’s! There are numerous factory tours across the province of Jaen, and in Baeza you can learn all about the history of this iconic foodstuff at the Museum of Olive Culture.

The Provincial Museum of Jaen is devoted to fine art, with an expansive collection of paintings and sculptures from famous Spanish and international artists. It also boasts an archaeology section with one of the most impressive collections of Iberian exhibits in Spain.

The province of Jaen has more free tapas than anywhere else in Spain! Order a beer or a glass of wine anywhere in the province and you will receive a free delicious snack! Sometimes they are so big you can heartedly eat out whilst only paying for drinks!

Numerous delightful villages dot the landscape of the Jaen province. Characterised by karstic rock formations, traditional whitewash buildings, small windy streets, and ancient squares with cosy cafes, rent a car and explore to your heart’s content. Top tip from the author: check out the village of Cambil and walk up to the viewpoint in the heart of the village. Truly spectacular!