WHEN people think of Spain’s prettiest villages, Andalucia’s whitewashed hilltops or the medieval gems of Catalunya often spring to mind.
But this August, it is the inland region of Aragon that has stolen the show after sweeping the shortlist for the latest ‘Capital of Rural Tourism’ contest, organised by holiday rental platform EscapadaRural.
The competition, which celebrates some of Spain’s most picturesque rural destinations, has named five Aragonese villages among its August finalists.
The list showcases everything from medieval streets and dramatic castles to spectacular mountain scenery.
Here’s a closer look at each contender:
Ainsa (Huesca)
Perched at the gateway to the Pyrenees, Ainsa is widely regarded as one of Spain’s finest medieval villages.
Its beautifully preserved old town is crowned by an 11th-century castle and centred around the vast Plaza Mayor, while narrow cobbled streets lead visitors past centuries-old stone houses and Romanesque churches.
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The village also serves as a gateway to the spectacular Ordesa y Monte Perdido national park, making it a fan favourite with hikers and nature lovers.
Albarracin (Teruel)
Often described as one of Spain’s most beautiful villages full stop, Albarracin is famous for its distinctive pink-hued buildings, ancient walls and maze of winding lanes.
The town sits dramatically above the Guadalavair River and is overlooked by the remains of its Moorish fortress.
Its remarkably well-preserved medieval architecture has earned it international recognition and makes it one of Aragon’s biggest tourist draws.
Alquezar (Huesca)
Set within the stunning Sierra de Guara natural park, Alquezar combines breathtaking scenery with centuries of history.
The village is dominated by its impressive collegiate church and former fortress, while its steep stone streets offer panoramic views across dramatic limestone gorges.
It is also one of Spain’s leading destinations for canyoning, climbing and hiking.
Sos del Rey Catolico (Zaragoza)
History lovers will instantly recognise this spot as the birthplace of King Ferdinand II of Aragon.
Its impeccably preserved medieval center remains largely unchanged, featuring fortified walls, elegant manor houses and charming squares.
The village also gained fame as the filming location for the classic Spanish film La Vaquilla.
Valderrobres (Teruel)
Located in the Matarraña region, often dubbed the ‘Spanish Tuscany’, Valderrobres boasts one of the country’s most striking historic centres.
Visitors enter through a magnificent Gothic stone bridge before climbing towards the imposing castle and the Church of Santa Maria la Mayor.
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Surrounded by rolling countryside, vineyards and olive groves, it perfectly captures the charm of rural Aragon.
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