Noalejo

At the south-western tip of the Sierra Mágina, on the historic border between Jaén and Granada, Noalejo offers a mid- to high-mountain setting that is ideal for those who enjoy sport and nature. At an altitude of over 1,000 metres, its landscape combines pine forests, holm oak groves, olive groves and traditional farmhouses, creating the perfect setting for hiking, mountain biking and outdoor activities all year round. It is no coincidence that its very name derives from the ancient ‘disputes’ between kingdoms and the legendary phrase ‘I shall not stray from here’ uttered by its founder, Doña Mencía de Salcedo, whose 16th-century manor house still stands today.

The town centre is home to some of the main heritage landmarks. The Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, commissioned by Doña Mencía, houses the painting of the Virgin of Bethlehem, patron saint of the municipality, and preserves two valuable 16th-century replicas of the Shroud of Turin, one of which is kept at the Bishop’s Palace. Nearby is the Town Hall, the former Convent of the Franciscan Friars of Nuestra Señora de la Victoria, a 16th-century building that retains its convent structure and an imposing imperial staircase. This tour is rounded off by the Ermita de la Virgen de Belén, linked to a charming pastoral legend that explains its origins.

The magical and spiritual have had a profound influence on Noalejo. The Route of Santo Custodio takes visitors to the sites associated with this famous saint, whose reputed healing powers have left a deep mark on local tradition. The itinerary includes the old cemetery, la Hoya del Salobral, the chapel of the Virgen de la Cabeza, the site of a pilgrimage every April, and the La Santería Interpretation Centre, where this unique cultural phenomenon is explained.

Among its most notable routes is the Cañada del Toril, which follows ancient cattle tracks and offers sweeping views of the mountainous terrain separating Jaén and Granada. The Cave Paintings Route also combines nature and archaeology, taking visitors to the rock shelters featuring prehistoric art in Navalcán. The Navalcán–Molinos route, meanwhile, takes you through riverside landscapes, amongst fertile plains, water and old mills linked to the municipality’s agricultural tradition.

Its altitude creates the ideal cool climate for curing ham and sausages, with seven factories based in the municipality.

Life in Noalejo reaches its peak every summer with the Fiestas Patronales de la Virgen de Belén, a time of devotion, socialising and joy, offering visitors the chance to experience one of the most heartfelt celebrations in the region.

One of the most significant events held in the town is the motor racing event counting towards the Andalusian Hillclimb Championship (CAM), La Subida a la Villa de Noalejo.

Noalejo is nature, history and living tradition: a place to stroll at a leisurely pace, discover frontier landscapes and connect with a unique identity in the heart of the Sierra Mágina.