The small village of El Rocío one of the main lures for tourism in the province of Huelva. It is part of the municipality of Almonte, and it counts on one of the most famous events in the Spanish calendar: the pilgrimage of Rocío.
Because of its deeply rooted traditions as well as its location, situated in the National Park of Doñana, which is the patrimony of humanity, it is one of the most visited places in the province.
The small village can be found within the region of El Condado, and counts on a population that surpasses 1,700 habitants that get to enjoy a spectacular environment and the tranquillity when it’s not peak season, where you will be able to live a unique tourism experience.
How can you get here? This small village is only 60 kilometres away from the capital of the province and 80 km away from Seville, making the best way to get here by car as it’s very well connected by motorway. However, you also have the option of going by bus, which is the perfect option during peak season.
Furthermore, once you arrive here, you’ll be able to enjoy a very pleasant climate, El Rocío has quite mild temperatures in winter, whereas it is very warm and dry in Summer.
But if we were to narrow down its main tourist lure, we would need to need to ask ourselves the following question: when are the festivities in El Rocío celebrated?
El Rocío is celebrated in an event where passion, religion and excitement are also celebrated evolving around Monday of Pentecost, which is the date that marks when the pistol shot is fired for the pilgrimage to begin.
If you’ve never been before and are asking yourself what there is to do. The event consists of a pilgrimage that follows the image of a white dove towards the small village. It consists of a mix of carriages, horse drawn carriages, gypsy dresses which are made lively with songs and flamenco dances from the people who live there as well as the visitors.
The pilgrimage lasts from the Sunday before Pentecost until the Monday after, therefore, if you were thinking about visiting round about then, we would highly encourage you to do so as it’s truly the best time if you wish to experience an authentic tradition in El Rocío.
If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing and would rather to come out of peak season, in Autumn and Winter the landscape is very pretty and the essence everlasting.
You’ll find various accommodation options at any time of year in El Rocío. You could rent a traditional Spanish holiday cottage for the weekend or a bigger house if you’re travelling as a group. There is also the option to stay in some charming hotels where you will have a large selection to choose from if that’s more your style.
Once you’re here, you can’t forget to try the rich gastronomy in the local restaurants to complete your unique experience. We recommend you try plates such as potaje rociero, which is a stew, and arroces camperos which is a rice dish.
So, what are you waiting for? Come along and enjoy the experience Rocío has on offer!
