The Mezquita in Córdoba (photo © Bjeayes / dreamstime.com)
The Mezquita in Córdoba (photo © Bjeayes / dreamstime.com)
Through the Despeñaperros gorge to southern Spain
If you take the modern high-speed line south to Andalucía described in Route 22, you’ll find it slices through the Sierra Morena like butter. You’ll hardly notice the hills. But if you have a few hours to spare why not take the old rail route that runs through the gorge at Despeñaperros. It’s the route we describe here. This is truly one of Europe’s finest rail journeys, and it’s a creative way of linking Barcelona with southern Spain.
MAP Double click on the map (or double tap on mobile) to zoom in. You can connect onto other routes in places shown in red (just click/tap on the red map icon marking the place to reveal other routes linked to it). Zoom out of the map again by cliking the 'minus' sign at the top left of the map.
Whether you are making a long grand tour or just planning a couple of weekend breaks, Europe by Rail is the perfect guide. The book describes 52 key routes in detail. Together, they span mainland Europe and the British Isles. Find out more about the guidebook below.
