Being a travel enthusiast and passionate flamenco dancer, I believe the wedding day should be memorable. That’s why I chose to celebrate my ecclesiastic wedding in El Rocío. Can you guess why?
If you haven’t heard about this special destination, it holds great significance for the Spanish people. El Rocío is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and inside its Hermitage resides The Virgin of El Rocío, who is considered the authentic mother figure by the citizens. She is believed to have performed many miracles, and people are very enthusiastic when she is taken out for the procession. If you don’t believe me, you can watch this video:
A few recommendations for you to consider:
*️⃣Travelling in April means you’ll catch the high season, so expect expensive prices for flights to Seville airport and hotels. As an example, my wedding was on the 6th of April, just a week before la Feria de Sevilla, and prices were really high.
*️⃣It’s difficult to find good prices for hotels in El Rocío, so a good option is to rent a house (especially if you’re a big group) or stay at Hotel La Malvasía, the prices are worth it and the service is impeccable, in addition, I recommend being flexible with the dates of your staying and checking booking.com daily.
*️⃣This enchanting town exudes an irresistible magic that transports you to a bygone era. Here, the absence of modern roads is replaced by soft sands and elegant horses. Quaint, historic bars and charming restaurants beckon, creating an ambience like no other. So, make sure to pack attire suited for the timeless allure of this place.
*️⃣I also recommend renting a car, however, the car services must be chosen with lots of care (especially if you’re renting in Seville), don’t buy in advance online, better to do it in person, we used Europcar, which I definitely don’t recommend, most of the car services steal money from your bank account even after the renting is done. Choose wisely.
Otherwise, booking taxis through booking.com is always an exceptional choice. Their service is top-notch and punctual, giving you a chance to unwind after a tiring flight, which can be quite draining.
*️⃣Just enjoy!
Ermita de Nuestra Señora del Rocío
The Nuestra Señora del Rocío Sanctuary, undeniably one of the largest centres of Marian devotion in the world, attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims year-round. Nestled amidst marshes and fervent faith, the Sanctuary graces the village of El Rocío, Almonte, in a mystical, esoteric setting where all paths converge.
Originally, the “Hermitage of Santa María de Las Rocinas” was commissioned by Alfonso. This early structure, measuring “ten yards long, facing south, with a gabled wooden roof and courtyard,” showcased the Mudejar style.
The present-day hermitage, reflecting a regionalist style, was crafted by architects Alberto Balbontín Orta and Antonio Delgado Roig. It features a Latin cross plan with three naves, a triforium, and at the rear, the main chapel. The hermitage was consecrated on April 12, 1969, by the then-bishop of Huelva, Monsignor José García Lahiguera. The following day, the Virgen del Rocío entered her new temple for the first time.
In 1999, the new Altarpiece and Camarín of the Virgin were inaugurated—an awe-inspiring work befitting the Blanca Paloma.
More flamenco than this masterpiece in Andalucía is simply impossible! This masterpiece in Andalucía epitomizes the heart and soul of flamenco like nothing else!
In 2006 it was classified as an Asset of Cultural Interest, in the Historic Site category.
Parque Nacional Las Marismas
With more than 30,000 hectares, the marsh occupies nearly half of Doñana National Park and is arguably the ecosystem that most significantly contributes to the park’s unique diversity of life, landscapes, and colours.
In the summer, the marsh transforms into a cracked, dusty desert. As autumn arrives, water fills the channels and ravines, turning the marsh into an immense sheet of water—a veritable inland sea—during the rainy winters. In spring, life flourishes with the bustling activity of birds and a blanket of white water chamomile flowers (Ranunculus peltatus).
Historically, a large coastal bay existed at the mouth of the Betis River during Roman times. Over the years, this bay evolved into a floodplain due to the accumulation of sediments from the river and sea. Over time, sediments from rainfall and river flow have become increasingly influential in shaping the landscape.
Despite its vastness, the marsh’s topography is subtle but significant. Its average elevation is approximately 3.6 meters above sea level, close to the maximum tide level, with an average slope of less than 0.1%.
The most visible vegetation in the Doñana marsh includes castanet (Scirpus maritimus) and bayuncos (Scirpus littoralis). In the channels and streams, cattails (Typha latifolia) and reeds (Phragmites australis) are abundant.
In the so-called high marsh, areas that only experience superficial flooding during rainy winters and remain dry the rest of the year, vegetation is adapted to the clayey and saline conditions. These plants include sapina (Salicornia ramosissima), cagalona (Suaeda splendens), carranchuella (Salsola soda), and matojillo (Cressa cretica).
The Doñana marsh is home to the majority of waterfowl species in Western Europe. Virtually all European duck species, along with teals, shelducks, red ducks, herons, spoonbills, flamingos, storks, and countless waders, make Doñana one of the most important sites in Europe for bird watching and study. The marsh also hosts other inhabitants, such as carp, frogs, gallipates, turtles, and numerous aquatic or water-related invertebrates.
Food recommendations
We recommend buying food at local shops. Eating out every day can be expensive because being in a UNESCO World Heritage site comes with higher prices. There is a local restaurant called La Ermita that is very good, but a bit expensive. It’s best to go there when you’re too tired or want to eat something delicious with a group.
Other activities
Whether you’re yearning to wander through the park, embark on a horseback ride, or simply indulge in a leisurely stroll, this enchanting natural haven is unequivocally the ideal destination for escaping the confines of society and fully embracing the wonders of nature. What’s more, you’ll have the opportunity to revel in the captivating melodies of Rociero Coros, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of flamenco music and culture!
You can also head to Matalascañas, a mere 15-minute drive away, where you’ll find a delightful beach with fresh, inviting waters. This charming small town offers the perfect escape for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.
Would you love to visit El Rocío? Let me know in the comments!
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“I also recommend renting a car, however, the car services must be chosen with lots of care, don’t buy in advance online, better to do it in person, we used Europcar, but you can click here and choose what you most like.”
yes yes yes and another YES ! I’m agree with her. I traveled with you and It Is wonderful to understand / learn things of that fantastic Place with you’re , so accurate, article!
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