The imposing Royal Palace of Olite rises from the Spanish plains like a fairy tale castle dropped into a medieval town that time forgot. Dating back to the 13th century, this magnificent Gothic fortress once housed Navarran royalty and boasted more rooms than the Vatican. Today, its dramatic towers and crenellated walls attract visitors seeking Spain’s hidden medieval treasures beyond the well-trodden paths of Barcelona and Seville.
A masterpiece of Gothic splendor
Walking through the Palace of Olite feels like stepping into a Game of Thrones set. The castle features hanging gardens, a zoo that once housed exotic animals like giraffes and lions, and over 20 towers offering panoramic views across Navarra’s wine country. Unlike many European castles that feel like museums, Olite encourages exploration without fixed routes, allowing visitors to discover secret passageways and hidden chambers at their own pace.
“What makes Olite special is the freedom to explore. You can climb every tower, peek into every corner, and imagine yourself as medieval royalty without barriers or ropes keeping you at bay,” explains María Sánchez, a local tour guide.
Wine capital with ancient roots
Beyond its architectural wonders, Olite reigns as the unofficial wine capital of Navarra. The Mediterranean climate creates perfect conditions for vineyards that have flourished here since Roman times. Don’t miss a journey through the region’s bodegas, where family-owned wineries like Bodegas Ochoa welcome visitors for tastings of their renowned Tempranillo and Moscatel varieties.
Where medieval streets whisper stories
The town’s narrow cobblestone streets and Gothic arcades transport visitors to another era. Plaza Carlos III serves as the beating heart of Olite, where locals gather at outdoor cafés beneath stone facades adorned with coats of arms. The 13th-century Church of Santa María la Real stands as another architectural gem, featuring recently restored stone sculptures that retain their original colors and beauty.
A festival of knightly proportions
Time your visit for August to witness Olite’s renowned Medieval Festival, when the entire town transforms into a living history book. Streets fill with artisans, knights in armor clash in tournaments, and theatrical performances bring ancient tales to life. This celebration of history rivals similar events across Europe but remains refreshingly authentic and uncrowded.
Beyond the castle walls
The surrounding countryside offers equally compelling attractions. Vineyard tours reveal centuries-old winemaking traditions, while nearby nature reserves provide perfect settings for afternoon hikes. The organic vineyards at Bodega Pagos de Araiz demonstrate modern sustainable practices in this ancient wine region.
“Our family has made wine here for generations, but we’re constantly balancing tradition with innovation. The vines might be old, but our techniques evolve with each season,” shares vintner Carlos Mendoza of Bodegas Marco Real.
Where to stay and dine
For a truly immersive experience, book a room at the Parador housed within the Old Palace itself. Fall asleep within medieval walls and wake to views across terracotta rooftops. Local restaurants serve Navarran specialties like pochas (white beans) and cordero al chilindrón (lamb stew) that pair perfectly with the region’s robust red wines.
Hidden treasures beyond the guidebooks
Seek out the remains of Olite’s ancient Roman walls, explore the quaint San Pedro Church courtyard, or visit the Wine Museum housed in a former palace. The town rewards unhurried exploration with discoveries around every corner.
When to visit this Spanish gem
Spring brings comfortable temperatures and blooming vineyards, while autumn offers the spectacle of harvest season. Winter visitors enjoy crowd-free castle explorations and significantly lower prices. Summer delivers perfect weather but expect more tourists, especially during the medieval festival.
Olite delivers what many travelers seek but rarely find: an authentic medieval experience without overwhelming crowds. Its stone towers have witnessed centuries of Spanish history, its vineyards produce exceptional wines, and its festivals celebrate a cultural heritage that remains vibrantly alive. In this forgotten corner of Navarra, Spain’s medieval soul endures, waiting for those willing to venture beyond the ordinary.