Guide to the Olive Oil Greenway of Andalusia: A Different and Lesser-Known Way to Discover This Region

When people think of southern Spain, the first things that come to mind are the beaches, flamenco, or the monuments of Seville and Granada.

But we want to let you in on a not-so-hidden secret: the Camino Natural Vía Verde del Aceite, a route that will steal your heart and is part of Spain’s Natural Pathways Network.

If your idea of a perfect holiday blends nature, sports, history, and gastronomy, keep reading this article.

You’ll love it!

What is the Vía Verde?

Imagine taking an old railway line, removing the tracks, and turning it into the perfect path for walking, cycling, or just enjoying the scenery.

That’s exactly what the Vía Verde del Aceite is.

This route is the result of repurposing what was once the Linares–Puente Genil railway line, known locally as the Oil Train.

The name says it all: the line was vital for transporting olive oil and other goods from inland areas to the Port of Málaga.

Today, the path has been transformed not only for hikers and cyclists, but also made accessible for people with reduced mobility.

Location and Key Details to Start Planning

This greenway is the longest in all of Andalusia and crosses through the provinces of Jaén and Córdoba, the global heart of olive oil production.

If you want to do the full route, keep in mind it spans around 128 kilometers.

We recommend starting your adventure in the city of Jaén, specifically near the Las Fuentezuelas sports center, and finishing near Puente Genil (Córdoba), at the old Campo Real station, which is about six kilometers from the town.

This direction is the easiest, with more downhill than uphill stretches—something you’ll definitely appreciate.

Along the way, the path treats you to breathtaking views and stops in charming towns that embody the Andalusian essence.

Towns and Infrastructure

Key towns along the route include Martos and Alcaudete in Jaén, and then into Córdoba, where you’ll pass through Luque, Zuheros, Doña Mencía, Cabra, and Lucena.

To give you a sense of the infrastructure: you’ll cross twelve old train stations, thirteen viaducts, and three tunnels, all beautifully preserved from the railway era.

A whole slice of heritage that adds to the experience.

On the Route: Segments and Experiences

This incredible 128-kilometer adventure is divided into three main segments, each with its own personality.

Let’s explore what each section offers, from unmistakable landscapes to architectural gems.

Segment 1: Jaén – Guadajoz River (Province of Jaén)

This first section immerses you in a literal “sea of olive trees”.

You’ll walk or cycle through endless olive groves—after all, Jaén holds the title for the highest density of olive trees in the world!

You’ll likely smell the rich scent of olive oil mills (almazaras) working during the season.

This section reaches the highest point of the whole route, in Martos, at about 650 meters elevation, with a total incline of around 250 meters—but don’t worry, it’s very manageable.

If you’re into history, the beginning of the route connects with the Archaeological Route of Los Torreones, a 32-kilometer circular path that explores medieval towers and fortifications.

Further along, you’ll pass the old Vado-Jaén station, a historically significant railway junction.

Nature lovers will enjoy the final stretch of this segment, which runs alongside the Laguna Honda and Laguna del Chinche Natural Reserves—some of the best-preserved wetlands in Jaén, perfect for birdwatching species like the endangered white-headed duck (Malvasía Cabeciblanca).

The Guadajoz River marks the natural boundary and the entrance into Córdoba province.

Segment 2: La Subbética (Province of Córdoba)

Crossing into Córdoba, the landscape becomes more mountainous and dramatic.

You’ll enter the Natural Park and UNESCO Global Geopark of the Sierras Subbéticas, a stunning area with rich geological features—valleys, caves, and unique karst formations.

Wildlife also thrives here. It’s a great spot to observe majestic birds of prey like the golden eagle and peregrine falcon.

Near Luque, you’ll find the “Ruta de Las Buitreras,” home to a large griffon vulture colony.

In the Laguna del Conde Natural Reserve, a bird observatory lets you spot flamingos, ducks, and coots.

On the cultural side, this section is full of treasures:

• Zuheros is a must-see village, declared a Site of Cultural Interest and ranked among the most beautiful in Spain. From here, visiting the Cueva de los Murciélagos is a must.
• The old stations in Luque and Doña Mencía have been converted into charming restaurants. Doña Mencía also houses the Subbética Cycle Tourism Center, where you can rent bikes.
• Near Lucena, the olive groves start to mix with vineyards—welcome to the Montilla-Moriles wine region. You can visit wineries in Doña Mencía or take a slight detour for the Wine Route. Lucena’s station also hosts the Antique Car Museum on weekends..

Segment 3: Moriles – Campo Real

This final stretch rounds off the Camino Natural.

You’ll still see olive groves, of course, but now they’re joined by vineyards, fig trees, and quince orchards.

Wildlife is everywhere—the embankments carved out for the railway now serve as burrows for rabbits and are great places to spot red-legged partridges or red kites.

This segment peacefully guides you to the final destination: Campo Real station, where your unforgettable journey ends.

Historical Legacy and Industrial Architecture

One of the route’s most striking features is the number of engineering structures you’ll encounter: metal walkways, tunnels, and iron bridges—genuine architectural gems.

In fact, the metal viaducts and bridges were built by the French workshop Daydé and Pillé de Creil, disciples of Gustave Eiffel himself.

So when you cross one, it’s like admiring a mini industrial art piece.

Two stand out in particular:

• Viaduct over the Víboras River: the tallest on the route, stretching 224 meters and towering 80 meters high.
• Viaduct over the Guadajoz River: spanning 199 meters, this bridge marks the natural border between Jaén and Córdoba provinces.

In addition to the bridges, the route still preserves tunnels in perfect condition, such as El Caballico, which is 333 meters long, and Torredonjimeno, which is curved and measures 165 meters.

Passing through these structures is a constant reminder of the bravery and ingenuity of the engineers of the late 19th century.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

If you’re planning your Greenway adventure, here are some helpful tips to make the most of it:

Activities and Estimated Duration

This route is perfect for cycling and hiking.

For example, the Jaén section alone can take about five hours by bike, so plan your distances based on your transport method.

Connected Routes and Cultural Exploration

Don’t just stick to the main path.

One of the best parts is how the Vía Verde connects with many other routes by foot, car, or bike.

History buffs can follow the Caliphate Route or the Castles and Battles Route in Jaén.

Nature lovers might enjoy the Bailón River trail.

Services Along the Way

You won’t be stranded.

There are five rest areas set up in former train stations, as well as old signalman cabins still in place.

Traveling by campervan? Doña Mencía has a dedicated parking area.

Final Recommendation: Immerse Yourself in Culture with Sazón The Folk Cook

Our final recommendation is simple: the Vía Verde del Aceite is about more than just sport.

It’s a stunning way to discover the gastronomy and culture of inland Andalusia.

But your journey doesn’t have to stop there.

If you want to make your Andalusian trip truly unforgettable, book now with a local cook.

We’d love to welcome you to our table!