Baza: Iberian Heritage, Thermal Springs and the Sierra on Granada’s High Plateau

Baza is the largest municipality in the province of Granada and is renowned for its sulphur-rich thermal springs and the Parque Natural Sierra de Baza, which lies at considerable altitude. The park is a haven for nature lovers, boasting a wide variety of flora and fauna, marked walking trails and excellent birdwatching spots.

With its continental Mediterranean climate, Baza is the perfect place to combine historic monuments with walks in the mountains. The blend of outstanding cultural heritage and spectacular natural landscapes makes Baza an ideal destination for travellers seeking an authentic and varied experience.

History of Baza: From the Iberian City of Basti to the Moorish Medina

Although the Romans gave the town its present name, Baza was already inhabited in Iberian times and known as Basti, the capital of Bastetania. After the Muslim conquest it became Medina Batza, a key strategic stronghold in the kingdom of al-Andalus.

Its cultural diversity – Iberian, Roman and Moorish – is reflected in its architecture, traditions and customs. Outstanding monuments include the Alcazaba of Baza (a Moorish fortress offering panoramic views) and the Iglesia Mayor, built over a former mosque.

Baza is also famous worldwide for the Lady of Baza, a 4th-century BC Iberian funerary statue discovered in 1971 and now displayed in Madrid’s National Archaeological Museum.

Must-See Attractions in Baza

Baza sits at the foot of the Parque Natural Sierra de Baza, whose peaks reach 2,270 metres.

1. Baza Archaeological Museum – housed in the former town hall. (map)
2. Archaeological Sites Interpretation Centre – on Cerro Cepero with 3D videos and virtual reality. (map)
3. Ibero-Roman city of Basti – on Cerro Cepero, the discovery site of the Lady of Baza (replica in the museum). (map)
4. Alcazaba of Baza – remains of the Moorish fortress, currently under restoration. (map)
5. Arab Baths – hidden beneath a private house, a national monument and one of the few that survived. (map)
6. Cave Houses (Casas Cueva) – rock-hewn dwellings that maintain a constant temperature all year round. (map)

Activities in Baza: Hiking, Birdwatching and Thermal Relaxation

The Parque Natural Sierra de Baza offers walking routes across high peaks where golden eagles and griffon vultures soar. Just a few kilometres away (e.g. Zújar) are natural hot springs with relaxing sulphur waters.

• Hiking: marked trails with views over deep valleys and pine woods.
• Birdwatching: golden eagles, griffon vultures and many endemic species.
• Thermal bathing: free natural hot springs, perfect for soothing tired muscles.
• Archaeological tours: guided visits to Cerro Cepero.
• Mountain biking: forest tracks linking Baza with neighbouring villages.

Gastronomy of Baza: Flavours of the Mountains and Culinary Traditions

A visit to Baza would not be complete without sampling its hearty mountain cuisine:

• Gachas tortas – thick maize porridge with olive oil, salt and pieces of chorizo or bacon.
• Gurupina – stew made with salt cod, potatoes, peppers, onion and mushrooms.
• Testuz – hearty bean stew with black pudding, pig’s ear and potatoes.
• Gurullos – handmade pasta with hare or partridge, slow-cooked to intensify the flavours.
• Migas serranas – fried breadcrumbs with garlic, olive oil, chorizo and peppers.

Don’t miss the outstanding local cured hams and sausages – ideal as tapas or part of a full meal.

Festivals in Baza: The Feria and the Legendary Cascamorras

The Baza Feria takes place every year from 6 to 15 September, filling the town with activities for all ages.

The undisputed star is the Carrera del Cascamorras, a tradition more than 500 years old and declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest. A runner dressed as a harlequin from Guadix tries to “steal” a statue of the Virgin from Baza; the townspeople defend it by covering him in black paint and muck – a unique, chaotic and utterly joyful spectacle.

Natural Surroundings of Baza: Alternatives to the Costa Tropical Beaches

Although Baza is inland, the beaches of the Costa Tropical (La Herradura, Calahonda) are little more than two hours away by car. For those who prefer mountain freshness, the Güevas river offers natural swimming pools in summer, while the hot springs beside Lake Negratín in Zújar stay around 40 °C all year round.

1. Güevas river pools – shady natural swimming spots in the sierra.
2. Lake Negratín – kayaking or lakeside walks with dramatic cliffs.
3. Zújar hot springs – free thermal pools open all year.
4. Castril riverbanks – green areas perfect for picnics and wildlife spotting.

These options combine the charm of the high plateau with refreshing water – the perfect complement to any stay in Baza.

How to Get to and Around Baza: Your Complete Transport Guide

From Malaga Airport the A-92 motorway takes you to Baza in just over two hours (via Loja and Guadix), passing olive groves and skirting the Sierra de Baza. A car offers the greatest flexibility for side trips to hot springs and walking routes.

Car Hire: Complete Freedom

To explore the Sierra de Baza, Zújar hot springs and archaeological sites at your own pace, car hire from Malaga Airport is the ideal choice. Journey time approx. 2 hours via the A-92.

Book Car Hire at Malaga Airport

Private Transfer: Comfort & Speed

Direct from the airport to your accommodation in Baza – perfect if you want to enjoy the Cascamorras festival without worrying about parking.

Book Your Transfer

*No credit card or advance payment required. Book early to secure the best prices and availability.

Other Transport Options

Regional buses run from Granada to Baza (usually via Guadix). Within the town and to the sierra, however, a car or taxi is far more convenient.

Tourist Information Baza