Olite, in the heart of Navarre, is home to one of the most beautiful castles in Europe, a fairytale palace that will delight young and old alike.
If you like visiting monuments, then you’re sure to love your holiday in Olite. Whether you come for a weekend or stop on your way as part of a longer trip through Navarre, Olite makes for a fantastic visit.
When you talk about Olite, you can't fail to mention its crown jewel: its castle. Also known as the Royal Palace of Olite, this building was used mainly as a home for Charles III of Navarre, the Noble, more famous for his lifestyle than his military pursuits. This unique castle straight out of a fairy tale is proof of that, belonging to the French Gothic architectural style, and one of the best examples of civil works in Navarre. Thanks to the excellent restoration work, this castle has courtyards and hanging gardens to spare, one of which was used by the king to house numerous exotic animals, such as giraffes and lions. You should definitely ask for information about the dramatised tours available, as they’re the most entertaining way to explore the castle’s history.
Other places that you won’t want to miss in Olite are Iglesia de San Pedro, the oldest church in the town, whose Gothic tower stands out on the town’s skyline, and Iglesia de Santa María La Real, from the 13th century, attached to the Royal Palace.
As well as exploring the different alternatives we offer for cheap trips to Olite, we also recommend you plan a route to take in other nearby points of interest. Remember, the town is just 25 miles from the capital of Navarre, Pamplona, and just 20 minutes from the awesome Bardenas Reales desert.
Whichever package deal to Olite you choose, don’t forget to make the most of your stay in this jewel of Navarre, one of the lesser-known regions of Spain that has no shortage of attractions for tourists.
