Of all the villages that make up the Huescar and Baza regions of the Altiplano area in the Granada Province, Cortes de Baza is arguably the most unspoiled of all. Its humble agricultural rural community and traditional way of life has remained intact despite modern advances and 21st century rural tourism. At an altitude of 701 metres above sea level, this beautiful municipality covers an area of around 140 Km2 and is in the GPS zone 30S with the bearings X: 05 20 40 and Y: 41 67 80. With a population of just over 3,000, this is an idyllic natural paradise, where you can expect a warm welcome from the local community.
Situated on the north point of the beautiful Negratin lake, Cortes de Baza offers the visitor not only the delights and benefits of being on the fringe of the Natural park, but is also a wonderful area to enjoy water sports and fishing.
On Lake Negratin you will find two beaches one at Freila with Pedalos and a bar on the beach in summer months. On the Cueva del Campo side of the lake there is another beach split in half, one side for Naturists the other for bathing costumes!
The history of Cortes de Baza goes back to prehistoric times, evidence of which is all around the area in the form of remains. This is especially true of the area known as Hoya de Baza. Ancient artefacts such as a Mammoth jawbone, cooking bowls and many other objects from Iberian, phonetician and roman cultures were found and subsequently taken by the authorities to Madrid to be catalogued.
Sadly the Castle of Cortes did not stand the test of time and is now only distinguishable by what remains of the foundations. This ancient monument was originally built in the 13th century by the Muslims to guard against attack from the Castilian armies.
Cortes de Baza enjoyed a time of great prosperity and splendour during Roman times and right through to the end of the time of the Moors, after which it went into decline. It has always been closely bound to Baza and is now looking to become a more independent municipality, which looks possible thanks to a new prosperity brought to the village, in the form of rural tourism.
The weekly market of Cortes de Baza is on each Saturday morning.
On the penultimate weekend of August, there is a festival held in honour of the patron saints, San Cosme and San Damián (Los Santos Médicos). this is a Fiesta not to be missed, dancing all night for three days, Fair, street stalls, bars, games, culminating on the Monday/Tuesday with a Village Paella Tinto Verano & Beer (free) followed by a water and foam fight through the streets of the village and in the local school!!!
All bookings are direct with the owner 