Chinchón: The Film-Set Town Just 30 Minutes from Madrid
Just ten minutes from Finca Valhalla lies one of Spain’s most beautiful and cinematic towns.
Chinchón may be home to just over 5,000 residents, but its history, architecture and timeless charm have made it a favourite location for filmmakers, photographers and travellers for decades.
With its iconic medieval square, winding streets and spectacular countryside, it’s easy to understand why some of Hollywood’s biggest names chose to film here.
One of Spain’s Most Beautiful Squares
At the heart of Chinchón is its famous Plaza Mayor, a remarkably preserved 15th-century square surrounded by 234 distinctive wooden balconies.
Unlike many historic plazas, this one remains wonderfully authentic.
Throughout the year, it hosts local festivals, markets and cultural events, while every summer it transforms into a traditional bullring—a centuries-old tradition unique to the town.
The surrounding cafés and restaurants provide the perfect place to relax while taking in the atmosphere of one of Spain’s most photographed locations.
Beyond the square, visitors can explore:
- The Castle of Chinchón
- The Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, home to a painting by Francisco de Goya
- Whitewashed streets filled with local shops and cafés
- Traditional bodegas producing the famous Anís de Chinchón
Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or spending the day, the town offers an authentic glimpse into rural Spain.
A Favourite of Hollywood
Long before social media made Chinchón famous, the film industry had already discovered its unique character.
Legendary director Orson Welles not only filmed here but also made the town his home for a period of time. His final completed feature film, The Immortal Story, used Chinchón as one of its principal locations.
Other productions soon followed.
Scenes from Around the World in 80 Days, the Academy Award-winning classic, were filmed in the Plaza Mayor, while stars including John Wayne and Rita Hayworth visited Chinchón during the production of Circus World.
Its timeless architecture, golden light and beautifully preserved streets continue to attract filmmakers looking for authentic European locations without the crowds found in larger cities.
A Landscape Made for Film and Photography
The appeal doesn’t end in the town itself.
The surrounding countryside offers rolling hills, olive groves and uninterrupted views that have become increasingly popular for commercial photography, film productions and creative campaigns.
Just minutes away, Finca Valhalla provides a private filming location featuring:
- An Alhambra-inspired courtyard with a central fountain
- Mediterranean gardens and olive trees
- Elegant contemporary architecture
- Stables and competition horses
- A swimming pool for lifestyle productions
- Expansive countryside views
- Dark skies ideal for evening and night-time filming
The estate also offers practical advantages for production teams, including vehicle access, on-site accommodation for key crew members and flexible spaces suitable for a variety of filming requirements.
Experience the Authentic Side of Spain
One of Chinchón’s greatest strengths is that it has retained its authenticity.
Visitors can spend the morning exploring its historic streets, enjoy a tasting of the town’s famous anís at a local bodega, have lunch overlooking the Plaza Mayor and return to the peaceful surroundings of Finca Valhalla in time to enjoy the afternoon by the pool.
It’s a slower pace of life that feels worlds away from Madrid—despite being less than half an hour from the airport.
A Destination Worth Discovering
Whether you’re planning a corporate retreat, a private celebration, a film production or simply looking to experience one of Spain’s most picturesque towns, Chinchón offers an unforgettable setting rich in history, culture and natural beauty.
Combined with the privacy and exclusivity of Finca Valhalla, it creates an experience that’s difficult to find anywhere else.
Discover Finca Valhalla’s filming locations or explore our private retreats to experience the beauty of Chinchón for yourself.