Located in north-western Spain, Castilla y León does not have direct access to the sea, and this is certainly what has kept it away from other major Spanish tourist regions. However, this autonomous community, easily accessible once it has passed through the Basque Country, is home to a rich architectural heritage in cities where life is good. There are also beautiful countryside with hilly and mountainous relief. Not to mention the Duero, which runs through the region and the beautiful forests, which are a call to a relaxing stay in landscapes that are often very well preserved. It is also a territory strong in its traditions and in which several events take place in order to leave everyone with pleasant and joyful memories
Take a trip to Castilla y León to discover its cities
It is important to note that the region is home to a large part of the country's architectural, cultural and artistic heritage. In this territory divided into 9 provinces, the main cities are worth a visit. Among them are the beautiful Palencia and Soria, jewels of Romanesque art and Valladolid, which surprises with its charming squares and medieval religious sites. In the Plaza Mayor, you can take the time to admire the buildings with their Spanish Baroque architecture and as you walk through the streets and alleys, you can stop to admire the most beautiful buildings, including the imposing cathedral of Valladolid. There are also important places of worship in the city of Ávila, which, like Carcassonne in France, is surrounded by a wall. In the past, the city was indeed an important place of confrontation between Moors and Christians and it has preserved some wonderful remains. And what about Burgos, further north. Cut in half by the Arlanzon River, it is also a medieval city where it is good to stroll through museums, go to the Atapuerca sites, which are also classified, or visit the pilgrim hospitals dating back to the 11th century. Burgos is indeed an important stop on the Way of Santiago de Compostela. Since we have talked about UNESCO, it is important to point out that in Castile and Leon, there are 8 world-famous jewels within reach, among them archaeological sites such as Las Medulas and Siega Verde, but also the deposits of Atapuerca, the cathedral of Burgos and a large part of the heritage of cities like Ávila, Segovia and Salamanca. Segovia is distinguished by its aqueduct, its Alcázar and its exceptional location at more than 1,000 m, facing the Sierra de Guadarrama. During a stop in Salamanca, you can exalt yourself in front of the warm colours of the buildings, the charm of the cobbled streets where you can find small shops and you don't want to miss the two cathedrals located side by side. The one with the oldest university in Spain is also a lively city and seduces lovers of lively evenings.
Take the time to travel the country roads
Rural tourism is the other attraction of the region, it makes the happiness of those who wish to recharge their batteries in a natural setting by staying in Posadas Reales, accommodation places with a very good quality/price ratio. Among the 8 existing wine routes in Castilla y León, one is particularly noteworthy: the Ribera del Duero, very famous in Spain. Over a total of 115 kilometres, we discover a fascinating nature with vineyards as far as the eye can see and open fields. The small stops in the villages are an opportunity to taste some very good wines, as well as visit the underground cellars. We will also take the time to take an interest in the architectural heritage, which, like in the main cities, is remarkable. In Baños de Valdearados, a Roman villa houses beautiful mosaics dating back to several centuries BC, and several monasteries, churches and medieval castles, such as Peñafiel, reveal their history in silent lands
Enjoy the richness of local cuisine
Family tourism enthusiasts enjoy taking the time during the holidays to share good meals, moments that prove to be privileged. Castilla y León has a gastronomy that you should take the time to enjoy in restaurants and small inns. Let us not forget that this region is the largest in Spain and that it necessarily has a lot to offer in this area. Eating here is an art and roast meat is appreciated, especially lamb and pork. But you can also eat rabbit or partridge with white beans or chickpeas. Let's not forget the fish, the trout of Zamora and León are among the best in Spain. There are also sausages and hams to enjoy sliced as an aperitif around a good glass of Bierzo or Ribera del Duero, reds with an intense colour, all A.O.C. wines.
Participate in the best events
Castilla y León is also a very lively territory. Especially on the occasion of Holy Week, which takes place in April. It is important to note that in this region, 8 of them have been declared of international tourist interest. Each one is unique, different and has more than 300 processions and religious rites. Lovers of traditional festivals are delighted and have the opportunity to participate in concerts, songs and various speeches and conferences. Art, music and colours mix in a very moving way to commemorate the death of Jesus Christ. It is an unmissable sight in the region and even the most sceptical can only notice the beauty of the parades and the special energy of the moment. Other events highlight gastronomy. The gastronomic days of the roasted suckling lamb allow you to taste the meat in a menu offered by several local roasters in Aranda de Duero. It is also an opportunity to taste other typical dishes and drink good wine. In Ávila, it is the tapas that are honoured once a year with the Ávila tapas competition. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of these famous Spanish appetizers, in a moment that blends tradition and modernity. Not to mention the various cultural events that take place every year and that make this territory a place where people can learn and celebrate. Several festivals are recognized throughout the world. These include the International Festival of the Arts, the International Circus Festival of Castile and Leon and the HAY Festival of Segovia. Theatre, magic, puppets, music, there is something for every taste and every audience.
