Top Places to See When Driving From Alcalá de Henares, Community of Madrid to Bodonal de la Sierra, Extremadura
Are you planning a road trip from Alcalá de Henares to Bodonal de la Sierra? Then you're in for a treat! This route offers stunning natural landscapes, historic towns, authentic cuisine, and more. To help you plan your trip, we've compiled a list of the top places to see along the way. Get ready to hit the road and explore the beauty of central Spain!
1. The Medieval Town of Toledo
Start your journey from Alcalá de Henares and make your way to the first destination, the stunning medieval town of Toledo. This UNESCO World Heritage City is known for its historic architecture, winding streets, and panoramic views of the Tagus River. The town was once the capital of Spain and has been home to Jews, Christians, and Muslims throughout its history, resulting in a unique cultural blend that is reflected in its art, cuisine, and customs.
Don't forget to visit the famous Alcázar fortress, the Gothic-style Toledo Cathedral, and the impressive Puente de San Martín bridge. If you're a fan of art, don't miss the chance to see the works of El Greco, one of the most famous painters of the Spanish Renaissance. You can find his masterpieces at the Church of Santo Tomé and the El Greco Museum.
2. The Natural Park of Las Batuecas-Sierra de Francia
After exploring Toledo, hit the road towards the Natural Park of Las Batuecas-Sierra de Francia, a beautiful protected area that covers over 16,000 hectares. You'll be amazed by its stunning landscapes, which include mountains, canyons, rivers, and forests. Be sure to stop by the small town of La Alberca, which is one of the most charming in the region.
Here, you can visit the Viejo y Nuevo Bridge, a beautiful medieval stone bridge that spans the Albercón River. You can also admire the Plaza Mayor, an impressive square that dates back to the 16th century and is surrounded by historic buildings. Don't miss the opportunity to try some of the local cuisine, like the famous hornazo, a traditional pastry filled with meat and egg.
3. The Roman Bridge of Alcántara
From the Natural Park of Las Batuecas-Sierra de Francia, drive towards Alcántara, a small town that is home to one of the most impressive Roman monuments in Spain. The Roman Bridge of Alcántara was built in the 2nd century AD by the emperor Trajan and crosses the Tagus River. It is over 200 meters long and has six arches, making it one of the largest Roman bridges in the world.
In Alcántara, you'll also find other interesting attractions, like the Castle of Alcántara, the Convent of San Benito, and the Church of Santa María de Almocóvar. Take some time to explore the town's narrow streets and taste some of its delicious local specialties, like the migas extremeñas, a typical dish made with breadcrumbs, garlic, and chorizo.
4. The Monastery of Guadalupe
Continuing on your journey towards Bodonal de la Sierra, make a stop at the Monastery of Guadalupe, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This impressive complex was founded in the 14th century and served as a pilgrimage site and cultural center throughout the Middle Ages. It is home to the shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, one of the most venerated in Spain.
Be sure to visit the monastery's Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts, including paintings by famous artists like Zurbarán and Goya. Take a stroll through the charming town of Guadalupe, which has preserved its historic buildings and customs over the centuries. Don't miss the chance to taste some of the local delicacies, like the famous migas de pastor, a dish made with breadcrumbs, garlic, peppers, and pork.
5. The Sierra de Hornachos Natural Park
Last, but not least, head to the Sierra de Hornachos Natural Park, a beautiful area that is ideal for nature lovers and hikers. The park covers over 12,000 hectares and includes stunning landscapes, like the Hornachos Mountain Range, the Guadiana River, and the Sierra Grande de Hornachos.
Here, you'll find a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and viewpoints where you can admire the park's natural beauty. Don't forget to visit the small town of Hornachos, which is famous for its wine and olive oil production. You can also taste some of its traditional dishes, like the caldereta de cordero, a delicious lamb stew.
Conclusion
There you have it, the top places to see when driving from Alcalá de Henares to Bodonal de la Sierra. This route offers a mix of history, culture, nature, and gastronomy, making it a perfect road trip for those who want to explore the best of central Spain. Don't forget to enjoy the journey and take plenty of photos along the way!