The Spain nobody knows: journeys through the landscapes of Castilla-La Mancha

Let’s explore one of the most characteristic rural landscapes of the area, made up of large river gorges. For example, two beautiful villages overlooking the river Júcar, in the north of Albacete: Alcalá del Júcar and Jorquera. Many people are surprised they could be built at all in this challenging location. They are about 55 kilometres from the city of Albacete (which has high-speed train connections to Madrid and Valencia).The Roman bridge of Alcalá del Júcar leads to a historic town centre which seems to cling to the cliff (there are even cave dwellings in the rock itself). Meanwhile, Jorquera spreads over a meander of the river like part of the landscape, and its watchtower almost seems to blend with the rock. The view from above or from the other side of the river is striking.We find similar landscapes in the south of Albacete, on the gorges of the river Mundo, with Liétor (about 60 kilometres from Albacete). From a distance, the village looks like a natural outcrop on the mountaintop.

- Villanueva de los Infantes: a heritage town which reveals its treasures around its early 17th-century Plaza Mayor.- San Carlos del Valle: a pilgrimage destination thanks to the church of Santísimo Cristo del Valle. Its Plaza Mayor is striking.- Valdepeñas: for many, Castilla-La Mancha’s wine capital.- Almagro: it boasts the only 17th-century corral de comedias to maintain its original structure, and also remain active.This route is just over 200 kilometres. We recommend taking at least a weekend to enjoy it at your own pace.

Little villages of stone houses and slate roofs, where time seems to stand still. These are the so-called black villages of Guadalajara, another landscape unique to Castilla-La Mancha, and a fantastic option for a holiday in a Spanish village.Make a note: La Vereda, Matallana, Majaelrayo, Campillejo, El Espinar, Campillo de las Ranas, Robleluengo, Valverde de los Arroyos… A cluster of small villages you can explore on a route with a total of two hours’ driving time. The area is about an hour from the city of Guadalajara (easy to reach by train or road from Madrid in less than an hour)Another attractive route through villages in Guadalajara province takes you through places like Atienza, Sigüenza, Brihuega, and Pastrana. These are larger towns rich in built heritage, where you can see some of the region’s most interesting castles, mansions and historic town centres. The route is around 225 kilometres.