Daniel and Emma: From Castile and León to Catalonia: a journey through the heart of Spain

Salamanca and Zamora: starting point steeped in history

Daniel and Emma began their adventure in Salamanca, where they rented an electric vehicle, ideal for travelling inland Spain at their own pace and in a sustainable way. They spent their first night at the Castillo del Buen Amor in Topas, a charming medieval castle hotel, which set the tone for the trip.In Zamora, they strolled through the Cathedral Square and the picturesque Calle de Balborraz, with its traditional stone houses.

León and Palencia: imposing architecture

Their next stop was León, where Emma was impressed by the stained glass windows of the majestic Catedral de León. They also visited the Barrio Húmedo, to try the tapas that a friendly neighbour had recommended to Daniel. There, they stayed at the Parador de León, a former convent transformed into a luxury hotel. 

The next leg of the journey was Frómista, a small village in Palencia, where they visited the church of San Martín, a jewel of Romanesque architecture. They were accompanied on the tour by the prior, who enthralled the group with an impromptu history and architecture lesson.

La Rioja: wine, gastronomy and history

The wine culture took centre stage in La Rioja. At the Vivanco bodega (winery), they discovered the production process and the history of Rioja wine. At the Nublo restaurant, they enjoyed a gastronomic experience with seasonal produce. They also visited the monastery of Yuso in San Millán de la Cogolla, where they learned about the origin of Spanish and admired various ancient medieval songbooks.

The contrasts of Navarre: desert and gastronomy

In Navarre, Daniel and Emma found a region full of contrasts. With its semi-desert landscape, Bardenas Reales offered an active and fascinating experience. They cycled through the natural park between rock formations and reddish hills. They tasted dishes with contemporary touches and featuring local vegetables as the key ingredients at Treintaitrés restaurant in Tudela.

Discovering Matarraña in Teruel: cava, truffle and charming villages

They continued their journey in Teruel, with its stone villages and mountain scenery. One of the most unexpected but welcome experiences on this part of the trip was the cava and truffle tasting. The freshness of the cava and the earthy touch of the truffle turned out to be an unexpected combination that won them over with its intensity and balance.

The magic of the mountains in Tarragona

Lastly, they arrived at Horta de Sant Joan, Tarragona. Daniel and Emma took a hike on Santa Bárbara mountain, where the fresh air and panoramic views allowed them to completely relax.

And you... would you like to experience all this?

This journey through the interior of Spain is not just a route between destinations: it is an opportunity to experience history, savour the local gastronomy and connect with breathtaking landscapes and wonderful people at every turn. If you are looking for an authentic experience, why not in Daniel and Emma's footsteps and enjoy Slow Travel around Spain!