Are you looking for ways to explore the Ruta de la Plata, the ancient commercial and pilgrimage route that runs through western Spain? Today we take you on a getaway to Plasencia, just two and half hours from Madrid by car.
The Parador de Plasencia, in the province of Cáceres, is located in the former Santo Domingo Monastery, which dates from the 15th century. This is the ideal spot from which to discover the lovely city of Plasencia and the surrounding natural landscapes.
The area is well worth a thorough visit, so we've put together a perfect itinerary to ensure that you don't miss a thing. Shall we begin?
Day 1: exploring Plasencia
The "noble, loyal and charitable" city of Plasencia was founded in 1186. It is filled with historical sights and numerous places of interest. We encourage you to discover:
- Walls and aqueduct: Built by Alfonso VIII, the walls are the most iconic element of the city's historical heritage. The aqueduct is another of Plasencia's major monuments. It was built in the 16th century.
- Cathedrals: Both the 13th-century Old Cathedral and the 16th-century New Cathedral are absolute must-sees. The former is an example of the transition from the Romanesque to the Gothic style. The newer plateresque building belongs to the Renaissance. Don't miss them!
- Palace of the Marquis of Mirabel: Built by the former dukes of Plasencia. Inside there is a magnificent two-story neoclassical courtyard with semi-circular arches. A one-of-a-kind palace!
- Stately mansions: The 17th-century Casa de las Infantas (House of the Infantas) is famous for the Renaissance Revival additions to its façade. The 17th-century Casa del Deán (House of the Dean) is known for its neoclassical balcony and use of the Corinthian order, as well as the balustrade, an excellent display of the Spanish ironwork of the period.
After so much sightseeing, we encourage you to relax and get your strength back with dinner at the Parador restaurant. This beautiful space is the perfect place to sample the finest Extremaduran dishes, including migas extremeñas (Extremadura-style fried breadcrumbs), meadow honey loin of lamb and cherries from the Jerte Valley. Be sure to try the house specialty, monastery-style cod loin with creamed potatoes, which was voted the best by Parador guests.
Day 2: exploring nature at Monfragüe National Park
Begin your second day in the breakfast area, where you can enjoy the magnificent buffet prepared by the Parador each morning. There are so many delicacies you won't be able to resist!
Then grab your hiking gear or bikes and head out to explore Monfragüe National Park. Just an hour from the Parador, you will find 18,396 hectares of nature and an excellent opportunity to spot a variety of birds: black storks, various vultures and the extremely rare imperial eagle.
Children love seeing all the native fauna and you can put together a fun picnic to extend your stay.
Day 3: visit to historic Trujillo
Why not spend your last day visiting the lovely city of Trujillo, just an hour and a quarter from the Parador? Recommended sights in this historic city include the absolutely gorgeous Main Square, located in the center of town. There is also San Martín de Tours Church, erected in the first half of the 16th century, which is predominantly in the Gothic style, with some Germanic influences. We also encourage you to visit Trujillo Castle, another lovely spot. It is visible from any point in the city and houses a shrine dedicated to the patron saint, the Virgin of Victory.
And to leave you with an excellent taste in your mouth, quite literally, make your last stop a meal at the Parador de Trujillo. The hotel occupies the former Santa Clara Convent, built in the 16th century. Be sure to try the Retinto yearling beef sirloin with torta del casar cheese sauce!
So what do you think of our plan? Don't wait any longer, book your stay at the Parador de Plasencia today.
