Extremadura, Heart of Spain

Extremadura - Overview:

Extremadura is a lovely wild region in the central-south-west of Spain bordering with Portugal further west, with the Sierra Morena and Andalucia to the south and the Sierra de Gata and Gredos to the north. It is an autonomous region divided into two provinces, Caceres and Badajoz, and is as yet largely unknown to the foreign tourist.

Extremadura has lovely varied countryside, from the mountains in the north, the fertile valleys of Jerte and La Vera with beautiful cherry blossom in Spring, and the more arid areas to the south with olive tree plantations, herds of Iberian pigs, sheep and goats roaming everywhere. The area has 5 natural parks with unique flora and fauna.

Extremadura as a rich history from the pre-historic Roman, Arabic, Jewish and Medieval eras is reflected in its ancient towns, and many of the explorers and conquerors of the New World such as Pizarro the conquistador of Peru came from this area.

Extremadura - Geography:

Extremadura is a rich and fertile land that has supplied much of Europe with fresh produce for centuries. The region covers an area of 41,602 sq.km. and consists of two provinces, Caceres and Badajoz. The region borders Portugal to the west, Andalucia to the south and Castilla la Mancha to the east. The total population, which has suffered over recent years due to emigration, is estimated to be just over one million. The region's capital is Merida which has just over 51,000 inhabitants.

Extremadura is crossed from east to west by two important rivers, the Tagus and the Guadiana. The Tagus feeds the huge Alcantara reservoir which is the largest in western Europe. Its size is such that it could supply every inhabitant in the world with 500 litres of water.

Extremadura - Historic Sightseeing:

Extremadura's history is known to date back to pre-Roman times when cave dwellers lived in the area. Over time every civilisation has left its mark on the region and this is best seen by the Roman history to be found in Merida.

The monumental city of Caceres has been declared a 'Heritage of mankind' city and contains a wealth of historical monuments. However this is not a city held back in time. Caceres has adapted itself to the new influx of tourists exploring the narrow streets and beautiful squares.

Trujillo, which is located just 45km east of Caceres, is a beautiful walled town dated from the 13th century and is one of the best places to visit in the region.

Guadalupe is a village of great importance and is dominated by the Gothic monastery. A guided visit round the monastery lasts about an hour. The former hospital that stands opposite the monastery now houses the Parador hotel.

Plasencia is the second most important city within the Caceres province. It has around 37,000 inhabitants and stands along the River Jerte. The city has two cathedrals, one of which dates from the 13th century. There are also several palaces and a hunting museum worthy of a visit.

The surrounding countryside is a vast carpet of green. As you make your way through the region you pass through such places as the Garden of la Vera, the Valley of the River Jerte and the Sierra de Gata. You will almost stumble across tiny hamlets and villages, each with its own unique character.

By far though, the jewel of extremadura is Merida, its capital. It has been a capital since Roman times when it was the capital of Lusitania. There are monuments to see everywhere but there are three that you must see, the Roman Theatre, Amphitheatre and museum.

Extremadura - Our holiday accommodation and service:

Travel with secretdestinations.com holidays and enjoy delightful, privileged holiday destinations in Extremadura (including Caceres, Merida, Trujillo and Zafra) at the historic heart of Central Spain. From privately owned houses, charming cottages, villas and apartments to villas with pools, luxury spa hotels and a full range of fabulous Paradores; all hand picked in beautiful locations for an authentic taste of unspoiled secret Extremadura and Central Spain.

So, if you're looking for an activity or nature holiday, walking, cycling, trekking or bird watching; a spot of rural tourism soaking up the traditional Spanish culture and heritage with historic sightseeing in Castille or Extremadura; exploring fairytale castles, beautiful countryside and fascinating villages, rural towns and historic cities such as Plasencia and Merida; following the historic pilgrims routes or silver route; sampling hearty rural Spanish fayre or simply enjoying a shopping trip or city break in Madrid, Spain's capital city; call our holiday team today.

Many of our clients enjoy touring holidays through central Spain, to experience the unique areas of Castilla la Mancha, Castilla y Leon, Extremadura and Madrid in one holiday. We are therefore very happy to arrange itineraries for you staying in a selection of different Parador hotels along your chosen route. We can also assist you with flights to Madrid and other areas of central Spain, ferry travel, holiday car hire and travel insurance.