Paradores
Enjoy a touch of luxury as you cycle through the sweeping landscapes of central Spain staying in beautifully restored historic Parador Hotels. This self-guided, grand cycling tour will allow you to discover a new Parador each night where you’ll enjoy the best cuisine that the heartland of Spain has to offer. Along the way experience the wild beauty of Monfragüe National Park, a birdlife paradise, with eagles and vultures swooping overhead. Take in the magnificent architecture in Oropesa, Plasencia and Trujillo, towns built by the explorers who returned from the Americas before reaching your final destination, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Caceres with its impressive medieval monuments and main square.
Itinerary
Enjoy your first Parador and explore the historic town when you arrive in Oropesa, which is easily reached by train from Madrid.
Your tour begins today as you head towards the foothills of the Gredos Mountains, to the beautifully restored castle of Jarandilla de la Vera where you’ll stay the night. Along the way, cycle through typical Mediterranean woodland, the granite cliffs of the Gredos providing stunning views.
Continue through more peaceful countryside today as you cycle to the medieval market town of Plasencia with its beautiful cathedral and historic town centre. This walled town has long enjoyed a strategic location on the historic ‘Ruta de la Plata’, nestled on the bank of the Jerte river. Take the longer route today for the chance to visit the beautiful 16th century Monasterio de Yuste, set in stunning oak woodland.
Cycling South towards the Tajo River, you will reach the National Park of Monfragüe, a well-known place for all ornithologists. This farming landscape is dedicated to raising Spain’s famous wild bulls and the black “iberico” pig which provides us with the delicious ‘jamon iberico’. You’ll find tonight’s accommodation in a fabulous Country Farm hotel.
Today’s destination is one of Spain’s finest gems, the town of Trujillo, reached through typical Mediterranean woodland. Hernan Cortes, Francisco Pizarro along with several more famous conquistadors of Spain called this region home. The perfectly preserved architecture of the town and the impressive bronze statue of Francisco Pizzaro is evidence of the legacy of the conquest.
Your journey continues as you spend this final day cycling through the beautiful small villages and impressive landscapes that line the route to your final destination of Caceres. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage City which is full of twisting, narrow cobbled streets lined with palaces and mansions whose architecture reflects a blend of Roman, Islamic, Northern Gothic and Italian Renaissance influences.
Departure or extend your stay to discover Caceres or Madrid.
Route overview
This route for this 7-day tour is rated as moderate+. Each stage covers fairly long distances with perhaps four ascents per day along tarmacked roads (only 1% of this route is on cycle tracks). The average daily distance covered is 52km with an average climb of 460m.
Total distance cycled: 261-283 km
Starting point of the cycling holiday: Oropesa
What’s included
6 nights’ accommodation.
Standard Bike Hire
6 breakfasts.
Luggage transfers between hotels.
Telephone Emergency Support in English and Spanish. Mobile Tel: +34 689 257 820
Optional extras:
Extra nights in any of the Paradors or in Madrid
Transfers
Check Availability
We have put a calendar of events together that will provide you with some inspiration of what you can expect on your holiday, and when the best time to jet off is. Now’s your chance to travel further than you can by foot and be part of a memorable and exciting two-wheel journey with us.
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