On the edge of the wider Castilla La Mancha region, Torrico is the ideal introduction to central Spain. Sweeping plains and rugged national parks make for epic journeys on foot. Vineyards and olive groves give the area its rustic wine and hearty food. While ancient cities like Toledo show off world-famous art and history. What’s more, it’s one of the least populated parts of Spain, meaning you’re likely to have serene countryside views all year round.
DAY TRIPS
Wind your way through Toledo’s charming streets to its old town, where medieval Christian, Muslim and Jewish influences have left their mark. Don’t miss the stunning Gothic cathedral, or El Greco’s dark masterpieces. For more art, drop into Cuenca’s contemporary galleries. And for an Insta-worthy snap of the iconic windmills made famous by Don Quixote, head to Consuegra.
NATURE
Torrico and wider Castilla La Mancha is ideal walking country: clamber towards the lofty heights of Sierra de Gredos Regional Park, or spot fallow deer in Cabañeros National Park. If you’ve packed your binoculars along with your hiking boots, keep your eye on the skies. Golden eagles, black vultures and black-winged kites all call the region’s rugged landscape home. If you’d rather go underground, the impressive caves in Aguila won’t disappoint – a natural cathedral of stalactites and stalagmites thought to be over 500 million years old.
FOOD
Rich flavours don’t stop at Castilla La Mancha’s hearty stews. Get your vegetable fix with a side of pisto. Restore sightseeing or hiking-sore legs with a bowl of sopa de ajo (garlic soup). And then there’s the region’s Manchego cheese, perfect before dinner with end-of-the-day bubbles or a glass of regional red wine.
If you visit in late October, drop in on the Saffron Festival in Consuegra, where food stalls, exhibitions, and traditional music and dance all celebrate the area’s longstanding culinary connection to this vibrant yellow spice.
