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Pilgrimage to Santiago |
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This itinerary takes you to a hallowed spot that was once the most popular destination in Spain- Santiago de Compostela, site of the tomb of Saint James the Apostle and goal of countless religious pilgrims for a millennium. You can even stay in one of the places they stayed in (modernized a bit since then, of course, and rather more expensive now). Most of the destinations described are in the region of Galicia: basically, that part pf Spain directly north of Portugal. It was at one time part of Portugal but as a result of some royal intrigues, was separated from that kingdom in 1128. Although everyone speaks Spanish, Galicia has its own special language (somewhat of a mixture of Portuguese and Spanish). Because of this, you will notice some spelling variations in town names, depending on whether the Galician or the Castilian spelling is used. The area is separated from the rest of the country by several mountain ranges. Perhaps for that reason, Galicia seems to have kepts its face turned to the sea and has developed a strong seafaring tradition and economy. It is also the region that has maintained the strongest Celtic influence since the Celts invaded the peninsula around 3,000 years ago. Galician folk music still has the sound of bagpipes- called gaita- and the name Galicia is from the same root as Gaul and Wales. Galician cuisine, like that of Portugal, puts a lot of emphasis on cod prepared in many ways. Empanadas, or folded meat or fish pies, are a typical dish, as is lacon con grelos, consisting of smoked pork shoulder and turnip greens. Shellfish are also commonly available: be sure to try viera (scallops), a regional specialty prepared in many delicious ways.
The Pilgrimage to Santiago begins in Madrid, a most convenient starting point and a city worthy of a visit time and time again. Be sure to spend a few days enjoying the many museums, taking advantage of the fine dining and, if the weather is pleasant, don’t miss a stroll through the beautiful Buen Retiro Park before heading off to northwestern Spain. This part of the country is too often foregone by the visitor who views it as relatively inaccessible, and has time only for better-known tourist attractions. But this region has its share of the best sights in the country and a flavor all its own.
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Off the Beaten Track |
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This itinerary starts off in New Castile, traverses Aragon and winds up in Barcelona, the sophisticated seaside capital of Catalonia. Most of the route, as its name suggests, takes you to areas not so commonly frequented by foreign tourists, and should appeal to those of you who are anxious for a more intimate taste of Spain. It heads east through New Castile, which holds in store the beautifully rugged Cuenca Range and Cuenca, one of Spain's most enchanting medieval towns, famous for its 'hanging houses.' Then the route continues on to Aragon with its small, earth-colored, hidden villages nestled in gorgeous, scenic mountain valleys or in the midst of olive groves and vineyards. It is easy to understand why these are considered some of the most ancient settlements in the country: the medieval and Moorish past is evident at every turn.
Starting in the 11th century, Aragon began to expand its dominions. Within three centuries, it included parts of souther France, Catalonia, Navarre and all of southeastern Spain, Sicily and Naples. Thus, when Ferdinand II of Aragon married Isabella I of Castille (which included the eastern half of Spain) in 1464, the modern nation state was born. No longer so extensive, the old kingdom is now characterized mostly by agricultural activity. The final stop, Barcelona, provides considerable contrast: it is Spain's second largest city and one as glamorous and worldly as any in Europe.
Almost all tourists fly into or out of Madrid when visiting Spain. After a few days enjoying this lovely city, many then drive on to Barcelona, another of Spain's jewels. It is possible to take a freeway most of the way from Madrid to Barcelona- possible but not very interesting. This itinerary outlines a much more engaging way to make the journey from Spain's largest to its second-largest city. By following this route you enjoy some fabulous sights that are truly 'off the beaten track.'
For a detailed description of these suggested itineraries Auto Europe highly recommends Karen Brown's Guide to Spain, Charming Inns & Itineraries.
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Itineraries |
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These itineraries are excerpted from Karen Brown's Guides. Auto Europe highly recommends Karen Brown's Guides for all travel to Europe. It is possible to purchase the individual itineraries or the guide complete with additional regional itineraries and recommendations of Europe's most charming places to stay. For more information about Karen Brown's Guides to this country as well as her other international titles, please visit Karen Brown's Guides.
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