We start our route in Almagro, cultural jewel of Castilla-La Mancha, famous for its Corral de Comedias, its arcaded Plaza Mayor and its baroque essence. Strolling through its streets is to travel to the heart of classical theater and the living history of the Golden Age.
Walk through its streets is to travel to the heart of classical theater and the living history of the Golden Age.
We cross to Andalusian lands and arrive at Baños de la Encina, dominated by its imposing 10th century caliphal castle. Its cobblestone streets, churches and the Rumblar reservoir make it a place where the Arab legacy joins the beauty of the landscape.
Banos de la Encina, dominated by its imposing 10th century caliphate castle.
We close the route in Zuheros, perched in the Subbetica Cordoba. This white village enchants with its rock castle, its whitewashed streets and the Cueva de los Murciélagos. Ideal to get lost among olive groves, history and landscapes that look like a fairy tale.
Be prepared to let yourself be carried away by legendary castles, squares with centuries of history and villages where you can still breathe the encounter between cultures. The Route of the Peoples of the Kingdom and the Caliphate is not just a tour, it is a way to travel slower, deeper and with all your senses.
Now there is only the best part left: that you live it.
The Route of the Villages of the Kingdom and the Caliphate can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Its villages combine history, architecture and unique landscapes that enchant in every season, from the fields of La Mancha to the Andalusian mountains.
.The recommended duration to fully enjoy the Route of the Villages of the Kingdom and the Caliphate is 3 to 4 days. This time allows you to travel calmly through each village, explore its monuments, enjoy its landscapes and immerse yourself in its history. Sleeping in charming accommodations and discovering the cultural essence of each corner will make the experience complete and unforgettable.
To enjoy this route, wear comfortable shoes, clothing suitable for the weather and book accommodation in advance. Some towns have hills or cobblestone streets, so be prepared. Leave time to explore at your leisure, sample the local gastronomy and make unexpected stops: often, the most special part of the trip emerges where you least expect it, in the quietest corners.
To travel this route, it is best to move around in your own car or a rental car, as public transportation is limited. Carry a full tank of gas, especially in rural areas. Use GPS, but keep a physical map handy in case the signal fails. Park in designated areas and walk through the villages: this way you will be able to better appreciate their architecture, history and the unique atmosphere of each corner.
When traveling this route, respect both the natural environment and the cultural heritage. Do not leave garbage, avoid annoying noises and follow the marked trails. Do not enter private property and always be friendly with neighbors. Take care of monuments, shop at local businesses and travel conscientiously. Preserving the authenticity of these towns is essential to keep them alive and welcoming.
To make the most of the route, it is best to get up early and start early each day. Many monuments, churches and museums have reduced opening hours, especially out of season. Find out before you arrive and keep in mind that some stores close at noon. Plan your stops well and make reservations in restaurants if you are traveling on weekends or in high season to avoid setbacks.
The gastronomy of this route unites the best of La Mancha and Andalusia: try the eggplants of Almagro, ratatouille and Manchego lamb in Villanueva, flamenquín and game stews in Baños, ajo pringao and migas in Segura, and goat cheese and salmorejo in Zuheros. Each village offers unique flavors. This route is much more than a journey through villages with history: it is a journey through the soul of two worlds, where the Andalusian and the Castilian left indelible traces. With good planning and traveler's curiosity, each stop offers a unique experience between theater, fortresses and legendary landscapes. enjoy!
