| Castilla-la
Mancha- an autonomous region in central Spain, encompassing the provinces
of Toledo, Ciudad Real, Cuenca, Guadalajara, and Albacete. It was established
as an autonomous region in 1982. It is in the historical region of New
Castile. Its plains are drained by the Tagus and the Guadiana rivers, and
it is bordered by the Iberian range, the Baetic range, and the Morena range.
Wonderful mountainous scenery and valley views, historic cities and castles
are well worth the visit. |
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Travel Reading on this region:
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Meeting
Montes de Toledo - Toledo
Tourist Information
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- Cuenca
Information
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| CUENCA,
CASTILLA-LA MANCHA, SPAIN - FEATURED HOTELS |
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| Cuenca
- Mountain top town,
renowned for its "Casas Colgadas", or hanging houses, the city is literally
hewn out of rock. Wonderful countryside and views. Cuenca is
a city (2004 pop. 47,862) in the autonomous community of Castilla-La Mancha
in central Spain. It is the capital of the province of Cuenca, one of the
largest provinces in Spain (17,061 km2.), almost as large as countries
like Slovenia or Montenegro...
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AC
Cuenca, Cuenca
Built in 2003 and located
2.5 kilometres from the Old Town, the Hotel AC Cuenca is housed in a distinctive
three-storey contemporary building which features a geometric facade in
light and dark woods. Within three kilometres of the hotel, guests can
walk the picturesque streets of the Old Town and visit the shops and restaurants
dotted along the archways of the Plaza Mayor. The hotel houses a fitness
centre where guests can work out before indulging in a sauna, steam room,
Turkish bath or massage treatment. In the evening, guests can grab a drink
from the bar and relax by the fireplace in the lobby or head to the library
to browse the bookshelves. The hotel's AC restaurant serves a menu of international
dishes and local specialities in a contemporary, minimalist dining area. |
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Parador
de Cuenca, Cuenca
16th Century Convent facing
the hanging houses. The former San Pablo convent sits in a privileged
location on the Hoz del Huécar gorge, comprising steep walls and
luxuriant vegetation outside Cuenca, facing the hanging houses. The
glazed cloister and old chapel - today a cosy café - are the perfect
complement to the interior combining traditional features with more contemporary
touches such as wicker, leather and upholstery. The cosy, comfortable
hotel rooms - some with splendid views of the hanging houses - are a highlight
as are the conference rooms, the bar and marvellous dining room decorated
with exquisite taste. Well-spiced seasonal fare makes up the base
of traditional Cuenca cuisine. The morteruelo creamy pâté,
hash with potted pork loin and roasts are standout, as are the traditional
desserts... |
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Parador
de Alarcón, Alarcón, Cuenca Province
This authentic 8th Century
fortress is situated on a promontory above the meandering river Júcar,
on the Manchego-Levantinas border. The hotel occupies the medieval castle
of the Marqueses de Villena, which is over 13 centuries old. Magnificent
oak and a mixture of modern and classical styles have transformed this
Parador into a new building. The fabrics used within bring out its medieval
character; the reds and oranges contrast with the austerity of the space
and serve as a backdrop for its genuine art collection. The Parador
de Alarcón cuisine is based on the famous ‘conquenese’ cuisine comprising
pickled partridge, duck and game pâtés, and Manchegan ingredients
such as Morteruelo (hot meat pâté), Zarajos (fried lamb’s
intestines) and Pisto Manchego (marrow with onion and tomato). |
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| GUADALAJARA
FEATURED HOTELS, CASTILLA-LA MANCHA |
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| Guadalajara
- capital of
the province of Guadalajara. It is located roughly 60 km northeast of Madrid
on the Henares River. It has several historic buildings such as the Palacio
del Infantado, as well as many churches. |
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AC
Guadalajara, Guadalajara
Located in the historic
centre, close to the Palacio del Infantado and well communicated with Madrid.
Its interior decorated with strong contemporary colors and modern art,
this four storey hotel is located opposite the 15th century Infantado Palace
in Guadalajara's historical center, less than two kilometers from the station.
After a few laps of the on-site jogging track or a workout at the fitness
center, guests can relax in the sauna or take a dip in the indoor swimming
pool. Featuring comfortable sofas, black lacquered dining chairs and bold
artworks, the hotel's David Guerrero Restaurant offers local cuisine in
a modern environment. Guests can chose between the bar and the coffee shop
for a relaxing drink.Featuring wooden floors, minimal contemporary furniture
and crisp white linens, the 103 air conditioned rooms offer free Internet
connections, cable television and direct dial telephones. |
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Hotel
Alcarria, Guadalajara
The Hotel Partner Alcarria
is housed in a contemporary three-storey property on the edge of the town
of Guadalajara, 1 kilometre from the centre. Amistad Park is 500 metres
from the hotel, and the Palacio del Infantada Is 2 kilometres away.
There is a 24-hour front desk with a safe-deposit box, and the hotel also
offers a room service menu. The onsite café has a patio for outdoor
relaxation, and other amenities include air-conditioned public areas, conference
facilities, and free garage parking for those arriving by car. Restaurant
Arriaca serves regional specialities in a contemporary setting. The
53 guestrooms, over three floors, have light, neutral decor and functional
furnishings. |
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Tryp
Guadalajara, Guadalajara
The Tryp Guadalajara is
a modern property located in a quiet residential area adjacent to a golf
course and two kilometres from Guadalajara centre. After breakfast, guests
can browse through the complimentary newspapers in the hotel lobby or head
to the hotel's fully-equipped fitness room for a workout. The hotel houses
a games room complete with billiards table and television, and guests can
enjoy Mediterranean specialties in the modern La Claraboya restaurant.
The hotel houses its own bar and those on business will benefit from the
hotel's 14 meeting rooms and range of audio-visual equipment. The 159 guestrooms
are decorated in soft neutral colours with patterned fabrics and modern
furnishings. Room amenities include air conditioning, wireless Internet
connections, satellite television with pay movies, telephones, hair dryers,
minibars, and safes. |
| MANZANARES
FEATURED HOTELS - CASTILLA-LA MANCHA, SPAIN |
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| Manzanares
- A picturesque
town in the Sierra de Guadarama at the foot of La Pedriza mountain. Its
15th century castle is a jewel of civil architecture. It is worthwhile
taking a stroll through La Pedriza park and along the banks of the Manzanares
river. Location is 47 Kilometers from Madrid. |
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Parador
de Manzanares, Manzanares, Ciudad Real
Located in a La Mancha style
country house in Manzanares, the Parador De Manzanares is placed between
three most beautiful nature reserves of the country, which are Cabaneros,
the Ruidera Lagoons and the Tablas De Daimiel. Trees, bushes, gardens,
and plants impregnate this place with greenery, and with its swimming pool
make for a very appetising setting within the La Mancha countryside. The
hotel has well-appointed rooms that are equipped with modern amenities,
provides an affable and friendly atmosphere. You can dine at the
onsite restaurant, which serves regional specialities and also enjoy a
fine drink at the bar. Conference facilities are available for people
on business travel. During leisure, you can relax at the pool or explore
the city |
| OROPESA
FEATURED PARADOR - TOLEDO PROVINCE - CASTILLA-LA MANCHA, SPAIN |
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| Oropesa is a Spanish town
in the province of Toledo. The town of 2,872 is famous for its castle-turned-parador,
which was built in 1402. The parador was formerly the residence of the
Toledo family of nobles. This includes Francisco de Toledo, Count of Oropesa,
who became the Viceroy of Peru. The town has a yearly celebration in April
called "Jornadas Medievales", or "Medieval Days", which plays off the presence
of the Castle in Oropesa. |
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Parador
de Oropesa, Toledo Province
15th Century Palace and
Castle - The stately home of the Álvarez de Toledo, Counts of Oropesa,
once the home of soldiers, clergy and noblemen, enjoys exceptional views
of the Sierra de Gredos. The historic value of the Torre del Homenaje,
a tower attached to the Parador, the columns of the courtyard, and the
pool with outstanding views over the plains of Campo Arañuelo, make
up a very attractive hotel. The interior is dominated by lamps, chests
and curtains, with large, bright rooms, lounges and work spaces. Game and
seasonal produce are features of Oropesa, where the cookery of Toledo offers
lamb, roast kid and other specialities such as migas del Arañuelo,
a bread-based dish, and confit of partridge. |
| SIGÜENZA
FEATURED HOTELS & PARADORS, CASTILLA-LA MANCHA, SPAIN |
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| Sigüenza
- a beautiful
and inviting city, enriched by the passing of time although its medieval
character is relatively unchanged. Stroll through the winding streets of
the city contemplating interesting monuments and visiting shops filled
with local artisan crafts. |
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Parador
de Sigüenza, Sigüenza - Guadalajara Province
Installed in an Arab fortress,
built on Roman foundations, the construction began in 1123 of this imposing
castle, home of bishops, cardinals and kings. This is an appropriate base
for exploring the historic town and the beautiful landscape around it.
The hotel’s traditional Castilian furnishings are tastefully displayed
in the large, comfortable rooms, some with canopied beds and terraces,
authentic royal bedchambers in a palace which has kept its lordly halls,
ideal for meetings and celebrations, and a 13th century Romanesque chapel.
Within its thick stone walls is the cobbled courtyard and an imposing dining
room, where you can enjoy fried eggs with breadcrumbs and lardoons, oven
roast baby kid, cod with Manchego cheese, and for dessert the famous borrachitos
seguntinos and flores de Cabanillas. |
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Rusticae
Molino de Alcuneza, Sigüenza
Traditional flour mill overlooking
the fresh waters of the river Henares. It is situated only five minutes
from the medieval city of Sigüenza. Originally built in the 15th century,
the hotel has been tastefully restored, keeping the original features such
as wood, stone and iron. Fireplaces and spacious lounges transform the
mill into a place that invites you to rest and relax. The whole family
run the hotel taking care of every detail and making you feel at home.
In 1997 the mill was awarded the prize of the best rural hotel in the region.
The hotel cooks beautifully made traditional dishes for the guests. Only
serves dinners: 27,05€ approx. The rooms are as cosy as the
rest of the millhouse; white washed walls, wooden furniture, pretty lamps
and flower ornaments. |
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| Cuenca
is a city (2004 pop. 47,862) in the autonomous community of Castilla-La
Mancha in central Spain. It is the capital of the province of Cuenca (see
map), one of the largest provinces in Spain (17,061 km2.), almost as large
as countries like Slovenia or Montenegro.
Main monuments
| Our Lady of Grace cathedral
- La catedral
It was built from 1182 to
1270. The façade was rebuilt after it crumbled down in 1902. It
is the first gothic style Cathedral in Spain (together with Avila's one),
because of the influence of Alfonso VIII wife, Leonor Plantagenet, from
Aquitaine, who introduced the Anglo-Norman style.
From that date the cathedral
has undergone some changes. An apse-aisle (doble girola) was added in the
15th century, while the Renaissance Esteban Jamete's Arch was erected in
the 16th century. The main altar was redesigned during the 18th century:
it features a precious iron-work gate. The façade was rebuilt in
1902 from ruins due to the collapse of the former bell tower, the Giraldo.
In the early 1990s modern coloured windows were installed, and in 2006
one of the two old baroque organs from Julián de la Orden was recovered.
The other organ has also been restored, and on 4 April 2009 an inauguration
ceremony was held.
When being indoors, don't
forget to note that the naves doesn't follow exactly a straight line and
the San Julián altar, at the apse-isle, a marvellous one with columns
made of green marble. If it is a sunny day you will be able to enjoy the
coloured light on walls and on the floor produced by the windows. |
Convento
De Las Carmelitas, Cuenca,
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Cathedral
Saint Peter church - Iglesia
de San Pedro
With Romanic origins, the
church was rebuilt by Jose Martin de la Aldehuela during the XVIII century
and features since that moment a baroque façade. It shows an octogonal
shape outdoors but it is circular inside, and it is located at Plaza del
Trabuco, with near stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
A lot of weddings are celebrated here.
This church can be reached
by going up along San Pedro Street from Plaza Mayor .
Saint Michael church -
Iglesia de San Miguel
It was erected during the
XIII century, with only one nave and an apse. In the XV century a second
nave at the north side was added, the dome was built by Esteban Jamete
in the XVI century and finally the wooded ceiling of the two naves was
changed by stone-made vaults during the XVIII century. Saint Michael was
restored in the XX century, and its management was transferred to Cuenca's
municipality from Cuenca's Diocese, so that this church could be used to
hold classical music concerts.
Saint Michael
San Felipe Neri Church
Our Lady of Light church
(Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de La Luz)
The Savior church - Iglesia
del Salvador
Built in neogothic style
during the XVIII century, with only one nave and a high tower. It shows
a modest baroque facade and some remarkable baroque altars indoors.
The famous religious procession
"Las Turbas", held on Good Friday morning, starts at this location, since
the image of "Jesús el Nazareno", which is at the forefront of the
procession, is kept within "El Salvador".
If you are on Holy Week in
Cuenca you shouldn't miss this moment (6 am), but please don't forget your
coat and beware of crowds.
Las Petras convent
Saint Paul bridge - Puente
de San Pablo
It was built from 1533 to
1589, a construction driven by the canon Juan del Pozo, over the river
Huecar's Gorge, aiming at comunicating the old town with St Paul convent.
The original bridge collapsed,
and the current one was built in 1902, made of wood and steel according
to the style dominating at the beginning of the XX century. It is up to
60 metres high, and supported upon the remains of the old bridge.
When crossing the bridge,
mind the height, don't be afraid of the creaking wood, and enjoy the views
of the old town.
Seminary
Parador Nacional de Turismo,
The old Saint Paul convent
Bishop Palace. Since
1588 it contains a museum of art with goldworks, Flemish tapestries and
paintings from artists such as Ribera, Van Dyck and El Greco.
El Castillo: An Arabic
alcazar which, for some centuries, housed the local seatl of Holy Inquisition.
Mangana tower. A
watch tower commanding the city, what remains of an Arabic fortress.
Town Hall - Ayuntamiento
Remarkable building in baroque
style built up during the ruling period of king Carlos III and supported
over three roman archs. It was finished in 1762, as it can be red on the
façade.
The central arch is the only
one giving access to vehicles to Plaza Mayor.
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Hanging Houses - Las
casas colgadas
Built over a rock above the
Huecar's river Gorge in the XV century, they are the only remaining sample
of this type of buildings which were frequent in this city long time ago.
Las Casas Colgadas can be
considered the most famous civil building in Cuenca. They house a restaurant
and the Museum of Abstract Arts and they serve as the background of millions
of photos made from the st Paul bridge. |
Home of the Cuenca's Province
council - Diputación provincial de Cuenca
A simple but elegant building
with 2 floors built at the beginning of the XX century according to a project
conceived by provincial architect Rafael Alfaro.
The Cuenca shield at the
façade is made of Carrara marble.
The gardens, with flowers
and hedges over a grass meadow, are laboured with great care.
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