On this post I'm going to tell you all about Jarandilla. Its role in the history of Spain, the Parador hotel, the best things to do in the area, what to buy and how to get there.
JARANDILLA DE LA VERA: A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY
Many different civilizations have settled in Jarandilla throughout history from the Celts to Roman and Arabs. All of them have left a legacy we can still enjoy today.The most important monument in Jarandilla is the 15th century palace/castle of the Counts of Oropesa -now a Parador hotel- where King Carlos V of Spain stayed while the Monasterio de Yuste -the place where he was living after abdicating- was undergoing renovations.
Carlos V was the most powerful man of his time. He was king of Spain as Carlos I and king of Germany as Carlos V. His empire extended from Spain to Austria, the Netherlands and Spanish America. In 1555, he abdicated in favor of his son Philip II and retired to the Monasterio de Yuste where he died in 1558.
JARANDILLA DE LA VERA: WHERE TO STAY AND EAT
The best place to stay in Jarandilla de la Vera is the Parador, a four-star luxury hotel. There are few experiences as magnificent as staying at a real castle and feeling like 16th century royalty...but with modern day comforts.The place is perfect to relax for a few days thanks to the quietness surrounding the area and the whole atmosphere of the hotel.
Needless to say, the restaurant at Parador de Jarandilla is the best place to eat and try local delicacies. Both locals and guests are drawn to the magnificent cuisine. The patio is wonderful for summer dining and drinks. I will never forget the wow-effect when we arrived and the first thing we saw was the patio at blue hour with strings of light bulbs from one side to the other. It's probably the most romantic dinner setting I've ever seen.
I also recommend trying the lovely swimming pool surrounded by trees in summer.
Read more about castles in Spain you can stay in
JARANDILLA DE LA VERA: THINGS TO DO
- Explore the town of Jarandilla. You will find several medieval bridges, the house of Don Luis de Quijada and religious heritage.
- Visit the Monasterio de Yuste. It's just a few kilometers away in Cuacos de Yuste. King Charlos V chose this place to spend his last days because of the quiet surroundings. The place is simply breathtaking, no wonder the king chose it as a place to live. I recommend getting there early to have the place to yourself -it starts to get crowded around 12- and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere that characterizes monasteries. Tickets are 10€.
- Visit a German cemetery. At a short walking distance from the Monastery you can find this WWI and II cemetery. Spain did not participate on either war, casualties were from the navy or the airforce and were washed ashore on the Spanish coast.
- Take a swim at crystal clear natural pools. Jarandilla de la Vera is located in the region of Extremadura where there are no beaches. However, there are a few natural pools to beat the heat during the summer months.
IF YOU HAVE TIME...
A little bit further you can find the following gems:
- Nature lovers can hike the beautiful trails at Monfragüe National Park (90 km)
- See the cherry trees blossom in spring at Valle del Jerte. This magnificent event happens every spring. Valle del Jerte is the best place in Spain to see the cherry blossom trees. (40 km)
- Discover the city of Plasencia with its cathedral, palaces, walls, gates and bridges. There's another beautiful Parador in Plasencia. (50 km)
- Visit Parador de Guadalupe (100 km). The hotel enjoys an incredible location on the site of the Royal Monastery of Guadalupe, which has been declared a World Heritage Site.
JARANDILLA DE LA VERA: WHAT TO BUY
La Vera region is famous for its sweet paprika. Peppers are dried and afterwards are ground into powder. Be sure to buy some on your trip to give your meals a hint of Spanish flavor when your get back home.Read more about what to buy in Spain
JARANDILLA DE LA VERA: HOW TO GET THERE
Jarandilla de la Vera is 220 km west of Madrid which takes about 2h 20' by car. See Google Maps. It's perfect for a weekend getaway when you need some rest and relax.GET THE LOOK
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