5 villages and 5 dishes to warm up in winter
Explore pretty villages and winter travel destinations. Discover charming cities and learn how to prepare a perfect winter getaway.
Bocairent (Comunitat Valenciana)
Located in the Sierra de Mariola, Bocairent is located in a protected area known for its wealth of flora, especially aromatic herbs, and for its diverse fauna. It is an ideal place for hiking, cycling and enjoying spectacular landscape.
Highlights:
- Les Covetes dels Moros: a group of artificial caves of mediaeval origin, located on a cliff. They are believed to have been possibly used as warehouses or shelters.
- Parish Church of Our Lady of the Assumption: built in the sixteenth century, it combines elements of the Renaissance and Baroque styles, and houses an important collection of sacred art.
- Mediaeval quarter: its cobbled streets and traditional houses create an atmosphere from another era.
And to warm up…. olleta, a stew of pulses, meat and sausage perfect for cold days. It is a comforting and nutritious dish, ideal for warming up, although it is also eaten at any time of the year.
Taüll (Catalonia)
Located in the Boí Valley, Taüll is known for its Romanesque churches, and declared a World Heritage Site. In winter, the snowy landscape is spectacular. This corner of the Catalan Pyrenees is an ideal destination for lovers of tranquillity, Romanesque art and mountain landscapes.
Highlights:
- Sant Climent de Taüll: a jewel of Catalan Romanesque art, famous for its frescoes.
- Aigüestortes National Park: it is one of the gateways to this incredible natural park with high mountain lakes, rivers, forests and peaks.
- Outdoor activities: the Boí Taüll ski resort and hiking trails such as the one that leads to the Estany de Llebreta.
And to get to know the typical products… Trinxat de la Cerdanya, a dish containing cabbage, potato and bacon. This dish is especially popular during the winter months, when fresh produce from the garden and the need for calories to combat the cold dominate the local diet.
Almagro (Castilla-La Mancha)
In the heart of La Mancha, Almagro is known not only for its rich cultural heritage, but also for its gastronomic gem: aubergines. The welcoming atmosphere of the Plaza Mayor and the Corral de Comedias, the oldest theatre in Spain, complement the experience.
- Corral de Comedias: this seventeenth-century theatre is unique. Preserved as it was at the time it was built, it is the main venue of the International Festival of Classical Theatre.
- Plaza Mayor: it is the heart of the city and one of the most emblematic places in Castilla-La Mancha. It stands out for its Renaissance-style glazed galleries.
- Surroundings: close to natural and cultural attractions, such as the Tablas de Daimiel National Park and the archaeological remains of Calatrava la Vieja.
And to enjoy the gem of the area…Aubergines from Almagro, traditionally served as an appetizer or tapa, accompanied by bread or even with cheese and sausage. Their sour, slightly hot and spicy taste makes them ideal for pairing with wines from the region or craft beers.
Las Alpujarras (Andalucía)
Made up of small villages, the Alpujarra of Granada is perfect in winter to enjoy snowy views and a rural atmosphere.
- Pampaneira, Bubión and Capileira: in the Barranco de Poqueira, they offer spectacular landscape.
- Trevélez: the highest village in Spain, famous for its cured ham and its views.
- Lanjarón: known for its hot springs and spas.
And to regain your strength… Alpujarran dish. It is a combination of Serrano ham, chorizo, black pudding, pork loin, patatas a lo pobre (potatoes, onion, peppers and garlic) and a fried egg. It is a hearty dish, ideal for cold days.
Caravaca de la Cruz (Region of Murcia)
This town, known as one of the world’s holy places, is an ideal spot to enjoy peace and quiet in winter. Its historic centre and its Sanctuary are not to be missed.
- Sanctuary of Vera Cruz: housed in a mediaeval castle, it is a symbol of faith and devotion. It combines Renaissance and Baroque elements and offers spectacular views of the city.
- Paraje de las Fuentes del Marqués: A natural space ideal for enjoying tranquillity, with springs, hiking trails and picturesque surroundings.
- Cueva del Puerto: one of the most spectacular caves in the region, with impressive geological formations.
And to sweeten the tour… Caravaca yemas, delicacies made with egg yolk and sugar; orange and almond cakes, typical confectionery with a sweet and citrus flavour or Murcian alfajor (double biscuit with a sweet filling), a sweet with Arabic roots, made with honey, almonds and spices.
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