Don Quijote Road Trip

The Don Quijote Road Trip is a great way to explore the historical towns of Spain. Starting in Consuegra and ending in the same place, this 432 km route takes you through Almagro, Viso del Marques, and Campo de Criptana. Along the way, you can explore the historical sites, such as the windmills in Consuegra, the Plaza Mayor in Almagro, and the Castle of La Mota in Campo de Criptana. The best time to do this road trip is between April and October, when the weather is mild and the roads are in good condition. Be aware that some parts of the route are quite narrow, so be sure to drive carefully. This road trip is suitable for all drivers and can be managed with a moderate budget. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery, the Don Quijote Road Trip is sure to provide an unforgettable experience and lasting memories.

Consuegra is a small town located in Castilla-La Mancha, Spain known for its majestic castle perched on a hilltop. It is the perfect starting point of the “Don Quijote Road Trip”. The castle, built in the 12th century, is the main attraction of the town and the towers provide stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Other attractions include the 16th century Church of Santiago and the nearby mills, which are said to have inspired Cervantes in his novel, Don Quijote de La Mancha. The closest international airport to Consuegra is Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport (IATA: MAD), located about 130 km away. Car rental services are available at the airport, so visitors can easily rent a car and start their journey through the region. The drive is pleasant and offers plenty of opportunities to explore the charming towns and villages along the way. Whether you’re an avid fan of Don Quijote or just looking for a unique experience, Consuegra is the perfect destination to begin your road trip. With its stunning castle and rich cultural heritage, it is sure to provide a memorable start to your journey.

Welcome to the Consuegra-Almagro stage of your road trip! This route will take you through a picturesque landscape of rolling hills and lush meadows, with plenty of historical sites and monuments to explore. Get ready to enjoy 99 km of amazing scenery, with a driving time of less than 2 hours. As you start your journey in Consuegra, be sure to visit the majestic 12th-century castle of La Muela, which stands on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Then, take a stroll through the old town and admire the beautiful architecture of the Plaza Mayor and the Church of Santa María. Continuing on your journey, you will arrive in Almagro, home to some of the best preserved Renaissance and Baroque architecture in Spain. Here, you can visit the Corral de Comedias, an open-air theatre dating back to the 17th century, and the Convento de San Francisco, which houses the impressive Museum of Almagro. These are just a few of the highlights of this stage of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on a road trip from Almagro, Spain and experience the wonders of Calzada de Calatrava. This short journey of 82 km will take you less than two hours to reach Viso del Marques. As you drive along the scenic road, make sure to look out for sections of the road that are narrow. Along the way, you will find some of the most interesting places to visit, such as the Calzada de Calatrava Castle and the Castle of Viso del Marques. Take some time to explore these beautiful castles and marvel at the history they hold. The region is also home to some of the best wineries in the world, so be sure to sample some of the local wines. Don't forget to take in the stunning scenery along the way, as you drive along the winding roads. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Welcome to the Viso del Marques to Campo de Criptana road trip stage! This is a great opportunity to explore the Spanish countryside and discover some of the most interesting places in the area. The 191 km journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete, and it is part of a larger tour of the region. Your first stop is Viso del Marques, a small town located in the province of Toledo. Here you can visit the beautiful Castle of Viso del Marques, a 12th century fortress with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Next, you will pass through the town of Consuegra, where you can explore the ruins of the 12th century La Muela castle. This castle is renowned for its windmills, which were used to grind grain. Your final destination is Campo de Criptana, a small town in the province of Ciudad Real. Here you can visit the Castle of Campo de Criptana, a 14th century fortress that was once home to the famous Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you enjoy your road trip and have a wonderful time exploring Viso del Marques, Consuegra and Campo de Criptana!

Are you ready for an exciting road trip through some of the most beautiful places of Castilla-La Mancha? Start your journey in Campo de Criptana, a picturesque village in the province of Ciudad Real, and drive for about 60 km until you reach Consuegra. Along this route, you will be able to admire some of the most spectacular views of the region, as well as some of its most impressive historical sites. In Campo de Criptana, don't forget to visit the windmills, a symbol of the village and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also take a stroll through the old town and admire its medieval architecture. As you drive along the route, make sure to keep an eye out for the Castle of Consuegra, a majestic fortress perched atop a hill. Once you arrive in Consuegra, you can visit the castle, the Jewish Quarter, and the old city walls. You can also take a walk along the banks of the Tajo River and admire the stunning views. Remember to pay attention to the road and the scenery, and don't forget to plan your stops and stops along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Consuegra is a Spanish municipality located in the province of Toledo, in the autonomous community of Castilla-La Mancha. It lies at the end of the “Don Quijote Road Trip”, a route that starts at the city of Madrid and passes through several towns and places from Miguel de Cervantes’s classic novel. The most iconic landmark in Consuegra is its castle, a fortress built in the 12th century. This castle is perched atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the entire town and the surrounding plains. Inside the castle is a museum dedicated to the history of Consuegra and the region. The most characteristic sight in town is the 12 windmills, which are arranged in a row along the edge of the hill. These windmills were used to grind grain and they have been faithfully restored. Visitors can also explore the old town and its cobblestone streets and visit the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista, a church dating back to the 16th century. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Madrid Barajas Airport (IATA code MAD). From there, it is a two-hour drive to Consuegra. Those traveling by car can take the E-5 highway from Madrid all the way to the end of the “Don Quijote Road Trip”. Consuegra is a beautiful town with plenty of sights to explore. Its castle and windmills are iconic landmarks and its old town is an ideal destination for a leisurely stroll. With its great historical and cultural heritage, Consuegra is an ideal destination to end your “Don Quijote Road Trip”.

Before you set off

Embark on the Don Quijote Road Trip for an enchanting 432 km journey that transports you back to the era of chivalry and romance, inspired by Miguel de Cervantes' classic novel. Starting and ending in the town of Consuegra, this circular route winds through the heart of Castilla-La Mancha, offering a deep dive into Spain's Golden Age, with landscapes adorned by historic windmills and castles that inspired the adventures of the famous knight-errant, Don Quixote.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Consuegra: Step into a scene from `Don Quixote` with its 12th-century castle and the 12 windmills that crown Cerro Calderico. Some of these windmills retain their original names, and one, known as `Sancho,` houses a small museum.
• Almagro: Explore the beautifully conserved Plaza Mayor with its distinctive Corral de Comedias, a 17th-century theater that still stages performances today, offering a rare glimpse into early modern Spanish drama.
• Viso del Marques: Visit the Renaissance Palace of the Marquis of Santa Cruz, which displays a unique blend of Spanish and Italian architectural styles and features exquisite frescoes.
• Campo de Criptana: Wander among the white-painted windmills, some of which date back to the 16th century. This town is believed to have inspired one of the most famous episodes in `Don Quixote,` where the knight mistakes windmills for giants.

Best Time to Go:

Travel between April to October to enjoy the region’s cultural festivals, such as the Festival Internacional de Teatro Clásico in Almagro. These months offer pleasant temperatures and less rainfall, enhancing your journey through the sun-soaked plains and historic towns.

Potential Risks:

While the Roads are generally safe, caution should be exercised when navigating the occasional narrow and winding streets, particularly in historic town centers. Stay vigilant for local driving styles and speed limits to ensure a safe Trip.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• This region of Spain is the world's largest producer of saffron, and Consuegra hosts an annual Saffron Festival in October.
• La Mancha is famous for its Manchego cheese, so be sure to indulge in this local delicacy along the way.
• The journey is economical, with affordable dining and lodging options that reflect the local hospitality.
• The route is accessible to drivers of any experience level, providing a stress-free exploration of Spain's diverse landscapes and historical treasures.

A good choice for:

Whether you're a literature enthusiast, history buff, or simply in search of the quintessential Spanish experience, the Don Quijote Road Trip promises a captivating adventure. The route offers an immersive encounter with the country's past, a visual feast of its natural beauty, and an authentic taste of its cultural legacy, making it an unforgettable excursion for all who traverse its path.