On the tracks of the conquistadors Road Trip

Take the On the Tracks of the Conquistadors Road Trip and explore the fascinating history of Spain! This 2-day journey takes you through the towns of Zafra, Mérida, Monasterio de Guadalupe, Trujillo, and Cáceres, covering a distance of around 380km. The best time of the year to drive this route is during the spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and the countryside is in full bloom. Along the way, you'll have the chance to visit some of the region's most fascinating historical sites, such as the Roman amphitheater in Mérida, the Monasterio de Guadalupe, and the castle of Trujillo. The roads are mostly in excellent condition, though some parts can be narrow, so drive with caution. This road trip is perfect for anyone looking for an exciting and memorable journey. With moderate budgeting, you can enjoy the best of what Spain has to offer. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the wonders of the Conquistadors' legacy!

Zafra is a small town in the Badajoz region of Spain, located at the heart of the country’s Extremadura region. It is an ideal starting point for the “On the Tracks of the Conquistadors Road Trip,” offering plenty of interesting sights to explore. The town itself is a charming spot, with its cobbled streets and old-world architecture. The 16th-century Castillo de Zafra is a must-see, with its Gothic-style towers and impressive fortifications. The Plaza Grande is the largest public square in Extremadura, and the nearby churches of San Francisco and San Mateo are worth a visit. The Palacio de los Duques de Feria is also worth a look, with its beautiful Renaissance architecture. The closest international airport to Zafra is Badajoz Airport (BJZ), located just over 30 miles away. From here, visitors can easily rent a car to explore the area. The road trip to Zafra takes visitors through some of the most beautiful countryside in Spain, with olive groves, vineyards and sun-drenched hills. With its fascinating history and stunning scenery, Zafra is the perfect starting point for the “On the Tracks of the Conquistadors Road Trip.” From here, visitors can explore the rich culture and landscape of Extremadura, with its rolling hills, picturesque villages and vibrant cities.

Embark on a road trip of a lifetime and explore the beauty of Spain! Starting in Zafra, a small town in the province of Badajoz, you will find yourself surrounded by the medieval walls of the Castle of Zafra, the Plaza de España, and the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption. As you continue your journey, you will pass through the towns of Bienvenida and Fuente de Cantos before arriving in Mérida. This city is home to some of the most impressive Roman ruins in the country, such as the Temple of Diana and the Amphitheatre. There are also plenty of museums and galleries to explore, including the National Museum of Roman Art. The journey from Zafra to Mérida is only 61km and takes less than an hour to complete - perfect for a day trip! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Embark on an exciting road trip from Mérida to Monasterio de Guadalupe! This 195 km journey takes you through some of the most beautiful and interesting places in the region, and can be completed in less than 4 hours. Get ready for a truly memorable experience! Start with a visit to Mérida, the ancient Roman city, and explore its impressive monuments. Then, make your way to the Monasterio de Guadalupe, a stunning religious complex with a rich history. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of interesting places to visit, such as the Roman ruins of Alange, the beautiful lakes of Villuercas, and the picturesque village of Valverde de la Vera. Be aware that some sections of the road are quite narrow, so drive carefully. Once you reach Monasterio de Guadalupe, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Sierra de Guadalupe. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Monasterio de Guadalupe to Trujillo? This 78 km journey will take you less than 2 hours and will give you the opportunity to explore the beautiful Spanish countryside. Along the way, you will pass through the stunning villages of Casas de Don Pedro, Santa Ana and Montemayor. Don’t forget to take your time and enjoy the scenic roads. Make sure to visit the historical Monasterio de Guadalupe and the Trujillo Castle, two of the most iconic landmarks in the area. You can also take a break and explore the charming streets of Trujillo. For those who love nature, the Sierra de Montanchez Natural Park is the perfect spot to relax and admire the stunning views. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Take a road trip from Trujillo to Cáceres! This 45 km journey will take you less than an hour, so you can easily fit in a few stops along the way. Start your journey in Trujillo, a picturesque town with a rich history, where you can visit the Castle of Trujillo and the Plaza Mayor, with its impressive buildings. Then, head to Monfragüe National Park, a paradise for birdwatchers and lovers of nature. Here, you can admire the castle of Monfragüe and the Monfragüe Castle Bridge. Finally, arrive in Cáceres, the city of the towers, where you can explore the old town, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Don't forget to visit the Plaza Mayor, the San Mateo Church, and the Santa María Church. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Cáceres, Spain is the perfect ending for the "On the tracks of the conquistadors Road Trip". Located in the Extremadura region of Spain, Cáceres is a city full of history, culture and stunning sites to explore. Start your exploration in the old town, where you can wander the cobbled streets and admire the beautiful architecture of the ancient city walls and buildings. The Palacio de los Golfines de Abajo is a must see, with its impressive baroque facade. The Plaza Mayor and the Church of Santa María are also worth a visit. Next, take a trip to the nearby Sierra de Gredos Mountains. Here you can enjoy the stunning scenery, take a hike or even go skiing in the winter. For an unforgettable experience, visit the Monfragüe National Park. Here you can observe the local wildlife, including the griffon vultures and golden eagles. When it’s time to leave, the closest international airport is Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), located about two and a half hours away by car. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or an outdoor adventure, Cáceres is an ideal destination to end your road trip. With its beautiful architecture, stunning scenery, and abundance of wildlife, you won’t be disappointed.

Before you set off

Embark on the `On the Tracks of the Conquistadors` Road Trip for an immersive exploration of Spain's storied past. This captivating 2-day journey covers roughly 380 kilometers, leading you through the heart of Extremadura—a region rich in history and culture, with beautiful landscapes to match. You'll visit the towns of Zafra, Mérida, Monasterio de Guadalupe, Trujillo, and Cáceres, each offering unique insights into the lives of the Spanish conquistadors and the myriad of civilizations that have influenced this region.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Zafra: Known as the `Little Seville,` start your adventure in this delightful town, admiring its picturesque plazas and 15th-century castle, now a luxury hotel.
• Mérida: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Mérida is renowned for its extensive Roman ruins, including a magnificent amphitheater and the longest surviving Roman bridge in the world.
• Monasterio de Guadalupe: This stunning monastery is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also the place where Christopher Columbus sought the Virgin Mary's blessing before his second voyage to the Americas.
• Trujillo: Birthplace of conquistadors like Francisco Pizarro, the town's castle offers panoramic views and a journey through Spain's military history.
• Cáceres: Wander the cobblestone streets of the old town, another UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved mix of Roman, Islamic, Northern Gothic, and Italian Renaissance architecture.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal times for this Road Trip are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the region's flora is in full bloom, adding a colorful backdrop to your historical exploration.

Potential Risks:

While the Roads are generally well-maintained, some sections can be narrow and winding. It's important to maintain cautious driving, especially in more rural areas or during inclement weather.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

• Budget moderately to enjoy the full array of Spanish hospitality, from comfortable accommodations to sumptuous dining experiences.
• Take the opportunity to delve into the architectural heritage that spans Roman aqueducts, Moorish fortresses, and Renaissance palaces.
• Don't miss out on the local cuisine; Extremadura is known for its rich culinary traditions, including Iberian ham, pimentón de La Vera (smoked paprika), and Torta del Casar cheese.

A good choice for:

Pack your bags for an extraordinary journey tracing the footsteps of Spain's legendary conquistadors. This Road Trip offers an enchanting blend of historical discovery and the scenic allure of Spain's lesser-known rural landscapes.