Destination Dossier Extremadura by Extremadura Turismo

Destination Dossier Extremadura

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

How to get there

Map

Extremadura has a continental Mediterranean climate, climate with a wide range of temperatures.

Extremadura is located in western Spain, its extensive network of roads and motorways means you can travel it conveniently by private or rented car, without a doubt the option that offers you the most freedom to get to know all its corners. DISTANCE (km) By road

MADRID

BARCELONA

SEVILLA

LISBOA

MÉRIDA

344

965

191

287

CÁCERES

297

919

267

314

BADAJOZ

404

1026

210

228

PLASENCIA

248

870

341

392

Extremadura’s climate

Spring An explosion of colour invades our land when spring arrives. The average temperature ranges between 15ºC and 25ºC, which makes it one of the most recommended seasons to visit our land to enjoy the sun and the innumerable corners you can discover. When spring arrives, don’t miss the spectacular scenery of the Jerte Valley at the Cherry Blossom Festival.

Summer

Badajoz airport, 14 km from the city centre, has regular flights to Madrid and Barcelona, as well as to other cities at different times of the year. It has a coffee shop, car rental offices, free 24-hour public parking and a taxi rank. www.aena.es

Summer in Extremadura offers impressive stargazing thanks to the quality of the air and the absence of light pollution. During summer nights, you can enjoy the best classical works performed by famous actors on the stages of Mérida’s iconic International Classical Theatre Festival. Another thing you cannot miss is a visit to our gorges and natural pools, as well as the blue flag beaches of Cheles and Orellana.

The Renfe Medium Distance train network provides the rail passenger transport service in Extremadura and connects this region with Andalusia, Castilla La Mancha and Madrid. There are lines from Mérida to Seville, a line that connects Badajoz, Mérida, Ciudad Real and Madrid and a line that connects Zafra with Huelva. www.renfe.es

If you arrive in Extremadura from Madrid or eastern Spain, you will do so on the A-5. This motorway passes Trujillo, Mérida and Badajoz before entering Portugal. From this motorway, at Navalmoral de la Mata, you can go to Guadalupe or Plasencia and northern Extremadura (EX-A1). To get to Cáceres, take the exit at Trujillo (A-58). And from Mérida, you can go to Extremadura’s southern municipalities on the A-66. If you are going from the north or the south, the motorway you will use will be the A-66, which runs through the region from north to south. The main centres of Cáceres and Badajoz have bus stations that provide complete communication between areas, provincial capitals and the regions’ main cities.

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Autumn With the arrival of autumn, the colours turn red and brown, the temperatures soften and give us a magical, different light. Trekking is one of the best activities at this time of the year in our region and the best time to pick mushrooms. You cannot miss the ‘Magical Autumn’ festival in the Ambroz Valley, ‘La Otoñada’ in the Jerte Valley, ‘Dare to dream’ in Sierra de Gata and the ‘Autumn in Tentudía’ activities.

Winter Cranes notify the arrival of winter in Extremadura, mild winters that are perfect for strolling through its towns and discovering the aromas and flavours of yesteryear... The smoke from a fireplace, your grandmother’s stews; the warmth of our people will take you to discover unforgettable corners. You cannot miss fiestas like ‘El Jarramplas’, ‘Las Carantoñas’ and the Badajoz Carnival.

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Destination Dossier Extremadura

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

CULTURAL TOURISM

MICE TOURISM

NATURE TOURISM

SPA & WELLNESS TOURISM

GASTRONOMIC TOURISM

Junta de Extremadura Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Sports General Coordination: Directorate General of Tourism Images provided by: The Directorate General of Tourism (owner) Fernando Yuste Atanasio Fernández José Luís Quiñones Edition year: 2020

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CULTURAL TOURISM TURISMO CULTURAL

Cities of Extremadura Cáceres Strolling along the streets of the best-preserved historic centre in Spain and the third in Europe will take you back to the Middle Ages or the Renaissance. Its historic sites make you feel like you are in a film, in fact many films and series have chosen it for filming. It has an extensive cultural agenda, including Womad, the Classical Theatre Festival and the exhibitions of the Helga de Alvear Visual Arts Centre, not to mention the Easter celebrations, which is a Fiesta of International Tourist Interest. The city offers a high-quality hotel and gastronomic offer, and was declared the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy in 2015.

Mérida The capital of Extremadura stands out for its valuable historic heritage, letting you imagine what the ancient metropolis of Roman Lusitania was like. Today, Mérida is also about leisure and culture, enjoyed 2000 years later in the Roman Theatre, where the International Classical Theatre Festival is held. The Amphitheatre, the Acqueduct of Los Milagros, the Arch of Trajan, the Roman Bridge, the circus and the temple of Diana should likewise not be overlooked. Another essential not to be missed is the Easter celebrations and the processions of the penitent through this Roman architecture. Mérida, Ibero-American Capital of Gastronomic Culture in 2016, offers an extensive culinary offer including products from the Vega del Guadiana orchards, Iberian pigs raised on the meadows and cheeses from the area. All this paired with the excellent wines of the D.O. Ribera del Guadiana.

Badajoz Founded by the Arabs along the Guadiana River, this is a city marked throughout history by its strategic location near the border with Portugal. From the Cerro de la Muela rises the 12th century citadel, the largest and best preserved in Spain. Other highlights include the Espantaperros tower, the Puerta de Palmas, the Plaza Alta (Square) and the hermitage of La Soledad. Badajoz is a dynamic, modern, fun city that has such interesting proposals as its Easter celebrations, Carnival, Fiestas of National Tourist Interest, the Almossassa Festival and the LGBTI Los Palomos event.

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Plasencia The city perfectly combines history, culture and nature, which makes it one of the most attractive destinations in Extremadura. Surrounded by a wall since it was founded, the life of the city is organised around the Plaza Mayor, rectangular and porticoed, where the popular “Martes Mayor” fiesta is celebrated on the first Tuesday in August each year. Strolling along its streets invites you to get to know the Old and New Cathedral, the churches, convents, palaces and the Jewish Quarter, while encouraging you to taste the exquisite gastronomy of Extremadura.

Trujillo Trujillo is one of Extremadura’s most visited destinations for their heritage. This was already a city of great importance during the Roman Empire. The Visigoth, Muslim, Jewish and Christian cultures have all left a mark on its identity over the centuries. The Plaza Mayor and the historic sites have magnificent palatial architecture, built with fortunes from America. Trujillo’s stately homes and heraldry are a reason for contemplation by its visitors, as are the castle and the Church of Santa María la Mayor. This is the birthplace of two important figures in the age of discovery: Pizarro, the explorer of Peru, and Orellana, the discoverer of the Amazon River. Such outstanding events as Easter, Chíviri and the National Cheese Fair, which is held in the Plaza Mayor, should not be overlooked either.

Zafra Throughout history and until today it has been an important commercial, artisanal and livestock centre, as is evidenced by the San Miguel International Livestock and Traditional Fair that has been held since 1453. The architecture of its historic centre has been declared to be artistic historic heritage, with the highlights being its Grande and Chica Squares, the Santa Clara convent-museum, the Candelaria collegiate church and the palace of Los Duques de Feria, now a National Tourism Parador. The summer solstice sees the celebration of the “From the Moon to the Fire” festival, which recreates the splendour of Zafra under the Duchy of Feria during the Spanish Golden Age. The Easter celebrations are another of Zafra’s major tourist attractions.

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CULTURAL TOURISM TURISMO CULTURAL

UNESCO and European Heritage Extremadura is home to an exceptional heritage of great value and enormous diversity. Among its highlights are locations with the World Heritage seal: Historic city of Cáceres, the archaeological site of Mérida and Roman Baths of Alange and the Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe. In addition, the Monastery of San Jerónimo de Yuste has a European Heritage seal.

This unique city preserves an exceptional historic heritage, marked by the footprints of history since its origins. Its architecture, alleyways and buildings tell us about the different Roman, Jewish and Almohad cultures that built it to leave the world a unique artistic historic heritage. The legacy after the Conquest of America is shown in the impressive palaces that were built on the unique streets of this historic city, full of legends and mysteries.

Historic City of Cáceres

Archaeological Site of Mérida

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Lets you experience firsthand the splendour of what was one of the most important and influential cities in the ancient Roman Empire and capital of the province of Lusitania. Highlights include the Roman Theatre, the Amphitheatre, the Aqueduct of Los Milagros, the Temple of Diana, the Arch of Trajan and the Roman Bridge. Just a few kilometres away from the archaeological site are the Roman Baths of Alange since the Romans were the precursors of the use of water for therapeutic purposes.

This showcases four centuries of Spanish religious architecture combining Gothic, Mudejar, Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical styles. In addition to housing works by Zurbarán, the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe, patron saint of Extremadura, can be found inside. Two momentous historical events occurred at this iconic place: Queen Isabel La Católica gave the mandate for Christopher Columbus to start his trip to the Indies, and their reunion after the discovery of the new continent.

The Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe

Royal Monastery of San Jerónimo de Yuste

This was the place chosen as a retreat by Emperor Charles V. This beautiful monastery became known throughout Spain because of this, as well as for its artistic richness and privileged location in La Vera. Its simple and austere rooms were built on the southern side of the convent with the peculiarity that the emperor’s bedroom connected to the church, which let him attend mass in bed.

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CULTURAL TOURISM

Cultural Routes

Route of Charles V Experience the history of Spain in Extremadura first hand just as Emperor Charles V did, visiting the towns of Jarandilla de la Vera, Aldeanueva de la Vera and arriving at the Monastery of Yuste, in Cuacos de Yuste. If you visit during February, you will enjoy this Fiesta of Tourist Interest, which recreates the time of the monarch.

Route of the Jewish Quarters The architecture of the Jewish Quarters in Extremadura covers the streets in the neighbourhood of San António in Cáceres, the area around the Parador in Plasencia and the medieval neighbourhood of Hervás, part of the network of Jewish Quarters in Spain. You can now also follow the Hebraic trail through streets and alleyways full of charm in towns such as Valencia del Alcántara, Alburquerque, Burguillos del Cerro, Medellín, Azuaga, Fregenal de la Sierra, Llerena, Zafra, Jerez de los Caballeros, Higuera la Real and Coria, among others.

CULTURAL TOURISM

Route of Isabel la Católica Queen Isabel la Católica is the star of this route. Many cities were linked to this queen: Cáceres, Trujillo, Alcántara, Llerena, Madrigalejo, Valencia de Alcántara, Plasencia. But the most significant place for Isabel was undoubtedly the Monastery of Guadalupe. Together with her, you will discover a region of culture, history, art, full of nature that she herself considered to be “her paradise”, and you can always enjoy the best local cuisine as well.

Route of the Discoverers A journey full of culture and heritage that starts in Guadalupe, where Queen Isabel la Católica encouraged Columbus to make his trip to the Indies. A New World discovered by great explorers and conquerors such as Hernán Cortés, Francisco Pizarro and Vasco Núñez de Balboa. Get to know the towns where they were born and relive their exploits thanks to this route that covers cities such as Trujillo, Medellín, Badajoz, Cáceres, Mérida, Villanueva de la Serena and Jerez de los Caballeros. Pilgrims on the Vía de la Plata

Mozarabic Route The ancient Christians of Al-Andalus used it to get from Andalusia, through Córdoba and Extremadura, to reach Santiago de Compostela. In the section in Extremadura, it runs through the area of La Serena and towns such as Don Benito, Medellín, Torresfresneda, San Pedro de Mérida, Trujillanos and Mérida, where it merges with the Vía de la Plata and ends this route in the city of Santiago.

Route of Camino de la Plata This historic path, crossed thousands of times by the successive cultures that settled in Extremadura, is pure culture, art and gastronomy. A wonderful route that runs through some of the most significant places in Extremadura and the main Saint James Way from the south. A journey where you will find legendary cities, theatres, temples, bridges, aqueducts, hot springs and fortresses at the foot of a road that has been the backbone of Spain throughout history.

Route of the Camino de la Plata

Medina de las Torres Castle

Route of the Fortresses The privileged location of the castles in Extremadura made them the most coveted fortresses throughout the history of Spain. In the province of Badajoz, highlights include Feria, Alburquerque, Puebla de Alcocer, Olivenza, Alconchel, Burguillos del Cerro and Segura de León. In the province of Cáceres, you will see the castles of Trujillo, Montánchez, Belvís de Monroy, Granadilla, Trevejo, Santibáñez el Alto and Jarandilla de la Vera.

This classic pilgrimage runs through Andalusia, Extremadura, Castilla y León and Galicia until it reaches Santiago de Compostela. Through the lands of Extremadura, it offers spectacular landscapes and a valuable historic and cultural heritage.

In Extremadura, along more than 300 km, you will have Roman ruins and architecture at your fingertips that are well worth a stop. To fully enjoy Xacobeo 2021, Extremadura, Andalusia, Castilla y León

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Roman city of Cáparra (Mérida)

and Galicia have given a new impetus to the Camino de Santiago along the Vía de la Plata, the Roman road that was the backbone of the western Iberian Peninsula and that, two thousand years later, is used by pilgrims who go to Compostela on foot or by bicycle. The result of the collaboration among these four regions is the Camino de la Plata. Its website (www.elcaminodelaplata.com) provides information on the stages and municipalities that comprise it. You will discover its hidden gems and see real testimonies by its people, proud ‘sentinels’ of the Camino that will help you get to know this wonderful route a little better. On your trip to Santiago you will cross remains of the original road, Roman bridges, hot springs at the Baños de Montemayor Spa and cities built at that time, such as Cáparra and its famous four-sided arch, unique in Spain. 11 | “Everything you can imagine, where you wouldn’t imagine it.”

CULTURAL TOURISM TURISMO CULTURAL

CULTURAL TOURISM

Museums

Language Tourism

Extremadura is the ideal place both to learn Spanish and to immerse yourself in the culture of the region.

National Museum of Roman Art, Mérida

Extremadura has an extensive network of museums, galleries and exhibition halls, both public and private, which surprise visitors with their variety and quality. Together, they cover practically the entire history of humanity, from Prehistory at the Museum of Cáceres, to the surprising and always up to date Vostell-Malpartida Museum.

A unique destination where immersion will guarantee an authentic and enriching experience. All this combined with an extensive range of leisure, cultural, nature, gastronomic and sports activities. The University of Extremadura has the Institute of Spanish as a Foreign Language (IELE) and offers monthly (intensive), quarterly and preparatory courses for the DELE diploma. In addition, it offers tailor-made courses designed according to the interests and needs of the institutions requesting them.

Likewise, the Helga de Alvear Foundation Visual Arts Centre in Cáceres will take you closer to contemporary art and the Museum of Fine Arts in Badajoz houses the work of Extremadura’s nationally and internationally famous artists.

The Official School of Language imparts Spanish classes for foreigners in Badajoz, Cáceres and Plasencia at basic, intermediate and advanced levels. Several education centres in the region also offer Spanish courses combined with activities to help you delve into Spanish and Extremadura culture.

Vostell Museum, Malpartida de Cáceres

Pérez Comendador-Leroux Museum, Hervás

MEIAC, Badajoz

Museum of the Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe

Museum of Cáceres

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CULTURAL TOURISM TURISMO CULTURAL

Other Cultural Destinations Ciudades de Extremadura Las imprescindibles

Extremadura offers an extensive range of possibilities. Come discover them for yourself.

Medellín

Robledillo de Gata

Llerena

Regina Roman Theatre

Alcántara

Hervás

Olivenza

Fregenal de la Sierra

Montánchez

Jerez de los Caballeros

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Theatre in Regina you can relive the splendour of the ancient Regina Turdulorum on the outskirts of Casas de Reina. The Monastery of Tentudía, always surrounded by mystery and legend, was one of the most important centres of the Order of Santiago. A perfect plan would be to go to the Roman Spa of Baños de Montemayor and enjoy the properties of its waters. The Cáceres municipality of San Martín de Trevejo, which together with Guadalupe and Trujillo is part of the Association of the Most Beautiful Towns in Spain, is prized for its architecture and even having its own language. In the heart of the Sierra de Gata, the particular architecture of Robledillo de Gata makes it unique and it was named Rural Wonder of Spain 2018. Founded by the Order of the Temple, Olivenza is a beautiful border city where Spanish and Portuguese cultures mix. Located in the Tagus International Natural Park, Valencia de Alcántara offers a spectacular megalithic site made up of 41 dolmens. It is also a pleasure to stroll along the porticoed main square of Garrovillas de Alcónetar, considered to be one of the largest and most beautiful in Spain.

Garrovillas de Alcónetar

Monastery of Tentudía

Coria

Jarandilla de la Vera

Enjoy culture and art by taking a journey through the extensive and rich history of Extremadura thanks to these cultural destinations. Destinations such as Jerez de los Caballeros, which will take you back to the time of the Knights Templar. In the ancient Roman Theatre of Medellín, time seems to stand still. You can stroll through the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter of Hervás. The engineering work of the Roman Bridge of Alcántara, built over the Tagus River in the 2nd century AD, is admirable. The Plaza Mayor in Llerena, with fantastic balcony windows and arcaded galleries, is the heart of this town. Enjoy Fregenal de la Sierra, the first town chosen in Extremadura to be selected as a magical town in Spain. Montánchez, a land of impressive cultural heritage with gastronomy that has the flavour of the meadows. Delight in the hospitality of Coria, a stately cathedral city. Experience the essence of the Sierra de Gata in Trevejo. Jarandilla de la Vera, the crossroads of civilizations and starting point for the Route of Emperor Charles V. From the steps of the Roman

Valencia de Alcántara

Baños de Montemayor

San Martín de Trevejo

Trevejo

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CULTURAL TOURISM

Extremadura: Film Set

Trujillo

EXTREMADURA AUDIOVISUAL is a trademark created and registered by the Department of Culture, Tourism and Sports of the Junta de Extremadura through the Extremadura Foundation of Culture for the Cinema and Audiovisual Area. Under this name, Extremadura’s audiovisual professionals are grouped together with their productions in the field of fiction and documentary feature films and short films, the Extremadura Film Commission, as the regional filming office, as well as all the activities, programmes and projects in the area.

Download it at:: Extremadura, a film destination

Granadilla

Los Barruecos, Malpartida de Cáceres

Cáceres

Monastery of San Jerónimo de Yuste

In 2019, ‘Buñuel en el laberinto de las tortugas’, a co-production in Extremadura, received the Goya award for Best Animated Film, a story in which reality surpasses fiction, telling the story of how Luis Buñuel shot his second film, the documentary ‘Las Hurdes. Tierra sin pan’. Recently, in 2020, the series “Inés del Alma mía” has been filmed in Cáceres and Trujillo to recreate the life of Inés Suáres, a woman who was born in Plasencia (Cáceres) in 1507 and who travelled to the New World in 1537, where she participated in the conquest of Chile. Cáceres once again became a film set to

host the filming of a period super production based on Saint Francis of Assisi.

International Centre for Sports Innovation in the Natural Environment, “El Anillo”

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CULTURAL TOURISM

CULTURAL TOURISM Experience Extremadura through its spiritual destinations, eight routes that span from prehistory and antiquity, through Jewish and Muslim roots, pilgrimage caminos, the impressive religious and artistic heritage reflected in images, temples and monasteries, the devotion of religious festivals, as well as natural settings and spas.

Fiestas of Tourist Interest

Download it at: Spiritual Extremadura

D ISPONIBLE EN

Jarramplas, Piornal

Easter celebrations, Cáceres

D ISPONIBLE EN EL

Spiritual Tourism Prehistoric and Ancient Extremadura. Connect with one of the regions with the greatest variety of prehistoric spiritual manifestations in southern Europe, such as the Dolmen de Lácara and the dolmen site at Valencia de Alcántara. The footprint of the Roman empire is evident through bridges, theatres, temples, spas, magnificent examples of the heritage of Roman Extremadura.

Extremadura - basilicas, cathedrals, churches, hermitages and monasteries. Fascinating Christian temples and architecture through which you can take a journey through art history, architecture embodied in its walls and popular religiosity. Beautiful hermitages such as the Hermitage of the Virgen del Ara, unique churches such as the Church of Santa Lucía del Trampal, cathedrals such as the cathedrals of Plasencia and Coria, and monasteries as important as the monasteries of Alcántara and Tentudía, as well as monasteries of historic value in Yuste or Guadalupe.

Día de la Luz, Arroyo de la Luz

Extremadura - Jewish and Muslim spirituality.

Dolmen, Valencia de Alcántara

The Jewish heritage is evident after centuries in Extremadura. Important Jewish quarters such as the quarters in Cáceres, Hervás, Plasencia, Alburquerque, Burguillos del Cerro and Valencia de Alcántara, the citadels of Mérida, Reina and Badajoz, which you can still visit today, and sites such as the Medina Albalat give a good account of the Islamic period in these lands.

Guadalupe - centre and origin of pilgrimages. The Royal Monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe, a Unesco World Heritage Site, has been one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Europe since the 14th century. Throughout history, thousands of people have directed their steps towards Las Villuercas to venerate Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, patroness of Extremadura, Mexico, Latin America and the Philippines. It hosts up to 12 historic pilgrimages.

Medieval Festival, Albuquerque

The Routes to Santiago through Extremadura. Virgin of Guadalupe

Routes to Santiago through the historic Vía de la Plata, which runs through some of the most important places in Extremadura. An alternative is the Camino Mozárabe, which starts in Córdoba and joins the Vía de la Plata in Mérida, letting you relive the journey that the Christians in Al-Andalus took to reach Santiago de Compostela to see the Apostle.

Extremadura - devotion, virgins, saints and others Templar Festival, Jerez de los Caballeros

Extremadura experiences the preparation of its festivals, performances and historic commemorations with intensity; held throughout the year, they evidence the hospitality of the people of Extremadura.

There are 58 Fiestas of Tourist Interest, based on their importance from the tourism, cultural and popular points of view.

The major religious celebrations take on special relevance to the point that Easter celebrations in Cáceres and Mérida are recognised as Fiestas of International Tourist Interest, benefiting from great Destination Dossier Extremadura | 18

Religious imagery is the star for devotees and art lovers thanks to carvings such as the carving of Cristo de la Victoria in Serradilla and the Cristo del Amparo in Cáceres. It finds its maximum expression in the Easter celebrations held in Extremadura’s cities and the different romería pilgrimages, many of them linked to virgins and saints.

Easter celebrations, Mérida

aesthetics and popular fervour, they turn the streets of these two cities into authentic open-air museums. With special consideration for its ethnological characteristics, it also has twelve Fiestas of National Tourist Interest such as the ‘Día de la Luz’ in honour of the patron saint in Arroyo de la Luz, ‘Jarramplas’ in Piornal, the staging of ‘El Alcalde de Zalamea’ by Calderón de la Barca in Zalamea de la Serena, and ‘Carantoñas’ in Acehuche. The same happens with the ‘Living Passion’ in Oliva de la Frontera, not to forget the Easter celebrations held in places such as Trujillo, Jerez de los Caballeros and Badajoz, which also has a renowned Carnival. Nature is also a feature in Extremadura thanks to the National Fiesta of the ‘Cherry Blossom’ in the Jerte Valley and the ‘Magical Autumn’ Fiesta in the Ambroz Valley. In addition, gastronomic events are held around the best products from Extremadura, such as the ‘Day of Jamón’ in Monesterio, the fiesta of ‘Chanfaina’ in Fuente de Cantos, the ‘Fiesta of la Tenca’ in the area of Tajo-Salor and the ‘Gurumelo Mushroom Cross-Border Meetings’ in Villanueva del Fresno.

Sierra de Gata

The new spiritualities, nature, spaces and practices. Nature is the spiritual reserve of the current world and Extremadura offers a rich diversity of landscapes and numerous possilibites relating to the world of water, well-being and relaxation. The Monfragüe National Park, the Los Barruecos Natural Monument, Sierra de Gata, Las Hurdes and La Vera are the ideal destinations to experience spiritual feelings in the midst of nature.

Extremadura’s calendar of spiritual fiestas.

Living Passion, Oliva de la Frontera

There is nothing better than following the almanac to be able to experience the different spiritual expressions and book dates of interest. The incomparable Easter celebrations held in Extremadura’s cities, and unique fascinating fiestas such as ‘Los Empalaos’ in Jarandilla de la Vera, ‘la Carrerita’ in Villanueva de la Serena and the romería pilgrimage of San Isidro in Fuente de Cantos. 19 | “Everything you can imagine, where you wouldn’t imagine it.”

CULTURAL TOURISM

Music

Festivals Some of the most prestigious events on the Spanish cultural scene are held throughout the year in Extremadura, covering all artistic orders. Recognised both for their history and for the quality of their programming and the incomparable settings in which they are held, with numerous events throughout the region.

The

Mérida

Classical

International

Theatre

works from the Golden Age, as do its unique

Contemporary Dance and Theatre, held at

Festival,

streets and spaces, such as the Las Veletas

the López de Ayala Theatre along with par-

the oldest and most important of its kind,

Square, the San Jorge Square and the Palace

allel activities such as conferences and lec-

extends to three venues in Extremadura,

of Carvajal Square. The Alcántara Classical

tures. The Iberian Performing Arts Show in

specifically the Roman theatres of Medellín

Theatre Festival is held in the summer in a

Cáceres aims to promote national and inter-

and Regina and the Roman city of Cápar-

unique setting, the Charles V Gallery of the

national professional theatre, with a partic-

ra. The Classical Theatre Festival is held

Monastery of San Benito. During autumn,

ular focus on companies from Extremadura

annually in Cáceres, the Gran Teatro hosts

Badajoz hosts the International Festival of

and Portugal.

Theatre APRIL

Extremúsika, Cáceres Festivalino de Pescueza, Cáceres

MAY Womad, Cáceres Iberian Festival, Badajoz - May/June

JUNE Los Palomos, Badajoz

Classical Theatre Festival, Cáceres The International Classical Theatre Festival, Mérida - June/August

JULY

Cáceres Classical Theatre Festival

Mérida International Classical Theatre Festival

Alcántara Classical Theatre Festival

Extremadura International Folk Festival, Badajoz Hebben Live, Don Benito Marvão and Valencia de Alcántara International Music Festival Trujillo City International Music Festival Festival Internacional de la Guitarra, Coria Festival Contemporánea, Alburquerque Day of Music, Zalamea de la Serena Festival de Flamenco y Fado, Badajoz

AUGUST In Extremadura, you can enjoy numerous musi-

ra has an extensive programme of folk groups from across the five

cal events that cover all styles and trends. Some

continents. Classical music is represented at the Iberian Festival in

as long running as the multicultural Womad in

Badajoz, indie finds its setting in the Contempopránea Festival in Al-

Cáceres, with numerous years behind it. Naturally, Ex-

burquerque, rock in Extremúsika and Mayorga Rock and electronic

tremadura strengthens its ties with its neighbouring country with

music in Don Benito’s Hebben Live. Blues and jazz have their respec-

festivals such as Badajoz Flamenco and Fado Festival. Flamenco

tive festivals at the Blues Festival in Cáceres and the Badejazz in

is also the star of important festivals such as the festival held in Las

Badajoz. In addition to many other musical events that cover all kinds

Minas de Aldea Moret, Cáceres. ‘Festisierra’ in Fregenal de la Sier-

of audiences throughout the year.

International Festival of the Sierra, Fregenal de la Sierra Verasummer Festival, Losar de la Vera International Folk Festival, Plasencia Stone&Music Festival, Mérida - August/September

Alcántara Classical Theatre Festival The Mayor of Zalamea, Zalamea de la Serena

SEPTEMBER Mayorga Rock Fest, Plasencia

OCTOBER Magusto, Carbajo Irish Fleadh, Cáceres Blues Festival, Cáceres

International Contemporary Dance and Theatre Festival, Badajoz

NOVEMBER

Womad, Cáceres

Badajoz Flamenco and Fado Festival

Mayorga Rock, Plasencia

Norba Caesarina International Classical Guitar Conference, Cáceres Badejazz, Badajoz Horteralia, Cáceres

Iberian Performing Arts Show, Cáceres

DECEMBER Las Minas de Aldea Moret Festival, Cáceres

Contempopránea Festival, Alburquerque

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Festisierra, Fregenal de la Sierra

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MICE TOURISM

Conferences, Conventions and Incentives

International Conference of Inland Tourism

Extremadura is located in a privileged location halfway between Madrid and Lisbon. A destination of enormous heritage and cultural wealth, in a unique natural environment, in which its quality gastronomy is combined with excellent services and professionals to make Extremadura the ideal destination for holding conferences, conventions and incentives. A destination where you can enjoy attractive, charming, welcoming and quiet cities, and where rest and leisure are not incompatible with work events at quality hotels, modern conference centres, and special venues prepared to host any kind of meeting or conference. Extremadura offers you an entire world of possibilities as a MICE destination. Tell us how you imagine your meeting or conference and we will make it happen in Extremadura.

Badajoz Conference Centre

Villanueva de la Serena Conference Centre

Cáceres Conference Centre

“Extremadura is positioned as one of the preferred regions for business tourism”

Conference Centre, Plasencia

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Mérida Conference Centre

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NATURE TOURISM

UNESCO Natural Heritage Extremadura preserves a multitude of natural spaces of great ecological value and biological diversity. The main natural spaces with international recognition are:

Monfragüe National Park UNESCO Biosphere Reserve 2003

Tajo –Taejo International Reserve of the UNESCO Transboundary Biosphere 2016

With the Tagus River as the backbone of the largest and best-preserved area of Mediterranean forest in the world. Over 18,000 hectares in which 280 species of vertebrates coexist. This paradise for ornithologists finds its ideal viewpoint at the Salto del Gitano from where you can observe black storks, vultures, eagle owls, Egyptian vultures, and imperial eagles that nest in the Sierra de las Corchuelas. The Extremadura Birdwatching Fair (FIO) is held here every year.

This protected natural area in both Spain and Portugal has the Tagus River as its natural border and link along 60 km. Its location has contributed to the conservation of the natural environment with great botanical variety, and is home to numerous species in danger of extinction. Typical Mediterranean vegetation dominates much of this territory with a predominance of holm oak, cork oak, wild olive trees and cultivated olive trees. The fauna, and particularly the birds, are the stars of this space for the visitor. Griffon and black vultures, Egyptian vultures, Bonelli’s, golden and imperial eagles and black storks dominate the skies, in addition to cranes from northern Europe.

The park was declared a Starlight Tourist Destination in Extremadura in 2016, this certifies the quality of its sky without light pollution.

This area, which includes nineteen municipalities, is an example of sustainable tourism based on geoconservation. It has spectacular landscapes that treasure the memory of hundreds of millions of years from which the continuity of the different geological periods, palaeontological remains and its biodiversity can be observed thanks to various trails. The climb up to the Risco de La Villuerca stands out, the formation makes this mountain a very attractive pedagogical and tourist resource.

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Villuercas -Ibores-Jara UNESCO Global Geopark 2015

La Siberia Extremeña is the first Biosphere Reserve in Badajoz province. An area full of history, resources and possibilities. A territory that covers twenty-two municipalities and has great biodiversity that stands out for its plains, mountains and large reservoirs on the Guadiana and Zújar Rivers. This recognition highlights its natural and cultural heritage. The Cíjara Regional Reserve, the prehistoric archaeological sites, extensive meadows, various protected areas for bird watching and the Puerto Peña rock formations surprise visitors.

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve La Siberia 2019

This recognition entails a commitment to social and economic development of this area based on sustainability, the positioning of business initiatives and native products, the promotion of traditional activities, quality tourism and respectful relationships between humans and the environment.

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NATURE TOURISM

Natural Landscapes of Extremadura

Extremadura is a natural paradise with incredible biodiversity of landscapes that invites you to love the land, care for it and respect it. The “dehesa” meadow, the iconic forest that is a hallmark of Extremadura, occupies more than one million hectares and constitutes an ecological paradise as it has one of the best-preserved ecosystems in

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Europe. Holm and cork oak forests, where scrub vegetation is scarce or almost nonexistent. The steppe-like area of La Serena showcases an Extremadura of infinite plains. The Mediterranean forest is the highest expression in terms of biodiversity of Extremadura’s land ecosystems. Located in the westernmost part of Cáceres, the Sierra de San Pedro is another clear representation of Mediterranean forest and scrubland,

in addition to the Sierra de Villuercas. Furthermore, there are two Wetlands of International Importance or Ramsar Sites in the region: the Orellana Reservoir and the La Albuera Lakes. In the midst of the Cáceres peneplain there is also a surprising example of nature and what the passage of time can sculpt in the

unique protected area of Los Barruecos. Other examples of northern Extremadura’s most significant landscapes include the Ambroz, Jerte and Vera Valleys. The incomparable image of the white mantle of the cherry trees in the Jerte Valley in spring, and the waterfalls and pools of the Garganta de los Infiernos are highlights.

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NATURE TOURISM

Ornithological Tourism Birding in Extremadura.

Extremadura is a true ornithological paradise due to the excellent state of conservation of its natural habitats and the high degree of diversity in its landscapes. The region is among the most popular destinations for bird watchers and nature lovers worldwide. Also remembering its interesting historic heritage and gastronomy, we can speak of a destination of excellence for ornithological tourism. 74.1% of the Extremadura territory is included in the list of Important Bird Areas in Spain, an exceptional situation in Spain and Europe. An impressive 385 sedentary, summer and winter species have been recorded. There are more than 50 protected areas, including Monfragüe, Tagus International and the Sierra de San Pedro, key refuges for the conservation of some of the most threatened species on the continent, such as the Iberian imperial eagle, the black stork, the Egyptian vulture and the black vulture. And there are more than 70 Special Protection Areas for Birds (SPA). Extremadura is home to just over 20% of the Spanish population of the lesser kestrel species. Extremadura, with some 3,000- 3,742 pairs spread over 894 colonies, is home to the highest percentage of the Spanish population of the species, with the bulk of its contingent located in the province of Cáceres in Los Llanos de Cáceres, while in the Province of Badajoz they are mainly in La Serena, La Siberia, Tierra de Barros and Baldíos de Alburquerque.

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If you like travelling and want to get to know our birds, this is your app.

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The Birding in Extremadura Club was created with the aim of helping visitors enjoy a satisfactory experience on their trips, providing ornithology lovers who choose Extremadura with access to the best bird watching services: accommodation, guides, tourist information offices etc. Bird watchers from all around the world can now plan their holidays much more easily and find the services that best suit their needs and expectations. The Birding in Extremadura Club is a voluntary group, promoted by the Directorate General of Tourism of the Junta de Extremadura, bringing together the interests of the private and public sectors to further develop ornithological tourism in the region and offer quality customer service.

The Monfragüe National Park hosts the Extremadura Birdwatching Fair (FIO), the biggest in Spain and the second biggest in Europe. Activities for professionals and the general public of all ages. Last weekend in February. www.fioextremadura.es The City of Cáceres Bird Festival, which brings together cultural and natural heritage, showcases this World Heritage city from a different perspective, that of birds. May. www.festivaldelasavescaceres.juntaex.es Extremadura is the main wintering area for common cranes that migrate along the western route. To celebrate this fact and learn about the species, the Crane Festival brings together nature, tourism, culture and tradition in Moheda Alta (Navalvillar de Pela) in an event for everyone. November-December. www.festivaldelasgrullas. juntaex.es

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NATURE TOURISM

Extremadura is the perfect destination for stargazing due to having very little light pollution, low population density and territorial distribution around small and medium-sized population centres. This fact is coupled with the high environmental quality and favourable weather conditions enjoyed most of the year.

Astrotourism

Extremadura has a network of resources that make this region an exceptional destination for astrotourism: along with its network of astronomical viewpoints, there is also the network of night trails and a variety of infrastructure and services such as the Monfragüe Observatory, with a Visitor Centre about the universe in the same building, the Trujillo Planetarium, the Cocosa Resource Centre in Badajoz and the Interactive “Experimenta” Science Centre in Llerena (Badajoz), as well as the different astronomical groups and associations and companies specialised in astronomy, which, together with many other professionals such as astrophotographers, specialised accommodation and guides for experiential activities related to stargazing and the sensations of Extremadura at night, are successfully positioning Extremadura as a unique destination in Stargazing Tourism.

Extremadura, Buenas Noches.

Clear skies, little light pollution, good weather conditions and spectacular locations for stargazing.

There are two Starlight Tourist Destinations In the region. The Monfragüe National Park and Biosphere Reserve in the province of Cáceres was the first area to obtain this certification in 2016. A privileged place with excellent sky quality and good weather. The towns that are included in this certification are: Torrejón el Rubio, Serradilla, Casa de Millán, Malpartida de Plasencia, Mirabel, Cañaveral and Pedroso de Acím. The province of Badajoz and the Portuguese region of Alentejo are home to the other Starlight Tourist Destination, specifically in the surroundings of the Alqueva Great Lake. It is the first cross-border certification in the world and the following towns in Badajoz were added in two periods: 5 towns were added in 2018: Olivenza, Cheles, Alconchel, Táliga and Villanueva del fresno; the Sierra Suroeste was added to this certification in 2019 with the towns of Fregenal de la Sierra, Higuera de Vargas, Higuera la Real, Jerez de los Caballeros, Oliva de la Frontera, Valencia del Mombuey and Zahínos. The Junta de Extremadura, in coordination with other institutions and organisations (Provincial Councils, FEMPEX and REDEX), has developed the “Extremadura, buenas noches” (Good night Extremadura)” project in order to draw attention to the region’s night skies. This is an ambitious project that aims to position this precious resource that we have in Extremadura, as well as the sensations that the night provides in a natural environment. It is, therefore, an experiential, innovative and integrating tourism strategy to revitalise the territories, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals included as part of the promotion of the green and circular economy in Extremadura 2030.

Celestial Viewpoints

Monfragüe, La Siberia, Campiña Sur, Olivenza, La Roca de la Sierra, Montánchez y La Cocosa, Cáparra, Granadilla, Arroyo de la Luz, Galizuela, Castillo de Miraflores (Alconchel), Cuevas de Fuentes de León.

www.extremadurabuenasnoches.com

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NATURE TOURISM

Observation of Flora and Fauna

Active Tourism

The exceptional conservation conditions have generated stable habitats for animal and plant reproduction in the forests and meadows of Extremadura, which has awakened tourist and scientific interest in the region.

Observation of Mammals The mountains offer an impressive sensory spectacle at the end of summer: the rutting of the deer. Thousands of deer break the silence with their bellows to impress females and warn other males in their reproductive ritual. Many places in the region are ideal for witnessing the rutting of the deer, such as the Monfragüe National Park and Biosphere Reserve, the Tagus International Natural Park and Biosphere Reserve, the Villuercas-Ibores-Jara Global Geopark, as well as other protected areas such as the Sierra de San Pedro, the surroundings of the Gabriel y Galán reservoir, the Cíjara Regional Reserve, the Tentudía area and the Sierra Grande de Hornachos area, among others. These territories have visitor centres, observatories, nature tourism companies and specialised guides that help visitors enjoy the adventure of observing and, above all, listening to the powerful call of the deer.

Today, adventure tourism has become one of the main incentives when it comes to travelling and Extremadura is a privileged destination for this. The tourist becomes part of the environment, blending into it through sports activities of different physical intensity and risk. Endless possibilities for an active holiday, or simply enjoying outdoor activities in the midst of nature: paintballing, quad biking, archery, climbing, abseiling, zip lines, 2D simulated hunting, balloon trips, paragliding, 4x4, bungee jumping etc. Thanks to the region’s natural wealth you will have the opportunity to have unforgettable experiences. Whatever you can imagine in Extremadura is possible.

Along with the deer, the beginning of autumn is the time to observe other huntable species such as the Spanish wild goat in the Sierra de Gredos Special Conservation Area.

Observation of Dragonflies The extensive variety of aquatic ecosystems and the high conservation value of many of them makes Extremadura an ideal place to find more than 50 species of damselflies and dragonflies. In addition to the more common species, it is possible to observe species more typical of North Africa, 90% of those mentioned in Spain, such as Anax ephippiger, Paragomphus genei, Orthetrum trinacria, Orthetrum chrysostigma, Bra-chythemis impartita, Crocothemis erythraea, Trithemis annulata, Trithemis kirbyi and Sely-siothemis nigra.. However, if you visit the northern third of the region, you can see more northern species such as Libellula quadrimaculata, Pyrrhosoma nymphula, Aeshna juncea and Cordulegaster boltonii.

Observation of Flora Orchids fascinate many people interested in observing flora because of their beauty. Extremadura is also a paradise for observing these plants. Of the 25 genus and around 90 species of orchids that can be seen in the Iberian Peninsula, 13 genus are represented in Extremadura, the most common species are described in this guide, a total of 44 species and 1 variety. You can visit the Orchydarium Visitor Centre, located in Almaraz and dedicated to wild orchids, where you will learn through experimentation, knowledge and observation. Along with orchids, the martagon lily or iris lusitanica stands out, and is most dense in the Tagus River basin in Cáceres and Portugal. You can also witness the mass blooms of rock rose, white broom, heath and broom bushes, abundant on the mountains and plains, or the impressive colour palette presented by the deciduous forests on some mountains, particularly chestnut and oak forests, the scene of autumn festivals and events, such as Magical Autumn in the Ambroz Valley.

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If you love adventure and extreme sports, don’t miss the active tourism that Extremadura offers.

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NATURE TOURISM

Nature Trails

Rural Tourism

See Extremadura however you want: on foot, by bike or on horseback.

Extremadura is the perfect setting for the interaction of rural areas with our society’s new demands around leisure and rest. The different areas in Extremadura have an extensive network of rural accommodation: hotels, houses, apartments, cortijo farmhouses, stately homes, cabins, castles, mills, which together with the warmth and attention of their owners, create an attractive offer.

Trekking Extremadura’s territory has much of its nature trails prepared to be used and enjoyed by tourists and for nature activities. The extensive network of public rural roads is more than 70,000 kilometres, we are talking about long or short hiking trails, local trails and 5 nature trails. On the other hand, Extremadura has 4 Green Nature Trails: Vegas del Guadiana to Las Villuercas Green Nature Trail, Mina La Jayona Green Nature Trail, Monfragüe Green Nature Trail, and the Vía de la Plata.

Bicycle Touring With more than 2,000 kilometres of roads, trails and tracks to enjoy your bike trips, Extremadura invites you to explore its meadows and chestnut, oak and holm oak forests. Trails through the Monfragüe National Park, the Villuercas-Ibores-Jara Geopark, the Cornalvo Natural Park and the Tagus International Natural Park, an exceptional setting for cycling with friends and family. Cycle along the Vía de la Plata, arrive from Europe on the Eurovelo network or find out about tailor-made routes at any of Extremadura’s BTT centres; there are many options available for you to enjoy in Extremadura.

Agrotourism Travellers come to Extremadura for new experiences. Another way of travelling aimed at integration and knowledge through learning and trying the methods used on agricultural or livestock farms. The most important component in its tourist offer is the welcome, accommodation, gastronomy, leisure and participation in the tasks offered. This provides direct contact with the rural world and the development of local rural communities.

Equestrian Routes A different kind of tourism in the midst of nature is travelling on horseback. Extremadura invites you to ride through an unequalled natural environment. Horse riding along the nature trails, enjoying the rich landscapes offered by the Mediterranean forest, the rock formations, the big steppes, and the spectacular meadows so characteristic and unique to Extremadura. Rides in which you will discover the rich heritage and history of the region. On the Green Nature Trails, you can enjoy this activity whether you choose to visit Extremadura’s steppes along the Vegas del Guadiana Green Nature Trail, or you choose to ride a horse along the traditional, historic Vía de La Plata, you will discover the palaeontological, mining and heritage wealth of the Extremadura region.

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Ecotourism Our region is committed to sustainable tourism in which nature is enjoyed with the five senses in a responsible way. Tourists and travellers who respect the local culture support trade in the area and are considerate of the impact that their presence can have both on the rural world and on nature.

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NATURE TOURISM

Extremadura is Water

Dive into a freshwater paradise with more than 1,500 kilometres of inland coastline.

NATURE TOURISM Download it at: Extremadura is Water

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Golf tourism

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Bathing Areas With more than 50 bathing areas, Extremadura offers exceptional aquatic resources. Natural pools such as in Sierra de Gata, La Vera and Jerte Valley, where you can take a dip in fresh waters. Beaches on reservoirs such as Orellana and Cheles, ideal for swimming and water sports. Thanks to the quality of the water and the service offered, both hold blue flags. Beaches located on the banks of rivers, such as the Las Hurdes and Vegas del Guadiana beaches, which usually have recreational areas and other services for swimmers to enjoy.

River Tourism Get to know Extremadura on board the tourist boats that sail on the waters of the Tagus, Alagón (Alcántara Reservoir), Guadiana (Alqueva Reservoir) Zújar Reservoir and Matachel (Alange Reservoir) Rivers, as well as the La Serena and Gabriel y Galán Reservoirs. You will be able to see birds, enjoy water activities or cross to our neighbouring country, Portugal.

Nature and golf come together in one fell swoop in Extremadura Extremadura has excellent conditions for outdoor activities, a large expanse of well-preserved natural spaces and clean air that make it an unmatched destination for enjoying nature. If you like outdoor sports and you play golf, Extremadura is perfect for you. You will be able to play your favourite sport on high-quality golf courses, while being completely in contact with the rich nature surrounding them. Badajoz has three golf courses: Golf Guadiana, 8 km from the centre of Badajoz, Don Tello Golf, located in a meadow 10 km from Mérida next to the Guadiana river, and the public Quinto Coto Golf, in Villanueva de la Serena. On the other hand, Cáceres has five golf courses; Golf Isla de Valdecañas, located in the municipality of El Gordo, Norba Club de Golf in Cáceres, 4 km from the city of Cáceres, Talayuela Golf, located almost in Navalmoral de la Mata, Galisteo Golf, between La Vera, and Jerte, Alagón and Ambroz Valleys, 10 minutes from Plasencia and Parraluz Golf, located in Santibáñez el Alto, next to the Borbollón Reservoir.

Recreational Fishing The region of Extremadura is perfect for lovers of recreational fishing for leisure or in competition. Its landscapes are ideal and its reservoirs, rivers and ponds are very rich in fish. In recreational fishing, Extremadura has a team of international athletes and approximately two thousand annual competitions held annually on bank holidays and the weekend.

Active Tourism in the Aquatic World Extremadura’s reservoirs and rivers make water sports possible in an unparalleled natural environment. The fresh water has the best conditions for sport as diverse as sailing, canoeing, scuba diving, canyoning, wakeboarding, water skiing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, among others.

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Golf courses Badajoz

Golf Guadiana Don Tello Golf Quinto Coto Golf (Minigolf) Cáceres Isla de Valdecañas Golf Norba Golf Club Talayuela Golf Galisteo Golf Parraluz Golf

Holes 18 holes par 72 9 holes par 36 9 holes par 27 18 holes par 72 18 holes par 72 18 holes par 72 9 holes par 36 9 holes par 35 37 | “Everything you can imagine, where you wouldn’t imagine it.”

SPA & WELLNESS TOURISM

Spas in Extremadura

Extremadura has six spas where you can rest and enjoy nature, culture and gastronomy. Renowned spas specialised for their waters and the techniques used. The formulas are endless, you can choose mud with “Designation of Origin” in El Raposo, dermatological treatments or mesotherapy in El Salugral, body massages and covers in Fuentes del Trampal, revitalising wraps with cherries or seaweed in Jerte Valley, rheumatological and respiratory treatments in Baños de Montemayor and relaxing therapies at Alange Roman Baths (declared a World Heritage Site since 1993). An extensive range of options to fully enjoy medicinal waters and the immediate surroundings.

Spa and wellness tourism in perfect harmony with history and nature.

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GASTRONOMIC TOURISM

Extremadura Gourmet

TURISMO GASTRONÓMICO

Ciudades de Extremadura Las imprescindibles

“Extremadura Gourmet” is an initiative created and organised by the Directorate General of Tourism to promote gastronomic tourism in the region. A commitment to Extremadura’s gastronomy as a potential tourist attraction and sustainable gastronomic development.

Welcome to Extremadura, land of artisans, cheese, oil, jamón, wine, paprika, cherries and honey. Gourmet products that you can enjoy through wonderful routes that highlight authentic destinations with flavour, thanks to Extremadura’s magnificent cuisine, at fiestas and gastronomic events in our land. An ideal destination for slow food.

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Extremadura’s gastronomy is an authentic symphony of flavours thanks to the richness of its land and its climate, which generate exceptional raw ingredients, products recognised by our 11 Designations of Origin and 4 Protected Geographical Indications. Extremadura’s meadows feed the best specimens of cattle, producing meat of the very highest quality, including Iberian pork, as well as steak and lamb. The same land that offers a wide assortment of fruit and vegetables and a pantry full of varied products: from the south, the La Serena cheese, the excellent D.O.P. Ribera del Guadiana wines and Cava from Almendralejo; to the north, cherries from the Jerte Valley and paprika from La Vera. Not to overlook the magnificent oil from Monterrubio and Gata - Hurdes, the exquisite cheeses from Casar and goat cheese from Ibores, as well as honey from Villuercas-Ibores.

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GASTRONOMIC TOURISM

D.O.P. Products

Ribera del Guadiana Wine and Cava Route

Eleven Protected Designations of Origin and four Protected Geographical Indications are the best showcase for the food and raw ingredients of Extremadura’s gastronomy. The influence of ancient cultures, the diversity of the region’s flavours and innovation are reflected in Extremadura’s cuisine. A commitment to gastronomy that has always known how to take advantage of seasonal produce, which you can try with tapas or on the menus of the best restaurants. A growing value that has been recognised with the appointment of Cáceres in 2015 as the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy, and with the designation of Mérida in 2016 as the Ibero-American Capital of Gastronomic culture.

Gastronomic Routes are a way of getting to know Extremadura and connecting with other historic, cultural, natural and ethnographic aspects.

A way to enjoy tourism throughout the seasons in the whole region.

Ibérico Route through Extremadura’s Dehesa Ribera del Guadiana Wine Route

Cheese Route Cherry Valley

As well as four Protected Geographical Indications:

Vinos de Extremadura

Oil Route Paprika Sensations

Almendralejo, in turn, is the only municipality in Extremadura where cava can be made under the D.O. Cava.

Bodega, Almendralejo

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GASTRONOMIC TOURISM

Ibérico Route through Extremadura’s Dehesa

At the table of Charles V a plate of jamón ibérico was never missing. Try it and feel like a king.

Extremadura’s Cheese Route Following the Cheese Route means discovering Extremadura It lets you learn about the cheese-making process, trying it in charming places and enjoying experiences related to nature, heritage and the history of Extremadura. It includes the territories under the three protected designations of origin for Extremadura’s cheeses: D.O.P. Ibores Cheese, D.O.P. Torta del Casar, D.O.P. La Serena Cheese. In addition, thanks to the signature cheeses existing in the region, 5 more territories linked to this delicacy have been included: La Vera, Monfragüe, Sierra de San Pedro-Tagus International, Tierra de Barros and Tentudía. Made up of more than 80 partners from estates, livestock farms, cheese factories, activity companies, specialised shops, accommodation, restaurants, travel agencies and other food and wine areas. Its website provides information on the activities agenda and recipes to fully enjoy Extremadura’s delicacies.

Discover more on the website: www.rutadelqueso.es

Jamón ibérico and the dehesa meadows are the common themes with this route, which runs through locations where tradition and flavour come together to make one of the jewels of Extremadura’s and Spain’s gastronomy a reality: acorn-fed jamón ibérico. To talk about jamón ibérico in this land is to talk about an ancient tradition, a ritual that is experienced in a very particular way in each town and each home in the region. But it is also talking about nature and a unique ecosystem that reaches its maximum expression in Extremadura: the dehesa meadows, an exceptional and unforgettable natural setting that turns acorn-fed jamón ibérico into a product that cannot be copied, with a breeding and production process that cannot be exported. The Ibérico Route through Extremadura’s Dehesa brings tourists closer to Iberian rites, not only enjoying jamón ibérico, but also its fresh meat, in stews or barbecued, and products as unique and local as Iberian patatera sausage, which well merits a fiesta, declared of Tourist Interest (La Pedida de la Patatera); at the same time, it clearly displays the symbiosis that becomes a reality in the meadows, where Iberian pigs are raised in freedom, bequeathing us one of the most sublime delicacies in the world and gifting us a treatise of leisure that reveals picturesque landscapes and corners with every step.

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GASTRONOMIC TOURISM

Extremadura’s Oil Route

RUTA DEL VINO Y CAVA

Ribera del Guadiana Wine and Cava Route

Extremadura’s wines serve as the common theme on a route that will captivate your senses.

Oleotourism takes advantage of the potential of one of the most valuable treasures in our region.

A route around extra virgin olive oil that brings together the offer of tourist services related to this and the thousandyear-old tradition in Extremadura, documented by the presence of oil presses at archaeological sites. Extremadura has two Extra Virgin Olive Oil D.O.P: Gata-Hurdes Oil and Monterrubio Oil. Centuries old olive groves and oil mills that continue to produce oil without thermal or chemical processes together with unique natural environments are part of the secret of a route that was born with the vocation to show and integrate the historic legacy that the region hosts, which has archaeological sites testifying to the existence of the oldest oil presses in the Iberian Peninsula.

The Ribera del Guadiana Wine Route is the main wine tourism offer in Extremadura and the result of the careful selection of wineries, accommodation, restaurants, bars, shops and other tourist establishments so you can explore a land whose romance with wine goes back to time immemorial. The Ribera del Guadiana D.O.P recognises six sub-areas with a long wine making tradition: Cañamero, Montánchez, Ribera Alta, Ribera Baja, Tierra de Barros and Matanegra. A unique landscape that few regions can offer, linked to an incomparable historic and artistic heritage and an excellent gastronomic offer. Cava’s spark is lit in Almendralejo, called the City of Cava because this municipality is a territory of vineyards and the production of Cava D.O.P. A sample of the expression and passion with which the world of wine is experienced in the region can be seen at its fiestas, with the highlight being the Velá de la Virgen de la Coronada Tradition and Wine Harvest Festival, declared a Festival of Tourist Interest in Extremadura. The Enogastronomic Spring on the Ribera del Guadiana Wine Route, which is celebrated every year. ‘Ethno-wine at the Ethnographic Museum of Olivenza’ carries out travelling guided tastings with wines from the Ribera de Guadiana and Cava de Almendralejo D.O.P. paired with Extremadura’s products including cheese and jamón. The Museum of Wine Sciences in Almendralejo highlights the ethnographic and industrial heritage of the Tierra de Barros world of wine. You can also discover wine therapy, the therapeutic benefits and cosmetic properties of grapes and their derivatives through natural treatments and other activities such as horse-drawn carriage rides through vineyards, balloon rides and birdwatching activities at wineries, to name a few. Discover more on the website: www.rutadelvinoriberadelguadiana.es

This route also pursues the enhancement, conservation and protection of a landscape linked to gastronomy and outlined by the hand of our ancestors. In the case of the Monterrubio D.O.P., you will find a mosaic of colours in which olive groves and vineyards are lost to the horizon, together with a particular microclimate that bequeaths us a unique oil with exceptional organoleptic properties. This landscape contrasts with that of the Gata-Hurdes D.O.P., with steep valleys and exuberant nature where, for centuries, the laborious cultivation of olive trees has been carried out on terraces worked into the slopes of the mountains of its deep valleys and where the Manzanilla Cacereña variety has evolved, creating monovarietal oils to make some of the best Extra Virgin Olive Oil in the world.

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GASTRONOMIC TOURISM TURISMO GASTRONÓMICO

Paprika Sensations Ciudades de Extremadura

Cherry Valley

Las imprescindibles

Get to know the star product of the privileged area of La Vera.

The cultivation of peppers for paprika was introduced in La Vera in the 16th century by the Hieronymite monks of the Yuste Monastery. Tradition and wisdom joined hands to cradle the most precious treasure that the Hieronymite monks could give to the senses from the infinite calm of the monastery. Keeping the secret jealously guarded behind the stones of the cloister, its preparation gradually got leaked until it was made spontaneously by families with a great agricultural tradition. Since then, it has spread throughout the valley to become famous and prestigious, one of the area’s main riches. The pepper for paprika enjoys a privileged microclimate for its natural development in La Vera. The peppers cultivated are of the “Capsicum annum” species and the cerasiform and longum sub-species, which give rise to three types of paprika: Sweet, Bittersweet and Spicy. Paprika is obtained from grinding the smoked peppers harvested at the ideal point of maturity, healthy, clean and with the characteristic colour of the variety, dried with holm oak and/or oak firewood. They come from the production area defined and made up of the municipalities of the natural areas of La Vera, Campo Arañuelo, Ambroz Valley and Alagón Valley, in northern Cáceres.

Welcome to the Cherry Valley, where you can learn everything about this delicacy and the traditions around it. More than a hundred varieties of cherries are grown in the Jerte Valley, five of which are indigenous, which give the Jerte Cherry D.O.P. its name and fame. Learn all about cherries and the cultural tradition around them thanks to the interdisciplinary Cherry Museum located in Cabezuela del Valle. You can also enjoy the spectacular Cherry Blossom Festival declared of National Tourist Interest, which is held every spring, and is divided into three acts: Valley Awakening, Cherry Blossom and Petal Rain. The beautiful valleys are covered in white and invite you to go on hiking trails and cycling tours to fully enjoy the nature. For years, ‘La Cerecera’ has included an extensive programme of activities that are organised around the cherry harvest. You can pamper your body with cherry therapy thanks to the amount of antioxidant, detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties that this fruit has. Each year, Picota Cherry Gastronomic Days are held in which the best restaurants in the Jerte Valley have incorporated this ingredient into their recipes for preparing delicious dishes.

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Discover more on the website: www.vallecereza.com

Tourist activities are organised to enhance and promote our gastronomic culture with initiatives around La Vera paprika D.O.P. such as the La Vera Paprika Festival. This route will give you the opportunity to learn about the process of making and manufacturing paprika from La Vera in the visitor centre on the Haza de la Concepción property in Malpartida de Plasencia, Cáceres. Discover more on the website: www.sensacionespimentondelaveradop.es

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GASTRONOMIC TOURISM

Extremadura Cuisine

Slow Food

For centuries, Extremadura has fused Roman, Christian, Jewish, Muslim, rural and monastic recipes, influenced by the nearby Portuguese cuisine and foods brought from the New World. Extremadura’s cuisine is rich and varied, for the most exquisite palates that will not leave travellers unmoved when savouring the delights of our gastronomy that, together with the traditional recipes of the various cultures that have inhabited these lands, have been innovating to offer travellers an avant-garde cuisine with a unique gastronomic identity. You can enjoy dining at establishments recognised and mentioned by the Michelin and Repsol Guides. Highlights include the two Michelin stars for the Atrio restaurant and the three Suns awarded by the Repsol Guide, which has also awarded a Sun to the Torre de Sande and Javier Martín restaurants, all of them in Cáceres, and to Marchivirito and Galaxia in Badajoz.

Extremadura invites you to enjoy the surroundings in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s the ideal destination for slow food.

This global movement is on the rise and will invite you to enjoy food with pleasure, conscience and responsibility. Finding balance in the Destination Dossier Extremadura | 50

use of free time, dedicating it, for example, to savour a healthy meal. It also involves relating with its inhabitants and particular lifestyles, using means of transport that are more environmentally friendly and accommodation where sustainability is one of the main values. All this favours a cuisine of excellent raw ingredients that are ‘0 kilometre’, or locally produced, products. A pleasant way to enjoy slow tourism is to gather the wild fruits that Extremadura’s countryside has to offer, always taking care of the environment and being sustainable: chestnuts, pine nuts, madrones, asparagus, thistles and especially mushrooms. Delicious and natural treasures that the land of Extremadura gives us, which invite us to cook them, or have them raw, and then enjoy them in a unique environment that combines landscapes, culture and gastronomy. 51 | “Everything you can imagine, where you wouldn’t imagine it.”

GASTRONOMIC TOURISM

Fiestas and Events

Destinations with flavour

A large number of events in Extremadura revolve around gastronomy and its best food products throughout the year. This makes it a true paradise for foodies. We are talking about gastronomy based on high-quality local produce, such as acorn-fed jamón ibérico, cheeses, beef, lamb, extra virgin olive oil, La Vera paprika, Jerte cherries, honey, figs, wine and cava, a real treat for the senses.

Gurumelo Mushroom Cross-Border Meetings, Villanueva del Fresno (March) FITE Pig Slaughter, Las Hurdes (March) Acehúche Cheese Fair (March-April) Cherry Blossom Festival, Jerte Valley (March-April) FITN Chanfaina Fiesta, Fuente de Cantos (April) FITE Eno-gastronomic Spring (April-June) Jamón and the meadows Fair, Jerez de los Caballeros (May) National Cheese Fair, Trujillo (May) The Asparagus and Thistle Fair, Alconchel (May) La Cerecera, Valle del Jerte (May-June-July) Tortilla de Patatas Fair, Villanueva de la Serena (June) Mormentera Day, Alcántara (June) Llerena Gastronomy Site, Llerena (July) GastroStar Show, Tentudía Monastery, Calera de León (July) Martes Mayor, Plasencia (August) FITE Food Fair and Chickpea Day, Valencia del Ventoso (August) La Tenca Day, Tajo-Salor Municipalities (August) FITE Gastromúsica, Villafranca de los Barros (August) Jamón Day, Monesterio (September) FITE Wine Harvest Festival, Villafranca de los Barros (September)

FITE

Casar Cake Week, Casar de Cáceres (October) Savour Badajoz, Badajoz (October) Tajo Internacional Gastronomy and Agri-food Days, Valencia de Alcántara (October) Magical Autumn, Valle del Ambroz (October-November) FITN Iberovinac, Wine and Olive Fair, Almendralejo (November) Geosabor, Villuercas-Ibores-Jara Municipalities (November) International Beekeeping and Tourism Fair, Caminomorisco (November) Coria Sabor Micológico, Coria (November) La Otoñada, Jerte Valley (November-December) Dulce Conventual Fair, Cáceres (December) La Pedida de la patatera, Malpartida de Cáceres (February) Popular slaughter, Alcántara (February-March) Traditional Extremadura Slaughter Fiesta, Llerena (March) Agri-food Fair, Valdefuentes (March)

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FITE

Fiesta of Tourist Interest in Extremadura

FITN

National Fiesta of Tourist Interest

FITE FITE

Savour the hospitality of Extremadura in its dishes and cities with a common denominator: good food. A thousand flavours of a cuisine with a past, present and future.

On our journey it is possible to find many spaces to try the local gastronomy, halfway between the traditional and the avant-garde to eat your fill of Extremadura bite by bite. Here you can have breakfast, lunch, a snack or dinner on a terrace, thanks to the benefits of Extremadura’s climate with more than 300 days of sunshine. An invitation to enjoy the open air and exuberant bars where you will be offered tasty cuisine that represents the flavour of the values of our land and its people. Tapas are a reason for socialising and enjoying culture. They have become one of the representative elements of the gastronomic and cultural identity of Extremadura, which is committed to the growth of gastronomic, commercial and tourist activity. 53 | “Everything you can imagine, where you wouldn’t imagine it.”

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Everything you can imagine, where you wouldn’t imagine it.

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Legal Deposit: BA-000819-2020