Castilla y León

About the destination: Segovia is Castile at its finest. Magnificent golden churches and winding alleyways filled with the aroma of sopa castellana, a hearty garlic soup of sausages, bread, and eggs. Only the foolish rush past the enormous Roman aqueduct, the cathedral, and the breathtaking Alcazar in a quick day trip; others are aware of Segovia’s cool plazas after sunset. The imposing Roman aqueduct has been transporting water for over two thousand years. View it from Plaza del Azoguejo where the structure reaches a maximum height of 30m, or catch its profile from the steps on the left side of the plaza. The city’s location at the meeting point of the Rivers Eresma and Clamores has led to comparisons of Segovia to a sailing ship, with the Alcazar, a fortress, as its majestic bow. The fortress offers a remarkable view of Segovia and the surrounding plain, inside is a collection of medieval weaponry and several spectacular handcrafted ceilings. The cathedral is a massive late Gothic structure. Elegant and graceful, Segovia is the true essence of Old Castile.

About the destination: Salamanca is an architectural tapestry woven in sandstone. Though there are excellent examples of Roman, Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and baroque structures, the golden stone itself is the thread of continuity and harmony. Nonetheless, this ancient university town, has many monumental highlights. Plaza Mayor, considered by many the most beautiful main square in Spain is a fine place for admiring architecture. The town hall is the large, elegant building in the centre of the square. Two beautiful cathedrals stand side by side: the New Cathedral boasts beautiful Plateresque facades and it is the only entrance to the connecting old, Romanesque Catedral Vieja. The university, the focal point of the city, is one of the best examples of Spanish Plateresque style. Salamanca at night is a party. The illuminated city is the meeting point for hundreds of students collecting tapas and beer. But make no mistake, it is also a city to enjoy a quiet night, savoring some wine on a terrace of Plaza Mayor.