Autonomous Community Castile La Mancha: Toledo

 

We decided to take the train and do a day trip to Toledo, an ancient city set on a hill. As an American, Toledo was very romantic and "European". It oozed history and culture and I felt ignorant of all the Iberian peninsula wars, battles, and political struggles. As a noob in Spain, I realized I had a lot to learn!

The town was charming and I enjoyed the brisk winter temperature. It kept us moving as we visited the different monuments although we were happy to get a warm drink at one of the local bars!

Parque Nacional de la Sierra de Guadarrama

 

I didn't realize that Madrid had a mountain range so close but the Sierra de Guadarrama, part of the larger Sistema Centra, are visible from Madrid and about an hours drive. We were not feeling up for snow sports but found a nice hike to a frozen lagoon. 

It was a crisp and sunny day with plenty of winter hikers out. We felt a little unprepared as we were surrounded by people with full on winter gear, like crampons and climbing ropes. Luckily the trail was relatively well trodden and our footwear sufficed. The views of the lagoon were beautiful and as someone from a cold climate, I really enjoyed the mountain hike.

Cañón del Río Lobos Natural Park

 

We had some time and decided to head out to Cañón del Río Lobos Natural Park. There were some nice hiking trails and it was a fantastic nesting site for vultures. I really enjoyed checking out some old carved out caves in the wall, mostly used by shepherds. They gave an excuse to climb up and get a view of the landscape.

Cave in the stone.

View from the cave.