Holiday in Extremadura

What makes Extremadura special as a destination?

Extremadura in western Spain is one of the least visited regions of the country and is therefore a hidden gem. Here, Iberian pigs graze under centuries-old holm oaks (Dehesas), stork nests crown medieval church towers, and two UNESCO World Heritage cities — Cáceres and Mérida — are among the best-preserved historical ensembles on the Iberian Peninsula. Cáceres has a historic center that resembles an open history book: Roman, Moorish, and medieval buildings stand side by side, making the city a popular filming location for series like Game of Thrones. Mérida, known as Emerita Augusta, was the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania and boasts the most impressive Roman heritage in Spain with its amphitheater, the Aqueduct of Los Milagros, and the Temple of Diana — in summer, the renowned Festival de Teatro Clásico takes place in the ancient theater. The cuisine of Extremadura is rustic and outstanding: The Jamón Ibérico de Bellota from acorn-fed pigs is considered the best ham in the world, the Torta del Casar is a creamy sheep cheese of incomparable taste, and the Pimentón de la Vera (smoked paprika) spices kitchens worldwide. The Monfragüe National Park is home to the largest colony of griffon vultures in Europe and rare black storks. The Jerte Valley transforms into a sea of cherry blossoms in spring — a sight that rivals the Japanese Hanami.