“Traveling—it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”
Ibn Battuta
Today, I take you with me to a place that left me speechless: Cuenca, Spain. This city, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, combines history, culture, and gastronomy in a way that captivates and enchants. I want to share my personal experience discovering the wonders of Cuenca, a lesser-known gem rich in everything it offers.
Cuenca, Spain: A UNESCO World Heritage City
Cuenca is a city that feels suspended in time. Upon arrival, the sight of the Hanging Houses left me awestruck. These houses, seemingly defying gravity, cling to the edge of a cliff and offer a spectacular view of the Huécar River. Walking through the Old Town is like stepping into a history book, with cobblestone streets and medieval buildings that tell stories of centuries past.
I couldn’t miss visiting the Cathedral of Santa María and San Julián, a Gothic masterpiece. Entering the cathedral is an awe-inspiring experience, with its imposing architecture and colorful stained-glass windows casting impressive light patterns inside. For art lovers, the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art is a must-visit. Located in one of the Hanging Houses, the museum hosts a fascinating collection of contemporary art that intriguingly contrasts with the historical setting.
The Exquisite Gastronomy of Cuenca: Manchego Cheese and La Mancha Wine
The gastronomy of Cuenca is something one must truly experience. One of the most memorable moments of my trip was tasting morteruelo. This thick stew, made with pork liver, spices, and breadcrumbs, is an explosion of flavor. I remember the first bite: a rich, hearty mix that warmed my soul on a cool day. It’s a dish that speaks to the region’s history and traditions.
I also tried ajoarriero, a dish of shredded cod mixed with garlic, potatoes, and eggs. Its smooth texture and well-balanced flavors made it one of my favorites. And for the more adventurous, zarajos – rolled and grilled lamb intestines – offer a unique culinary experience.
Of course, I can’t talk about Cuenca’s gastronomy without mentioning Manchego cheese and La Mancha wine. Manchego cheese, with its robust flavor and firm texture, was the perfect accompaniment to a glass of local wine. The wines from La Mancha, known for their quality and variety, completed the gastronomic experience with their richness and depth of flavor.
Enjoy a Stay at the Historic Parador de Cuenca
My stay at the Parador de Cuenca was nothing short of magical. This former San Pablo convent, now transformed into a luxury hotel, offers a perfect blend of history and modern comfort. Arriving at the parador feels like entering an oasis of tranquility. The nights at the parador are especially serene, with a silence that invites reflection and rest.
One of the most unforgettable moments was watching the sunrise over the Hanging Houses from my room window. The sunlight bathing the houses and the cliff in golden tones was a breathtaking sight. The parador’s gardens and cloister provide a perfect space to relax after a day of exploring the city.
Cuenca is a city that leaves no one indifferent. From its impressive historical heritage to its exquisite gastronomy and the tranquility of the Parador de Cuenca, every moment here is an experience to remember.
“Travel far enough, you meet yourself.”
David Mitchell
Practical information about Cuenca
What to see in Cuenca?
- Casas Colgadas: A challenge to gravity are these iconic medieval houses overlooking the cliff.
- Ciudad Encantada: Erosion has created over thousands of years amazing figures in these rock formations that tell legends.
- Cathedral of Santa Maria de Gracia: One of the first Spanish Gothic buildings and the only example of the Anglo-Norman and Franco-Norman of the French 12th century, I am impressed by its facade.
- Puente de San Pablo: A must to admire the spectacular Casas Colgadas, the fantastic Parador de Cuenca and the canyon of the Huécar River.
- Museum of Spanish Abstract Art: Enter the Hanging Houses, and enjoy its collection of works by contemporary artists.
What typical dishes should I try in Cuenca?
- Morteruelo: A thick stew made from game meat, pork liver and breadcrumbs.
- Zarajos: Marinated and roasted lamb tripe, a very popular tapa.
- Ajoarriero: A dish of shredded cod with garlic, potatoes and egg. – Alajú: A typical sweet made with honey, almonds and breadcrumbs, wrapped in wafers.
What to see in the Enchanted City near Cuenca?
The Enchanted City is a natural site about 30 km from Cuenca, famous for its impressive rock formations that have been sculpted by nature over thousands of years. Some of the best known formations are:
- – El Tormo Alto
- – Los Barcos
- – The Dog
- – The Face of Man
- – The Seal
It is an ideal place to enjoy nature and hiking.
Where to stay in Cuenca?
Cuenca offers a variety of lodging options for all budgets. Some recommendations include:
- Parador de Cuenca: A luxury hotel located in a former convent with spectacular views of the city.
- Hotels in the old town: There are several boutique hotels and hostels in the historic center that offer an authentic experience.
- Rural lodgings: In the outskirts of Cuenca and in the Serranía, you can find rural houses and charming lodgings to enjoy nature.
What is the climate in Cuenca?
The climate in Cuenca is continental, with cold winters and hot summers. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, as temperatures are milder and pleasant for exploring the city and its surroundings.
How to get to Cuenca?
The main airports in Spain that offer the best connectivity are:
- Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suarez Airport (MAD).
- Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)
Madrid is the closest international airport to Cuenca.
Once you arrive in Madrid, you have several options to travel to Cuenca:
By train (AVE – High Speed Train):
The AVE high-speed train is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Cuenca from Madrid.
Trains depart from Madrid Atocha station and arrive at Cuenca Fernando Zóbel station.
The trip takes approximately 1 hour.
You can book tickets online through the Renfe website or at the station.
By car:
Renting a car is another option if you prefer to drive.
The drive from Madrid to Cuenca is about 160 km and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Follow the A-3 highway and then take the A-40 towards Cuenca.
By bus:
There are buses available from Madrid to Cuenca, operated by companies such as Avanza Bus.
The bus trip takes about 2 hours.
Buses depart from Madrid’s Estación Sur.
Local transportation in Cuenca
Once you arrive in Cuenca, you can use local cabs, buses or just walk around to explore the city. The old town of Cuenca is quite compact and is best explored on foot.
Practical tips
- Book in advance: Especially for high-speed train tickets, it is advisable to book in advance to get the best fares and ensure availability.
- Check schedules: Train and bus schedules can vary, so check the latest schedules online before your trip.
- Currency: Make sure you have some euros in cash for small purchases, although credit cards are widely accepted.
Why book your trip to Cuenca with a travel advisor specializing in Spain?
Booking your trip to Cuenca with a specialized travel advisor in Spain like me can offer numerous advantages. Here are a few reasons why this may be the best option for planning your trip:
- Expert knowledge: Travel Advisors specializing in Spain have extensive knowledge about the country, including hidden gems, cultural nuances and the best times to visit. We can provide information and recommendations that you may not find on your own.
- Personalized itineraries: A specialized travel advisor can create a tailor-made itinerary based on your interests, be it history, nature, gastronomy or art. We make sure you see the best of Cuenca and its surroundings.
- Hassle-free planning: We travel advisors take care of all the logistics, from booking your flights and accommodation to arranging local transportation and tours. This means you can relax and focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about the details.
- Exclusive access and offers: Travel Advisors have access to exclusive offers and we offer you benefits such as room upgrades, extended check-ins/out or credits for hotel services.
