The autonomous community of Extremadura is as big as Switzerland, but has a population of just one million. Located in the southwest of Spain on the border to Portugal, it boasts impressive landscapes, cultural highlights and countless other attractions.

The Real Monasterio de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993. © Shutterstock

Jerte Valley: off into nature

Every spring, tourists flock to Japan to marvel at the white-and-pink sea of cherry blossoms, known as Sakura. What many don't know is that you don't have to go as far as Japan to witness the natural spectacle. The Jerte Valley in Cáceres, less than three hours from Madrid, is home to two million cherry trees that transform the landscape into a billowing (and fragrant!) sea of blossoms from mid-March to late April.

As the days get warmer, the scent of cherry blossoms fills the Jerte Valley. © Shutterstock

The annual cherry blossom festival celebrates the arrival of spring with music, good food and exhibitions – a highlight for locals as well as travelers. Starting in May, once the fruit is ripe, people celebrate the "cerecera" with tastings and walks through the cherry fields.

Shaped by water

But the charm of the Jerte Valley is not limited to cherries, their blossoms or their fruits. In summer and autumn, the rivers and gorges of the Sierra de Gredos attract adrenaline junkies who go canyoning at the waterfalls of Las Nogaleas or Los Hoyos. Or take a refreshing dip in the natural pools. 

Over centuries, the water masses have created natural pools and amazing rock formations. © Spanish Tourist Board

If you want to take it easy, go on a hike or a bike ride. The route of Charles V is especially beautiful. Even more impressive is the "hell gorge" Garganta de los Infiernos, a nature reserve where erosion has created a landscape of bizarre rock formations.

Pearls of the Jerte Valley

To the north is Plasencia, the capital of Extremadura, which is particularly popular with culture aficionados. Here you can stroll through medieval alleys, past churches, monasteries and cathedrals. The city wall and a medieval aqueduct have been well preserved to this day.

Greenways are former railroad lines that are now used for cyclists and hikers, such as the route from Plasencia to Bejar. © Shutterstock

La Vera, the "land of goatherds and emperors" welcomes visitors about 50 kilometers east of Plasencia. In addition to natural basins, gorges and streams, the town boasts a number of impressive buildings as well. Such as the Parador de Jarandilla de la Vera, the former residence of Emperor Charles V. Spend a night here to walk in the monarch's footsteps.

The monastery of Yuste is the place where Emperor Charles V spent the last months of his life. © Hans Geel

The surrounding area offers numerous places that are well worth a visit. The historic center, the fortress of Nuestra Señora de la Torre and medieval bridges offer historical insights aplenty. The monastery of San Jerónimo de Yuste should be at the top of your list. Founded in the 15th century, it's still in excellent condition.

Exceptional accommodation

The Paradores hotel network awaits with style, charm and a surplus of history. With 96 hotels in its portfolio, guests will find everything from three to five star accommodations. Paradores properties can be found all over Spain. With their historic buildings, you'll feel like a royal when you retire to your bedchamber at night.

Recharge your batteries in imperial footsteps at the Parador de Jarandilla. © Shutterstock

Be sure to get some rest. After all, Extremadura has many more surprises in store. You can even experience them by bike on routes organized by the Paradores network. They lead to city gems like Oropesa or from Toledo to Ávila and Gredos.

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