from town to town through a region steeped in history and nature

You may know that paprika, when good, comes from La Vera. But perhaps you have never wondered where this place is, what it looks like and if, in addition to its famous reddish condiment, it has something else to offer. We are therefore going to offer you a trip to one of the most beautiful and striking regions of Cáceres, located at the foot of the south face of the Sierra de Gredos.

Being where it is located, sheltered from the mountains, La Vera benefits from a microclimate that allows it to show off lush vegetation, powerful rivers with crystal clear waters that invite you to cool off in summer and a privileged natural environment . But in addition to being the birthplace of the famous paprika with Designation of Origin, La Vera is known for its rich history and for being home to some of the most beautiful towns in Spain, which is why it is always an interesting destination to discover .

La Vera has many surprises in store in each of its towns, with traditional festivals, artisan products and local cuisine that easily conquers those who dare to try it, so if you want a good plan for a different weekend, this one This could be the one you need. were looking for.

A place steeped in history

La Vera is not only a place of exuberant nature, it is also a region steeped in history. Emperor Charles I of Spain and V of the Holy Roman Empire chose this isolated and quiet corner to spend his last days. After abdicating, he retired to the monastery of Yuste, where he lived from 1557 until his death in 1558. This monastery, inhabited by Hieronymite monks, has become an essential place to visit for those who want to know the history and the inheritance of the emperor. . The serene atmosphere of the monastery and its location amidst lush oak and chestnut forests make this place a perfect refuge for reflection and rest.

In Cuacos de Yuste, you will find the monastery, but also the German military cemetery, where German soldiers who lost their lives on Spanish soil during the two world wars are buried. This place, away from the hustle and bustle, is a reminder of European history and an unusual corner that few people expect to find in this region.

But the history of La Vera goes back much further, since different civilizations settled there, from the Romans to the Muslims, who left visible traces in the architecture and town planning of the villages. Since then, La Vera has been a place of passage, but also a place of establishment for those seeking the tranquility of its landscapes and the fertility of its lands.

The most beautiful towns of La Vera (Cáceres)

La Vera is home to many picturesque villages, but five of them have been declared historical and artistic sites: Villanueva de la Vera, Valverde de la Vera, Cuacos de Yuste, Garganta la Olla and Pasarón de la Vera. This means they are the best choice if you want to experience the most picturesque side of this region, but not the only one.

Villanueva de La Vera, declared a historic and artistic ensemble in 1982, stands out for its popular architecture based on half-timbering, a construction system that attracts attention when walking through its narrow, cobbled streets. The houses, generally two or three floors, have wooden balconies and a layout which reveals their original agricultural function: the ground floor for the animals and the upper floors for family life.

Among its most notable monuments are the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción and the small hermitage from the 18th century. Additionally, the proximity of pre-Roman remains on Cerro Castrejón suggests that this town has been inhabited since ancient times, adding an archaeological nuance to Villanueva’s charm.

Valverde de La Vera, with its streets of regateras and half-timbered buildings, reminds us of times gone by. Its Spanish Steps, with its granite arcades decorated with balls, as well as its particular Gothic pillory, are some of the details not to be overlooked. The Church of Our Lady of Fuente Claras, with its imposing bell tower, is another attraction, as is its ancient castle, now partially integrated into the church, dating from the 13th century.

Valverde is also known for celebrating The Empalaosan Easter tradition that undoubtedly marks those who witness it and which adds even more cultural value to this charming city.

Declared a picturesque site in 1959, equivalent to an asset of cultural interest, Cuacos de Yuste is famous for housing the aforementioned Yuste Monastery. But the charm of Cuacos extends throughout the city, with its porticoed Plaza Mayor and the Plaza de Juan de Austria, where the Casa de Jeromín is located. The streets of Cuacos reflect mountain architecture, with adobe, wooden and overhanging houses that seem trapped in time.

In addition to the monastery, it is also worth mentioning other architectural references such as the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and the Fuente de los Cuatro Caños, which add a touch of authenticity to the visit.

Garganta la Olla, known for its gorges with crystal clear waters, was declared a historic and artistic site in 1978. Its popular and majestic architecture includes such unique buildings as the Casa de la Seda, occasional residence of the Dukes of Alba, and the Casa de las Dolls, bright blue in color and with dolls carved on the left upright and on the lock.

The 16th-century Church of San Lorenzo, with its baroque organ, and the Casa de Postas are some of the points of interest, not forgetting the picturesque La Huerta neighborhood.

Pasarón de La Vera, declared a historic and artistic ensemble in 1998, is characterized by its structure around three squares, where the town hall, the Church of El Salvador and the Palace of the Counts of Osorio are located. The latter, in Renaissance style, on two floors and built in masonry, cut stone and brick, is one of the most striking monuments in the region.

The houses of Pasarón de La Vera, with their wooden balconies and verandas, tell us a story of coexistence between noble and popular life.

Other charming villages in La Vera

Although these are the five particularly recognized villages of La Vera, you cannot fail to visit others, just as authentic and charming, where there is also much to discover.