I’ve just completed a fascinating 38.2-kilometer journey from the bustling town of Navalmoral de la Mata to the charming village of Candeleda. No borders crossed but a definite shift in pace and culture as we moved from a more urban setting to rural tranquility.

One interesting observation that did make this trek unforgettable was the sudden, striking change in architecture as we moved into Candeleda. The town is nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de Gredos and is known for its vernacular architecture, a style that is deeply rooted in local traditions and materials. The houses here are a beautiful blend of stone, wood, and clay – a striking contrast to the more modern structures of Navalmoral de la Mata.

As a wise man once said, “No es el destino sino el viaje lo que importa” (It’s not the destination but the journey that matters). This couldn’t be truer as we navigated the scenic route from Navalmoral de la Mata to Candeleda. The change in landscape and the diversity of culture and architecture is what makes every kilometer worthwhile.

The journey’s been a long one, but as the local song goes, “Caminante, no hay camino, se hace camino al andar” (Walker, there is no path, the path is made by walking). After 17 days on the road and covering a total distance of 433.0 kilometers, I’ve learned that every step, every town, from Mirabel to Malpartida de Plasencia and now to Candeleda, brings with it a new surprise, a new lesson.

As I sit here in Sotillo de la Adrada, my mind is ablaze with a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration. But don’t worry, I’m not too tired to share a joke with you! Here’s one for the road: “¿Qué hace una abeja en el gimnasio?” “Zum-ba.” (What does a bee do at the gym? Zum-ba.)

Until next time, amigos. Keep wandering, keep wondering. ¡Hasta la vista!

First, let’s talk about the Cave of El Raso. This cave is a prehistoric Picasso, adorned with ancient paintings that whisper tales of life in the Bronze Age. As the Spanish poet Federico García Lorca once said, “El pasado es un pájaro que roba el pan de la memoria” – The past is a bird that steals the bread of memory. Here, the past is alive and well.

Second, La Jota, a traditional dance of Candeleda that embodies the spirit of the city. Imagine feet stomping, hands clapping, and bodies swirling in a rhythm as infectious as a flamenco composed by Paco de Lucía. It’s like a dance-off between the sun and the shadows.

So, amigos, come to Candeleda, where the past dances with the present, and every stone tells a story.