A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Belmonte: A Journey to the Medieval Past in the Heart of Cuenca, Spain

Introduction

Belmonte, a charming municipality located in the province of Cuenca, in the autonomous community of Castilla-La Mancha, Spain, is a tourist destination that offers a rich history and stunning natural beauty. With its impressive medieval castle, its cobblestone streets and its traditional architecture, Belmonte is a place that seems taken out of a fairy tale.

The Castle of Belmonte

The main attraction of Belmonte is, without a doubt, its castle. The Castle of Belmonte is a 15th-century fortress that majestically stands over the city. It was built by order of Don Juan Pacheco, Marquis of Villena, and is one of the best examples of Spanish Gothic-Mudejar architecture. The castle has been restored and opened to the public, allowing visitors to explore its towers, its walls and its rooms, and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.

The Old Town of Belmonte

The old town of Belmonte is another of the tourist attractions of the place. Its narrow and cobblestone streets, its white houses with red roofs and its quiet squares create a relaxing and picturesque atmosphere. Among the most notable buildings are the church of San Bartolomé, an impressive Gothic building, and the Dulcinea del Toboso House Museum, dedicated to Don Quixote's beloved.

The Collegiate Church of San Bartolomé

The Collegiate Church of San Bartolomé is another of Belmonte's treasures. This impressive religious building, built in the 15th century, combines elements of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Its main altarpiece, a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance art, stands out.

The Surroundings of Belmonte

The surroundings of Belmonte also offer numerous options for nature lovers and active tourism. Hiking and cycling routes can be made through the beautiful landscapes of the Sierra de Altomira and the Valley of the Cork Oaks. In addition, a short distance from Belmonte are other tourist destinations of interest, such as the city of Cuenca, famous for its Hanging Houses, and the city of Alarcón, with its impressive medieval castle.

The Gastronomy of Belmonte

Gastronomy is another of the great attractions of Belmonte. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes from the region, such as morteruelo (a game meat pate), ajoarriero (a cod stew) and migas ruleras. In addition, the region is famous for its wines, so a visit to a local winery is a must.

Gastronomic Products of Belmonte

• Morteruelo

  Morteruelo is a game pâté typical of the province of Cuenca. It is made with different types of meat, such as rabbit, partridge, pork and poultry, which are mixed with spices and ground to obtain a paste. This dish is served hot and is usually accompanied with bread. In Belmonte, it is possible to find this dish in many local restaurants.

• Zarajos

  Zarajos are another traditional dish of the region. They consist of suckling lamb intestines that are rolled on a vine shoot and grilled. This dish is served hot and is usually accompanied with wine from the region. In Belmonte, it is possible to find this dish at local festivals and in some restaurants.

• Wine from La Mancha

  Belmonte is located in the wine region of La Mancha, known for producing high quality wines. The wines from this region are known for their robust flavor and excellent value for money. In Belmonte, it is possible to visit local wineries and taste the wines of the region.

• Manchego Cheese

  Manchego cheese is a sheep's cheese that is produced in the region of La Mancha. This cheese is known for its intense flavor and firm texture. In Belmonte, it is possible to find Manchego cheese in local shops and city markets.

Sporting Activities in Belmonte (Cuenca)

Hiking

Belmonte, with its privileged natural environment, offers hiking routes for all levels. One of the most popular is the Route of the Mills, which passes through old windmills.

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Cycling

The geography of Belmonte is ideal for mountain biking. There are several marked routes that cross beautiful landscapes and allow you to discover the local flora and fauna.

Schwinn Remix - Bicicleta de montaña infantil
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Water Sports

Near Belmonte is the Almendra reservoir, where you can practice water sports such as canoeing or sailing.

Climbing

For climbing enthusiasts, Belmonte offers several climbing areas, both for beginners and more experienced climbers.

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Golf

Belmonte has an 18-hole golf course, perfect for lovers of this sport. The course offers stunning views of the city and its castle.

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Places near Belmonte

If you are in Belmonte and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Mota del Cuervo, in the Spanish Mancha, is famous for its traditional windmills and rich cuisine. Visitors can enjoy local dishes such as ajoarriero and morteruelo, and try the region's wine.

Alarcon, a medieval gem in Spain, captivates visitors with its imposing castle, picturesque cobblestone streets, and exquisite Manchego cuisine, featuring dishes such as morteruelo, ajoarriero, and roasted lamb.