Alagón Valley, Gata and Hurdes

In the north of the region, bordering on the districts of Sierra de Gata and Las Hurdes, you will find the Alagón Valley, with Coria at its head. The historical centre of this town is an Asset of Cultural Interest, and is therefore not to be missed. And you should not miss its famous Sanjuanes, either, a Festival of Tourist Interest in Extremadura held every June. The same title is held by the Encamisá in Torrejoncillo and the Carantoñas in Acehúche, which takes place on Saint Sebastian's day.

But there can be no doubt that this valley stands out above all for its orography, making it a very popular destination amongst birdwatchers and flora enthusiasts.

Honey, garlic-flavoured fish soup and pollen are all typical of the Alagón Valley. You can also practise water sports here, at the same time as you enjoy the unforgettable scenery, dotted with natural pools.

Just like the neighbouring region of Sierra de Gata, where the rivers and natural pools beckon one to take a dip in summer.

In this area it is easy to spot many birds, too, although the star animal is the Iberian lynx. Every autumn thousands of wild mushrooms spring up in the woods here, and are later transformed into succulent dishes. But in Sierra de Gata there is no shortage of good cold meats, hams and roasted kid, either. The oils are heavenly, as are the cheeses and the homemade sweets.

If you pass through San Martín de Trevejo, Eljas or Valverde del Fresno, don't be surprised if you hear people speaking a different language. This is their own peculiar dialect, known as "a fala".

The region's architecture, with its characteristic chestnut wood latticing, is probably best represented in Robledillo de Gata, which is an Asset of Cultural Interest.

Villanueva de la Sierra is the gateway to Las Hurdes. In this region water takes on a specially prominent role, adorning the landscape of Las Urdes in many different guises.

You can travel through the mountains in search of birds to watch, and the products from the local pig slaughters. The kid goats, the chestnuts, the goat's cheeses and the oil, which has the Gata-Hurdes Denomination of Origin, are famous. And then of course there is the honey.

The traditional architecture of Las Hurdes is preserved above all in its farmsteads, tiny hamlets scattered around the region.

And don't forget a visit to the famous Meandro del Melero. A marvel of nature.