From Cuenca to Teruel: wonderful river valleys
Cuenca is a city set in the mountains of east-central Spain. Founded by Moors, it retains its Historic Walled Town with steep cobbled streets and medieval castle ruins. Perched on a limestone spur high above the Júcar and Huécar rivers, it's most famous for its well-preserved "casas colgadas," or hanging houses. Cantilevered over the Huécar gorge, they seemingly cling to the cliffs’ edges. Wander the hill paths or wander along the rivers. The view of Cuenca from the hills above is one the best spots for photos. If you left Madrid early, the Plaza Major is a great place to grab some breakfast. Also take some time to wander around the museums. On the drive to Albarracin
The ancient town of Albarracín is nestled in the hills of east-central Spain, above a bend in the Guadalaviar River. Albarracín is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. The Murallas de Albarracín, are towering medieval walls dominate the adjacent hillside. At their highest point is the 10th-century Andador Tower. The ruins of an alcázar, or Moorish castle, stand on a clifftop in the old town. With a beautiful 16th-century Catedral del Salvador features a bell tower built on the remains of a Romanesque temple. Also the Torre del Andador is one of the best examples of moorish towers available in Spain. The streets of Albarracin are pretty much restricted to pedestrians, so a leisurely stroll around the city is a must. Albarracin is a great spot for lunch.
Teruel is a high-altitude town in the mountainous Aragon region of eastern Spain. It's known for classic Moorish architecture, a style combining Gothic and Islamic elements. A good example is the Torre de El Salvador, a 14th-century Mudéjar tower, has an intricate facade and stairs to the top. Teurel is the Spanish city of love, and the 13th century tragedy of Diego and Isabel is one that will break your heart. The terrace cafes in the La Plaza del Torico is a favorite pastime for most Turolenses. . If it´s summer, try their homemade artisan helado, as it is phenomenal. From its terrace, you can watch as the local children and tourists mingle by ¨El Torico,¨ a fountain surrounding a statue of a little bull which is the symbol of the city.
The Journey
Departing Madrid early, drive down south along the E-901 from Madrid to Tarancon, and at Taracon join the A-40 and head to Cuenca .
Cuenca is home of the famous Casas Colgadas that hang out over the Huecar Gorge.
A short drive from Cuenca along the CM-2105 is the Ventano del Diablo and the beautiful vistas of the Serrania de Cuenca.
Continue along the CM-2105, CM-2106, A-1704, A-1703 and A-1512 to Albarracin. This roads winds through the mountains.
Albarracin is a great spot for lunch and wander around the pedestrian only streets, under the ancient walls and ruins of the Morrish Alcazar
From Albarracin it is short drive down the A-1512 to the wonderful moorish city of Teruel.