Despite the failed efforts to reach our destination a few days ago (see
Great Madrid Traffic Jam thread), we finally got a chance to see some of those classic La Mancha towns in honor of it being the 400th anniversary of the publication of the first part of the Don Quijote. Here are three we saw and a few comments:
Belmonte (Cuenca)- Famous for its castle. The castle itself is an impressive structure, the upkeep inside has been dreadful, though, so its pretty rundown and empty. Still, nice views. The main church "La Colegiata" is pretty too (charge at the door!). Town is fine and good for a walk.
Mota del Cuervo (Cuenca) - Just 15 kilometers away. Famous for its windmills, apparently the same ones that inspired Cervantes to come up with the famous episode about the giants. These are the ones you see in all the La Mancha tourism ads. Interesting enough (basically just to say you've seen them) and good for a photo or two, though little more.
El Toboso (Toledo) - Another fifteen kilometers away (actually closer to Madrid). Famed hometown of Don Quixote's imaginary love Dulcinea. You can even visit La Casa de Dulcinea (which is pretty funny because she was just a literary character...but why not!) Actually, the house was under repairs (poor-timing for the anniversary) so it was closed, BUT the town is very pretty and well worth the visit.
And that was what we saw...all amuid stretches and stretches of open Manchego countryside (miles and miles of vineyards!)
Would like to get back and see some more!
Something different to do when you're in Spain