Exploring Cuenca and Heading South to Almansa
After yesterday’s rain-soaked arrival, Cuenca rewards us with a beautiful morning. We take time to properly explore the old town — wandering through narrow medieval streets, crossing the famous bridge over the gorge, and admiring the Hanging Houses from every possible angle. It is one of those places that looks even better in person than in photographs.
In the afternoon, we saddle up and head southeast towards Almansa, a small town in the province of Albacete. The ride takes us across the vast Manchegan plain — Don Quixote country — where the landscape stretches flat to the horizon in every direction. Almansa is crowned by a spectacular hilltop castle that dominates the town, visible from kilometres away as you approach.
Route Highlights
- Morning exploration of Cuenca’s UNESCO old town
- Riding across La Mancha — the landscape of Don Quixote
- Almansa Castle perched dramatically on its rocky hilltop
- The vast, flat plains of Castilla-La Mancha — quintessential Spain
Travel Tips
The ride from Cuenca to Almansa crosses some of Spain’s hottest territory in summer — temperatures of 40°C are common on the Manchegan plain. Hydrate constantly and take breaks in the shade. Almansa Castle is free to visit and offers incredible panoramic views. The town itself is quiet but has good restaurants serving traditional Manchegan cuisine — try the pisto manchego and local Manchego cheese.
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