A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Brihuega: The Hidden Jewel of Guadalajara

Introduction

Brihuega, known as the "Jewel of Alcarria", is a small town located in the province of Guadalajara, in the autonomous community of Castilla-La Mancha, in the center of Spain. This charming village is famous for its rich history, its impressive medieval architecture, and its stunning lavender fields.

History and Architecture

Brihuega is a place of great historical importance. It was a walled city during the Middle Ages and still retains much of its original walls. Among the most outstanding monuments is the Piedra Bermeja Castle, an 11th-century fortress that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape.

Another point of interest is the Church of San Felipe, an impressive example of Gothic architecture. It is also worth visiting the Convent of San José, a 16th-century building that houses a museum of sacred art.

Lavender Fields

One of the most famous attractions of Brihuega are its lavender fields. During the months of July and August, these fields are filled with an intense purple color and give off an intoxicating aroma. The town celebrates the Lavender Festival every year, an event that attracts thousands of visitors and includes concerts, markets, and of course, the opportunity to walk through the stunning lavender fields.

Gastronomy

The gastronomy of Brihuega is another of its great attractions. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes from the region, such as roast lamb, Manchego cheese, and Alcarria honey. In addition, the town has several wineries where you can taste the local wine.

Natural Environment

Brihuega is surrounded by a beautiful natural environment. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and bird watching. Among the nearby places of interest is the Alto Tajo Natural Park, a vast natural space with stunning landscapes of mountains, rivers, and forests.

Conclusion

In summary, Brihuega is a tourist destination of great appeal. With its rich history, its impressive architecture, its lavender fields, its delicious gastronomy, and its beautiful natural environment, this "Jewel of Alcarria" has something to offer all visitors.

Gastronomic Products of Brihuega

• Honey from La Alcarria

  Brihuega is located in the region of La Alcarria, famous for its high-quality honey. This honey is produced from the nectar of rosemary and lavender flowers that grow in the area. Honey from La Alcarria is the first honey in Spain to obtain the Protected Designation of Origin, which guarantees its quality and authenticity.

• Lavender

  Brihuega is known as the "Spanish Provence" due to its extensive lavender fields. During the month of July, when the lavender blooms, the Lavender Festival is celebrated. In addition to its use in perfumery and cosmetics, lavender is also used in local gastronomy to produce products such as lavender honey, lavender cookies, and lavender liqueurs.

• Roast Lamb

  Roast lamb is another typical dish of Brihuega. The lamb, raised on local pastures, is slowly roasted in a wood-fired oven until its skin becomes crispy and its meat tender and juicy. This dish is usually served with roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

Sporting Activities in Brihuega

Hiking

Brihuega is surrounded by nature, making it an ideal place for hiking. You can explore routes such as the Río Dulce or the Barranco del Río Dulce, both with stunning views.

Cycling

The varied terrain of Brihuega makes it a perfect place for cycling. You can rent a bike and explore the area at your own pace, or join one of the many organized routes.

Paragliding

If you're looking for a more thrilling experience, you can try paragliding. From the air, you'll have a panoramic view of Brihuega and its surroundings.

Soccer

Brihuega has a soccer team, CD Brihuega, so if you're a fan of this sport, you can enjoy a match during your visit.

Golf

If you like golf, in the surroundings of Brihuega you will find several courses where you can practice this sport.

Places near Brihuega

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

Sigüenza, a medieval gem in Spain, captivates visitors with its imposing castle, cathedral and cobblestone streets. Its rich cuisine includes traditional dishes such as roast lamb and migas, which can be enjoyed in cozy local restaurants.

Atienza, a medieval gem in Guadalajara, Spain, captivates visitors with its impressive castle, cobblestone streets and historic architecture. Its rich cuisine includes local delights such as roast lamb, honey from La Alcarria and wines from the region.