A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Ampudia: A Hidden Treasure in Palencia, Spain

Introduction

Ampudia, a hidden gem in the province of Palencia, Spain, is a place that seems to have stopped in time. This charming medieval village, with its impressive castle, cobblestone streets and houses with wooden balconies, offers a unique experience for visitors looking to immerse themselves in Spanish history and culture.

The Castle of Ampudia

The Castle of Ampudia, a 15th-century fortress, is undoubtedly the most prominent landmark of the town. This castle, which has been restored and converted into a museum, offers a fascinating insight into medieval life in Spain. Visitors can explore the various rooms of the castle, which house a wide variety of historical artifacts, including weapons, armor, and antique furniture.

The Old Town

The old town of Ampudia is another of the tourist attractions of the place. Its narrow cobblestone streets, flanked by medieval-style houses with wooden balconies, offer a charming view of traditional Spanish architecture. The Plaza Mayor, with its church of San Miguel, is the heart of the old town and a perfect place to sit and enjoy the atmosphere of the place.

The Collegiate Church of San Miguel

The Collegiate Church of San Miguel, an impressive 16th-century Gothic church, is another point of interest in Ampudia. With its impressive facade and richly decorated interior, this church is a testament to the splendor of Spanish religious art and architecture.

The Surroundings of Ampudia

The surroundings of Ampudia also offer a number of attractions for visitors. Among them is the Natural Park of Fuentes Carrionas and Fuente Cobre-Montaña Palentina, a beautiful natural space that offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and bird watching. In addition, the nearby city of Palencia, with its Gothic cathedral and lively historic center, is a perfect destination for a day trip.

The Local Gastronomy

Last but not least, the local gastronomy is another of the attractions of Ampudia. Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes, such as roasted lamb, Castilian soup, and local cheeses, accompanied by the excellent wines of the region.

Gastronomic Products of Ampudia

• Roasted Lamb

  Ampudia, like many other towns in the province of Palencia, is famous for its roasted lamb. This dish, typical of the Castilla y León region, is made with suckling lamb, that is, very young lambs that have only been fed on mother's milk. The lamb is slowly roasted in a wood-fired oven, which gives it an unparalleled flavor and texture.

• Sheep Cheese

  The province of Palencia is known for its production of high-quality sheep cheeses. In Ampudia, you can find artisanal cheeses made with local sheep's milk. These cheeses are characterized by their intense flavor and firm texture, and are ideal to accompany with a good wine from the region.

• Heather Honey

  Ampudia is also famous for its heather honey, a high-quality product obtained from the hives located in the area's heather fields. This honey is characterized by its dark color, strong and slightly bitter taste, and its antioxidant and antibacterial properties.

Sporting Activities in Ampudia, Palencia

Hiking

Ampudia, with its natural environment, offers hiking routes for all levels. You can explore the surroundings of the Ampudia Castle or the Carrionas Springs Natural Park.

Cycling

The varied terrain of Ampudia is ideal for cycling. You can rent a bike and travel the rural roads, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the landscape.

Golf

A few kilometers from Ampudia is the Isla Dos Aguas Golf Club, a perfect place for lovers of this sport. The club offers an 18-hole course, a golf school, and a restaurant.

Horseback Riding

For horse lovers, horseback riding routes can be done in Ampudia. It's a different and fun way to get to know the natural environment of the area.

Places near Ampudia

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

Dueñas, in Castilla y León, Spain, is a historic destination with medieval charm. Visitors can enjoy its rich cuisine, featuring dishes such as roasted lamb, and visit wineries from the Cigales region.

Palencia, a hidden gem of Spain, offers a rich medieval history, stunning natural landscapes and a unique gastronomy with dishes such as roast lamb and sheep cheese, perfect for food and culture lovers.