A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Béjar: A Hidden Treasure in Salamanca, Spain

Located in the province of Salamanca, in the autonomous community of Castilla y León, Béjar is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. With its impressive architectural heritage and natural surroundings, Béjar offers a variety of attractions that draw visitors from all over the world.

Historical and Cultural Heritage

The old town of Béjar is a place of great historical and cultural interest. Here you will find the Plaza Mayor, surrounded by emblematic buildings such as the Town Hall and the Church of Santa María la Mayor. The latter, built in the 16th century, is an impressive example of late Gothic architecture.

Another point of interest is the Ducal Palace, a 16th-century fortress that served as the residence of the Dukes of Béjar. The palace, with its impressive Renaissance facade and beautiful gardens, is one of the city's most treasured assets.

Natural Environment

Béjar is located in a privileged natural environment, surrounded by mountains and rivers. The Sierra de Béjar Natural Park, also known as the Sierra de Candelario, is an ideal place for nature lovers and hikers. Here you can find hiking routes of different levels of difficulty, as well as a rich flora and fauna.

In addition, Béjar is known for its ski resort, La Covatilla, which attracts numerous visitors during the winter season. With its slopes for all levels and its modern infrastructure, La Covatilla is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

Festivals and Events

Béjar is also famous for its festivities and cultural events. One of the most notable is the Béjar International Blues Festival, which is held every summer and attracts musicians and fans from all over the world. Another important celebration is the Fiesta de Los Hombres de Musgo, a centuries-old tradition celebrated in June that has been declared a Fiesta of National Tourist Interest.

In summary, Béjar is a highly attractive tourist destination, combining history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you like hiking, skiing, historical architecture, or live music, Béjar has something to offer all visitors.

Gastronomic Products of Béjar

• Béjar Chorizo

  The Béjar chorizo is a highly appreciated product in the region. It is traditionally made with pork meat, paprika, garlic, and salt. Its flavor is intense and its texture firm, making it perfect to accompany with bread or to cook in stews and rice dishes.

• Goat Cheese

  Béjar is known for its excellent goat cheese. This cheese is made with fresh goat milk, giving it a mild and slightly acidic flavor. It can be enjoyed alone, with bread, or as an ingredient in various recipes.

• Honey from the Sierra de Béjar

  The honey from the Sierra de Béjar is another standout product of the region. It is produced from the nectar of the wild flowers of the sierra, giving it a unique and highly appreciated flavor. It is perfect for sweetening teas, desserts, or simply to enjoy on a toast.

• Pork Sausages

  The charcuterie tradition of Béjar is very rich and varied. In addition to chorizo, other pork sausages such as blood sausage, loin sausage, and ham are produced. All of them are made in an artisanal way and are highly valued for their flavor and quality.

Sporting Activities in Béjar, Salamanca

Skiing

The La Covatilla ski resort, located in the Sierra de Béjar, is an ideal place for lovers of this sport. It offers a variety of slopes for all skill levels.

Hiking

With a large number of hiking routes, Béjar is a perfect place for nature lovers. You can explore the Textile Factories Route, the Béjar Forests Route, among others.

Mountain Biking

The mountains and hills surrounding Béjar offer challenging terrain for mountain biking. There are numerous routes available, which vary in difficulty and length.

Paragliding

For the more adventurous, Béjar offers the opportunity to fly in a paraglider. From the top of the Sierra de Béjar, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.

Places near Béjar

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

La Alberca, a picturesque Spanish village, captivates visitors with its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and exquisite local cuisine, featuring dishes such as Iberian ham and chanfaina, a traditional lamb stew.

Candelario, a picturesque Spanish village, offers a rich history and traditional architecture. It is famous for its delicious local cuisine, highlighting the Candelario sausage, a delicacy that delights visitors with its unique and authentic flavor.