SPAIN
INSIDER TIPS
These Spain Insider Tips have been carefully curated through years of firsthand experience exploring Sierra de Gata, with the goal of helping our guests enjoy the very best the region has to offer.
Our dedicated team is always available to assist!
Sierra de Gata, Spain
FAQS:
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Sierra de Gata is in Western Spain, on the Portuguese border.
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Lisbon (LIS) or Madrid (MAD) are both roughly 3 hours by car from Sierra de Gata.
IMPORTANT: if your return flight is directly after your stay in Sierra de Gata you must book a flight at 12:00 PM or later to allow time to get to the airport.
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May-September is very warm, and the region is full of rivers, lakes, and swimming holes to cool off.
October-November is olive harvest season, and a beautiful time to visit.
Mid March-April will see lots of growth and spring blooms.
The property is closed during Winter months.
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Visas may be required starting in 2026 to enter Europe. The visa is called an ETIAS visa. Additional details can be found on their website here. You will also require a passport. Please be sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned date of departure.
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We can arrange a private transfer to pick you up from Madrid or Lisbon and drop you back off in one of those cities. Transfers are valid to/from the airport or a centrally located hotel.
You may also rent a car. This is a great option because it will allow you to explore the Sierra de Gata region at your leisure. If you are renting a car it is best to pick up and drop off in the same country to avoid excessive drop off fees (i.e. if picking up in Portugal, it is best to drop the car back off in Portugal).
We recommend spending at least a few days in whichever city you’re flying into, as well as at least one night before your return flight. This will make for a more relaxed travel schedule and both cities are well worth visiting.
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There is very little public transportation in the region. We recommend renting a car before you arrive or scheduling activities and excursions through our partners in advance.
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You can usually buy euros in advance through your bank. There are ATMs in the Madrid and Lisbon airports, the train station, and numerous throughout the cities. Many restaurants and shops accept Visa and Mastercard.
We recommend getting some euros before arriving in Sierra de Gata, as the region is more remote, so access to ATMs will be more limited.
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You will need to arrange a special international plan for texting and phone service before arriving in Spain. We strongly encourage you to bring a smartphone with an active international plan in the event of an emergency or an unforeseen delay in your arrival.
THINGS TO DO & SEE
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HORSEBACK RIDING
In the countryside.
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BUJACO TOWER VISIT
Experience stunning panoramic views of Bujaco’s historic center from a 12th-century tower considered to be one of the most important architectural sites in Bujcao. The Bujaco tower also features panels and photographs detailing Tres momentos en la historia de Cáceres or “Three moments in the history of Cáceres.”
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BIRDING OR ECO-TOUR
With a professional guide to Parque Nacional de Monfragüe and Plascencia with lunch.
Discover the natural beauty of this UNESCO biosphere reserve, known as having one of the largest colonies of black vultures in the world, accompanied by a trip to the Medieval city of Plasencia to experience its well-preserved monuments and delectable cuisine.
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OLIVE OIL MUSEUM
Take a half day trip to the Olive Oil Museum and have lunch in Robledillo de Gata.
Visit the picturesque hill town of Robledillo de Gata and see the traditional methods of olive oil production that the region is famous for. Of course, no visit would be complete without an olive oil tasting!
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ROMAN ARCHEOLOGY
Take a trip through ancient history in Merida and Alcantara, home to many Roman monuments, including a theatre, bridges, aqueducts, and a temple.
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GUIDED HIKING THROUGH NATURAL PLAYGROUNDS
Cool off in the natural pools and waterfalls of the Extremadura region, accompanied by a local hiking guide.
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BIG GAME, WILD BOAR, OR BIRD HUNTING
Pursue the local game and fowl of Extremadura on a hunting excursion.
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CULINARY TOUR IN CACERES
Taste the numerous locally made products unique the the Extremadura region while exploring the town of Caceres, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for prehistoric cave paintings dating back over 67,000 years.
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HABLA WINERY
A day trip for wine lovers to sip on the natural wines of the region and get to know the quintessential medieval town of Trujillo.
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VISIT MONSANTO & SORTELHA
Cross over into Portugal for the day with a visit to two ancient hill towns, steeped in history and heritage.
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VISIT CASTILE & LEON
Visit the neighboring region of Castile and Leon with a trip to the charming cathedral town Ciudad Rodrigo.
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VISIT HERVAS & PLASENCIA
Discover the character of the Ambroz River Valley with a trip to the other Extremadura towns of Hervas and Plasencia.
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FISHING EXPEDITIONS
A local guide can take you on a fishing expedition.
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SPANISH DRESSAGE EXHIBITION
See the impressive equestrian skill on display at an exhibition of Spanish Dressage.
RESTAURANTS
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RESTAURANTE BOADA
C. Calvo Sotelo, 18, 10893 Villamiel, Cáceres, Spain
Indulge in Peruvian and Extremaduran fusion cuisine crafted with locally sourced ingredients. This small but elegant restaurant is featured in the 2024 Guía Repsol and features unique wines, a tasting menu, and an a la carte menu.
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SABORIS DE SEMPRIS
Plaza Mayor 8, 10892 San Martin de Trevejo, Spain
Enjoy coffee, breakfast, lunch, or dinner on the terrace facing the Plaza Mayor or Saboris de Sempris’s cozy interior.
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RESTAURANTE O BALLITU
Av. del Payo, 1, 10892 San Martín de Trevejo, Cáceres, Spain
A beautiful restaurant with outdoor seating in a garden setting.