#MAGIC TOWNS - IBERIAN HAM ROUTE: HISTORY AND TRADITION
Price per person from 2.800 €

#MAGICVILLAGES–GRAND IBERIAN HAM ROUTE

From
2.800 €
Price per person
From
2.800 €
price per person

Description

Welcome to the Magic Route of Discovery, Iberian Ham and the Dehesa! This journey will immerse you in the history of the discovery of America, the tradition of exquisite Iberian ham and the beauty of the pastureland, revealing the treasures found in each village on this unique route.

We start in Medellín, the birthplace of Hernán Cortés and the starting point of our adventure. This historic place takes us to explore the roots of the discovery of new lands.

We head to Fregenal de la Sierra, a town that preserves the essence of the pasture and the livestock tradition, preparing to discover the secrets of Iberian ham. The route takes us to Segura de León, where the pasture extends into idyllic landscapes and the handicraft of ham becomes an art. We explore Calera de León, where tradition and hospitality bring us closer to the heart of the pasture. We continue to Cabeza la Vaca, a place that immerses us in nature and the serenity of these unique places. The route takes us to Fuentes de León, where the authentic flavours of Iberian ham await us in every corner of the village.

We move on to Cumbres Mayores, renowned for the quality of its Iberian ham, where craftsmanship and gastronomy merge. The route leads us to Puerto Moral, a charming corner between pastures and hills, inviting us to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. We continue to Higuera de la Sierra, where the culture of Iberian ham is lived with passion and authenticity.

Next, we arrive at Cortegana, which reveals, among the beauty of its landscapes, its medieval and stately legacy. We continue to Minas de Riotinto, a fascinating place where the industrial landscape and mining history intertwine, inviting us to discover its Tinto River, its impressive open-pit mines and the British legacy in its neighborhood of Bella Vista.

We conclude our journey in Palos de la Frontera, where the story of the discovery of America comes to life. This emblematic place reminds us of the crucial role it played in the Columbian feat, closing the Magic Route of the Discovery, Iberian Ham and the Dehesa with a tribute to our history and traditions.

Welcome to a journey that will leave a lasting mark on your heart and palate!

Visiting

DAY 1: MEDELLÍN
DAY 1: MEDELLÍN

3:00 p.m – Arrival in Medellín

  • Check-in at the accommodation.

3:30 p.m – Tour through Hernán Cortés Square and the Archaeological Park

  • Start at Hernán Cortés Square, admire his statue and the foundations of the house where he was born.
  • Enter the Archaeological Park and travel 2,000 years back in time.

4:30 p.m – Visit to Medellín Castle

  • Learn about its historical role during the Reconquista.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Renaissance Bridge of the Austrias and the Guadiana River.

18:00 p.m - Wine tasting at Quinto Cecilio Restaurant, a unique spot with views over the village of Medellín (Duration: 60 minutes).

  • Includes: Professional sommelier, 5 wines, and tasting notes.
  • Pairing: with cured pork loin and cheese.

19:00 p.m - Free time to wander and uncover hidden gems.

8:30 p.m – Dinner at the accommodation featuring:

  • Extremaduran lamb stew.
  • Wine pairing: Crianza red wine from Ribera del Guadiana.
  • Overnight stay in Medellín.
DAY 2: MEDELLÍN → FREGENAL DE LA SIERRA
DAY 2: MEDELLÍN → FREGENAL DE LA SIERRA

08:30 a.m - Breakfast: Rustic bread toast with fig jam and coffee.

09:00 a.m - Tour of Medellín’s Roman bridge: Learn all the details about its construction and its role in connecting ancient Lusitania and Baetica. (Guided)

10:30 a.m - Traditional cooking workshop: Learn how to prepare Extremaduran sweets like perrunillas and taste your own creations.

12:00 p.m - Lunch at a local restaurant:

  • Dish: Extremaduran migas with chorizo and bacon.
  • Pairing: Dry white wine from Ribera del Guadiana.

2:30 p.m - Transfer at the client's own expense to Fregenal de la Sierra: check-in and visit to the tourist office to stamp the passport and collect information about upcoming visits.

  • Distance: 85 km, duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes.

3:30 p.m – Visit to the Templar Castle: tour of the walls, bullring, and indoor market.

4:00 p.m – Walk through the Historic Quarter: Churches of Santa María and Santa Ana, the house of Bravo Murillo, and noble streets and houses.

5:30 p.m - Pottery workshop at Cerámicas Gallardo: Discover this traditional craft technique of the region and take home your own handmade piece.

8:30 p.m - Dinner at the accommodation: Iberian pork tenderloin with rosemary potatoes.

  • Pairing: Chipurri red wine, PDO Extremadura
  • Accommodation: Fregenal de la Sierra.
DAY 3: FREGENAL DE LA SIERRA → SEGURA DE LEÓN
DAY 3: FREGENAL DE LA SIERRA → SEGURA DE LEÓN

08:30 am – Breakfast: Rustic bread with extra virgin olive oil and fresh goat cheese

10:00 am – Guided walk through the holm oak dehesa:

  • Walk among cork oaks and holm oaks while learning about the flora and fauna of the dehesa ecosystem

11:30 am – Visit to an Iberian sausage factory:

  • Discover the curing and production process of Iberian products, and enjoy a tasting of hams and cured pork loin

1:30 pm – Lunch at a local restaurant:

  • Dish: Hare rice
  • Wine pairing: Young red wine from the Condado de Huelva

3:30 pm – Transfer at guest’s expense to Segura de León: check-in and visit to the tourist office to stamp the passport and collect information about upcoming visits

  • Distance: 25 km, Duration: 30 minutes

4:15 pm – Cultural tour of the historic center

  • Parish Church of Our Lady of the Assumption
  • San Benito Convent and Cloister
  • Capea Museum

5:30 pm – Visit to spiritual landmarks and panoramic viewpoints

  • Church of Fátima
  • Monument to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
  • Hermitage of the Virgin of Los Remedios

7:00 pm – Visit to the permanent exhibition of Antonio Aradillas

  • A collection of religious artifacts, art, and local culture

8:30 pm – Dinner at the accommodation

  • Traditional mountain-style menu
  • Main dish: Iberian pork cheeks in red wine
  • Wine pairing: Aged red wine from the Condado de Huelva
DAY 4: SEGURA DE LEÓN → CALERA DE LEÓN
DAY 4: SEGURA DE LEÓN → CALERA DE LEÓN

08:30 am – Breakfast at the accommodation

  • Toast with Iberian ham and extra virgin olive oil
  • Coffee and fruit

09:30 am – Visit to the Santiaguista Medieval Castle

  • Opening hours: 09:30 am – 2:30 pm
  • Explore the parade ground, the tower, and its viewpoints
  • A historical testament to the Order of Santiago

11:00 am – Free walking tour through popular downtown bars

  • Recommended bars:
  • Bar Casa Manolo
  • Bar Puerta del Sol
  • Bar Laureano

1:30 pm – Lunch at Mesón Restaurante La Teja

  • Suggested dish: Iberian pork shoulder (secreto ibérico) or lamb stew
  • Homemade dessert and fruity wine from the Condado de Huelva

1:30 pm – Transfer at guest’s expense to Calera de León: check-in and visit to the tourist office to stamp the passport and collect information about upcoming visits (Distance: 20 km, Duration: 30 minutes)

3:30 pm – Guided tour of the Monastery of Tentudía:

  • Learn about the history and art of this important historical site

5:30 pm – Homemade pickling workshop:

  • Use fresh products to prepare typical local pickles and preserves

8:30 pm – Dinner at the accommodation specializing in: Free-range chicken with almonds

  • Wine pairing: Dry white wine from the Condado de Huelva
  • Accommodation: Calera de León
DAY 5: CALERA DE LEÓN → CABEZA LA VACA
DAY 5: CALERA DE LEÓN → CABEZA LA VACA

08:30 am – Breakfast: Cottage cheese with thyme honey and rustic country bread toast

09:00 am – Guided tour through the Tentudía dehesas (meadows):

  • Walk among holm oaks and cork oaks while learning about traditional livestock farming practices

11:30 am – Sheep cheese-making workshop:

  • Participate in the artisanal process of making both cured and fresh cheeses

1:00 pm – Lunch at a local restaurant:

  • Dish: Extremaduran gazpacho and asparagus omelette
  • Wine pairing: Young white wine from the Condado de Huelva

2:30 pm – Transfer at guest’s expense to Cabeza la Vaca: check-in and visit to the tourist office to stamp the passport and collect information about upcoming visits (Distance: 25 km, Duration: 30 minutes)

4:00 pm – Guided tour through the cobbled streets of Cabeza la Vaca:

  • Visit the parish church and the town’s historic fountains

5:30 pm – Traditional pastry workshop:

  • Learn how to prepare local sweets such as pestiños and perrunillas

8:30 pm – Dinner at the accommodation specializing in: Iberian pork cheeks in wine sauce

  • Wine pairing: Aged red wine from the Condado de Huelva
  • Accommodation: Cabeza la Vaca
DAY 6: CABEZA LA VACA → FUENTES DE LEÓN
DAY 6: CABEZA LA VACA → FUENTES DE LEÓN

08:30 am – Breakfast: Rustic bread toast with olive oil and orange blossom honey

10:00 am – Guided visit to the caves of Fuentes de León:

  • Discover this impressive cave system, its geology, and the prehistoric cave paintings it contains

1:00 pm – Lunch at a local restaurant:

  • Dish: Kid goat stew with thyme potatoes
  • Wine pairing: Aged red wine from the Condado de Huelva

2:30 pm – Transfer at guest’s expense to Fuentes de León: check-in and visit to the tourist office to stamp the passport and collect information about upcoming visits (Distance: 15 km, Duration: 20 minutes)

4:00 pm – Guided tour of the historic center of Fuentes de León:

  • Walk through the village streets, visit its parish church and the main square

5:30 pm – Jam and preserves workshop:

  • Learn how to make preserves using local fruits and enjoy a tasting

8:30 pm – Dinner at the accommodation specializing in: Gachas extremeñas (traditional cornmeal porridge)

  • Wine pairing: Fruity white wine from the Condado de Huelva
  • Accommodation: Fuentes de León
DAY 7: FUENTES DE LEÓN → CUMBRES MAYORES
DAY 7: FUENTES DE LEÓN → CUMBRES MAYORES

08:30 am – Breakfast: Rustic bread toast with extra virgin olive oil and local honey

10:00 am – Guided tour of the surroundings of Fuentes de León:

  • Enjoy a final walk through the landscapes surrounding the caves, with views of the holm oak and cork oak dehesas

11:30 am – Iberian product-making workshop:

  • Learn how traditional sausages are made using local techniques and take part in a brief tasting

1:00 pm – Lunch at a local restaurant:

  • Dish: Migas extremeñas with crispy pork belly and peppers
  • Wine pairing: Young white wine from the Condado de Huelva

2:30 pm – Transfer at guest’s expense to Cumbres Mayores: check-in and visit to the tourist office to stamp the passport and collect information about upcoming visits

  • Distance: 50 km, Duration: 1 hour

4:00 pm – Guided tour of the old town of Cumbres Mayores:

  • Discover its medieval castle and the village’s narrow streets, rich in history and tradition

5:30 pm – Traditional pickling workshop:

  • Learn how to prepare pickles with local products such as peppers and eggplants

8:30 pm – Dinner at the accommodation specializing in: Roast suckling pig with potatoes

  • Wine pairing: Aged red wine from the Ribera del Guadiana
  • Accommodation: Cumbres Mayores
DAY 8: CUMBRES MAYORES → PUERTO MORAL
DAY 8: CUMBRES MAYORES → PUERTO MORAL

08:30 am – Breakfast: Rustic bread with grated tomato, extra virgin olive oil, and fresh cheese

09:00 am – Guided hiking route through the dehesa:

  • Explore the typical landscape of the Sierra de Aracena and the Picos de Aroche, learning about the local flora and fauna

11:30 am – Beekeeping workshop:

  • Discover the artisanal honey production process and sample different varieties

1:00 pm – Lunch at a local restaurant:

  • Dish: Migas serranas with local sausages
  • Wine pairing: Dry white wine from the Condado de Huelva

2:30 pm – Transfer at guest’s expense to Puerto Moral: check-in and visit to the tourist office to stamp the passport and collect information about upcoming visits (Distance: 35 km, Duration: 40 minutes)

4:00 pm – Guided tour of the parish church:

  • Explore the main temple of the village and learn about its history and architecture

5:30 pm – Traditional ceramics workshop:

  • Design and paint your own decorative object using traditional techniques

8:30 pm – Dinner at the accommodation specializing in: Oven-roasted lamb with aromatic herbs

  • Wine pairing: Reserve red wine from the Ribera del Guadiana
  • Accommodation: Puerto Moral
DAY 9: PUERTO MORAL → HIGUERA DE LA SIERRA
DAY 9: PUERTO MORAL → HIGUERA DE LA SIERRA

08:30 am – Breakfast: Country bread toast with extra virgin olive oil and honey

09:00 am – Interpretive guided walk along an old livestock trail:

  • Learn about the historical significance of these traditional drover’s roads in the region

11:30 am – Goat cheese-making workshop:

  • Participate in the full process, from curdling to molding, and taste the results

1:00 pm – Lunch at a local restaurant:

  • Dish: Chickpea stew with spinach (potaje de garbanzos con espinacas)
  • Wine pairing: Young white wine from the Condado de Huelva

2:30 pm – Transfer at guest’s expense to Higuera de la Sierra: check-in and visit to the tourist office to stamp the passport and collect information about upcoming visits

  • Distance: 25 km, Duration: 30 minutes

4:00 pm – Guided tour of the historic center:

  • Discover the Church of San Sebastián, noble houses, and traditional fountains

5:30 pm – Traditional pickling workshop:

  • Learn to prepare pickles using fresh products from the region

8:30 pm – Dinner at the accommodation specializing in: Free-range chicken in almond sauce

  • Wine pairing: Aged red wine from the Condado de Huelva
  • Accommodation: Higuera de la Sierra
DAY 10: HIGUERA DE LA SIERRA → CORTEGANA
DAY 10: HIGUERA DE LA SIERRA → CORTEGANA

08:30 am – Breakfast: Almond sponge cake with honey and coffee

09:00 am – Guided hike through Sierra de Aracena Natural Park:

  • Discover the park’s most stunning natural spots, including chestnut and cork oak forests

11:30 am – Traditional embroidery workshop:

  • Learn typical regional embroidery techniques and create a small keepsake

12:00 pm – Lunch at a local restaurant:

  • Dish: Rice with mushrooms and Iberian sausages
  • Wine pairing: Dry white wine from the Condado de Huelva

1:30 pm – Transfer at guest’s expense to Cortegana: check-in and visit to the tourist office to stamp the passport and collect information about upcoming visits

  • Distance: 20 km, Duration: 30 minutes

4:00 pm – Guided tour of Cortegana Castle:

  • Explore this medieval fortress and learn about its role in the history of the border with Portugal

5:30 pm – Homemade liqueur-making workshop:

  • Learn to prepare liqueurs made with local fruits and herbs

8:30 pm – Dinner at the accommodation specializing in: Iberian pork cheeks in red wine

  • Wine pairing: Aged red wine from the Condado de Huelva
  • Accommodation: Cortegana
DAY 11: CORTEGANA → MINAS DE RIOTINTO
DAY 11: CORTEGANA → MINAS DE RIOTINTO

08:30 am – Breakfast:

  • Whole grain toast with grated tomato and extra virgin olive oil

09:00 am – Guided tour along Cortegana’s livestock trails:

  • Explore ancient shepherds' paths with panoramic views of the Sierra

11:30 am – Traditional pastry workshop:

  • Learn to prepare typical sweets such as pestiños and rosquillas

1:00 pm – Lunch at a local restaurant:

  • Dish: Wild boar stew
  • Wine pairing: Reserve red wine from the Condado de Huelva

2:30 pm – Transfer at guest’s expense to Minas de Riotinto: check-in and visit to the tourist office to stamp the passport and collect information about upcoming visits

  • Distance: 35 km, Duration: 40 minutes

4:00 pm – Guided tour of the Riotinto Mining Park:

  • Learn about the mining history of the region, visit an old English neighborhood, and explore the mining museum

5:30 pm – Route along the Tinto River:

  • Explore the unique landscapes and reddish hues that define this remarkable river

8:30 pm – Dinner at the accommodation specializing in: Cod with pisto (ratatouille-style vegetables)

  • Wine pairing: Dry white wine from the Condado de Huelva
  • Accommodation: Minas de Riotinto
DAY 12: MINAS DE RIOTINTO → PALOS DE LA FRONTERA
DAY 12: MINAS DE RIOTINTO → PALOS DE LA FRONTERA

08:30 am – Breakfast: Rustic bread toast with olive oil and honey

09:00 am – Guided tour along the Tinto River and its old mines:

  • Enjoy a final walk through the mining landscapes before heading to Palos de la Frontera

11:30 am – English-style ceramics workshop:

  • Learn ceramic techniques once used in Riotinto’s English neighborhood and create your own piece

1:00 pm – Lunch at a local restaurant:

  • Dish: Baked fish with potatoes and lemon
  • Wine pairing: Fruity white wine from the Condado de Huelva

2:30 pm – Transfer at guest’s expense to Palos de la Frontera: check-in and visit to the tourist office to stamp the passport and collect information about upcoming visits

  • Distance: 55 km, Duration: 1 hour

4:00 pm – Guided tour of the historic center of Palos:

  • Discover the place from which Columbus’ caravels departed, visit the Church of San Jorge, and walk through the Fountain of the Canons (Fuente de los Canónigos)

5:30 pm – Historical navigation workshop:

  • Learn how ships of the era were prepared and explore the navigation techniques that led Columbus to the New World

8:30 pm – Dinner at the accommodation specializing in: Huelva-style garlic prawns

  • Wine pairing: Dry white wine from the Condado de Huelva
  • Accommodation: Palos de la Frontera
DAY 13: PALOS DE LA FRONTERA
DAY 13: PALOS DE LA FRONTERA

08:30 am – Breakfast: Country bread toast with Iberian ham and coffee

09:00 am – Visit to an Iberian ham winery and curing facility:

  • Learn about the curing process of Iberian ham, from the selection of the pieces to drying and storage.
  • Take part in a tasting to appreciate the different qualities and flavors

10:30 am – Guided excursion to the Dehesa del Estero caves:

  • Explore these natural caves near the river estuary, discovering their geological formation and the wildlife that inhabits them

11:30 am – Seafood workshop at the port:

  • Visit the fishing port and join a short activity where you’ll learn how to select and prepare fresh local seafood, such as wedge clams (coquinas) and prawns

12:00 pm – End of the trip:

  • After the final activities, return to points of origin

Meeting point

Rural accommodation in Medellín
Day 1: Medellín
Day 2: Medellín, Fregenal de la Sierra
Day 3: Fregenal de la Sierra, Segura de Leon
Day 4: Segura de Leon, calera de león
Day 5: calera de león, Cabeza la Vaca
Day 6: Cabeza la Vaca, Fuentes de León
Day 7: Fuentes de León, Cumbres mayores
Day 8: Cumbres mayores, Puerto Moral
Day 9: Puerto Moral, Higuera de la sierra
Day 10: Higuera de la sierra, Cortegana
Day 11: Cortegana, Minas de Riotinto
Day 12: Minas de Riotinto, Palos de la Frontera
Day 13: Palos de la Frontera

❖ 12 nights of accommodation with breakfast and dinner (pre-arranged menu), in rural, local, or charming accommodations.



Available or similar accommodations:

➢ Medellín – Hostal Rio or Hostal La Cabaña

➢ Fregenal de la Sierra – Hotel Cristina or Hotel Sierra Fregenal

➢ Segura de León – Hotel Rural la Teja or Casa Rural la Fuente or Apartamentos Gigonza 

➢ Calera de León – Hostal Sierra de Tentudía

➢ Cabeza la Vaca – Casa Rural Fuente del Coso or Hotel las 3 Encinas

➢ Fuentes de León – Los Molinos Apartments or Hotel Convento San Diego

➢ Cumbres Mayores – La Rábida Rural Accommodation or Buffalos Cabins Lodge

➢ Puerto Moral – Casa Millán or Hotel Convento Aracena

➢ Higuera de la Sierra – Las Jimenas or Casa Rural el Téjar

➢ Cortegana – Hotel Sierra Luz or La Posada de Cortegana or Casa Rural Príncipe De Cortegana 

➢ Minas de Riotinto - Hostal Atalaya o Old England House

➢ Palos de La Frontera – Hotel La Pinta or Hostal La Niña


Available restaurants or similar:

➢ Medellín – La Palapa Restaurant or Quinto Cecilio Restaurant

➢ Fregenal de la Sierra – Pedro Carloto Restaurant or Montanera Restaurant

➢ Segura de León – La Teja Restaurant or Hervas Restaurant

➢ Calera de León – El Balcón de Tentudía Restaurant or Mesón Extremadura

➢ Cabeza la Vaca – Casa Vicente Restaurant or El Faro Restaurant

➢ Fuentes de León – La Taberna de Noa Restaurant or Aquarium Bar

➢ Cumbres Mayores – Pata Chica Restaurant or Mayma Restaurant

➢ Puerto Moral – Bar Marry or Kiosko Plaza San Pedro

➢ Higuera de la Sierra – Jacarandá Restaurant or La Colmena Restaurant

➢ Cortegana – El Mirador de Dom José or El Pontón Restaurant

➢ Minas de Riotinto - Restaurante La Fábrica o Restaurante Época

➢ Palos de La Frontera – La Abacería, Monasterio or El Bodegón


❖ The route is available from 1 pax.

❖ The base price includes all services in your own vehicle.

❖ Insurance. (Consult specific cases)


RESERVATIONS:


❖ To choose the ideal hotel or service for you and your special occasion from our carefully curated selection, call us at 935 66 66 61 or write to us at booking@thegenuinetravel.com.

❖ Our team will personalize every detail of your reservation according to your preferences so you can enjoy a truly unique experience.

❖ Flights

❖ Transport

❖ Lunches

❖ Drinks

❖ Fuel

❖ Tolls

❖ Breakfasts and dinners: Any dish outside the pre-arranged menu will be considered an extra and must be paid directly by the client at the establishment.

❖ Everything NOT mentioned in the included section



IMPORTANT NOTE:

Weather conditions: TGTE is not responsible for adverse weather conditions that may affect the route. In case of cancellation or modification of activities and services due to weather phenomena, no refunds or compensations will be provided.

Food intolerances and allergies: It is the client's responsibility to inform in advance about any food intolerances or allergies.

Client responsibility: TGTE is not responsible for any damages, injuries, or accidents the client may suffer during the route, scheduled activities, or any other circumstances arising from their participation in the trip. Premium insurance included. (Consult specific cases)

Modifications due to closures or schedule changes: TGTE is not responsible for itinerary changes caused by site closures, schedule modifications, or adjustments due to seasonal or special events. Alternative options will be provided based on availability.

Late arrival to activities: It is the client's responsibility to arrive on time for scheduled activities. In case of delay, the activity will be considered canceled with no right to a refund.

Official schedules and changes outside official hours: Activities will follow established schedules. If the client wishes to make changes or schedule activities outside official hours, additional charges may apply, subject to availability. Prior consultation is recommended.

Confirmation voucher: Once the reservation is reconfirmed, TGTE will provide the final itinerary along with confirmation of all included services. The client must carry a digital or printed confirmation throughout the route to present at establishments.

Stamp your Magic Passport: During the journey, you will have the opportunity to stamp your Magic Passport, recording the towns you visit. Two formats are available:

Physical format: Can be requested and collected at the tourism office of any Magic Town.

Digital format: Available via the Magic Towns App, where you can digitize your physical passport or keep a digital record.

Becoming a Master Traveler is easy—just keep stamping your passport at each destination and enjoy the experience to the fullest.

Possible accommodations

10 accommodations
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