Around León
When visiting León, known for its historic neighbourhoods, multiple monuments and gastronomic offering that wins the hearts of visiting ‘foodies’ from the second they sample their first bite, you should also try to discover other destinations outside of the city. During your trip, we recommend casting your net a little bit further and visiting other places located not far from the city centre that are bursting with charm and intrigue.
The secrets of the province of León were once guarded under lock and key, known only to local people. Now, however, all the information required to experience the beauty of León’s surrounding towns and villages is right at your fingertips. In regions such as El Bierzo —which is ideal for a day trip from the provincial capital— you can find towns and villages brimming with traditional architecture, historic monuments and restaurants that hold their own against those that have Michelin stars to their name. During your time in the area, we recommend finding the time to discover some of the most beautiful villages not only in León but in all of Spain.
One of the jewels where stone reigns supreme is the spectacular city of Ponferrada (114 km from León), with its equally impressive Templar castle, beautiful churches and fascinating museums, such as the Luis Del Olmo Radio Museum. Taking Ponferrada as a base, it is also possible to undertake a route that passes through neighbouring villages such as Molinaseca. This village is well known to pilgrims who traverse the Way of Saint James, who are known to marvel at its urban layout and charming bridge. The Jacobean route also penetrates the municipality of Cacabelos. This town is a real must-visit for wine lovers, as it marks the centre of the Bierzo Designation of Origin and is home to a wonderful Wine Museum.
The town of Peñalba de Santiago is equally remarkable, where the beauty of its stone houses complements its magnificent mountainous surroundings. All those who stroll down its streets take a trip through time without even realising it. A little further out, almost kissing the border with Galicia, is the village of Balboa, which is notable for its structures known as pallozas (single-story huts with cone-shaped roofs) and the remains of an ancient castle. Before leaving the province, be sure to find the time to stop off in Villafranca del Bierzo: a monumental city that also welcomes pilgrims all year-round.
We also recommend visiting La Maragatería: a historical region whose beauty people are only just becoming aware of and whose villages come to life every weekend. One municipality that never disappoints is Astorga (50 km from the city of León), with its beautiful cathedral, original Gaudí palace and delicious mantecados (traditional shortbread from the region). One of the best places to sample the famous cocido maragato (‘maragato’ stew) is the village of Castrillo de Polvazares, where the number of restaurants that offer this dish is unprecedented. Architecture aficionados should also visit Órbigo Hospital, which boasts a remarkable medieval bridge.
Other stand-out points in the province include the municipalities of Riaño, which is enveloped by extraordinarily beautiful landscapes, and Caín and Oseja de Sajambre to the north, when heading towards the Cantabrian Sea.
Outside the city of León there are natural spaces where divine prodigy and human intervention come together to form incredible landscapes. One such example is the ancient open-cast Roman gold mine of Las Médulas. You could also explore the depths of the Valporquero caves, where you’ll realise that another world of fantasy is possible. Lastly, you should remember the best time to practice outdoor sports is when you are on holiday: whether undertaking the Cares Route or exploring the Picos de Europa National Park, which is shared with Asturias and Cantabria,
The province of León, including the capital city and its surrounding areas, represents a fantastic opportunity to enjoy history, culture, nature and gastronomy.