If you want to go on a trip this summer and experience some rural tourism, we recommend Lerma. It is located in Burgos and is part of the Arlanza region. You will feel like you are in a real medieval museum thanks to its status as a Ducal Villa.
Where do we begin? The Arco de la Cárcel may appear to be an unusual choice, yet it is the ideal place to start your tour of the city's medieval streets. The Gran Plaza, which is much larger than Salamanca's, is reached by walking down Calle Mayor. You can then proceed to the Palace of the Four Towers, which was previously the Duke of Lerma's palace.
The massive Collegiate Church of San Pedro distinguishes itself owing to its ecclesiastical architecture. It is said that angels sing within it because the sound reverberates well. Many convents, such as Santa Teresa and San Blas, are scattered throughout Lerma's streets, making it a city of convents.
Beyond the Plaza de Santa Clara square, we recommend one last stop. On the balcony of the Mirador de los Arcos, also known as Pasadizo del Duque, you will find poetry by Zorrilla.
What's in the immediate vicinity? Don't miss the Monastery of Santo Domingo de Silos and the charming village of Covarrubias, which are part of the Arlanza Triangle and maintain this type of medieval architecture throughout.
You can book a variety of guided tours of the city or surrounding area to entertain yourself or your family. Or you can simply go hiking or cycling in one of the parks or routes on the outskirts.
Lerma is home to many hotels and hostels, all of which are equally comfortable. Unless you choose to stay in a more upscale hotel, such as the Parador Nacional, prices are often low.
Of course, you can't leave Burgos without picking up some decent black pudding and a bottle of wine. The genuine delights in Lerma are the sweets prepared at the convents: marzipan bonbons, nuns' turrón (nougat), and so on.
The patron saint festivities are dedicated to the Nativity of Our Lady, and are celebrated on 8 September with music and masses.
How can you pass up the chance to enjoy a rural holiday in Lerma, one of Spain's most beautiful villages?