Other Spain Tourism Guide - Extremadura

Autonomus region Extremadura certainly is an area of 'extremes', situated on the far western side of Spain bordering Portugal. To the north around the Parque Nacional Monfrague stunning sierra peaks are wooded dotted wtih green valleys and pretty villages. This area is a haven for wildlife, and birdwatching and walking holiday territory. The Ruta del Emperador winds across the north in the footsteps of Carlos I culminating at the Monasterio de Yuste at La Vera. Two of Spain's largest rivers cross Extremadura - the Guadiana and the Tajo, with other rivers filtering into these main two. Reservoirs are part of the huge hydrological network providing not just much needed water for crops, but also a source of electric power. Endless plains mix with a series of mountain ranges across Extremadura. Main mountain ranges include the Sistema Central to the north comprising several sierra ranges. Peaks within this range reach upto 2000 metres, with highest peak Calvitero at 2,425 metres. The lower peaks to the south within the Sierra Morena range don't push above 1,140 metres. The landscapes then outside of main Extremadura heritage cities and towns Badajoz, Merida and Caceres are stunningly dramatic.

One of the reasons Extremadura doesn't see a huge influx of international visitors is that it takes some effort to get here. Main Airport Badajoz is served only by domestic flights from Barcelona, Bilbao and Madrid. However, with a little extra effort and connecting flights on from any of these three Spanish cities will prove rewarding. Extremadura is home to some World Heritage cities. Some of Spain's finest Roman ruins sit within the city of Merida and in Badajoz, Spain's closest city to the Portuguese border, discover the remains of Arab walls, an Alcazaba and sample some ancient Extremadura recipes in some of Badajoz's restaurants around Plaza de Espana. The Badajoz area also produces its own wines. Zafra to the south is known as mini Seville and occupies a stunning location at the foot of the Sierra de Castellar. Zafra's rich heritage includes an Alcazar dating from the 15th century. For more tourist information on this dramatic Spanish region see Extremadura's regional tourist webguide right, and individual Extremadura city weblinks.