Day Seven

Southwards, ever southwards

Leaving Gijon at dawn we drove through the mountains which run south of Gijon: the Picos de Europa. We drove a little through this range on our first trip and they are as attractive as anything further north.

Our first stop today was Salamanca, some 330 km away. It is a very large university city and was certainly lively when we arrived. A music group was practising when we arrived at the central square but the main impression was of catholic opulence: i.e. the catholic church showing off its wealth. One church after the other and each competing to be the most ornate. But the city has a distinct charm and we will probably put it on our "overnight stay" list next time!

Travelling another 200 km. almost due south, brought us to Caceres (again unpronounceable). At first glance it seemed a normal (in English mundane) town, but from the main square one enters a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its mediaeval network of streets and ancient buildings. It is quite a surprise and was a good choice of stopover as it is possible to see a lot of the town in one evening.

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