Added: 04/27/2006 |
Holidays in Palencia -- Appealing Surroundings, Great Cuisine and Fun AttractionsThe region of Palencia is very mountainous, dotted with lakes, often covered with forest land, and drained by the majestic Duero River that meanders west through the region to Portugal. Over at the port in Palencia, things are a little more geared to the tourist, though still pleasantly low-key. With the mountains in the background, the resort winds through the flatlands behind the Badia de Palencia. The deeply indented bay has sheltered waters that are ideal for swimming. The beach is the focus of attention here. It's a narrow strip of sand that is long enough to accommodate the crowds, although you might find more space further southeast, towards Alcudia.
There is an abundance of apartment buildings and hotels in Palencia, on the edge of town, and the noisy main road to Alcudia runs close to most of the seashore. The location is very appealing, especially in the center behind the marina, where old narrow streets indicate the resort's origins as a small port and fishing harbor.
The main square in Palencia accommodates laid-back cafes and the dour facade of the church of Nostra Senyora dels Angels, a sheer cliff face of sun-bleached stone pierced by a rose window.
There are many attractions in Palencia. Via Crucis (Way of the Cross) - the steep and beautiful stone stairway is directly north of the principal square.
At the top, the statue of Mare de Deu del Peu de la Creu is lodged in a simple court yarded chapel. The views out over coast and town are sumptuous. On Good Friday, during one of the most moving religious celebrations on the island, a figure of Jesus is slowly carried by torchlight down from the Oratori to the church of Nostra Senyora dels Angels.
Palencia's cuisine is an attraction in itself. It offers many roast meats and uses a variety of ingredients in the making of its delicious dishes. Palencia's food is succulent and rich. You can taste numerous hot dishes like garlic soups and the classic Castilian soup, made with hogaza bread, olive oil, garlic and paprika, and later garnished with some cured ham and poached eggs. The bread is indeed the main ingredient of this dish, since in this province bread is something of an institution.
With rich cuisine it's no surprise that restaurants are in abundance in Palencia. Casa Damian is a hundred year old restaurant and is believed to be king of the Palencia 'menestra', vegetable and meat stew. It offers regional cuisine such as Palominos Menestra (stew), roasted young lamb, and fritters. The wine cellar is made up of Rioja and Ribera del Duero wines.
La Encina is a typical Castilian carvery. A traditional wood-burning oven is used for roasting suckling lamb. They also offer baked fish and other seafood favorites. There is a set menu of regional Castile and Leon cuisine and a Gourmet menu available.
Palencia also does well for cafes and restaurant. The Cafe Espanyol offers snacks and a good strong cup of coffee, and the Juma serves up first-rate tapas.
With its historic sights, magnificent scenery, delicious cuisine and much more, Palencia is one of the best places in Spain to visit!
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