Cuenca: Worth a side trip from Madrid?
 

The New York Times had an interesting article last Sunday in its Travel section about Cuenca. My Frommer's guide also indicated it was worth exploring. I would appreciate any feedback on Cuenca from those who've spent time there. Thanks.

Quite a few years ago we drove from Madrid via Cuenca to our destinations in the South of Spain and felt it was worth the detour. It was in the Spring and not crowded or busy at all. We spent 2 nights there. The hanging houses are fascinating. So depending upon where u are going and how much time u have I would vote to consider visiting Cuenca.

I like Cuenca. It all depends how much time you have but the AVE now stops in Cuenca from Madrid.

We managed to a few hours in Cuenca in late January while in Madrid for FITUR. It was bit chilly that day, with a biting wind, but well worth the trip. Now that Cuenca is only a short train ride from Madrid, it makes for a good day-trip, even if you only go down for lunch. We had an excellent meal at Restaurante Figón Del Huécar, which is in one of the historic hanging houses.

We only had time to visit the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art and the cathedral, which is quite interesting with its windows in a kaleidoscope of colors, some of which reminded me of the works of Juan Miró.

Hopefully you will have time to walk across the bridge and go over to the parador for a coffee . It is a lovely renovated convent.

Or take a taxi first to the parador, enjoy that, then walk the scenic walk across the bridge . Best photo ops are from the bridge and parador.

Winter can be biting cold, and windy, not very pleasant for strolling.

Cuenca is fascinating but also a hilly town, wear comfy shoes. I like lincasanova's idea: taxi to the parador, San Pablo bridge, Casas Colgadas, Abstract Art museum, cathedral and then from the Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), stroll down to the lower town.

planning to visit Cuenca(as a day trip) as part of our trip to Spain next june(also Madrid and Valencia); can cuenca be done on foot? we are good walkers.Thanks.

yes, of course. it's just the parador is a ways from the train station and then if you start there the rest is not as tiring. It can be beastly hot in summer. And frightfully cold in winter, thus the suggestions. But yes, no problem.

Thanks lincasanova!!!

A lovely town, do not miss it ...