Part 1 :Trip Report, Madrid, Segovia & Pedraza de la Sierra
Jun 28th, 2007, 05:47 AM
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<b>Segovia</b>
We truly enjoyed our time in Segovia. I would suggest at the very least a full day if not an overnight to see this beautiful city.
Be sure to see at the very minimum the <b>Aqueduct, the Cathedral and of course The Alcazar (castle)</b>.
Although the Alcazar has been a number of things besides the actual royal residence, and a fire years ago required some reconstruction of the interiors, we felt transported in time here. We enjoyed taking our time going room to room thinking about what it would have been like there during the different periods.
Following the pamphlets we got from the Alcazar office & the audio guides helped us better enjoy Alcazar, which we loved.
We always use audioguides as they really enhance the experience.
I suggest avoiding peak hours.
Try to arrive before opening to beat the buses of student groups from other areas of Spain, and France. These were just normal teens having good time in large groups with very few chaperones. But really it impacts your enjoyment and ability to see the castle in a calm & enjoyable way. They seem to start arriving at about 10:30 am. Afternoons may also be better but we went in the morning. I would allow a couple of hours there.
The <b>Aqueduct</b> built by the Romans was amazing. No mortar at all. It is somthing that we re visited during our many strolls. The photos of the Aqueduct do not do justice to the enormity of it.
It rained on and off during our days in Segovia province. The rain did keep the temperatures cooler but did keep us indoors when it was raining the hardest. Otherwise we happily strolled along with umbrellas shopping in the many small gift shops and the wonderful bakeries in additions to the sights. To me this would be the town to buy the little gift items for the folks back home. Lots and lots of knick knacks etc.
The rain was actually kind of romantic and gave a different feel from the unusually hot temperatures we initially experienced in Madrid.
We were grateful that we had thought to bring both clothing for warm weather and rain.
Following the recommendations from Maribel's guides and the pamphlets we got from the tourist office was also a big help. Take the time to read about what you are seeing. We loved the vatiations in the styles of the buildings and walls which provided some great photos shots.
The Cathedral was impressive. It was Huge! I believe only second to the cathedral in Sevilla in size (?)
Each chapel was so different. We were able to wander here at our leisure and truly enjoyed it. The elborate work here is something to see.
If you have the extra time go more than once. You will notice differnt things each time.
We truly enjoyed our time in Segovia. I would suggest at the very least a full day if not an overnight to see this beautiful city.
Be sure to see at the very minimum the <b>Aqueduct, the Cathedral and of course The Alcazar (castle)</b>.
Although the Alcazar has been a number of things besides the actual royal residence, and a fire years ago required some reconstruction of the interiors, we felt transported in time here. We enjoyed taking our time going room to room thinking about what it would have been like there during the different periods.
Following the pamphlets we got from the Alcazar office & the audio guides helped us better enjoy Alcazar, which we loved.
We always use audioguides as they really enhance the experience.
I suggest avoiding peak hours.
Try to arrive before opening to beat the buses of student groups from other areas of Spain, and France. These were just normal teens having good time in large groups with very few chaperones. But really it impacts your enjoyment and ability to see the castle in a calm & enjoyable way. They seem to start arriving at about 10:30 am. Afternoons may also be better but we went in the morning. I would allow a couple of hours there.
The <b>Aqueduct</b> built by the Romans was amazing. No mortar at all. It is somthing that we re visited during our many strolls. The photos of the Aqueduct do not do justice to the enormity of it.
It rained on and off during our days in Segovia province. The rain did keep the temperatures cooler but did keep us indoors when it was raining the hardest. Otherwise we happily strolled along with umbrellas shopping in the many small gift shops and the wonderful bakeries in additions to the sights. To me this would be the town to buy the little gift items for the folks back home. Lots and lots of knick knacks etc.
The rain was actually kind of romantic and gave a different feel from the unusually hot temperatures we initially experienced in Madrid.
We were grateful that we had thought to bring both clothing for warm weather and rain.
Following the recommendations from Maribel's guides and the pamphlets we got from the tourist office was also a big help. Take the time to read about what you are seeing. We loved the vatiations in the styles of the buildings and walls which provided some great photos shots.
The Cathedral was impressive. It was Huge! I believe only second to the cathedral in Sevilla in size (?)
Each chapel was so different. We were able to wander here at our leisure and truly enjoyed it. The elborate work here is something to see.
If you have the extra time go more than once. You will notice differnt things each time.
Jun 28th, 2007, 06:15 AM
#82
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We experienced a very pleasant night's sleep at the <b>Hotel Infanta Isabel</b>. The hotel is quiet and the beds comfortable.The water pressure is good and the tubs large.
We use their laundry services for a few items and were glad we did. The cost was reasonable. The maids were always asking if we needed anything like soap or towels. Overall a good place to stay. Again the location is right in the plaza so you could come and go easily, very convenient.
The best thing about it though was the amazing view of the <b> Catedral and the Plaza Espana </b> from our window. Breathtaking!
We also enjoyed a good breakfast there for 9 e each. It looks to be mainly breads and sweets, cakes etc, coffee and juice but you also have the option of eggs & bacon. They are included inthe price but you must ask for them. (No one mentions it nor are there signs)Once you get the hang of that it proves to be a great value and quite good.
We use their laundry services for a few items and were glad we did. The cost was reasonable. The maids were always asking if we needed anything like soap or towels. Overall a good place to stay. Again the location is right in the plaza so you could come and go easily, very convenient.
The best thing about it though was the amazing view of the <b> Catedral and the Plaza Espana </b> from our window. Breathtaking!
We also enjoyed a good breakfast there for 9 e each. It looks to be mainly breads and sweets, cakes etc, coffee and juice but you also have the option of eggs & bacon. They are included inthe price but you must ask for them. (No one mentions it nor are there signs)Once you get the hang of that it proves to be a great value and quite good.
Jun 28th, 2007, 07:37 PM
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<b>Segovia: Restaurante Narizotas</b>
<b>Un Solito Tenedor</b>
Plaza de Medina Del Campo #1
We really enjoyed this interesting & less traditional retaurant in Segovia, which my DH refers to as "the nose place."
The receipt reads "Taberna de un solito tenedor" "Tavern (rated) just one little fork"
I suspect that this is tongue in cheek, or poking fun to the higher end restaurants referred to as "Tres tenedores" "three fork" restaurants.
Someone please enlighten me ..I won;t be offended if I'm wrong.
The name itself "Narizotas" "big nose or big nozes" is quirky too. I don't know the story but someone has a sense of humor. The guy with the big schnoz is on the sign & business cards.
We had a nice menu del dia here. The resturant was lighter, more colorful and modern than the more traditional places. Decorated with original artwork it had a patio, upstairs and downstairs area, the feeling was younger, and more fun.
Tuesday's lunch was again a menu del dia 18E each for the two courses, plus a bottle of very good red wine and desert. The food reflected lighter more modern choices. The fish we selected was bacalao, but not the salty dish of my childhood made by my grandmother (which I actually like) This was also very good.
It was just right and we needed the change the day after our cochinillo fest. The bread here was especially good here. (Some of you are monitoring the extra cost of bread and olives etc in Spain. We found they are always included in menu del dia)
The included desert was a combination of crepes with a creme inside topped with chocolate sauce.
Dh had another sorbete de limon. Fresh & delicious contrast to all the heavy sweets. We had more deserts in the two weeks in Spain than in 6 months at home. Well they were included after all....
A mature and knowlegable waiter served us, very attentive staff in general.
Our total bill for 2 people = E 34,13.
I would recommend for a change of pace or for something other than the traditional.
The website www.narizotas.net did not work, not sure why. In any case a good option for a different meal in Segovia.
<b>Un Solito Tenedor</b>
Plaza de Medina Del Campo #1
We really enjoyed this interesting & less traditional retaurant in Segovia, which my DH refers to as "the nose place."
The receipt reads "Taberna de un solito tenedor" "Tavern (rated) just one little fork"
I suspect that this is tongue in cheek, or poking fun to the higher end restaurants referred to as "Tres tenedores" "three fork" restaurants.
Someone please enlighten me ..I won;t be offended if I'm wrong.
The name itself "Narizotas" "big nose or big nozes" is quirky too. I don't know the story but someone has a sense of humor. The guy with the big schnoz is on the sign & business cards.
We had a nice menu del dia here. The resturant was lighter, more colorful and modern than the more traditional places. Decorated with original artwork it had a patio, upstairs and downstairs area, the feeling was younger, and more fun.
Tuesday's lunch was again a menu del dia 18E each for the two courses, plus a bottle of very good red wine and desert. The food reflected lighter more modern choices. The fish we selected was bacalao, but not the salty dish of my childhood made by my grandmother (which I actually like) This was also very good.
It was just right and we needed the change the day after our cochinillo fest. The bread here was especially good here. (Some of you are monitoring the extra cost of bread and olives etc in Spain. We found they are always included in menu del dia)
The included desert was a combination of crepes with a creme inside topped with chocolate sauce.
Dh had another sorbete de limon. Fresh & delicious contrast to all the heavy sweets. We had more deserts in the two weeks in Spain than in 6 months at home. Well they were included after all....
A mature and knowlegable waiter served us, very attentive staff in general.
Our total bill for 2 people = E 34,13.
I would recommend for a change of pace or for something other than the traditional.
The website www.narizotas.net did not work, not sure why. In any case a good option for a different meal in Segovia.
Jun 29th, 2007, 08:09 PM
#84
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<b> La Granja De San Ildefonso</b>
On a Wednesday we left Segovia and headed La Granja de San Ildefonso. This castle was built by Philip V the grandson of Louis IV in a style to rival Versailles. It is certainly worth the short trip and something to see. We had not tired of the castles and wish we could have had time to see the other on the castle route, especially Coca.
But it was raining pretty hard that day and we were concerned as we had never driven in Spain before. It turned out to be a piece of cake with great roads & highways.
Again I cannot emphasize enough the usefulness of the Maribel's guides for this sightseeing. She was right on so many times. Read the guides.
She suggested to arrive first thing to La Granja, 10 am.
We lagged just a bit and arrived after 10:30 on that rainy Wednesday morning.
We loved the castle. Don't miss it.
The gardens were beautiful and the castle itself beautiful & facinating, despite the rain. DH & I were very much enjoying the castles and royal residences.
Avoid wednesday at all costs. I was told it's a "free day" for European citizens & students. And heed Maribel's advice, get there early.
We lagged about 1/2 hour and got stuck at the La Garnja entrance for another 1/2 hour in a down pour, clogged with about a hundred wet, laughing, fun loving but boisterous teeagers with umbrellas, and another large group of Spanish seniors waiting to get in.
Everyone, got soaked depite the unbrellas. We aren't complaining really it one of those crazy but fun experiences we'll always remember. (but I'll pass on the kidlets next time) Even the staff was giddy, rolling their eyes smiling & and shaking their heads at the craziness of it all.
All in all recommend to go there. The gift shop too.
ttp://www.turismodesegovia.com/default.asp?ban=1
and in Spanish http://www.patrimonionacional.es/granja/granja.htm
On a Wednesday we left Segovia and headed La Granja de San Ildefonso. This castle was built by Philip V the grandson of Louis IV in a style to rival Versailles. It is certainly worth the short trip and something to see. We had not tired of the castles and wish we could have had time to see the other on the castle route, especially Coca.
But it was raining pretty hard that day and we were concerned as we had never driven in Spain before. It turned out to be a piece of cake with great roads & highways.
Again I cannot emphasize enough the usefulness of the Maribel's guides for this sightseeing. She was right on so many times. Read the guides.
She suggested to arrive first thing to La Granja, 10 am.
We lagged just a bit and arrived after 10:30 on that rainy Wednesday morning.
We loved the castle. Don't miss it.
The gardens were beautiful and the castle itself beautiful & facinating, despite the rain. DH & I were very much enjoying the castles and royal residences.
Avoid wednesday at all costs. I was told it's a "free day" for European citizens & students. And heed Maribel's advice, get there early.
We lagged about 1/2 hour and got stuck at the La Garnja entrance for another 1/2 hour in a down pour, clogged with about a hundred wet, laughing, fun loving but boisterous teeagers with umbrellas, and another large group of Spanish seniors waiting to get in.
Everyone, got soaked depite the unbrellas. We aren't complaining really it one of those crazy but fun experiences we'll always remember. (but I'll pass on the kidlets next time) Even the staff was giddy, rolling their eyes smiling & and shaking their heads at the craziness of it all.
All in all recommend to go there. The gift shop too.
ttp://www.turismodesegovia.com/default.asp?ban=1
and in Spanish http://www.patrimonionacional.es/granja/granja.htm
Jun 29th, 2007, 08:43 PM
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<b>Pedraza de la Sierra</b>
The city of <b>Pedraza</b> is a short very pleasant drive from Segovia (About 1 hour for us since we did not know the area but I would say 1/2 hour or 45 minutes drive from Segovia in general.)
When we arrived after the experience at La Granja we saw a beautiful mid evil town appearing to be frozen time time. Though it had it's splendor in the XVI, XVII, & XVIII centuries, today it still retains it's character & charm with cobblestone streets, very old buildings (even the new ones are done to stay within the orginal look of the town) and it's own castle.
It is surrounded by mountains, greenery, and wildlife. We even saw Eks Scrunchy's "Storky" & his spouse many times (they mate for life we were told)
Maribel described Pedraza as "sleepy" during the week and that it was indeed. Restful and relaxing, we took advantage of the beautiful surroundings to savour the last days in Spain before returning to the real world back in California.
We arrived at the hotel <b>Hospederia de Santo Domingo</b> on Wednesday to find we were the only guests in the hotel. We did not mind at all and will go into more detail soon about the stay here and the conclusion of the trip. I am anxious to get to the meal at <b>Yantar</b> and in particular <b> Restaurante Codex Calixtinus </b>.
The days that followed were just splendid! I am anxious to continue but though it's the weekend I work tommorow so please excuse the addional delay in getting to the cordero lechal..
For now here is the hotel. We had room 31 which was great and just upstairs from Scrunchy's but with a real "bird's eye view" of the stork nest. Any closer & we would be in there with them!
I want you all to see this lovely place.
http://www.hospederiadesantodomingo.com/
and
http://www.pedraza.info/
The city of <b>Pedraza</b> is a short very pleasant drive from Segovia (About 1 hour for us since we did not know the area but I would say 1/2 hour or 45 minutes drive from Segovia in general.)
When we arrived after the experience at La Granja we saw a beautiful mid evil town appearing to be frozen time time. Though it had it's splendor in the XVI, XVII, & XVIII centuries, today it still retains it's character & charm with cobblestone streets, very old buildings (even the new ones are done to stay within the orginal look of the town) and it's own castle.
It is surrounded by mountains, greenery, and wildlife. We even saw Eks Scrunchy's "Storky" & his spouse many times (they mate for life we were told)
Maribel described Pedraza as "sleepy" during the week and that it was indeed. Restful and relaxing, we took advantage of the beautiful surroundings to savour the last days in Spain before returning to the real world back in California.
We arrived at the hotel <b>Hospederia de Santo Domingo</b> on Wednesday to find we were the only guests in the hotel. We did not mind at all and will go into more detail soon about the stay here and the conclusion of the trip. I am anxious to get to the meal at <b>Yantar</b> and in particular <b> Restaurante Codex Calixtinus </b>.
The days that followed were just splendid! I am anxious to continue but though it's the weekend I work tommorow so please excuse the addional delay in getting to the cordero lechal..
For now here is the hotel. We had room 31 which was great and just upstairs from Scrunchy's but with a real "bird's eye view" of the stork nest. Any closer & we would be in there with them!
I want you all to see this lovely place.
http://www.hospederiadesantodomingo.com/
and
http://www.pedraza.info/
Jun 30th, 2007, 03:59 AM
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Amsdon....Feliz Cumpleanos!!! I cannot tell you how fabulous this is! I think you are giving Penelope Casas a run for her money. I wish I could sit down with you right now at El Yantar and share the lamb that is at this moment waiting to be sprung from the oven and delivered to the table! Never mind that it is 8am here...!
Keep it up, and don't feel rushed...alll I can think of is how soon I can get back there!
Keep it up, and don't feel rushed...alll I can think of is how soon I can get back there!
Jun 30th, 2007, 05:46 AM
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Thanks Scrunchy. Yantar ymmmm
If you give me you e mail I wil send you (and anyone else) my photoshow which includes Yantar. I don't know how to post it on a site or anything.
Off to work ...
If you give me you e mail I wil send you (and anyone else) my photoshow which includes Yantar. I don't know how to post it on a site or anything.
Off to work ...
Jul 2nd, 2007, 06:42 AM
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<b> Please note due to a technical problem Sunday that prevented me to continue here I continued this report on a new thread under Spain marked Pedraza continuation </b>
Not sure what was up sorry, ams
Not sure what was up sorry, ams
Apr 19th, 2008, 05:31 AM
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Greetings amsdon!
Interesting note about Beckham, it reminded me that, on the drive from the airport, our driver pointed out the stadium where he once played.
It's been fun to go back and read what I wrote, lol. Our trip was originally scheduled for October of 2007...things obviously changed from what we originally had planned.
Now, I'm even more disappointed we didn't make it to Segovia.
Interesting note on the wait staff--we met staff from the Dominican Republic, Phillipines, and Romania that I recall.
It's been fun to re-read this and make connections, know what you're talking about... of particular interest, your notes on the film at the Reina--like a train wreck, I just couldn't take my eyes off it! Should I be concerned? ;-)
Your report was even better the second time around--thank you for posting the links.
Interesting note about Beckham, it reminded me that, on the drive from the airport, our driver pointed out the stadium where he once played.
It's been fun to go back and read what I wrote, lol. Our trip was originally scheduled for October of 2007...things obviously changed from what we originally had planned.
Now, I'm even more disappointed we didn't make it to Segovia.
Interesting note on the wait staff--we met staff from the Dominican Republic, Phillipines, and Romania that I recall.
It's been fun to re-read this and make connections, know what you're talking about... of particular interest, your notes on the film at the Reina--like a train wreck, I just couldn't take my eyes off it! Should I be concerned? ;-)
Your report was even better the second time around--thank you for posting the links.
Jan 6th, 2009, 08:06 PM
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Connecting Part 2 to part one.
(I won't do a two parter again)
Part 2 of trip report
http://www.fodors.com/forums/postrep...en_name=amsdon
(I won't do a two parter again)
Part 2 of trip report
http://www.fodors.com/forums/postrep...en_name=amsdon
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