Extremadura is a largely undiscovered region in western Spain, bordering Portugal and made up of the provinces of Cáceres and Badajoz. Known for its dramatic landscapes, historic towns, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a more authentic and unspoiled Spanish experience. The region is dotted with medieval castles, Roman ruins, and charming whitewashed villages. Mérida, the regional capital, is home to some of the best-preserved Roman monuments in Spain, including a theatre, amphitheatre, and aqueduct. Cáceres, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a stunning old town with cobbled streets and fortified mansions.
Extremadura is also famed for its natural beauty, with vast dehesa landscapes—rolling oak-studded plains that support traditional farming and Iberian pig rearing, producing some of the finest jamón ibérico in the country. Birdwatchers and nature lovers are drawn to Monfragüe National Park, a haven for vultures and other raptors. Despite its wealth of attractions, Extremadura remains off the main tourist trail, making it a perfect destination for travellers seeking tranquillity, history, and outstanding food in a rural setting.