Indulge in the flavors of Bierzo - a hidden gem of Spain's winemaking heritage. Plan your visit today and experience the essence of Spanish wine culture. Read more
Ponferrada Travel Guide
Discover the medieval charm and culinary delights of this hidden gem in Spain's Northwest
Set above the beautiful Río Sil, in the heart of the Bierzo wine region, Ponferrada is famed for its storybook castle, built by the Knights Templar in the 13th century. Located about an hour and a half west of historic León, on the Camino de Santiago, this laid-back small town with Ancient Roman origins is a beautiful place for enjoying relaxing wine and tapas in the historic center.
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Michelin-starred Restaurant Mu•na (see below) Gastronomy & Wine
Ponferrada’s taverns and restaurants offer a broad range of Spanish specialties, but the focus is on traditional Castilian fare. That means many pork dishes, hearty stews, flavorful sausages, and creamy sheep cheese. Try cochinillo (roast suckling pig), Sopa de Ajo (garlic soup), or cocido (chickpea and pork stew).
Pair the food with the delicious Bierzo wines. Although best known for its exciting developments in Mencía wines, Bierzo also produces limited quantities of red grape varieties like Garnacha Tintorera, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo; and the white grape varieties Godello, Doña Blanca, Malvasía and Palomino, the grape best-known for its use in Jerez’s sherry wines. The most popular Bierzo wines, however, are still Mencías. Top cellars include Dominio de Tares and Alvaro Palacios’ Petalos. The best combine punchy flavor, balanced tannins, and smooth fruity notes into delightful wines that blend well with the area’s varied cuisine.
Guide To Castilla y León Gastronomy: See more
Nearby Wine Regions
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Highlights
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Restaurante Muna
Located opposite the Templar Castle (Castillo de los Templarios), Mu•na is named after the Arabic name (meaning “wishes” or “desire”) alludes to satisfying both your appetite and taste buds. The restaurant is run by Chef Samuel Naveira in the kitchen and Génesis Cardona as sommelier and front-of-house manager. Mu•na’s tasting menu, “Entorno y Memoria,” with wine pairings, offers a modern interpretation of traditional cuisine, highlighting seasonal ingredients from the Bierzo region. In 2021 the restaurant was rewarded a Michelin Star and a Repsol Sun. The celebrate this achievement, the duo got a star tattooed on their wrists. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore their extensive wine list, featuring a wide selection of Bierzo, Toro, and national and international varieties.
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Torre del Reloj
A 16th-century clock tower that was added to later centuries, this is a symbol of historic Ponferrada. An exterior stone staircase on the Calle Carnicerías leads to the tower. At the same time, an archway dubbed the “Arco de las Eras” allows pedestrians to walk under the tower and into the city’s historic center.
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Basílica de la Encina
A lovely basilica tucked into the heart of the old city center.
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Museo del Bierzo
Beginning with the area’s Paleolithic history and spanning historical and societal highlights leading up to modern times, this small museum inside the 16th-century Royal Jail includes art and artifacts about the town and surrounding region.
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Casa de los Escudos
Home to the Radio Museum, a curious collection of antique radio memorabilia, this stone house with touches of late Baroque design makes an enjoyable visit.
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More information
If you would like us to customize an exclusive luxury tour, contact us and let us know your travel plans. We offer luxury food and wine tours for private groups of a mininium two guests. In addition, all of our private, chauffeured tours are available year-round upon request.
