To the south of Toledo, crossing the waters of the Tajo, the scenery is dotted with holm oaks, olive bushes and farmland, which lead into the Montes de Toledo mountains, with their typical Mediterranean forest vegetation.

On the road to the mountains, and 15 minutes from the Castilla-La Mancha capital, Guadamur is home to one of Spain’s most beautiful castle-palaces, perched atop the small Nativity hill, in the old town itself. Its imposing walled enclosures, keep and battlements are common settings for period films.

Two kilometres from the old town, one of the greatest archaeological treasures in Europe was discovered in the 19th century: the Guarrazar Treasure, made up of different precious gold and stone objects, which include chalices, crosses and 23 votive offerings. The site, which has an Interpretation Centre, conserves the remains of a potential palace and of a sanctuary of the Visigoth King of Toledo.

Heading south, Polán appears, and a few kilometres later, the Cerro de Noez hill, which offers impressive views of the whole region.

After crossing Gálvez, in the Mensalbas environment, there is the Torcón reservoir, a regular meeting place for fishers from around the area.

San Pablo de los Montes is located in the heart of the Montes de Toledo mountains in a setting with stunning scenery. Its slopes and valleys are abundant in deer, roe and wild boar, and birds of prey and griffin vultures are often sighted in the skies. A stroll along some of the nearby paths is an excellent idea, particularly the one leaving the hamlet of Las Navillas, going up to Puerto Marchés, which offers stunning views of the rugged plains and mountains of the Cabañeros National Park.

On the way back to Toledo, Las Ventas con Peña Aguilera is a good spot to rest –the traditional cuisine based on game dishes is highly recommended– and visit workshops and establishments that make leather and hide products, continuing a very popular tradition of crafts.

In Cuerva, highlights include the Church of St. James, the Old Grammarian School and the remains of the Peñaflor castle.