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Uclés in Cuenca from the air

«Uclés in Cuenca: Of castles, wines and sunflowers! Discover the hidden charm near Madrid.

Discover what to do and what to see in Uclés Cuenca , a beautiful town 1 hour from Madrid that will make you fall in love.

Hello friends! Today I want to tell you about a hidden gem very close to Madrid: Uclés, a municipality in La Mancha with a special charm for me. My husband and his family have origins here and almost every summer we drop by for at least a week. As a mother of two children and a lover of traveling throughout Europe, I can tell you that Uclés is one of those places that you cannot miss as a family or as a couple. Get ready to discover a destination full of history, culture and fun in your route through the province of Cuenca!

About us

We are the kucavana familyWe traveled with our two children, ages 8 and 11, and our adopted dog Max. We usually travel in our motorhome called Kucavana, hence the name of our blog (Anna as a baby didn't know how to say motorhome and said Kucavana), but we also like to travel by bicycle touring or by plane and backpacking. We enjoy every learning experience as a family and we hope to help you enjoy it as much as we do. We do it by traveling.

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1. Uclés: where is it and why visit this Manchego municipality 1 hour from Madrid

Located just one hour from Madrid, Uclés is a magical corner in the province of Cuenca. Its old town preserves the essence of bygone times and transports you to a time full of legends and traditions.

Why visit it? Well, because here you will find an impressive historical heritage, delicious gastronomy and the opportunity to immerse yourself in a calm and welcoming atmosphere.

Arriving at Uclés with our motorhome, in front of the medieval gate of Uclés
Arriving at Uclés with our motorhome, in front of the medieval gate of Uclés

2. How to get to Uclés in Cuenca

If you dare to visit Uclés, you have different options to get here:

By car, motorhome or van on the highway

If you travel in your own vehicle, you can take the A-3 motorway from Madrid in the direction of Valencia. About 90 kilometers from the capital, you will find the exit to Uclés. The journey is comfortable and fast, and I assure you that the views are worth it.

By high-speed Omio train to Madrid and there in Atocha bus to Tarancón and taxi to Uclés in Cuenca

If you prefer to use public transport and you are from Barcelona, ​​for example, you can take a train Omio, cheap and high speed, to the Madrid station. From there, take a bus at the Atocha station to Tarancón. Once in Tarancón, you can take a taxi that will take you directly to Uclés.

3. What to see in Uclés and what to do in Uclés

The time has come to explore Uclés and enjoy all its wonders! Here is a list of places and activities that you cannot miss during your visit:

Uclés Monastery in Cuenca, also called the Little Escorial
Uclés Monastery in Cuenca, also called the Little Escorial

Ucles Monastery

The imposing Monastery of Uclés, in Cuenca, is a must stop. Its walls tell stories of times past and its architecture will take your breath away. Also, if you are lucky, you can enjoy one of the exhibitions or cultural events that are held inside.

Towers of the old castle of Uclés in Cuenca
Towers of the old castle of Uclés in Cuenca

Towers of the old castle of Uclés

Continuing our tour, we find the towers of the old castle of Uclés. From the top of these towers you can contemplate spectacular panoramic views. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture unique moments!

The old walls of Uclés in Cuenca
The old walls of Uclés in Cuenca

Ramparts

The old walls of Uclés are witnesses of the history of this town. Walking around its surroundings will make you feel like you are traveling back in time. In addition, you will find charming corners where you can take pictures and enjoy the medieval atmosphere.

The ruined mill of Uclés
The ruined mill of Uclés

collapsed mill

In Uclés you can also discover a ruined mill that, although in ruins, retains its charm. It is a perfect place for photography lovers, since nature has taken over it, creating a picturesque picture.

Uclés sunflower fields in their splendor in June
Uclés sunflower fields in their splendor in June

fields of sunflowers

During your visit to Uclés, don't miss the sunflower fields. In summer, these beautiful and colorful fields fill the landscape with joy. Prepare your camera and capture the essence of nature in all its splendor!

The Senda de las Huertas de Uclés, a shady place to take a pleasant walk
The Senda de las Huertas de Uclés, a shady place to take a pleasant walk

Walk along the beautiful Senda de las Huertas

If you like to enjoy a quiet and shaded walk, the Senda de las Huertas is an ideal option. This path will take you along the banks of the river that runs through Uclés and will allow you to breathe fresh air through its shadows while admiring the beauty of the surroundings. From this path you can often see fawns in summer and rabbits.

Uclés pond
Uclés pond

Picnic at the Uclés pond

If the weather permits, I recommend having a picnic at the Uclés pond. It is a quiet and relaxing place where you can enjoy a moment of rest while contemplating the reflection of the trees in the water and taking shelter in a good shade.

In Los Picordos, behind the Roman road and on the way to Santiago de Uclés, with beautiful views.
In Los Picordos, behind the Roman road and on the way to Santiago de Uclés, with beautiful views.

Roman road and the Picordos

History buffs will find fascinating the Roman road that runs through Uclés next to the Camino de Santiago in the Picordos, some elevated stone mounds. Walking along this ancient road is like taking a trip back in time and discovering the vestiges of an ancient civilization. You will find it on the road to Santiago next to the Picordos where you will find an incredible panoramic view of Uclés.

Signaling of the central Camino de Santiago that passes through Uclés
Signaling of the central Camino de Santiago that passes through Uclés

Camino de Santiago that passes through Uclés

If you are a pilgrim or you simply like hiking, Uclés is a crossing point on the Camino de Santiago. Take the opportunity to walk a small part of this famous route and live the experience of the ancient pilgrims.

Go for a good DO wine from Uclés

You cannot leave Uclés without trying its wine with Designation of Origin. In this region, the winemaking tradition is very important, and visiting a local winery or bar to taste their wines is a real pleasure for the palate.

The Uclés fountain with 5 spouts. To get married there is a saying in the town that you have to drink water from the 5th pipe.
The Uclés fountain with 5 spouts. To get married there is a saying in the town that you have to drink water from the 5th pipe.

4. Where to eat well

After so much touring Uclés, you will surely get hungry. Here I recommend some places where you can enjoy the delicious local gastronomy:

Uclés Palace House

The Casa Palacio de Uclés is a perfect place to delight your palate with traditional dishes from La Mancha. Its cozy atmosphere and excellent service make this place a must for lovers of good food.

Wine Victim, wine bar with good DO Uclés wines and km0 products

If you are a wine lover, you cannot miss Wine Victim. This wine bar offers a selection of wines from the Uclés Denomination of Origin, as well as local products from kilometer zero. An experience that will awaken your senses!

Bar Perico in the town square for tapas and rations from La Mancha

If you prefer something more informal, Bar Perico is the perfect place to enjoy tapas and portions from La Mancha. Its lively atmosphere and tasty dishes will leave you wanting more.

Cuenca route by motorhome

5. Where to stay in Uclés: rural houses and hotels in Uclés

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Uclés, don't worry, there are options for everyone. Here I mention some hotels and accommodations in Uclés, all of a quiet rural type, which will provide you with a comfortable and cozy stay:

Rural house Puerta del Agua

If you are looking for an authentic rural experience, the Puerta del Agua rural house is an excellent choice in the center of town and with an indoor pool. This charming accommodation will make you feel at home with its warm atmosphere and personalized attention.

Palace House

If you prefer to immerse yourself in the history of Uclés, what better option than to stay at the Hotel Casa Palacio. This old renovated building offers charming rooms and an atmosphere full of elegance and tradition.

Rural house Senda de los Lobos

If you are looking for tranquility and contact with nature and a good swimming pool, the Casa rural Senda de los Lobos is an unbeatable option. Located in the middle of nature, this rural house will allow you to enjoy the peace and beauty of the surroundings while you relax.

By motorhome: Uclés motorhome area

If you travel by motorhome, don't worry, Uclés also has a specific area to park your vehicle. This motorhome area will provide you with all the necessary amenities, such as electricity and water, so you can enjoy your stay without worries.

And there you have it, friends! Uclés is a unique destination near Madrid that offers you history, nature, gastronomy and fun. So don't wait any longer, prepare your trip, visit this charming municipality from La Mancha and let yourself be captivated by its magic. You will not regret!

Happy trip to Uclés, the perfect place to live unforgettable adventures not far from Madrid and Cuenca capital!

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