El Astral near Vallodolid

Still staying in the Castilla y Leon region, we travelled further north towards the coast. The drive from Regio to El Astral was a little over a hour. So before we knew it we were at a new campsite for a two-night stop. The lady on reception was very proud of the area and gave us lots of information about Tordesillas, the local town, a ten minute walk from the site.

 

The site overlooks Torsedsillas, which is visible across the river Duero, through a line of trees. The site is comparatively compact, accommodating 140 grass pitches, which are spacious and bordered by trees and low hedges. Alongside the reception is a cafeteria / bar, restaurant and small shop that sells a few essential items and fresh bread and croissants. In this area, the wifi is free but elsewhere on site it has to be purchased. The cafeteria / bar has a terraced area that overlooks a swimming pool (open during the summer months), playground, mini-golf and sports court (that is used for tennis and football). A large toilet block is located next door with toilets, showers, outdoor (but sheltered) dish-washing and laundry facilities and a large line for drying clothes.

 

We picked up a Routes and Trails leaflet from reception which lists 6 different walks / rides in the area. They range in difficulty and distance from 12 to 30 km and all take in the surrounding countryside. One is part of the south-east route from Alicante to Santiago de Compostela, another includes walking up the peak of Carracastro and another leaves from the campsite and travels along the river bank. 

 

The site is only a ten minute walk from the centre of historic Tordesillas. This attractive little town has historic significance because it was here that the Spanish and Portuguese signed a treaty in 1494, to divide the lands of the New World. Attractions within the town include the Plaza Mayor, with its unusual porticoes, churches and the Convento de Santa Clara, decorated with Moorish-style arches and doorways, colourful wall tiles and impressive ceiling carvings. A word of caution: the Convento de Santa Clara is not open on a Monday so plan carefully when considering spending time in the town.

 

Vallodolid is the nearest city and is accessible by bus from Tordesillas. It is the provincial capital and has a lot of history attached to its impressive buildings. There are a selection of palaces and museums to see as well as the city's Campo Grande (green space). The best way to see the city is by foot; trails can be picked up from the Tourist Information office, near the Campo Grande.

 

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