June 3rd – 6th: Salamanca

Salamanca is only 90 miles north of Monfrague, so we arrived there at lunchtime. The campsite we chose was part of a hotel complex just on the edge of the city. A notice directs new arrival campers to hotel reception. It feels odd being booked in by staff in pinstripe trousers instead of shorts and wellies. We’re allocated room number 44. Not sure we’ll get the caravan in the hotel lift. Ah, it’s pitch number 44. It’s a nice big one on the site perimeter, and quiet.

Above is the definitive photo of Salamanca. It’s of the cathedral on the high ground of the old city. The cathedral is the old cathedral and the new cathedral, which is built right next to it and almost surrounds it, being much larger. The new cathedral, rather like the New Forest in England, is actually very old, but not quite as old as the old cathedral (12th century).

This photo above is also a beautiful old building: Salamanca university. The university was founded just after our Oxford, and it was where Michael Portillo (the politician)’s father was a professor before the Spanish Civil War at which time he moved to England. There are many picturesque old streets and buildings in the town.

Here’s the handsome central square, arcaded with shops and the Tourist Information Office. These Offices are often difficult to find, being obscurely signposted, and not particularly informative if you do find them. That would certainly be Victor Meldrew’s opinion, and we are of an age.

Salamanca was the only place in Spain we heard live flamenco music, and that was from a street performer outside the cathedral, who was excellent. We bought one of his CDs, and a good €5 worth it has proved to be.

Good vibes from Salamanca and we would happily return.