The month when the almond trees blossomis beginning, and National Geographic has no doubt about which is the most beautiful village for a getaway. Located in the province of Burgos, Poza de la Sal combines a natural environment filled with white and pink flowers with a medieval historic center that was declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1982.
And, beyond its charm and beauty, Poza de la Sal is the birthplace of the famous naturalist Félix Rodríguez de la Fuente, director of the program El hombre y la Tierra (Man and Earth) (1974-1980). Visiting it allows you to get closer to his figure and learn about the fields he ran through as a child and which inspired his career.
An inspiring landscape
View of Poza de la Sal. | Editorial credit: Shutterstock
The landscape of this municipality stands out for being dense and varied, as it is located at the crossroads between the Montes Obarenes, the Sierra del Alto de las Cruces, and the Caderechas Valley. It is also very close to Frías, the smallest city in Spain, which adds to the rural atmosphere.
The area is ideal for contemplating the almond blossoms or losing yourself among its many trails. To get to know the surroundings, there is a 5-kilometer circular route that starts in the village, next to the church, and extends through the surrounding area, reaching the countryside.
For those who want a longer route, the Town Hall has other options of 12 and 24 kilometers, which can be done either by bike or on foot. Along the way , you will find crystal-clear water channels, the monastery of Las Clarisas, and privileged views of the village.
A medieval village
Church of San Cosme and San Damián and Féliz Rodríguez de la Fuente. | Editorial credit: Town Hall and Wikimedia Commons
Visiting the historic center of Poza de la Sal is like stepping back in time to a medieval town, as most of its walls are still standing. The church of San Cosme y San Damián, with Gothic elements from the 14th century, stands out and was declared a Site of Cultural Interest in 1974.
Calle Mayor is lined with houses bearing coats of arms, and at number 18 is the birthplace of Félix Rodríguez de la Fuente, marked with a commemorative plaque that allows you to imagine the young naturalist running through his village.
Also linked to its history, you can visit the old Casa de la Administración de las Reales Salinas (House of the Administration of the Royal Salt Mines). As its name suggests, Poza de la Sal was one of the main centers of salt production, reaching 7 million kilos per year. Today it has become an interpretation center that showcases the economic legacy and local identity.
From Madrid, this village is just over 3 hours away by car and is an ideal destination for a getaway where you can see the almond trees in bloom and lose yourself in the medieval streets where Félix Rodríguez de la Fuente grew up.