Route 5 of 5 through Spain: From Burgos to Barcelona, a return full of memories.

This fifth route isn't just a return trip: it's the conclusion of a unique experience, comprised of five days and five unforgettable journeys. Although our spirits may seem subdued after the emotions we've experienced, the joy continues with every kilometer, accompanying us as we review our experiences and discover new landscapes.

Departure from Burgos: living history within walls.
We set off from the HQ La Galería hotel in Burgos, a city steeped in history that we left behind with a certain nostalgia. Before setting off, we took the opportunity to visit some of its most iconic sites, starting with Burgos Castle and its natural surroundings. This place not only represents the city's origins but also offers a complete cultural experience. From its archaeological remains and walls to the surrounding park—the largest in the city—you can enjoy an environment that combines history, nature, and environmental education, thanks to the Bird Outreach Center.

The visit continues with the Castle Museum and its impressive viewing point, which offers a unique panoramic view of Burgos. We walk along the exterior walkways adorned with explanatory panels that help us understand the evolution of this key fortress in the history of Castile.

From there, we head to the Santa María Arch, one of the twelve ancient access gates in the medieval city wall. Its monumentality makes it a symbol of Burgos's defensive past. The arch connects with the Santa María Bridge, which crosses the Arlanzón River and leads us to the Paseo del Espolón, an iconic 18th-century promenade that has been a meeting point for Burgos residents and visitors for centuries. Its name comes from its location next to the river, in an area that often flooded, which led to its elevation with structures that today allow it to be enjoyed safely from floodwaters.

We concluded our visit to Burgos before the statue of El Cid Campeador, depicted riding on Babieca, brandishing his sword Tizona as he bids farewell to the city and heads off into exile. It's a powerful and symbolic image, perfect for closing this chapter before heading east.
Road to Soria: landscapes, history and flavor.

We take the road to Soria, enjoying a peaceful and picturesque journey, following the course of the Duero River, which rises in the north of the province. This river is a natural and cultural treasure that accompanies us on our journey through mountains and valleys, as we approach our next destination.

Soria welcomes us with its ancient history and strong cultural identity. Nearby is the legendary Numancia, a Celtiberian city and symbol of resistance. But Soria isn't just about its past: it's also famous for its delicious cuisine, especially its star product, the torrezno de Soria. This delicacy of crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside pancetta has become a culinary icon, present in bars and restaurants throughout Spain. Savoring it here, in its native land, is a must—and a pleasure—for any traveler.

Heading to Moncayo: impressive nature.
We continue our journey south of the Iberian Range, where the majestic Sierra del Moncayo rises, a mountain range that stretches between the provinces of Soria and Zaragoza. Its highest peak, known as San Miguel or El Moncayo, is the highest peak in the entire range, boasting breathtaking landscapes and exceptional biodiversity.
At 15 km long and approximately 7 km wide, this mountain range provides a spectacular backdrop for our route. Here, the landscape changes: from plains and riparian forests, we move on to mountains of great character, with expansive views and fresh air that revitalizes body and mind.

Mequinenza: where the rivers meet.
After crossing the Moncayo River, we head to Mequinenza, now in the province of Zaragoza. This town sits on one of Europe's most important rivers, where the Ebro, Segre, and Cinca rivers meet. Its former town was flooded to make way for the enormous reservoir we know today as the Sea of Aragon, a vast artificial lake we circled along the way.
This is where we leave Aragon behind to enter Catalonia, as the landscape changes from mountains and rivers to farmland and quiet villages.

Last villages before the end.
We continue our journey through charming towns like Les Borges Blanques and Santa Coloma de Queralt, which enthrall us with their rural architecture and endless fields. Each town adds another touch to the mural of this experience, amidst secondary roads, changing landscapes, and a rhythm of travel that already becomes nostalgic.

Finally, we culminate our route at the El Bruc service area, just outside Barcelona, where this five-day journey through some of the most iconic landscapes of northern and northeastern Spain concludes.
This concludes a collection of five routes in five days, an intense and enriching experience that will undoubtedly remain etched in your memory.