The Walled City of Avila

Avila is a 1.5 hour car ride from Rascafria... but what a beautiful ride!

You will pass through the Guadarrama mountains, and then west into the Gredos mountain range, where this majestic and historic city is situated.

The highest city in Spain, Avila's strategic situation allowed the inhabitants to see both the sweeping plains to the north and the rocky mountains to the south.

The most characteristic feature of Avila is its walls, built throughout the 12th century, and renowned for their pristine condition. The walls offer a unique example of medieval architecture, and are two and a half kilometres long, comprising 88 turrets and 9 gates.

Without doubt the best way to get to know Avila is to follow the walls and explore each of the areas beyond the 9 gates.