Why travel to Cáceres? And where is it?

This is where Game of Thrones was filmed? What?

Yes. It is.

Have you heard of Cáceres? If not, you’re about to be glad you have. Tucked into Spain’s Extremadura region, this historic town is about a 2.5-hour drive from Granada or roughly 90 minutes from Madrid. Either way — you have to go.

First, the drive. Getting there is part of the experience. Driving through the Spanish countryside is a must. Coming from California, we’re spoiled — coastline, chaparral, towering sequoias — but the rolling hills, pastureland, and wide-open beauty of Andalusia and Extremadura are stunning in their own quiet way. It's a must do drive. So peaceful and serene.

And then you arrive.

Cáceres is home to one of the best-preserved medieval old towns in Spain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Roman, Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture all live side by side. It feels untouched — which is exactly why it has become a filming location for productions like Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon.

We did get lost for a bit — and were very thankful for our compact car. Driving through the narrow stone streets of Cáceres is not for the faint of heart. As wonderful as Google Maps and Apple Maps are, they weren’t quite accurate enough to navigate the current construction (expected to last over a year) on our way to our three-Key Michelin stay: Atrio.

Well deserved alcolades. They have done it. Blended art, history, and cuisine flawlessly into Atrio Restaurant.

And what a stay. ( Don't be shy. Call Atrio-- they rocked and stayed on the phone as we navigated our way up old cobblestone streets into the historic center of old town. )

Atrio is the vision of chef Toño Pérez and front-of-house master José Polo — a restaurant turned boutique hotel that blends contemporary design with the historic soul of the old city. Located just inside the medieval walls, the property feels like a quiet sanctuary: minimalist architecture, warm textures, artful spaces, and only a handful of rooms for a truly intimate experience.

The concept is simple but extraordinary — a place where gastronomy, architecture, wine, and hospitality come together seamlessly. Atrio is home to a three-Michelin-star restaurant and one of the most celebrated wine cellars in Europe, with vintages that collectors dream about. The cellar was a trip in itself.--the history, the legacy of wines. If you are LOVE wine you MUST come to experience the wine collection. no photos allowed. It’s refined without feeling stiff, luxurious without being overdone. I won’t give too much away — this is one you need to experience for yourself.

When you are here you will probably get a chance to meet the owners. They are gem. What struck me was their dedication and commitment to the people in Cáceres. Again, I’ll let them share with you. Just come. Come experience the hospitality and joy.

Yes, there are museums and historic sites worth visiting. Stroll the streets of the old town, of the most complete old town left standing. But when you’re traveling with teens or active explorers, the outdoors wins. The countryside surrounding Cáceres is wide open and beautiful — perfect for hiking, cycling, birdwatching (this region is famous for it), or simply wandering through landscapes dotted with cork oaks, stone walls, and grazing sheep.

And then there’s the food.

Extremadura is one of Spain’s great culinary regions, known for its bold, rustic flavors and exceptional ingredients. This is the land of Jamón Ibérico de Bellota, where free-roaming acorn-fed pigs produce some of the finest ham in the world. You’ll also find rich sheep and goat cheeses like Torta del Casar, hearty stews, wild game, paprika from nearby La Vera, and olive oils that rival the best in the country. The cuisine is simple, local, and deeply rooted in the land — and absolutely worth the trip on its own.

Oh—-And If you are a wine connoisseur, the wine cellar OMG! You’d drool over the collection of wines. Impressive to say the least. And the stories behind the bottles—-that’s the part I love.

Cáceres may not be the first place you hear about when planning a trip to Spain. But that’s part of what makes it special.

It’s a detour worth taking. A destination in itself. You won't want to leave.