Once a rather neglected region, known mainly as the home of the rugged conquistadores who carved open the New World for the Spanish in the sixteenth century, Extremadura has built a deserved reputation as one of Spain's most fascinating destinations. Within the region lie the glorious conquistador towns of Cáceres and Trujillo, the stunning preserved Roman remains of Mérida and the wildlife haven of the Parque Natural de Monfragüe.

With agriculture still the prime economic activity it is hardly surprising that the cuisine is of a high standard. Cheese, jamón Iberico, beef and lamb are all prized products, as is the pimentón (paprika) from the Vera valley, a staple of local dishes. Vegetables and fruit are grown across the region, with the cherry trees from the Jerte valley famed for their spring time display as well as their quality.