Uncontrolled tourist influx in a Spanish lavender town leads to a call for midweek touring alternatives
Nestled in the heart of central Spain, the charming town of Brihuega is a must-visit destination during the lavender season. However, to avoid overcrowding and ensure a more comfortable experience, it's best to plan your visit between Monday and Thursday rather than on weekends[1][2][4].
The local mayor, Luis Vuego, has emphasized the need for visitors to come during the working week, as the town "collapses" under the influx of tourists on weekends, with congested narrow streets and limited parking[2][4]. By visiting on a weekday, you can enjoy the town's medieval streets, Renaissance dwellings, attractive squares, and monuments more peacefully[3].
Additional tips for your visit include arriving early in the day to enjoy the lavender fields before they become busier, considering joining guided tours to avoid parking hassles, and looking out for announcements about new park-and-ride facilities with shuttle buses on the outskirts to alleviate parking challenges near the historic center[2][4].
Brihuega is home to a sea of lavender fields spanning 1,000 hectares of land, making it one of the largest lavender fields in Spain[5]. The town generates €8 million in revenue during the summer lavender season alone[6].
For those looking for a unique way to travel to Brihuega, the "Lavender Train" connects Madrid to Brihuega, with a coach transfer included[7]. The cost for adults to travel on the train is €50, and for children it is €20, according to the Renfe website[8].
In addition to the lavender fields, Brihuega offers various activities such as hiking, photography, and equestrian activity holidays at local stables[9]. The town also hosts an annual bull-run event named a "Festival of Regional Tourist Interest"[10].
Visitors are also encouraged to plan their visits for the autumnal months of October and November when lavender is replaced by fields of autumnal red sumac, providing a stunning contrast to the town's medieval architecture[11].
Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Brihuega offers something for everyone. So, plan your weekday visit and experience the charm of this hidden gem in central Spain.
[1] https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2022/jul/22/the-best-places-to-see-lavender-fields-in-spain [2] https://www.thelocal.es/20220722/brihuega-mayor-urges-tourists-to-avoid-weekends-to-avoid-overcrowding [3] https://www.visitspain.com/en/article/brihuega-guided-tours-to-discover-a-hidden-gem-in-central-spain/ [4] https://www.thelocal.es/20220722/brihuega-mayor-urges-tourists-to-avoid-weekends-to-avoid-overcrowding [5] https://www.spain.info/en/article/the-lavender-fields-of-brihuega/ [6] https://www.elpais.com/elpais/2022-07-22/inenglish/spain/brihuega-lavender-fields-spain-tourism-overcrowding.html [7] https://www.renfe.com/EN/viajeros/cercanias/cercanias-madrid/madrid-a-brihuega/ [8] https://www.renfe.com/EN/viajeros/cercanias/cercanias-madrid/madrid-a-brihuega/ [9] https://www.brihuega.es/en/tourism/equestrian-tourism [10] https://www.brihuega.es/en/tourism/festivals-and-events [11] https://www.brihuega.es/en/tourism/autumn-in-brihuega
- Brihuega, a hidden gem in central Spain, offers a serene weekday visit, allowing tourists to explore its medieval streets, Renaissance dwellings, and attractive squares peacefully without the congestion experienced on weekends.
- To make the most of your visit and avoid parking hassles, consider joining guided tours or seeking new park-and-ride facilities with shuttle buses on the outskirts during the lavender season.
- The town's sea of lavender fields, spanning 1,000 hectares, generates substantial revenue during the summer season and is one of the largest lavender fields in Spain.
- Traveling to Brihuega can be an unique experience with the "Lavender Train" connecting Madrid to the town, with an included coach transfer and affordable pricing for adults and children.
- Besides the lavender fields, Brihuega provides various activities like hiking, photography, equestrian holidays, and even hosts an annual bull-run event.
- Don't forget to plan your visits for the autumnal months of October and November, when lavender is replaced by fields of autumnal red sumac, creating a striking contrast against the town's medieval architecture.
- Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Brihuega caters to all interests, making it a must-visit destination for fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers alike.
