Cuenca

Cuenca's wonderful casas colgadas, or 'hanging houses', which have been built precariously onto, and into, the cliffs and gorges which surround the town, are one of the reasons this little city captures the imagination of so many travellers. These wonderful constructions, but also Cuenca's old town, with its beautiful medieval architecture, are why UNESCO has included the whole city on its World Heritage list. There's limited options when it comes to staying within Cuenca, so many of our Gurus' recommendations for the best places to stay in Cuenca are actually just outside the city, but offer excellent views of the whole spectacular region.

As well as having your mind blown by the seemingly death defying casas colgadas, with balconies built out over oblivion, Cuenca's highlights are the wonderful Gothic cathedral, archaeological museum full of the area's Roman finds and relics and Museum of Spanish Abstract Art - which occupies one of the magical casas colgadas.

What not to miss:

• Visit the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art housing a spectacular collection from the 1950s and 1960s.
• Make a trip to the Convento de las Carmelitas Descalzas and view the spectacular views across the Huécar River Valley.
• Stop by the impressive Catedral de Santa María la Mayor.
• View the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hanging Houses.

Don't forget that as with all popular destinations, the best places to stay in Cuenca may be difficult to book during the peak summer months. So get organised and plan well ahead!

For the location

• The Posada de San Jose has been enchantingly converted from an old monastery. With lots of original charming features like the uneven floors and exposed beams. The modern decor sets off beautifully too. There is a tapas restaurant and wonderful views across the Huecar Gorge. The location couldn't be better, right in the heart of the Historical Quarter.

For a rural guesthouse

• La Casita de Cabrejas is a 13 room guesthouse on a working farm. Rooms are romantic with pastel colours and rustic by design. There is a nice pool and excellent local cuisine. The guesthouse will also help you get the most out of the region as they have their own adventure company.

For luxury

• The Parador de Alarcon is easily one of the best places to stay in Cuenca and area if you're after a spot of luxury. It offers four poster beds, exposed stone walls, antique furniture, gourmet food and fabulous views.

For Families

• The Hotel Boutique Pinar, just outside Cuenca, is a collection of chic bungalows in a secluded setting. Arranged around a saltwater pool, these rooms and family suites are elegantly decorated. And this is a great spot for taking up some of the regions outdoors-y pursuits, like horse riding, cycling, canoeing or walking.

For an apartment or villa

• If you're travelling with family or a group of friends it may be a better option to book a villa or apartment. For a wide range of properties for all tastes and budgets we recommend you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to Madrid-Barajas Airport or Madrid-Cuatro Vientos Airport located 180km from the city. Cuenca lies on the rail route from Madrid to Valencia/Alicante and takes approximately 3 hours.
• Cuenca has a temperate climate with hot summers and cool winters making spring (April - May) and autumn (September - October) the best time to visit.
• If you plan to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Cuenca.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Castile-La Mancha.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.