To climb up to Monfragüe Castle is to discover what true might really is. You can drive right up to the car park and walk up a short stretch – though there are quite a few steps – or go the all-out route, via the Umbría Trail (Red Route in the National Park) which links the Fuente del Francés fountain with the castle.

Once you’re up there, you have several options: go up the tower To experience a truly spectacular natural spectacle, with griffon vultures flying above or below you, visit their chapel whitewashed, or peer into the abyss from the viewpoint overlooking Peña Falcón and the River Tagus. We generally recommend doing all three, taking your time and keeping your eyes peeled. After all, you’re at the highest point in the national park.

And be warned: if you come on a stormy night, you might just bump into the ghost of Princess Noeima, who still weeps in the castle’s nooks and crannies over a forbidden love affair that ended in utter disaster.