Ruta de Carlos V
The place
The Ruta Carlos V follows the route taken by Emperor Charles V (Charles I of Spain) in 1556 from the Port of Laredo (Cantabria) to the Monastery of Yuste (Extremadura), where he retired to spend the last years of his life. About 600 km in 25 stages through Castile and Extremadura, passing through Burgos, Valladolid, Medina del Campo, Plasencia and La Vera. It is a historic route through the heart of imperial Castile, with numerous castles, cathedrals and palaces.
Why go
Burgos and its Gothic cathedral (UNESCO). Valladolid, a royal city. Monastery of Yuste, where Charles V died in 1558. Vera de Plasencia and its hot peppers (pimentón de La Vera PDO).
A bit of history
In 1556, Charles V abdicated and made the journey from Laredo to Yuste, the last journey of a Grandee of Spain across the lands of his empire. The route was rediscovered and waymarked in the 1990s to commemorate this historic journey.
Getting there
Laredo (official start): bus from Bilbao (1h30). Cuacos de Yuste: bus from Plasencia. By car from Madrid.
Recommended gear
Lightweight walking shoes. Sunscreen (the Meseta and Extremadura are very sunny). Water.
Best season
March to May and October to November. Avoid July-August (extreme heat in Extremadura).