We wouldn't make a mistake if we affirmed that the traveller is in one of the most renowned places and of the greatest tourist tradition of all Salamanca. A mountainous environment, nurtured by valleys covered with forests and furrowed by numerous rivers, it enjoys the highest environmental quality of the district and has been protected under the name of Nature Area of The Batuecas-Sierra de Francia. The towns display valuable folk architecture, which acts as the unique background to festivities, customs and ancestral traditions of great cultural wealth. Local gastronomy is characterized by exquisite stews and roasts, and local crafts are diverse and will undoubtedly surprise the visitor. Peña de Francia The summit of the Peña de Francia, with its monastery dedicated to the Virgin, will serve you as an excellent natural lookout post from which to you can see the whole district, other neighbouring districts and part of the lands of Caceres. From there you can distinguish numerous towns that deserve a leisurely visit. The historical towns of Mogarraz, San Martín del Castañar, Sequeros, Miranda del Castañar or La Alberca could be your starting point, which would enable you to continue descending until you reach the archaeological Valle de Las Batuecas or the river Alagón. If you choose the river Alagón, you will be able to reach the northern most mountains close to Linares de Riofrío and the medieval village of Monleón. Hiking If you are friend of hiking, you will have more than enough opportunities to walk through thick forests, to old gold mines like those of El Cabaco. Travel along marked paths (GR-10, Ruta del Alagón) or enjoy the countless trails and sidewalks that unite the different towns scattered over this privileged area.