Leisurely start then downstairs for buffet breakfast - all to ourselves! The nearby construction work is evidently deterring guests! Regardless, we enjoyed, then checked out, stored our luggage at the hotel and took off up to the old town once again to meet our 11am (Free) walking tour. This was quite a large group - probably about 30 and although the guide was delightful escorting an English language tour was probably not her best option. She really struggled at times trying to explain details and unfortunately a few people showed their frustration. We didn’t mind, felt sorry for her actually- but others were not so happy.
We saw all we wanted and more. The tour began at Zocodover Plaza and covered the important aspects of the three cultures of Toledo as Christians, Jews and Muslims coexisted here until 1492, although originated in Roman times. We wandered around the Cathedral, the town hall, monastery, various other churches and towers and the Jewish quarter. Plenty of great views across the Tajo River. We braved the pretty horrendous heat to later wander around the Alacazar before a much needed cold drink and ice cream. It’s all
about marzipan in Toledo hence Raym’s
flavour choice but I’m still loving the Turon from Seville! And of course there are all the swords and shields overflowing from souvenir shops! Crazy!
Back to the hotel to collect our luggage and the car and headed off at about 2pm on the hours drive to Madrid. We were fairly frazzled from the heat - the car registered 45 degrees when we drove out of Toledo. Didn’t take long to be hitting the approaches of this massive city - and we are very centrally located. Lovely out style hotel with parking on the premises ! Too easy! Enjoyed a relax in our air conditioned room before heading out to explore and eat and drink.
Wow! First impressions were pretty amazing ! We only walked for a about an hour and we were mesmerised by the incredible buildings, statues and monuments. Managed to get ourselves disorientated without too much effort but soon found a nice air conditioned bar for a beer (no sitting outside for us today!)
And, just for the record, Sydney city has nothing to complain about! There is so much roadwork and building refurbishment happening in the central area that it is truly chaotic. So many restaurants and businesses would be cheesed off! We found a restaurant, one of the many Raym had researched, and it proved a great choice. Shared a yummy tuna potato salad that we have had a few times - as well as veal meatballs in mushroom sauce and lamb
skewers with salad. All delicious!
Early night for us after such a hot day!