Wednesday 20 November 2013

Wines from Madrid in Conde Duque

Here is another one of those inititives we love about Madrid! Small events in one of the neighbourhoods or 'barrios' that Madrid is famous for. Last month we brought 'Tapapiés' to you, now we are back with the '1st week of wines from Madrid'.

The region around Madrid is not an obvious choice when it comes to wines, but over the years we have discovered that it actually has a lot to offer. There are 44 wineries around Madrid which carry the D.O. or the 'Denominación de Origen' Wines from Madrid quality mark. No less than 21 wineries are open to visitors.

But from today until Sunday there is no need to leave the comfort of the city to try these local wines, as they are brougth to the central barrio of Conde Duque. 34 Establishments in this quaint neighbourhood present different wines from 14 different wineries, to which each of them adds a special gastronomic offer.

If you need another excuse beside trying some new wines to leave the comfort (and warmth) of your home this weekend, then let the charme of de Conde Duque persuade you! This neighbourhood is full of little bars and galleries, nice restaurants and undiscovered corners. You can find more info (in Spanish) on the events' website, and a list of participating establishments on their facebook page.

Want more wine? Check out our wine tasting with Delia or contact us to visit a bodega close to Madrid.

Friday 1 November 2013

Ever considered visiting... a cemetery?

Todays Spanish holiday, All Saints' Day, inspired us to write about one of our very unique visits.

Maybe you have noticed it walking or cycling along the Madrid Río park. The cemetery of San Isidro, the oldest still exisiting cemetery of Madrid. It lies on the south bank of the river, towering over the city. Located there, outside of the city center, in the 1850s so that the stench and the gases from the graves wouldn't reach the city...
 
Nowadays we can enjoy the graveyard, wandering around the monuments and family chapels, but this place houses many famous objects such as the 'Pantheon of the illustrious men' or the floating tomb of Francisco Godía Petriz.

If you are curious about the stories behind the graves then book a guided visit though MadWay.

As an excursion by itself, but also easily combined with one of our cycling tours, such as the Crisis close-up tour. We have excellent guides that can even get you into some of the pantheons... To get an up close and personal experience! Visit our website for more information or contact us by email for a tailor made proposal!