Free walking tours in Castrillo de Duero and what to see

Must-sees

Castrillo de Duero is the easternmost village in the province of Valladolid, in the heart of the Ribera del Duero. It sits on a slope running down to the Botijas stream, and at the top is the church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, with a Romanesque east end and Baroque alterations, such as the lantern dome visible from afar. In the streets you will find 17th- and 18th-century stone mansions with coats of arms, several fountains and a bridge over the stream.

This is the birthplace of Juan Martín Díez, El Empecinado, a guerrilla leader in the Peninsular War. His statue presides over the town hall square and an interpretation centre tells his story. The villagers' nickname, empecinados, comes from him, after the mud of the stream. In the municipality is the Cuchillejo peak, with views over the valley and, on clear days, towards the mountains. Vineyards surround the village, and there are Ribera wineries within its boundaries.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free tours or regular guided visits in Castrillo de Duero. The village is easy to explore on your own, and the El Empecinado interpretation centre is a good introduction to its history. The most interesting organised activity is wine tourism: many Ribera del Duero wineries open for visits with tastings, and Peñafiel, very close, has much of the choice and the trips from Valladolid.

How long to spend

The village, the church and the interpretation centre take a morning. If you climb the Cuchillejo peak, allow half a day. With a weekend you can add a winery visit and Peñafiel, with its castle and the Provincial Wine Museum, or Roa, across the border in Burgos.

Where to stay

Castrillo de Duero has a few rural houses, ideal if you want silence and to sleep among the vineyards. Choice is limited, so book ahead, especially at harvest time. If you cannot find a room, Peñafiel is the best alternative, with more hotels and restaurants a few kilometres away, and Roa also has places to stay.