Gastronomic route in La Mancha with a stop at La Casa del Médico

Talking about Castilla-La Mancha means talking about tradition, culture and, above all, a rich cuisine deeply rooted in Spain’s history. This region, famous for the windmills immortalised by Cervantes, is also the birthplace of some of the most authentic flavours of our cuisine.

In this journey, we invite you to discover a gastronomic route in La Mancha that goes beyond the conventional. We will also make a special stop at La Casa del Médico, a boutique hotel in Urda that has become a place of rest, flavour and culture.

The cuisine of La Mancha: between simplicity and delight

Origins and character of a deeply rooted cuisine

The cuisine of La Mancha is the faithful reflection of its land: simple, strong and generous. Born from a rural context, it is based on local and seasonal products. Its essence lies in the intelligent use of the resources provided by its surroundings: cereals, legumes, game meats, olive oil and, of course, the iconic Manchego cheese. But beyond the ingredients, the cuisine of La Mancha is a tribute to tradition.

Dishes such as migas, pisto manchego, gachas, ajo arriero or tiznao speak of a people who turned ingenuity and austerity into gastronomic virtue.

Must-try dishes on a gastronomic route in La Mancha

Any traveller exploring the lands of La Mancha should include the following classics:

• Migas ruleras: stale bread, garlic, olive oil, pork belly and paprika. A humble dish that becomes the star of local celebrations such as the Día de las Migas in Urda.

• Pisto manchego: a delicious mix of fresh vegetables — tomato, pepper and courgette — served alone or with a fried egg.

• Gachas manchegas: a dense cream made with almortas flour, garlic and pork belly, very popular in rural areas.

• Asadillo de pimientos: roasted red peppers with garlic and cumin, sometimes served with tuna.

• Queso manchego: the king of cured cheeses, made with Manchega sheep’s milk, known for its intense flavour and unmistakable texture.

• Duelos y quebrantos: a dish mentioned in Don Quixote, made from scrambled eggs with chorizo and ham.

And of course, we cannot forget the wines of La Mancha, protected under their own Designation of Origin. Red, white and rosé wines that perfectly accompany any of these delights.

Urda, an essential stop on a gastronomic route in La Mancha

Located in the province of Toledo, Urda is much more than a picturesque village of La Mancha. Here, every celebration is an excuse to cook, share and enjoy. One of the highlights of the year is undoubtedly the National Migas Competition, held every 8 December. On this day, locals from Urda and nearby villages — and even some enthusiastic visitors — prepare large pans of migas outdoors, transforming Urda into a key destination for gastronomic tourism in La Mancha.

But Urda offers much more than a culinary event: its historical heritage, peaceful atmosphere and natural surroundings make it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic experience.

La Casa del Médico: rest, history and flavour in the heart of La Mancha

Amid this traditional setting, La Casa del Médico emerges as an oasis of calm and good taste. Built in 1904, this stately home in Mudejar style has been carefully restored to offer guests a unique experience that combines modern comfort with historical charm.

What makes La Casa del Médico special?

• Slow breakfasts: every morning, guests enjoy a homemade breakfast featuring Manchego cheeses, artisanal breads, natural jams, local cold meats and seasonal fruit.

• Collaboration with local producers: the hotel partners with wineries, olive mills and cheese makers from La Mancha to offer personalised tasting experiences.

• Unique spaces: its inner courtyard, library and cosy common areas are designed for reading, chatting or simply enjoying a leisurely coffee.

Gastronomic route in La Mancha: weekend itinerary

If you’re planning a gastronomic getaway through La Mancha, we suggest this weekend itinerary with a stop at La Casa del Médico:

Friday

• Arrival in Urda and check-in at La Casa del Médico.

• Light dinner at the hotel with typical local products and a glass of Manchego wine.

Saturday

• Homemade breakfast at La Casa del Médico.

• Visit to a nearby winery (such as Bodegas Cristo del Prado in Madridejos or Bodegas Alcardet in Villanueva de Alcardete).

• Lunch in Consuegra, where you can enjoy dishes such as asadillo or Manchego lamb.

• Walk among the windmills of Consuegra and visit the castle.

• Dinner recommended by the hotel based on local gastronomy.

Sunday

• Relaxed breakfast in the hotel’s inner courtyard.

• Visit to the Sanctuary of Cristo de Urda and stroll through the village.

• Tasting of local products before returning home.

Gastronomy as a way of travelling

La Mancha is not just a literary region. It is a land with its own soul, where the pleasure of good food becomes a way of connecting with history, culture and people. Following a gastronomic route in La Mancha means opening your senses, letting yourself be guided by flavours and embracing a slower pace. And if there’s one place that represents this spirit, it is La Casa del Médico.

In this boutique hotel in Toledo, every stay is an opportunity to reconnect with what truly matters: rest, good food and authenticity. So if you’re looking for a getaway that fills you with memories, aromas and unforgettable flavours, look no further.

Book your stay at La Casa del Médico and discover La Mancha through its cuisine. Because the true journey begins with a good dish and a good conversation.