Roman aqueduct, Segovia, Spain,

A day trip out of the city was the plan for today - Toledo or Segovia were the choices. I opted Segovia and wasn't disappointed at all - the deciding factor - fewer tourists according to the information on the internet. And while there were still plenty of them it wasn't too crowded. 

I took a train out of Madrid, then an overloaded bus into the town centre. The aqueduct is the first thing that you see and it's a pretty stunning structure. I don't actually understand how it doesn't topple over but they're pretty huge stones. I stopped for a coffee and a very average croissant and then started the walk up the tourist trail in search of the Gothic Cathedral and the medieval castle which was once a mosque. I'd only gone a little way along and I spotted a patisserie. And I wish I'd found that earlier, so I gave in very easily and the flakiest croissant with almonds and icing sugar was soon consumed - well worth it. And worth it just to see the yummy delights in there. 

It was a pleasant walk, including seeing a puppeteer/busker with his marionette playing a miniature violin. It sounded lovely amid the clatter of a busy tourist street. 

Plenty of little shops along the way - where am I? Ah yes, Segovia, but you know, you could be anywhere nowadays if it weren't for the variations in the buildings. 

The Cathedral was stunning and I spent quite a bit of time in it. It has many chapels, beautiful artwork and the cloisters are a nice place to wander around. I then headed to the Palace which was also nice to look at. 

A late lunch was in order but I didn't feel like spending too much money on the traditional dish of suckling pig that Segovia is famed for. I found a slightly cheaper option in one of the local cafes and it was good. I then headed for the patisserie - Lemon and Mint - that is well known for the typical cake in Segovia - Ponche Segoviano - It is made with custard, cake and marzipan, all held in place with syrup. Very nice, good with coffee. 


It was soon time to head back to the train station and back into Madrid. I met my friend again for a quick drink, then headed home as I had an early start for my next leg of my journey. 


Another good day in Spain!