Four routes to explore rural, pastoral, and authentic Spain through the Merino sheep

The Caminos de la Merina invite you to explore Spain by following the tracks of transhumance, along four major royal drovers’ roads that cross Castile and León, Extremadura, Castile-La Mancha, Andalusia, La Rioja, and Madrid. They reveal themselves as an invitation to transform pastoral tradition into a vibrant travel experience, as nature, gastronomy, and heritage come together to reveal the wealth of rural landscapes and the enduring authenticity of a culture still alive and kicking in Spain’s villages today. La Plata Royal Drovers’ Road. A journey of over 300 miles linking León to Trujillo, following part of the ancient Roman route known as the Vía de la Plata (the Silver Way). Along the way, travelers can immerse themselves in mountains, dehesa pastures, and historic cities such as Salamanca and Plasencia, exploring monasteries, central plazas, and the vast landscapes of the Castilian plateau. Each stretch offers opportunities to pause in quaint villages, savor artisan cheeses, or stroll along paths steeped in centuries of livestock heritage. Western Leonese Royal Drovers’ Road. Beginning in Babia and Luna, this is the longest route, stretching over 400 miles all the way to Badajoz. This journey crosses snow-capped mountains, endless dehesas, and villages bursting with history, where shepherding heritage still rings out today. The Puerto del Pico, in the Sierra de Gredos mountains, and the Almaraz Bridge spanning the Tagus River stand out as iconic highlights on an itinerary that plunges visitors into pristine nature and the warm hospitality of rural communities throwing open their doors to tourism.

Merino sheep grazing in the Extremadura dehesa © Shutterstock

Conquense Royal Drovers’ Road. A route extending nearly 250 miles, linking the Serranía de Cuenca with the Sierra de Andújar mountains. Travelers will journey through river canyons, pine forests, and wetlands such as the Lagunas de Ruidera, before entering the lands of La Mancha, famed for their wine and cheese. This route culminates in the municipality of Andújar, home to the Iberian lynx and the Spanish imperial eagle—a destination where nature and pastoral tradition intertwine to form an unforgettable experience. Riojan Royal Drovers’ Road. Beginning in the Cameros mountains (La Rioja), this trail descends into the lands of Ciudad Real and Andalusia. Its path crosses mountain villages, historic towns, and wetlands within the Southeast Regional Park, located in the Community of Madrid. The journey leads visitors to discover medieval bridges, stone-walled paths, and landscapes that keep the vibrant memory of transhumant herds alive. An invitation to explore Spain at a relaxed pace, in harmony with the gentle rhythm of shepherds and their sheep.