Scott and Karla at the Plaza Mayor in Salamanca.

A Brief Visit with Karla & Scott in Salamanca & El Escorial

Felix Wong's avatar
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In May, I had the pleasure of reuniting with my friends Karla and Scott from Fort Collins, who were on an exhilarating seven-week trip through Spain. Our paths aligned as they reached Salamanca, coinciding with my volunteer work at VaughanTown Puerta de Gredos. What followed was a whirlwind of exploration in Salamanca and El Escorial.

As luck would have it, a Spaniard named Anna at VaughanTown kindly offered to drive me to Salamanca, which was conveniently close to her hometown. Grateful for her generosity, I bid farewell to the picturesque countryside of VaughanTown Puerta de Gredos and embarked on a journey to Salamanca. Upon arriving at the vibrant Plaza Mayor, I easily found Karla and Scott amidst the bustling square.

The following day, after indulging in an invigorating run through Salamanca’s enchanting city center, I rendezvoused with Karla and Scott. Together, we embarked on a train journey to El Escorial, a charming town nestled amidst the scenic landscapes of Spain. 

Upon our arrival in El Escorial, we were greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the majestic El Escorial Monastery. Later that evening, we had the opportunity to witness a thrilling cycling race, cheering on the dedicated athletes as they pedaled up what looked to be a brutal uphill stretch on cobblestones. 

The next day, we eagerly embarked on a guided tour, exploring the intricate architecture and learning about the rich cultural heritage preserved within its walls. The sheer grandeur of the monastery left us in awe, and we marveled at the craftsmanship and dedication that went into its creation.

On my last morning in El Escorial, I seized the opportunity to embrace the beauty of the surrounding nature and embark on a memorable run to la Silla de Felipe II. Nestled amidst the tranquil landscape, this historical site offered breathtaking views and served as a perfect reminder of the rich history and natural splendor of the region. As I absorbed the serenity and grandeur of the surroundings, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for being able to travel. 

The visit was brief as I’d return to Galicia soon afterward, but it was fun to see my friends in this part of the world.

Karla, Scott, and Felix having dinner in a restaurant in Salamanca.
Karla, Scott, and Felix having dinner in a restaurant in Salamanca.
Scott and Karla at the Plaza Mayor in Salamanca.
Scott and Karla at the Plaza Mayor in Salamanca.
Scott and Karla having drinks at Bar Alaska Restaurant in El Escorial.
Scott and Karla having drinks at Bar Alaska Restaurant in El Escorial.
Cyclists crossing the finish line after a brutal uphill stretch in the 2023 Memorial David Montenegro cycling race in El Escorial.
Cyclists crossing the finish line after a brutal uphill stretch in the 2023 Memorial David Montenegro cycling race in El Escorial.
A yellow Renault 4TL in El Escorial.
A yellow Renault 4TL in El Escorial.
Scott and Karla having dinner with the San Lorenzo Royal Monastery in the background.
Scott and Karla having dinner with the San Lorenzo Royal Monastery in the background.
The Real Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial.
The Real Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial.
I ran to the Silla de Felipe II in El Escorial on my last morning there.
I ran to the Silla de Felipe II in El Escorial on my last morning there.
The view of El Escorial from the Silla de Felipe II.
The view of El Escorial from the Silla de Felipe II.
A final breakfast with Karla and Scott in El Escorial.
A final breakfast with Karla and Scott in El Escorial.