The natural beach of Toledo, which is located at the foot of a spectacular castle

If there's one thing Spain is known for, it's its landscapes, natural surroundings, and beaches that rival the rest of the world. A tour of the country reveals hundreds of enchanting places: from the most secluded coves on islands like Menorca to nearly unspoiled beaches in Andalusia . Countless places also feature natural beaches . While it's true that coastal areas are often sought out, sometimes havens of peace are closer than we think.

It's in the province of Toledo that you'll find one of those natural beaches worth visiting. Although this part of La Mancha is better known for its imposing Alcázar in the capital or for small towns with authentic, renowned designs among their works, water takes center stage in Escalona . It's in this municipality that you'll find a natural beach that stands at the foot of a magnificent castle.

This is Calicantón beach

This fantastic natural beach is located on the banks of the Alberche River , but its beauty is enhanced by the Escalona Castle that crowns the area. While it's not a beach as such, its surroundings certainly give the impression of being on one. With shade-giving trees, sand, and shallow water , it's a perfect choice for a family visit with the little ones.

Many residents of different municipalities in the area come to this beach, but also some residents of Madrid leave the big city to put up their umbrella, spread out their towel, take a dip and have a picnic on Calicantón beach .

This bathing area offers privileged views of Escalona Castle . Its history begins almost 1,000 years ago. It was there that the King of Castile, Alfonso VI , commissioned its construction on top of a hill near the river. At the end of the Middle Ages, Prince Juan Manuel; Constable Álvaro de Luna; and the Marquises of Villena and Dukes of Escalona, Juan Pacheco and Diego López Pacheco, left their personal mark on this building, which has gone down in history as the Court of Prodigies. Today, it is well preserved with solid walls and large towers.