Monasterio de Piedra

the Monasterio de Piedra, a monastery founded in 1195 that was by the 18th century a vast monastic establishment. You can tour the older portion of the buildings: the chapter house, the refectory, the Cistercian monks’ cellars and the kitchen that was allegedly the first place in Europe where drinking chocolate, from Mexico, was prepared. A hotel is located within the monastic buildings—see listing. Surrounding the monastery is a lush park watered by the river that flows through the grounds in capricious ways, forming waterfalls and pools of great beauty. Be sure to visit the series of waterfalls La Caprichosa (the whimsical lady) and the 52-meter Cola de Caballo (horse’s tail)—you can see both from a vista point and from underneath in the Iris Grotto. In contrast to the rushing cascades, the lake properly carries the name of Mirror Lake, a truly spectacular natural sight. Buy a ticket at the entrance and follow the arrows for an unforgettable stroll.