Feria Nacional del Queso de Trujillo

The Feria Nacional del Queso de Trujillo is an annual event celebrated in Trujillo, a town in the province of Cáceres, within the autonomous community of Extremadura, Spain. This cheese fair, known in English as the National Cheese Festival of Trujillo, has gained both national and international recognition, attracting cheese producers, connoisseurs, and enthusiasts from around the world.

The Feria del Queso de Trujillo typically takes place in the spring, around the end of April or beginning of May, transforming the main square of Trujillo (Plaza Mayor) into a bustling marketplace. The event showcases a wide variety of cheeses, with a special focus on the regional cheeses of Extremadura, but also featuring a range of national and international cheeses. Extremadura is renowned for its cheese production, particularly for the Torta del Casar, Queso de la Serena, and Ibores cheeses, all of which have Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status.

The Feria Nacional del Queso de Trujillo offers a unique opportunity for producers to display their finest cheeses, for visitors to taste and purchase a wide array of products, and for everyone to participate in related activities, such as tastings, workshops, and competitions. The fair not only promotes the cultural and gastronomic heritage of Trujillo and Extremadura but also fosters the exchange of knowledge and techniques among cheese producers.

Over the years, the Feria Nacional del Queso de Trujillo has grown in size and reputation, becoming a key date in the gastronomic calendar of Spain and attracting increasing numbers of visitors from across the globe. Its celebration contributes significantly to the promotion of quality artisanal cheeses and supports local economies.

How to get to the Feria Nacional del Queso de Trujillo?

If You’re Starting from Within Spain

By Car:

• Trujillo is well connected by road, located approximately 250 km southwest of Madrid. The A-5 motorway (Autovía del Suroeste) is the most direct route if you’re coming from Madrid or the central region of Spain.
• From the north (e.g., from Salamanca), you can take the A-66 (Autovía Ruta de la Plata) and then connect to the EX-A1 towards Plasencia, followed by the EX-208 to Trujillo.
• If you’re coming from the south, like Seville, the A-66 northbound is a good route, with a similar change at Mérida to join the A-5 heading towards Madrid, exiting at Trujillo.

By Bus:

• There are regular bus services connecting Trujillo to major Spanish cities like Madrid, Cáceres, and Mérida. The bus journey from Madrid to Trujillo takes about 3 to 4 hours and is operated by several bus companies, such as Avanza.

By Train:

• Trujillo does not have a train station, so if you prefer rail, you can travel to nearby cities like Cáceres or Mérida and then catch a bus or rent a car to reach Trujillo. The train network in Spain is operated by Renfe, and you can check their website for schedules and fares.

If You’re Starting from Outside Spain

By Air:

• The nearest international airports are in Madrid (Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport) and Lisbon (Lisbon Portela Airport) in Portugal. From either of these cities, you can rent a car or use public transportation (bus or train to connect to a bus) to get to Trujillo.

Where to stay during the Feria Nacional del Queso de Trujillo?

In Trujillo, Spain, you have a variety of accommodation options while visiting the Feria Nacional del Queso de Trujillo ranging from charming boutique hotels nestled within the historic town walls to rural guesthouses offering a peaceful retreat in nature. Here are a few recommendations:

1. El Mirador de las Monjas: Situated in Trujillo’s Old Town next to the castle, this hotel offers stunning views over the Extremaduran countryside, air-conditioned rooms, a terrace, and a restaurant. It’s praised for its warm reception and excellent breakfast.
2. Parador de Trujillo: Located within a beautifully converted convent, this parador offers exceptional accommodation with a blend of historical charm and modern comforts. Guests love its central location, friendly staff, and the quality of its restaurant. The converted monastery setting provides a unique atmosphere, making it a standout choice for staying in Trujillo.
3. Hotel Boutique Posada Dos Orillas: Found within the walls of Trujillo, close to the Plaza Mayor where the Feria Nacional del Queso de Trujillo is located, this hotel is set in a 16th-century building. It boasts spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a patio. Its location and the charm of its accommodations come highly recommended by guests.
4. Airbnb Options: For those looking for something a bit different, Trujillo offers a range of Airbnb accommodations, from cozy cottages in the countryside to stylish flats within the town. Options with popular amenities such as kitchens, Wi-Fi, pools, and free parking are available, allowing you to choose the perfect stay based on your needs.
5. Casa Rural El Recuerdo: A guesthouse located in a peaceful part of Extremadura, ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers. It offers huge, clean rooms, nice breakfasts with very good coffee, and home-cooked dinners with local products.

Each of these accommodations provides a unique way to experience the Feria Nacional del Queso de Trujillo, whether you’re looking for the convenience of staying within the historic town center or the tranquility of the surrounding countryside.