During some of our past road trips, the distances between places were evenly spaced, and hunger and thirst weren’t dominant thoughts while travelling.

However, one particular day, we drove for miles without a comfort stop until we finally arrived at Almodóvar del Campo.
Small is beautiful. A local bar is the epitome of this in the shape of an unassuming restaurant that you need to search out if you are ever in this beautiful area for more than a few hours. We could have kissed the owner when he and his wife welcomed us with open arms into their cozy dining room.

The neighbouring bar was bustling with locals enjoying lively conversations over fine wine. We let them choose what would be best on this chilly Spanish winter day, and they made a good choice.

As they prepared our meal, they lit the fire and turned on the heater until it was roaring, ensuring we would be warm and comfortable. Our lunch consisted of two flavourful yet straightforward ingredients: ham and green beans, beautifully cooked and served alongside chunks of homemade bread and strong coffee.

We felt like visiting royalty and left with a feeling of warmth that came not just from the fire or the food, but from the genuine hospitality we experienced in this charming small town in Spain.

A warm welcome and a simple appetising meal is worth so much more than a trendy boutique hotel stay. You’re happy to have arrived, and they’re happy to have you there xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I couldn’t agree more with you, Jo. It is one moment that pops up in conversation when chatting about our travels. Give me down to earth people over pretentious.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ahh, good memories. x
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m sure that these travelling memories have added to our resilience bucket and gotten us through the last few years. You would have plenty too from your amazing Camino walks x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Definitely!
LikeLiked by 1 person
These are beautiful.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks very much, and they were lovely people, too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ham and green beans are not a combination I would have put together for a meal, but you look to have enjoyed it. Always nice to have a warm welcome and good food.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, not one I would’ve combined though I still remember the fresh green beans cooked al dente and the ham very tender. It was the warm welcome that stood out the most.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The unplanned and unexpected finds make for great memories. So good to look back on
LikeLiked by 1 person
So very true.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sounds like the right place at just the right time.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Precisely 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
A fine stop and a happy portrait
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Derrick.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a lovely memory, and it looks so cosy there!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was on all counts and gave us the energy to carry on and explore. A big positive.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sounds like the true definition of hospitality. I enjoy visiting local restaurants when I travel. I would have had a little trouble with green beans, though!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Those green beans would put a spring in your step.
LikeLiked by 1 person