Rural Gredos

Posted byrkrontheroadPosted inEnglish, Europe, Photography, Spain, TravelTags:, , , ,

Still exercising my English teaching skills, I have often spent a summer week in Europe at an English language immersion retreat in a remote area. The groups that sponsor these sessions are not looking for teachers per se, but native English speakers that enjoy conversation. The attendees are adults from the host country that have a sufficient level of English proficiency to qualify. Their English at the end of the week always shows noticeable improvement, as does their confidence in speaking.

The first session I attended was held in the restored historic village of Valdevilla, Spain, where I became friends with a young Spanish woman and a Pamplona restaurant owner. When I signed up for another in Spain in 2014, it was at a country resort near Gredos, west of Madrid. English speakers and students were scheduled for one-on-one sessions, conversation pairs, and we often walked while speaking.

Friendly locals

And a day in the sleepy town

The people: Activities and puzzles to solve

The organizers

Some accomplished Spanish English speakers and their tutors

I’m at lower right

The language school’s charter bus route took us by the ancient walled city of Ávila. How could I let this opportunity go by when I was so close! I booked an overnight stay and arranged to be dropped off at the Ávila mirador, or lookout, on the way back to Madrid. Who could have guessed it was the weekend of Ávila’s Medieval Festival? (next post)

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Published by rkrontheroad

Writer, photographer, traveler

47 thoughts on “Rural Gredos”

    1. There are students, people sent by their companies, and individuals who just want to improve their language skills. It’s a good mix and a relaxing place for them to practice. Thank you, I loved those scenic reflections.

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  10. I’ve never heard of this language immersion retreat, but sign me up! Having taught English in Europe before (albeit in schools), it’d be nice to flex my language-exchange muscles once more! Never heard of Gredos, but what a beautiful, idyllic town! Goes to show that rural Spain has so much charm and a more laidback atmosphere than the city life!

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  19. Pingback: Medieval Ávila  – Ruth Rosenfeld

  20. What a wonderful experience and region Ruth. Gredos looks lovely, with such unspoilt countryside. I really like the photo of the building with the mountains reflected in the windows. And of the seniors ladies with their inquisitive looks. This post made me think of my own summer camp days teaching Belgian students in England. That sense of camaraderie. Oh, and based on my culinary experiences, I would say a Pamplona restaurant owner would be an excellent friend to have!

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