There are some cities that I visit, where I find I will stop, look around and sigh. It is just so beautiful to the point that I considered enrolling in a class at the University of Salamanca just so that I could stay a while. The Cathedral, Casa de las Conchas, Casa Lis, the city is filled with architectural marvels and food, lots of good food. Sit and enjoy a drink at Plaza Mayor, one of the largest squares in Spain. If you do stay the night, Parador de Salamanca offers stunning views across the city and historic rooms. When you are ready for your hot chocolate, visit Chocolate Valor.
Chocolate Valor is a Spanish brand with a long history. First set up in 1881, the brand is well known and has locations throughout Spain. Valor seems to make their own chocolate sourced from beans from Ghana and Cote I’voire, the two countries where the majority of the world’s bulk chocolate is sourced from. This is what is used in their signature thick chocolate made with water, as well as their 52% made with milk. Their range of “Gourmet Chocolates” include a 52% from Soconusco, a “Mediterranean” version made of 52% chocolate with hints of orange. The Maya includes a pinch of cinnamon and the Napal is a white hot chocolate. If you can’t decide, you can order a tasting menu with a small cup of all four of these gourmet options. All of the above need to be ordered with hot churros, of course.
There are several Chocolate Valor cafes across Spain. This one is on Plaza del Mercado, 15 in Salamanca, open from 8.30am to 10pm with a break between 1:30 and 5.
