ATLETI IS MADE FROM THE HEART: CHRONICLE OF AN UNFORGETTABLE SATURDAY WITH PEÑA ATLÉTICA CASTAÑERA

Carmen

June 12, 2026

ATLETI IS MADE FROM THE HEART: CHRONICLE OF AN UNFORGETTABLE SATURDAY WITH PEÑA ATLÉTICA CASTAÑERA

There are trips you take to fulfill a commitment, and then there are those that are forever etched into your soul. What we experienced last Saturday at the IX Anniversary of Peña Atlética Castañera in Castañar de Ibor undoubtedly belongs to the second kind.

From the very first moment, they took care of absolutely everything, looking after every single detail of our trip and the hotel, constantly keeping an eye out for us. We found a fan club that is incredibly tight-knit, filled with wonderful, genuine people whose hospitality is the kind you only receive from truly authentic, salt-of-the-earth people. When I accidentally met them three years ago in Guadalupe (also partying, of course!), I already sensed that this fan club was different. That’s why I didn’t hesitate for a second to dedicate a whole chapter to them in the book. And time has proven me right: the club is growing non-stop, and it’s all thanks to their hard work and the power of their community. We had the honor of presenting Merece la peña in a place that actually has its very own chapter written in gold within the book. The welcome couldn’t have been more beautiful, warm, and respectful.

And after the words, life took over—bringing together all age groups, proving that our red-and-white passion knows no generational bounds. The party kicked off at El Chiringuito, with a flawlessly organized event where the waiters were a constant parade of trays loaded with delicious local delicacies. There was time for pure emotion during the tribute to a regular companion of the fan club who, despite not being a Colchonero, received everyone’s love—a perfect reflection of the respect and greatness of these people. In a heartbeat, we were surrounded by laughter, shots, a dip in the river that brought us right back to life, and those spontaneous dances and embraces that truly fill your heart.

The party then moved to their headquarters, and the red-and-white wave literally took over the main street of the village. Between bites of wonderful local products, the keg of Kölsch that we brought as a gift from the Peña Atlética de Alemania vanished in no time, sealing a beautiful brotherhood. A local brass band (charanga) gave it their all, causing cars to stop, neighbors to join in, and the atmosphere to grow wilder with every passing minute. And when night fell, a DJ lit up the whole neighborhood with his lights. It was a proper village party, the kind you truly love, with no pretense other than good vibes and the joy of sharing.

The crowning moment came the next day. While we were having breakfast in one of the local bars, the villagers waved and said hello as they passed by. Absolutely everyone knew who we were. In just a few hours, we had become a part of them.

These are the fan clubs that truly matter. The ones that don’t look like any other because they are pure, unique, and authentic. The ones that give everything from the heart and, with that selfless generosity, live Atleti in the best possible way.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, Peña Castañera! You have left our suitcases full of memories and our hearts overflowing with gratitude. Here’s to many more years! 🔴⚪🌰

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