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Why go? Andalucia is Spain as you have always imagined it: white-washed hilltowns, Moorish palaces, orange blossom, sequined matadors, flamenco dancers, city carnivals, wave-pounded beaches, sherry ‘bodegas’... clichés perhaps, but no less charming for it. There's a wealth of wonderful buildings, from Seville's little-known Roman ruins to Granada's world-famous Alhambra palace. And there are still some wonderful surprises, from horse-riding through the chestnut woods of Aracena, to snow-shoeing on Spain's highest peak in the Sierra Nevada. Wherever you go, there is an enticing array of unique places to stay, from historic town mansions to charming country retreats, many of which outstrip the state-run paradors. There are more bars than in any other European country, serving some of its finest seafood and sherries. And, with regular 2-hour flights from northern Europe to several Andalucian cities, there is nothing to stop you coming, even for a weekend. The hardest thing will be leaving so soon. Any downsides? Steer clear of the tacky, British-dominated Costa del Sol, a 100-mile stretch from Gibraltar to beyond Malaga. For quiet beaches, head to the Atlantic coast, or east towards Almeria. Beware the cities' midsummer heat, and their petty crime. And, if you plan to visit during one of their world-famous fiestas, you’ll need to book well ahead. Current time/weather In Seville:  |
Activities * Sightseeing Romans, Moors and Christians have combined to leave us, among other sights, Granada’s Alhambra palace; Seville's lofty Giralda cathedral and museums; Carmona’s necropolis; Cordoba’s huge Mezquita mosque and Ronda’s bullring. * Festivals Cadiz’ February carnival outstrips Rio for flamboyance, wit and song, while Seville’s Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril flow with drink and dance. Book early! * Hiking and cycling Sierra Nevada: everything from gentle rambles between Alpujarran villages to 3000m summit ascents. Huelva province: walk or cycle for hours through chestnut woods without seeing anyone. Natural Parks of Torcal and Grazalema: rock formations and stunning flora. * Horse Riding Andalucia has a long equestrian tradition. Many of the fincas (country houses), including La Almuna have stables. * Golf Andalucia boasts over 50 golf courses, half of them on the 'Costa del Golf'. * Windsurfing and watersports Tarifa on the Costa de la Luz is Europe’s hottest windsurfing spot, with year-round winds and excellent waves. * Skiing Europe’s sunniest ski resort, ‘Sol y Nieve’, lies near Granada on the Sierra Nevada (December to April). * Scenic drives and rail journeys Europe’s highest road across the 3400m Sierra Nevada (summer only); the historic ‘Suspiro del Moro’ pass between Granada and Otivar; the breathtaking train journey from Gibraltar to Ronda; and the El Chorro gorge near Torcal. * Shopping Rugs, leather, ceramics, shawls, fans, guitars, inlaid wood and tailor-made boots all make excellent souvenirs. |
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