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The Land of Don Quixote
With over 52 million visitors each year, Spain is one of the most visited countries on Earth. The Costa del Sol and Balearic and Canary islands have seen their tourist industries develop under the sign of the two most important divinities of the modern traveller: the sun and the sea. Further inland, the country varies according to the unique traits of each of its provinces: each community distinguished by its own specific character, and sometimes its own language.
Overview
Towering 650m over the central highlands of Spain, Madrid is the country's capital city. With a population of 3 million inhabitants, Madrid is the political, economic and cultural hub of the country. Though it only has a few major monuments, it features more than 50 museums. The most renowned is the Museo del Prado, which dates from 1819 and is one of the most beautiful museums in all of Europe.
Barcelona was built around its port on the Mediterranean Sea. The long-standing capital of the autonomous community of Catalonia, this city of 1.5 million inhabitants has always had its sights turned north towards Europe, making for a very unique identity, compared to the nation's other cities. The emblem of Barcelona lies in the northern part of the city, in the Eixample district: the Sagrada Familia basilica. Its construction was undertaken in 1884 and it remains unfinished. This stunning testament to the genius of its architect, Gaudí, is topped with spindle-shaped towers and bears witness to its creator's outlandish taste for symbolism and the exuberant shapes of nature.
Hanging from the southern tip of Europe and facing Africa, Andalusia cultivates a strong personality inherited through centuries of travels, conquests and brilliant civilisations. Located at the feet of the Sierra Morena and Sierra Nevada mountain chains, whose highest summits shine under their perpetual snow, the region's palaces, mosques and gardens evoke the golden age of the Moor Kingdoms. The riches may have passed, but the cultural and natural landscape remains the same: flamenco, bull-fighting, unbridled ferias, arid mountains dotted with small villages and the beaches of the Costa del Sol. The sunny Andalusian coastline follows the Mediterranean Sea over some 300km, from Gibraltar to Almería, at the foothills of the Sierras. A veritable tourist Mecca since the 1970s, the Costa del Sol's mild winters and festive summer nights more than make up for its rather stony beaches.
The political and cultural capital of Andalusia, Seville is an energetic little town that loves to celebrate its corridas and annual feria. During Holy Week, masked penitents lead a procession through the city's streets. Central to the city is its Gothic cathedral, third largest in Europe and built during the 15th century on the former site of an Almohad mosque. The cathedral features a funerary monument which is rumoured to contain the ashes of Christopher Columbus, though the fact is disputed by the cathedral of Santo Domingo, in the Dominican Republic, which also claims to hold the explorer's final remains.
A historical and cultural anachronism, Gibraltar is an overseas territory of the United Kingdom whose population is largely catholic and Spanish-speaking. Covering a mere 6km2, its territory, which is only attached to Spain by a long spit of sand, lies behind the famous rock which guards the strait that separates Africa from Europe. Slightly sloping towards the Atlantic Ocean, the Rock of Gibraltar constitutes a 425m vertical wall on its Mediterranean side. Visitors can learn more about the area at the Gibraltar Museum. Home to a number of more or less wild monkeys, the rock, which can only be reached by cable-car, offers an exceptional view of the strait and Morocco.
Four of the 16 Balearic Islands are inhabited. The largest and most visited, Majorca (3,604km2), is also the one whose landscape is the most varied. Its capital, Palma, is located on the southern coast of the island and is surrounded by most of the major beach resorts. Minorca (680km2) is five times smaller than Majorca and much less frequented by travellers. The most easterly of the Balearics, it is a sparsely wooded low-lying island surrounded by craggy cliffs and magnificent coves. The island's capital, Mahón, is located on the eastern coast, above a large gulf. Legend has it that the city's name was the inspiration for the French word mayonnaise, which started appearing on French tables after France's 1756 conquest Minorca. The third largest Balearic Island is the "White Island" of Ibiza (572km2). Its uneven terrain and jagged coasts hide a myriad of isolated creeks. Discovered by hippies and artists during the 1960s, it is a major tourist destination which has nonetheless managed to retain its unique character. The contrasts are striking between the urbanizaciones that surround its beautiful teeming beaches, and the central inland area, where stepped fields abound in poppies in springtime and the farms and fortified villages of Arab inspiration recall Andalusia.
Seven islands of volcanic origin make up the Canaries, which seem to surge from the depths of the ocean, a short distance from Africa. Forming one of Spain's 17 autonomous communities, the islands definitely have a unique character. The largest and most popular island is Tenerife, which lies at the foot of a lighthouse and is commonly referred to as the "island of eternal spring." The island's extremely varied landscape ranges from rocky coasts and volcanic terrain to long sandy beaches and quasi-tropical valleys. On the northeastern part of the island is Santa Cruz, a city with a population of 219,000 inhabitants which became the capital of Tenerife in 1821. Its port, the second largest in Spain, welcomes cargo ships, oil tankers and cruise ships year round.
Where on earth
Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula, between the Mediterranean Sea to the east and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The Pyrenees separate the country from France to the north and it shares a long border with Portugal to the west. The Strait of Gibraltar divides the country from Morocco on the African continent in its southern part. Spain has an estimated population of 43 million inhabitants.
Regions of Spain
> SPAIN
Welcome to a land of contrasts where old and new meld into one, snow topped mountains tower over magnificent beaches, picturesque windmills contrast with 21st century skyscrapers, flamenco rhythms melt into pounding techno beats, and Romanesque churches stand alongside Art Nouveau buildings. Visitors to this fascinating land may be amazed, baffled and intrigued but they will never be disappointed!
> GALICIA
La Coruña
Often referred to as the city of glass due to the many houses that have glassed balconies, La Coruña is a harbour city as well as a trendy holiday resort area located on the northwest coast of Spain.
Lugo
A charming medieval town, Lugo is surrounded by the best-preserved and most picturesque Roman defence walls in Spain. Notable sites are the beautiful Romanesque Cathedral and the Museum, which houses a vast collection of Roman and Celtic exhibits.
Rias Bajas
Spread out along the coast of Galicia, the Rias Bajas (Low Estuaries) were formed after the Ice Age due to glacial melting causing the sea levels to rise and to form these partially enclosed bodies of water.
Santiago de Compostela
An official Unesco World Heritage Site, Santiago de Compostela (Way of St.James), is considered to be one a spiritual capital of the Christian faith and a religious pilgrimage destination for many.
> ASTURIAS
Covadonga
Located in the striking landscapes of the Picos de Europa Mountains, Covadonga is a charming village where the Christian Reconquista (reconquest) of Spain began. According to legend, the nearby cave was said to be the refuge of King Pelayo, where there now exists a shrine to him.
Gijón
Home town of the Spanish author Jovellanos, the most well known attraction in Gijón is the small historical fishing village of Cimadevilla.
Oviedo
A lively university town that attracts many young tourists, Oviedo offers travellers plenty of restaurants, cafés, and an awesome nightlife as well as various historical sites such as the Cathedral of San Salvador and La Foncalada, a beautifully preserved 9th century fountain.
> CANTABRIA
Santander
Located on the northern coast of Spain, this city was the chosen vacation haven for Spanish Royals in the early 1900s. Today, Santander boasts lush green scenery, soaring cliffs and spectacular beaches.
Santillana del Mar
The enchanting village of Santillana del Mar is considered to be one of Spains national monuments. Its almost like stepping back in time in this perfectly preserved medieval village with cobblestone streets, old-fashioned houses and the 12th century Colegiata Church.
> BASQUE
Bilbao
The largest of the Basque cities, Bilbao is most famous for its Guggenheim Art Museum building. The unique, titanium-covered building was designed by Frank Gehry, and inspired a modern makeover of Bilbaos waterfront.
San Sebastian
San Sebastian is a trendy summer resort area only 21 kilometres from the French border. The city is home to many interesting monuments such as the neo-Gothic Cathedral, but it is the marvellous beaches of La Concha, Ondarreta and La Zurriola that lure tourists to the area.
> CASTILE & LEÓN
Avila
One of the best preserved walled cities in the world; Avilas city walls are more than 3 metres thick, around 12 metres in height and 2500 metres long. Avila was home to St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross, whose religious influences are felt all over the city.
What A town renowned for its magnificent cathedral, cloisters, and beautiful palaces.
Getting there Train, bus or car.
Location Approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours from Madrid.
Salamanca
Most tend to fall in love with this captivating city and the friendly residents that you will usually find in the Plaza Mayor (Main Square).The Plaza Mayor is deemed the finest square in Spain and is known as the living room of the Salamancans.
> ARAGON
Zaragoza
A monumental Spanish town full of remarkable landscapes and Spanish Baroque buildings such as the Seo Cathedral, La Lonja and the Palace of the Counts of Sastago.
> CATALONIA
Costa Brava
Spectacular landscapes, stretches of beautiful sandy beaches and brilliant sunshine make the Costa Brava an obvious vacation destination. Cultural treasures, magnificent architecture and mouth watering cuisine make it a must.
What Figueres, Cadaqués and Púbol three towns inextricably linked to Salvador Dalí.
Getting there Train, bus or car.
Location Approximately 2 hours from Barcelona, easily seen on a day trip.
Barcelona
Vibrant, exciting and bursting with energy, Barcelona has quickly established itself as one of Europes favourite destinations. Unique architecture, artistic masterpieces, cutting-edge design, great shopping, mouth watering cuisine, superb wines, an electrifying nightlife, and wonderful beaches the city has it all!
MONTSERRAT
What A Benedictine Monastery set among spectacular mountain scenery.
Getting there Train or car
Location Approximately 1 hour from Barcelona.
GAUDÍS BARCELONA
What Stunning architectural masterpieces that dot Barcelonas cityscape. Passeig de Gracia, Parc Güell, Sagrada Familia, Plaça Reial, to name only a few.
Getting there On foot, bus, or subway.
Blanes
Once a charming fishing village, Blanes has blossomed into a wonderful coastal tourist town, with golden sandy beaches, seafront promenades, traditional street markets and lively nightclubs.
Calella
In Calella, one will find countless restaurants, bars and nightclubs along with golden beaches edged with beautiful promenades.
Pineda
Located in the Costa del Maresme, Pineda has managed to maintain most of its original charm while still offering tourists fantastic beaches and a wide variety of restaurants.
Tossa de Mar
With a more relaxed atmosphere, Tossa de Mar is ideal for families who wish to experience a wonderful beach holiday.
> COSTA DAURADA
Long stretches of golden beaches, stunning Roman ruins, an abundance of art treasures, spectacular nature reserves, sceneries filled with vineyards and olive trees, modern 21st century cities and much, much more the Costa Daurada is a mosaic of sensations, sights and sounds that reflect the history of a culture. Add a wonderful climate, mouthwatering gastronomy, fabulous golf courses, superb sailing and one of Spains largest theme parks, Port Aventura, and you have the makings of a choice destination for discerning travellers everywhere.
> MADRID
Madrid
Home to some of the finest museums in the world and splendid historical sights, the capital of Spain is perhaps almost as famous for its endless array of evening entertainment. When youre in Madrid, night and day become one. Step out of your hotel in the late evening and youll be faced with a flurry of activity. All around you gourmet restaurants, traditional tapas bars, street cafés, pulsating flamenco rhythms, and a thriving club scene will all vie for your attention until the wee hours of the morning.
Segovia
What A spectacular walled city home to a Roman Aqueduct and a spectacular Cathedral.
Getting there Train, bus or car.
Location Approximately a little over an 1 hour from Madrid.
> EXTREMADURA
Merida
Once called miniature Rome due to its importance to the Roman Empire, Merida is the capital of Extremadura and features some of the best preserved Roman ruins in all of Europe.
> CASTILLA LA MANCHA
Toledo
The capital of Castilla la Mancha, Toledo is a small fortified city that overlooks the Tagus River. Narrow and winding streets give way to extraordinary sights such as the Church of St. Tomé and the Santa Maria La Blanca Synagogue.
What An ancient city dating back to the Middle Ages that is a World Heritage Site.
Getting there Train, bus or car.
Location Approximately 1 hour from Madrid.
> VALENCIA
Costa Blanca
The Costa Blanca is among Spains most popular tourist destinations, known for golden beaches, towering palm trees, and a mild climate. Each village in the Costa Blanca has a unique cultural identity; like Villajoyosa, famous for chocolate, or Benidorm, known for summer nightlife and a diverse offering of spectacular hotels and resorts. Plan your holidays amidst the opulent landscapes and dazzling liveliness of the Costa Blanca. Local excursions are available and depart from Costa Blanca!
Valencia City
Famous for its Paella Valenciana (a traditional Valencian dish of rice, vegetables and meat), the city of Valencia offers much more than its great cuisine. Here, one will find a mix of sandy beaches, lively nightlife and historical monuments such as the Cathedral, the Basilica and the Serrano and Quart towers.
> ANDALUCIA
Strong Moorish roots, picturesque villages, rolling hills and rugged mountains make Andalusia one of Spains most fascinating regions. From the Alhambra in Granada to the famed Mosque in Cordoba, youll be treated to stunning architectural wonders, but Andalusia is also the true home of flamenco and bullfighting. With bars, restaurants and clubs open till dawn, Andalusia is one of the countrys most vibrant regions. Here, fiesta is a way of life!
Costa del Sol
Spains most popular tourist destination, the Costa del Sol stretches over 150 kilometres along the countrys southern coastline. The Costa del Sol is lined with towns and villages such as Torremolinos and Fuengirola, which have become fashionable holiday resorts over the years. Golden sand beaches with newly added promenades and several comfortable accommodation choices have made Costa del Sol the most sought after resort area in Spain.
Carmona
The first thing seen when approaching Carmona is the 15th-century tower of the Church of San Pedro dominating the charming and intricate town. Other fascinating monuments worth seeing in Carmona are the gothic-style Santa Maria Church and the Roman necropolis.
Cordoba
Home to The Mezquita, a magnificent Mosque that is also one of the most important in the Islamic World, in Cordoba you will see a picturesque historic Jewish Quarter and El Puente Romano, the Roman bridge built over the Guadalquivir River.
What An incredible city home to La Mezquita and an ancient Roman bridge.
Getting there Train, bus or car.
Location Approximately 2 1/2 hours from Malaga.
Fuengirola
Located between Malaga and Marbella, flanked with hotels and residential apartments, Fuengirola is a favourite destination spot for tourists thanks to 6 kilometres of sandy beaches, among them the renowned Boliches, Gaviotas and Torreblanca beaches. Apart from the general holiday appeal of the fabulous location on the Costa del Sol, Fuengirola offers many interesting sites: The Roman baths at Torreblanca, the Arab Castle of Suhayl and a 7km seaside promenade lined with monuments and sculptures by local artists.
Granada
The crowning glory of Granada is the magnificent Alhambra built at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, overlooking the city below. This complex of palaces and gardens built by the Nazari Dynasty are architectural jewels that are an absolute wonder to see.
What A spectacular city home to the stunning 11th century Alhambra Palace.
Getting there Train, car or bus.
Location Approximately 1 1/2 hours from Malaga.
Malaga
Brilliant sunshine and beautiful beaches have made this region of Spain one of the worlds most popular vacation destinations. Malaga, capital city and birthplace of Pablo Picasso, is a cosmopolitan town with a coastal atmosphere and a flourishing social scene. Dotted along the Costa del Sol (Sunshine Coast), youll find sparkling resorts, spectacular views and never ending entertainment.
Ronda
Inspiration and the setting for a few novels by Ernest Hemingway, Ronda is a lovely town in the mountains of the Malaga province well-known for the plunging gorge of, El Tajo, and the arched stone bridge, Puente Nuevo which links the old town to the new one. Not far from Ronda is the city of Jerez, world famous for sweet wines, prize horses and the city of Marbellas exclusive boutiques and restaurants.
What A stunning brilliantly white town set atop a spectacular cliff.
Getting there Train, bus or car.
Location Approximately 1 1/2 hours from Malaga.
Seville
Allegedly the city of Don Juan, Carmen and Figaro, Seville has numerous monuments that are must-sees. The grand Plaza de España, Maria Luisa Park, the minaret of La Giralda and the Alcazar Palace make Sevilla one of the largest historical centres in Europe.
What A truly unique city with magnificent architecture and fabulous flamenco.
Getting there Train, car or bus.
Location Approximately 2 to 3 hours from Malaga.
Torremolinos
Known for its sandy beaches, restaurants, cafés, shops and exciting nightlife, Torremolinos offers a mix of activities for singles, couples and families from all over the world.
Marbella
What Renowned beach resort of the rich and famous.
Getting there Taxi, car or bus.
Location Approximately 45 minutes from Malaga.
Mijas
What A traditional and very picturesque village along the White Route.
Getting there Car, taxi or bus.
Location Approximately 20 minutesfrom Malaga.
> IBIZA
Ibizas explosive world-famous club and nightlife scene often stretches into the very early hours of the morning and continues throughout the day, making it easy to overlook the traditional charms of the island. Ibizas beautiful Balearic scenery is also host to an enchanting historic town, excellent restaurants with breezy terraces, and balmy beaches ideal for sunbathing, water sports and extreme relaxation under the radiant island sun. Local excursions are available and depart from Ibiza.
> MALLORCA
One of Europes most popular tourist destinations, with the highest rate of hotels per capita almost anywhere in the world, Mallorca is bustling with activity and offers undiscovered landscapes and mysterious island nooks. Roam the verdant mountain regions or enjoy local nightlife until the rising hours of the morning. The golden beaches and mild Mediterranean climate only add to this islands incredible natural beauty and geographical diversity. Local excursions are available and depart from Mallorca.
> MENORCA
The wind that earned Menorca the title of the windy island among the Balearic islands is responsible for maintaining the comfortable temperatures on Menorca, particularly on the coastline. Rain is a rare occurrence, providing ideal conditions for wandering about and exploring the interior, bays and shores of this most tranquil and historically untouched of the Balearic islands. The beautiful seascapes and grassy elevations will provide you with a breathtaking backdrop for your Menorcan memories. Local excursions are available and depart from Menorca.
> PORTUGAL
Fatima
Fatima is one of the most important places of pilgrimage for the Roman Catholic faith. It was here in 1917 that the Virgin Mary appeared to three young children; Lucia, Francisco and Jacinta on five separate occasions. Most of the year, the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is quiet and peaceful, usually visited by locals each day. From May 13 (commemorating the first apparition) to October 13 (the final apparition), close to half a million pilgrims crowd around the Basilica in religious prayer.
Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is built on hills overlooking the Tagus River. One of the towns oldest areas, the Alfama quarter, survived the 1755 earthquake virtually intact and retaining its original medieval layout. In the Belem district, you will find the Monastery of Los Jeronimos and the impressive Belem Tower, both wonderful examples of the rich blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture displayed in Portugal.
> MOROCCO
Casablanca
Casablanca is Moroccos largest city. Along the coast, you will find many fine dining restaurants while around the city centre are: The Cathedral of Sacre Coeur, The Hassan Mosque II and the Jewish Quarter, among others, to discover.
Ceuta
Spanish Morocco is how most people refer to the Spanish city of Ceuta located in northern Africa. A small port city, Ceutas main attraction is dutyfree shopping.
Fes
The oldest Imperial City of the Kingdom of Morocco is Fes, which is brimming with monuments that reflect Moroccos imperial. The Medina (old city) contains over 9000 alleyways in the midst of which you will find the Medersa, the first university of the Islamic world. Tour several mosques, the Royal Palace, the Nejarine Fountain, and of course the Souq (local market) known as the very heart of the city, always buzzing with activity.
Marrackech
At the foot of the Atlas Mountains lies another of Moroccos Imperial Cities, Marrakech. A truly magical city, you will marvel at the many sights and sounds Marrakech offers. The Saadian Tombs, the Royal Palace, the Koutoubia Tower and the Medina and the walled city of Marrakech are all wonders to see. Experience the lively Djemaa el-Fna Square, perhaps the worlds greatest theatre due to its wealth of dynamic entertainers including snake charmers, acrobats, singers, dancers and storytellers.
Meknes
The youngest Imperial City, Meknes is a small but impressive city. You will find most of the citys attractions in the old town (Medina). A must see is the Medinas main square, El-Hdim, which is a smaller version of the main square of Marrakech. Monuments here that should not be missed are: the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, Dar Jamai Palace, the Nejjarin Mosque, the oldest mosque in Meknes and the Dar el Beida Palace. No visit to Meknes is complete without taking time to shop at one of the many souqs for haggling great bargains on souvenirs.
Rabat
The walled city of Rabat is the capital of Morocco and contains several historical monuments and museums. Home to the Royal Palace and the Mohammed V Mausoleum, which contains the Moroccan kings tomb, as well as his son Hassan II, Rabat is also home to the striking Hassan Tower.
Tangier
The real setting of Bergman and Bogarts movie romance Casablanca , today the small port town of Tangier is a popular resort area among Moroccans. Worth seeing are the white-walled Kasbah, the Sultans Garden and the Grand Socco (souq/market).
