A WINTER VACATION IN SOUTHERN SPAIN

Andalusia (the magical region of Southern Spain), is a land of culture, history, and exquisite food. You’ll experience UNESCO World Heritage sites, visit spectacular mosques and cathedrals, and the best flamenco shows in all of Spain. This area also has an amazing culinary scene… from sherries to classic platters of fresh fried fish, cured hams, olive oil, and other such typical dishes as gazpacho. And you can enjoy all this exquisite cuisine at the endless tapas bars offering some of the best food in Spain.

Hotel accommodations in the historic cities of Andalusia include former palaces turned into elegant boutique hotels with open courtyards, high ceilings, and majestic staircases. It truly is a magical region to experience.

Below are the best times to visit Andalusia and the spectacular cities to explore.

WHEN TO GO?

Southern Spain gets incredibly hot in the summer. The winters are lovely with mild days and cool nights. Unless you have your heart set on exploring the beaches of Costa del Sol, I recommend a winter vacation in Andalusia.

WHAT CITIES TO VISIT?

SEVILLE… The capital of the region of Andalusia is home to architectural and artistic heritage. The streets and squares in the historic quarter are lively and busy. Elegant architecture, old-fashioned street lamps, and horse-drawn carriages create a magical ambience. Fill your days with riding a horse-drawn carriage, enjoying a round of tapas in the bars and terraces of the old town, shopping in the lively commercial areas, and enjoying a flamenco show in one of the city’s tablaos.

GRANADA… With its unmistakable Moorish essence, this city is a blend of ancient and modern cultures, old and modern lifestyles. The citadel of the Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex located in Granada and is today’s most visited monument. Neighborhoods in Granada spread out on the hills in the city. Steep and narrow streets lead to old mosques on which churches have been built and small squares with beautiful views of the Alhambra.

CORDOBA… This thousand year old World Heritage city is a living legacy of different cultures that settled here throughout history. Walking around the old quarter you’ll discover a beautiful network of alleyways, squares, and white-washed courtyards surrounding the Great Mosque which reflects the importance of the city in the Middle Ages.

RONDA… The views from this mountaintop city may be one of the most spectacular in Spain. Ronda is famous worldwide for its dramatic views and for the deep gorge that carries the river through its center. Ronda’s charming old town dates back to the Islamic times. This city is also known as the birthplace of modern Spanish bullfighting as well as for the delicious wines produced in this region.

Discovering Andalusia is a magical experience of different cultures, ancient and modern influences, and exquisite culinary experiences.

I would be honored to help plan your getaway to Spain. Contact me to schedule your complimentary consultation and begin planning!