ANDALUSIA : THE SOUTHERN MOST REGION OF SPAIN

Andalusia or Andalucía as it is translated in its native Castellano is the southern most region of Spain, facing Africa. It’s a land of stunning beaches, Alpine mountain landscapes, Moorish whitewashed villages, deserts and olive groves. The all year round mild climate enjoyed in Andalusia makes it one of the most popular destinations in Spain for travellers and holidaymakers who come to enjoy both summer and winter sun vacations. Nevertheless Andalusia has a whole lot more to offer and the different provinces are very distinct in their character, flavour and landscape. The region’s main cities and provinces: Seville, Malaga, Jaen, Huelva, Cadiz, Granada and Almeria, have been a source of inspiration for many and offer wonderful cultural and leisure attractions. The region is home to tapas, Jerez (Sherry) and flamenco. It’s also home to two of the best Holy Week, or Semana Santa celebrations in the Iberian Peninsula, those of Malaga and Seville. Seville is capital and largest city in Andalusia, and it also happens to be one of the most culturally rich cities in Europe. Seville is home to tapas, flamenco and bullfighting, and it is also the keeper of the Archive of the Indies, the historical records which document the history of the Spanish empire. If you want to really immerse yourself in an authentic Andalusian environment, then Seville is an ideal destination. Seville’s coastal sibling, Malaga, is Andalusia’s second largest city, which dates back to 800BC, and also has its wealth of cultural heritage; it was the birthplace of Picasso for one, and holds within its walls many reminders of the prolific artist. The 8th Century Alcazaba Fortress and 14th century Gibralfaro castle, which both stand dominating the city, are two marks of its Moorish occupation. Málaga’s annual feria takes place during august; an exhilarating street festival of flamenco, tapas and vino fino (sherry). The feria (fair) commemorates the re-conquest of the city by Isabella and Ferdinand in 1487 and every year starts off with a spectacular firework display held in the park. The city of Malaga is truly blessed, with its great beaches, seafood, wonderful all-year round climate and a vibrant, upbeat atmosphere. From Malaga and Seville you can explore the rest of Andalusia, from Málaga the Sierra Nevada skiing resort is under two hours drive away, and the rest of the region of Andalusia has so much to offer: rich in cultural heritage, great beaches, spectacular countryside and hospitable people, plus springtime in the region is particularly delightful, generally warm and sunny.