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1 - Flower Pots, Córdoba.2 - Center View, Barcelona.3 - Tapas Tastings, Seville.4 - La Ribera Market, Bilbao.5 - Cristal Palace in Buen Retiro Park, Madrid.

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1 - Flamenco Performance, Spain.2 - Street Market, Granada.

3 - Almudena Cathedral, Madrid.4 - Dom Quixote Windmills, Consuegra.

5 - Las Fallas Fest, Valencia.

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1 - Roman Ruins, Mérida.2 - San Fermin Festival, Pamplona.3 - La Boqueria Market, Barcelona.4 - Cityscape on the Tajo Gorge, Ronda.5 - The Golden Tower Located at the Margin of the Guadalquivir River, Seville.6 - Mae West Room in Dali Theatre and Museum, Figueres.

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1 - Symbol of Camino de Santiago, Burgos.2 - View with Cathedral, Girona.

3 - Puerta de Alcala, Madrid.4 - Sherry Barrels in Bodega, Jerez de la Frontera.

5 - Ruined Tower, Cambados.

INTRODUCING SPAINTOP 10 EXPERIENCES IN SPAIN

DISCOVERING THE ART OF SPANISH CUISINEIn Spain, cooking is an art and the ingredients, the gastronomic specialities and the tasting rituals reflect the geographic diversity, climate and customs.The famous concept of tapas started in Seville, but spread throughout the country, so much so that it is part of Spain’s identity and a customary evening ritual in cities such as Madrid and Barcelona. The common habit of tapear is all about sharing little snacks that bring out the best of local ingredients. Usually each establishment boasts its own specialty so it makes sense to go for a tour through different bars and restaurants.In the Basque country, especially in San Sebastián, tapas are called pintxos and make your mouth water for more, as you eye them up on the bar counters. Bergara Bar is one of the most famous pintxo bars. The city is already renowned for being one of the best cities in Spain for eating out, as all together it has 16 Michelin stars, the Arzak, Martin Berastegui and Akelare restaurants having three each.But besides this unique way of eating, the Spaniards have typical specialities in the different regions. By the coast, on both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, fish and shellfish are prominent, whilst inland, especially in the areas of mountains and valleys, where cattle is bred, you’ll find tasty sausages and dishes made with succulent oven-baked kid.Tomatoes were brought from the Americas by Spanish sailors and are the base for gazpacho, a chilled soup that is very popular in Andalusia. They also brought the delicious chocolate that is served with the churros, an after-hours delight not to be missed in Madrid. But it is the paella from Valencia that is the most distinctive dish, with its creamy rice of shellfish, meat, tomato and red pepper, seasoned with saffron, one of the spices from the legacy of the Moors, winning over the palate of anyone visiting the region.

INTRODUCING SPAIN

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STEPPING BETWEEN HISTORIC AND CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE LARGE CITIES WITH STRIKING FEATURESSpanish architecture is simultaneously a reflection of the country’s history and proof of the charisma of the local people. The Roman constructions, such as the theatre in Cartagena and the incredible aqueduct in Segovia, are just as fascinating as the modern ones, like the Guggenheim in Bilbao and the Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias (City of Arts and Science) in Valencia, which were the drivers of the makeovers of these cities. But in the middle, there’s an array of styles which help make Spain the country with the third most buildings listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.There is an undeniable Moorish influence, more to the south of the country, giving it an exotic feeling. The Arab domination of Spain, with the powerful Al-Andalus kingdom, left many majestic buildings, such as the Mosque of Córdoba and the Alcázar of Seville, as well as a hybrid Mudejar architectural style, which combines Moorish, Gothic and Roman architecture, and was also adapted for numerous forts and monuments. But the greatest example of this period is the Alhambra in Granada, a sumptuous, refined palace and fortress complex, with luxurious gardens. At the same time, the Roman style extended northward, following the Camino de Santiago de Compostela, and Gothic architecture dominated the cathedrals, as is the case of Burgos, Toledo and León.The two biggest Spanish cities, Madrid and Barcelona, have played an important role in bringing two very specific architectural styles to public knowledge. During the 19th century, the Spanish capital became a kind of ambassador of the neo-classical style, which we can see in buildings such as the Museu del Prado and the Museu Thyssen-Bornemisza, whilst in Barcelona, during the 20th century, the city’s expansion opened the way to a proliferation of modernist architecture. Antoni Gaudi, the Catalan architect is a household name, who left various “pieces” throughout the city with his very own, individual and intriguing aesthetics. Examples of these are the Parc Guëll and the Casa Batló, although the Sagrada Família is his masterpiece, which he tragically left unfinished.

Madrid and Barcelona are the two biggest cities in Spain and vie for attention due to their unique environment, experiences and heritage. Apart from size, they have in common the fact that they are both young, cosmopolitan cities, where art is in the spotlight. Madrid, the Spanish capital, was once just a small town between the kingdoms of Castile and Aragon, until its expansion began during the 16th century. Barcelona on the other hand, due to its location by the sea, was famous as a fishing town and became the city it is today following a period of industrialisation, which in the 18th and 19th centuries culminated in the demolition of the old city walls and the expansion of the city into the L’Eixample area.And if we can see the multicultural aspect of Madrid in the neighbourhoods of Malasña and Lavapiés, epicentres of the cultural revolution of Madrid, the same can be seen in Barcelona in the El Born and El Raval neighbourhoods.It is also in the Spanish capital that the famous golden art triangle can be found: Museo del Prado, Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza and Centro de Arte Reina Sofia, three of the most prestigious galleries in the world, all on the same block. But Barcelona will not be outdone, as apart from the artistic legacy of modernism, it is the home to works by two renowned painters: Museo Picasso Barcelona and Fundació Joan Miró, not to mention the historic Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya.The next largest Spanish city, Valencia, has become one of the most modern cities in Spain, with the mega-complex Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias de Valencia (City of Art and Science) and the gardens, Jardines de Turia. On the other hand, Seville, the fourth largest city, in the Andalusian heat, has its very own personality and buzz of life which beats to the Flamenco rhythm, the flavour of tapas, “overseen” by the beautiful cathedral and the royal Alcázar.

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INTRODUCING SPAIN INTRODUCING SPAIN

EXPLORING THE CITIES WITH MULTICULTURAL HISTORY WANDERING THROUGH THE PICTURESQUE TOWNSToledo and Cordoba, in the centre and south of the country, respectively, are two very different cities, but which share the fact that in medieval times they were both home to different communities, cultures and beliefs. The important thing is that these communities lived together in harmony, and left a unique heritage, because it is not so common for them to coexist and stand the test of time.At the time when the Romans used Toledo as a strategic link to other cities, many Jews lived there. And it remained so with the Visigoths and the Moors, who made it the regional centre. With the Christian re-conquest in 1085, Toledo, while still a medieval city, was strikingly liberal with regard to tolerance and cultural diversity. The triangle in the romantic, historic centre formed by the Cathedral, the Santa Maria La Blanca Synagogue and the Mosque, dates back to that period. The Visigoth Museum is also in the middle of that triangle.The same can be said of Cordoba, which was the regional capital for the Roman empire and capital both of the Cordoba Emirate, and the Al-Andalus kingdom, and which, during the Middle Ages, was a city with aqueducts, paved streets with oil lighting, libraries, palaces, public baths and a huge, impressive and luxurious mosque, in contrast with what was at that time a poor, under-educated Europe. Although the Muslims were in the majority, they lived in cooperation with Christians and Jews, so basically there was a common culture shared by the three religions: the same language, the same food, the same clothing, the same art and the same music, whilst religious rituals were kept in the private domain. The Mosque, the Jewish Quarter, the Roman Bridge and the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos are proof of just that.

Spain doesn’t only have big cities and an unparalleled cultural wealth. In fact, its picturesque villages are small, hidden treasures, which, although sometimes remote and with difficult access, are ideal for those who like driving along mountain roads, as they inspire a feeling of immediate retreat, surrounded by calm and tranquillity.In Andalusia, in the provinces of Cadiz and Malaga, the “Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos” (White Villages Route) links small inland villages full of charm with a unique, peaceful aura. The whitewashed houses make a stark contrast to the prominent green of the mountain slopes and the red roofs. The fact that some of them have “la frontera” in their name, identifies them as being battle ground locations, as the Moors retreated to these territories after losing their control of Granada, the last city in their empire to fall under the Christian re-conquest. Amongst the twenty towns of the region, there are two of particular note, Arcos de la Frontera the largest of these “pueblos”, and Ronda, with its breath-taking gorge and the charm of its traditional, colourful houses with window boxes filled with flowers.Aragon, on the other hand, is the least populated region of Spain and many of its treasures remain hidden, with isolated villages, mostly in yellow-coloured sandstone, tucked away at the foot of the Pyrenees, surrounded only by thick vegetation, occasional snow and an impenetrable peacefulness. Some of them are home to architectural gems in the Mudejar style, such as the Albarracin castle or the Colegiata de Santa Maria la Mayor (Church of St. Mary the Great), in Alquezar. Others are of great historical importance, such as the Sos del Rey Catolico, where D. Fernando II of Aragon was born, who, together with his wife Isabel I of Castile, became known as the king responsible for uniting Spain.

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INTRODUCING SPAIN INTRODUCING SPAIN

GETTING TO KNOW THE BEACHES FROM THE NORTH TO THE SOUTH GOING ON THE CAMINO DE SANTIAGOAs Spain is mostly surrounded by sea, it has a long, varied coastline, and you will find that beaches in Galicia are very different from those in Andalusia, for example. In the north, the rough sea has carved dramatic cliffs with hidden, inhospitable stretches of sand, but their outstanding natural beauty gives them an almost dream-like quality.In the south, the gentle waves that lap against the long, sandy beaches and the golden bays provide an idyllic and tranquil environment. Playa de Rodas in the Cies Islands in Galicia, with its stony beach, looks as if a landslide has invaded the idyllic turquoise-blue sea, with the green mountains as a backdrop, and is considered by some to be the most beautiful beach in Spain. But Playa de Mónsul, in Almeria, Andalusia is just as beautiful, and was the set in some of the Indiana Jones films. It is an impressive beach due its crystalline waters, fine sand the lava formations that surround it. But these are just two out of a multitude of other impressive beaches, such as Tossa de Mar, with its majestic castle on the beach, Playa de La Concha, the famous beach in the centre of San Sebastian, Puenta del Fangar, with water both sides of the sand and a famous lighthouse, which has featured in various films, or even the little beaches of Begur, Sa Tuna and Playa del Racó, set in front of the fishing town’s white houses.

You don’t have to be a Catholic, or even a follower of any religion to appreciate the spiritual atmosphere rooted in the Camino de Santiago, which was proclaimed World Heritage by UNESCO, and which thousands of pilgrims have walked since the 11th century.Although there are different starting points, the various routes all end up in the northwest of Spain and basically three paths converge: the Camino Portugues, the Via de la Plata and the Camino Frances.The first one goes north from Braga (in Portugal) to Tui and Vigo, to then arrive at the city of Santiago de Compostela. The second makes the connection from the south of Spain, in Seville, and the third starts in the Pyrenees, passing through Logroño, Burgos and León. These three routes have several things in common: apart from their destination, they have stops at various points of spiritual and cultural interest, such as the beautiful Gothic cathedralsof Seville, Burgos, León and Tui.The nature of the route’s itinerary encompasses a personal, regenerative and carefree aspect: travelling just for the sake of getting to Santiago de Compostela. And the city welcomes the pilgrims on arrival with open arms. The Plaza del Obradoiro, in front of the cathedral, is a pilgrims’ meeting point, where they ‘recharge their batteries’ before discovering the charming city or even before visiting the wonderful, massive cathedral, where the tomb of St. James can be found.

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INTRODUCING SPAIN INTRODUCING SPAIN

ENJOYING THE EXCELLENT WINES EMBRACING NATUREWine production in Spain dates back centuries, as it was first started in the Iberian Peninsula by the Romans. Nowadays, Spain is one of the world’s largest producers and has sixty two wine regions, which are divided into three areas: North West, North East and Centre and South. The variation in the different kinds of climate and the types of soil gives the Spanish wines their different profiles.La Rioja was the first region to be certified and to receive DOC status, and is still one of the most important regions. It is renowned for producing the best red wines in the country, with a subtle aroma and a touch of elegance, mainly due to the region’s conditions and the artisan production, the wines being left to mature in barrels for longer periods of time.If you visit La Rioja you will have ample opportunities to be immersed in this art and tradition, as you can visit vineyards and witness the entire process and taste these marvellous wines in the most picturesque taverns. But Spain also has other typical wines. Apart from Albariño, a very crisp white wine typical of Galicia, Jerez de La Frontera produces Jerez (Sherry), a type of fortified wine, which is sweet and aromatic, with a unique flavour. Among its various phases, the fermentation process includes the “solera” system, which blends the older wines with the younger ones so that the latter can be “educated by them”.

Eight per cent of Spain’s territory is part of a protected area and Spain has over ten such areas on the mainland, scattered across the country, from north to south, and in the different autonomous regions. And they all have their own specific aspects and distinguishing features.To the north, the Pyrenees, which separate Spain from France, are home to the picturesque towns in the Aragon community, and in the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, you’ll find the third highest peak in the Pyrenees, Monte Perdido (3,348m) with trails leading through deep green valleys and mountainous terrain covered with pure white ice and snow, which accumulates in the rocky hollows.Whilst the three mountainous, ridged massifs of the Picos da Europa remind us of the Alps, this national park next to the Cantabria and Asturias coasts has a charm all of its own, so much so that it was made the first national park in Spain. It is one of the most beautiful parks to explore on foot, as you come across the breath-taking lakes, such as lake Covadonga, at the foot of the mountains and the geological formations that are absolute natural works of art, like the Garganta del Cares. The unpredictable weather can sometimes be an issue, but that’s all part of the charm.To the south, the Sierra Nevada has the highest point in mainland Spain, and Mulhacén, the Doñana National Park is a perfect refuge for wildlife and is the habitat of many endangered species and the destination of many other migratory ones. But the fascination of this park isn’t just in the variety of fauna present. It is also about the diversity of the ecosystems, starting with the huge wetland area, and the woods and finally the 28 km of Atlantic beach.

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INTRODUCING SPAIN INTRODUCING SPAIN

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Spanish culture is passionate in the way it commemorates and keeps alive the

past, whilst being at the same time devoted to enjoying every moment of the

present and looking forward to the future. The customs, events and traditions

reflect the essence of what it is to be Spanish: celebrating life with enthusiasm

in so many ways, throughout the entire country. Many of the traditions have

religious roots and often the same festivities take on different forms depending

on the city. For example, although Holy Week is celebrated throughout the

country, it is a powerful ritual in Seville, with impressive processions, dramatic

costumes and beautiful floats carrying the various different saints giving the

whole occasion a medieval aura.

In Pamplona, there are no limits to the devotion surrounding San Fermin, the

patron saint of Navarre, The festivity takes place from July 6th to14th July,

and is one of the wildest in Spain. This designation is mostly due to the bull

run (encierro), where six bulls are released every morning, and charge down

the streets of Pamplona until they reach the bullring, a tradition that is full of

suspense and for which you need nerves of steel.

In Valencia, the Fallas, dedicated to Saint Joseph, herald the arrival of spring and

have a spirit of creativity, with highly-satirical coloured towers made of papier

maché and wood. These are moved through the city, along with fireworks, music

and paella contests, and only one out of over 300 of them is saved from the

bonfire at the end of the party. Near Valencia, in Buñol, on the last Wednesday in

August, the city’s streets are painted red. No, it’s not blood, it is tomato pulp, as

the fruit is used as a type of munition in an amusing, widespread battle, called

Tomatina.

The traditional music of the south of Spain, Flamenco, has no known date or era,

and is the result of a fusion of Roman, gypsy and Moorish cultures, which runs

through the veins like blood and makes the pulse race, warming the soul. It’s

a passionate expression of melancholy, an authentic and improvised art form.

It’s about ardent singing, it’s about the vibration of guitar strings, it’s about the

tapping of shoes on the floor during a dance. In Andalusia, more specifically in

Jerez de la Frontera, the birthplace of this cultural manifestation, there are various

tablaos where you can witness the real Flamenco. However, with the increasing

importance of the art of Flamenco, which has been declared a UNESCO World

Heritage art form, bigger tablaos have been opened in Seville and Madrid, which

combine the art of feeling with the taste of some of the typical flavours of Spain.

INTRODUCING SPAIN

GALICIA

GALICIA

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The capital of the province of Galicia is Santiago de Compostela, whose Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and which is famed for its spiritual dimension, which draws thousands of pilgrims to the city every year. However without wanting to detract in any way from this lovely city and its colossal cathedral, Galicia has much more to offer. It is known as the “land of a thousand rivers”, due to the watercourses that run down from the mountains – ranges that mark the region off from its neighbours Portugal, Asturias and León – into its characteristic rias (downed non-glacial river valleys). And with its some 1,200 km of coastline, Galicia has a wealth of contrasts and a vivid natural beauty. Its relative geographic isolation has meant the region preserving its own language (Galician) and culture, which have an affinity with those of Portugal. Nevertheless, many locals also speak Spanish (Castilian). The abundance of rivers enables Galicia to supply hydroelectric power to the rest of Spain. This is also a region with fairly high precipitation, because of its altitude and proximity to the sea. Rias, beaches, headlands, ports and islands make up the coastal landscape, with some dramatic stretches such as the Costa da Morte (Coast of Death) and the famous Cabo Fisterra (also known as Cape Finisterre), while the interior features green hills and valleys, scattered with isolated stone villages and ancient churches. It is a predominantly agricultural region dotted sparingly with towns, as well as having a few very active ports in coastal cities such as A Coruña (La Coruña in Spanish) and Vigo. It is in these cities, too, that Galicia really comes to life, with urban centres packed with restaurants, bars, shops and many other attractions. The fresh fish and shellfish, and dishes such as caldeirada galega, a well-seasoned fish stew, are among the culinary specialities that are not to be missed.

GALICIA

GALICIA

1 - Inside Santiago Cathedral, Santiago de Compostela.2 - Octopus Slices, Galicia.3 - Horses Sculpture, Vigo.4 - Celtic Menhir Monument, A Coruña.5 - Herreos of Combarro, Pontevedra.6 - Plaza del Obradoiro and Cathedral, Santiago de Compostela.

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ASTURIAS & CANTABRIA

ASTURIAS & CANTABIA

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The heir to the Spanish throne bears the title Prince of Asturias, and perhaps only a natural paradise of this kind is worthy of a future king. Given the small size of this autonomous community and its neighbour it is relatively easy to traverse both fairly rapidly, but do try and linger a little longer. Located in northern Spain, between Galicia and the Basque Country, this area is a popular holiday destination for some Spaniards, while others hesitate to explore it because of its changeable climate: here bright sunshine can give way to mist and even rain in a single day. But it is this same climate that helps make the region abundant in vegetation, earning it the name of Costa Verde (Green Coast). Then there is the fact that the two communities are linked by the fabulous Picos de Europa National Park, whose immense green and blue mountain landscape of flora and lakes has also been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The region also boasts extensive apple orchards that enable Asturias to continue to produce its most popular drink, cider. The rugged coast forms beaches, inlets, bays and capes along which the main cities are dotted, including bustling, urbane Gijón and elegant, modern Santander. Further inland is Oviedo, the capital of Asturias, with its romantic aura and charming historical buildings. These major cities contrast with most of the rest of the region, with its small, quiet coastal towns and isolated rural stone houses in the foothills. The region is known for the diversity of its landscapes and customs, but you can also find prehistoric art here, such as in the caves of Altamira.

ASTURIAS & CANTABRIA

ASTURIAS & CANTABRIA

1 - Historic Caravel with which Christopher Columbus discovered America, Santander2 - La Laboral Public City of Culture, Gijón.3 - Niemeyer Center, Avilés.4 - Cable Car, Picos de Europa.5 - Fabada Asturiana, Asturias.6 - Old Roman Bridge, Cangas de Onis.

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BASQUE COUNTRY, NAVARRA & LA RIOJA

BASQUE COUNTRY, NAVARRA & LA RIOJA

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There is no doubt that this region on the frontier between Spain and France is unique. Firstly because – in the case of the Basque Country – it is split between those two sovereign states, and secondly because it has its own language, Euskara, which is in no way related to Latin tongues. The fact that it is also the only part of Spain that was little affected by invasion also contributed to the strongly separatist character of the area. The Basque Country is known for its fabulous beaches, the modern architecture of its cities and its excellent cuisine. Navarre, meanwhile, celebrates Spanish traditions in grand style, while La Rioja is known for its fabulous wines and medieval heritage. All this is set in a predominately green landscape, with the high Pyrenees in the background.

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12 - Bay View, San Sebastián.13 - Puente de Piedra, Logroño.14 - Chapel of Santa Catalina, Mundaka.15- Canapes Allusive to San Fermín Costumes, Pamplona.16 - La Ribera Market, Bilbao.17 - Wine Barrels of the Great Bodegas, Haro.

BASQUE COUNTRY, NAVARRA & LA RIOJA

BASQUE COUNTRY, NAVARRA & LA RIOJA

PYRENEES & ARAGON

PYRENEES & ARAGON

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Hemmed in by mountains at the foot of the Pyrenees, Aragon is an oasis of calm relative to its neighbours, Catalonia and the Basque Country. Here a swathe of green covers valleys and mountains that are spotted with the white of glaciars and small pueblos (villages) in stone, such as enchanting Albarracín. Spain’s broadest river, the Ebro, runs through Aragon, and Aneto, the highest mountain in the Pyrenees, also stands here. This traditionally rural region has seen a major flux of the population into the big cities, leaving the countryside all but untouched by the passage of time. It is also the site of some unique examples of Mudéjar (Moorish-influenced) architecture, especially in Teruel and in the capital, Zaragoza.

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1 - Citadel, Jaca.2 - Landscape, Echo's Valley.3 - Good Friday Procession, Zaragoza.4 - Corridor of Aljaferia Alcazar Palace, Zaragoza.5 - Arazas Gradas de Soaso, Ordesa.6 - Amantes Fountain in La Escalinata, Teruel.

PYRENEES & ARAGON

PYRENEES & ARAGON

CATALONIA

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“Catalonia is not Spain” - a famous phrase in the region, epitomises locals' nationalist character. Indeed, there has long been a drive towards Catalonia becoming independent: it has its own flag, language, government, culture and, above all, pride. This very distancing of itself from the rest of Spain is one of the things that make the region so interesting. After all, Spain is not just tortillas, bullfights and flamenco. In stressing what divides it from the rest of the country Catalonia sets itself apart, as a land that stretches from the Costa Brava to the Pyrenees that is diverse, unique and beautiful. From the fabulous Mediterranean beaches of Tossa de Mar to idyllic seaside villages such as Cadaqués. Not forgetting the natural beauty of the Ebro Delta, where you can spot flamingos and the sunset takes on a unique rosy hue, the medieval charm of Girona, the artistic heritage of Figueres – which harbours Salvador Dali's greatest work – and of course cosmopolitan Barcelona.

CATALONIA

CATALONIA

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1 - La Seu Vella Cathedral Interior, Lleida.2 - La Sagrada Família, Barcelona.3 - Calella Beach, Palafrugell.4 - Arab Baths, Girona.5 - The Dali Theatre and Museum, Figueres.6 - Barri Gothic Cathedral, Tarragona.

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VALENCIA & MURCIA

VALENCIA & MURCIA

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The long stretch of coast which makes up the province of Valencia and Murcia is a juxtaposition of contrasts. By the sea, picturesque villages lie side by side with towns whose potential has been under-exploited. Inland, there is an area known as the “orchard” on account of the fertility of its soil, where oranges, dates and rice abound (a legacy from the Moors) but there is also a high degree of desertification in the surrounding areas. As for the provincial capitals, Valencia is a contemporary city with many architecturally modern buildings whereas Murcia is a historic city whose cathedral is a testament to the importance the city enjoyed in the Baroque period. If Valencia is famous for its rich paella, Murcia is no less famous for its wonderful tapas. It is also a region known for its festivals and is home to two of the most spectacular – the fallas and the tomatina. This is an area of Spain where the Arab legacy is ever-present, in both the villages and castles near the mountains and can be seen in the place names, such as Benidorm and Alicante. In Valencia, valenciano is spoken, in addition to Castilian Spanish, and is a language derived from and similar to Catalan.

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1 - Cueva de las Calaveras, Dénia.2 - Colon Market, Valencia.3 - Castle, Morella.4- Guadalest Dam, Calpe.5 - Paella, Valencia.6 - Fallas Fest, Valencia.

VALENCIA & MURCIA

VALENCIA & MURCIA

MADRID

MADRID

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This is the smallest of all Spain's autonomous communities, in terms of area, but it sits right at the heart of the country and the Iberian Peninsula – which is why it was chosen as the national capital. It is indisputably the largest city, relatively young but with a huge built heritage in Baroque style, museums that boast some of the world's most important works of art, and stunning gardens. There are also many smaller towns around the capital that are worth visiting, such as San Lorenzo de El Escorial with its fabulous monastery and Alcalá de Henares, the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes. Just north of the city is the Parque Natural de la Sierra de Guadarrama, which is popular for walking, climbing and even skiing, but also has some picturesque villages and even a fine castle. The Castillo de los Mendoza is a small but enchanting fortress, built in the 15th century with towers and a patio – all in Gothic style.

MADRID

MADRID

1 - Churros con Chocolate, Madrid.2 - The Prado Museum Facade, Madrid.3 - El Retiro Park, Madrid.4 - Mirador del Faro, Madrid.5 - Valle de los Caidos, San Lorenzo de El Escorial.6 - Don Quijote Parade in Cervantes Square, Alcalá de Henares.7 - Debod Temple, Madrid.

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CASTILE-LEON

CASTILE-LEON

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This is Spain's largest autonomous region, the result of the historic ties established by the kingdom of Castile over the centuries: first with León and then with Aragon through the marriage of the Catholic Monarchs, whose domain they went on to extend to the whole country. The clearest proof of that is Spain's official language, Castilian. Since this is a mountainous region, in the Duero river basin, it tends to record extreme temperatures – hence the popular saying that the year in Castile and León is made up of “nine months of winter and three months of hell”, given the temperature range between the seasons. It is also known as the land of castles (castillos), thanks to the many fortresses built by Christians to defend the area from the Moors in the 8th and 9th centuries. There are said to be almost 300 medieval castles here, although some are better preserved than others. Other frequent sights are the beautiful Gothic churches and cathedrals along the Camino de Santiago (Way of St James) in places such as Burgos, León and Astorga. But the monarchs themselves, who were both devout Catholics and lovers of art and architecture, also had other monuments built in cities such as Ávila, Salamanca, Segovia, León and Burgos. Indeed, the first three are UNESCO World Heritage sites. As well as its stunning cities, the region has vast protected green areas – such as the Parque Nacional de los Picos de Europa and the Sierra de Francia – that offer bucolic havens. As with other parts of Spain, Castile and León has its gastronomic specialities, mainly focused on meat, hams and sausages. Many say that it is here that you can find the best cured ham (jamón) and suckling pig.

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1 - Downtown Facades and Cathedral, Burgos.2 - Alcazar, Segovia.3 - Episcopal Palace, Astorga.4- Real Colegiata de San Isidoro, León.5 - Panoramic View with Medieval Walls, Ávila.6 - Cathedral and Tormes River, Salamanca.

CASTILE-LEON

CASTILE-LEON

EXTREMADURA & CASTILE-LA MANCHA

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Sandwiched between Portugal, Castile and Andalusia, the autonomous community of Extremadura is unexplored territory for most foreign visitors to Spain, firmly off the radar. But that, precisely, is a large part of its charm. Its name goes back to the time of the Christian Reconquest of the peninsula, and comes from the fact that it was at the edge of Christendom, on the frontier with Moorish territory. Here amid mountains, valleys, meadows and rivers you will find picturesque towns and cities with a wealth of medieval monuments, such as Mérida and Cáceres – both UNESCO World Heritage sites. In more remote parts, tiny cottages are dotted about in the vast countryside. This is also the region from which many adventurers set out to conquer swathes of the New World, including Cortés, Pizarro, Balboa and De Soto – later returning to build family mansions and churches with the riches they gleaned in the Americas. The Parque Nacional de Monfragüe and the Valle del Jerte are examples of the region’s fabulous natural landscapes, which attract sporty or outdoor types for activities such as climbing, horse riding, fishing or bird watching. As for gastronomy, make sure to try the fabulous Dehesa de Extremadura jamón (cured ham) and nevaditos, traditional local biscuits. Castile-La Mancha, right at the heart of the Spain, alongside Madrid, has as its most famous native son a literary character: Dom Quixote de La Mancha, invented by Miguel de Cervantes. This noble hero, who was born in Toledo, tilted against the stolid windmills of the highlands and rode out to save his beloved Dulcinea. The name La Mancha comes from the Arabic ma-ansha, meaning “without water”, appropriate enough given the scarcity of moisture in the region for the wheat, vines and spread out olive tree fields under the hot summer sun. While Albacete is the largest city, Toledo is undoubtedly the best known, thanks its medieval aura and fascinating heritage. Another very popular city is Cuenca, known for its intriguing Casas Colgadas (Hanging Houses). The autonomous community of Castile-La Mancha also has four important archaeological centres that tell part of the story of Iberia, and protected areas such as the Parque Nacional de las Tablas de Daimiel and the Parque Nacional de Cabañeros. Manchego cheese and Valdepeñas wine are the best-known regional products. This is a part of Spain where temperatures vary widely, with cold winters and dry summers. Like Extremadura, Castile-La Mancha is traversed by both the Tagus and the Guadiana rivers.

EXTREMADURA & CASTILE-LA MANCHA

EXTREMADURA & CASTILE-LA M

ANCHA

1 - Diana Temple, Mérida.2 - Casas Colgadas (Hanging Houses), Cuenca.3 - Alcazar and Alcantara Bridge, Toledo.4 - Altar of the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe, Guadalupe.5 - Interior of the Cathedral, Siguënza.

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ANDALUSIA

ANDALUSIA

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Seen by many as quintessential Spain, since it fits so many images that visitors have about the country before they visit. A land of bullfights, flamenco and sherry, where white houses dot the hillsides and its Moorish heritage takes the form of some of the world’s most beautiful buildings, such as the Alhambra in Granada and the fabulous mosque of Córdoba. These, along with Seville, the capital of Andalusia, are the three great cities that the Moors established in the seven centuries during which they dominated the land then known as Al-Andalus. These are modern urban centres with a vast historical heritage and a very particular atmosphere. The clichéd vision of remote hill villages is a reality in the pueblos blancos or ‘white villages’ near the Sierra Nevada range. These mountains are close enough to the coast that you can reach it on the same day. Along it are many places worth visiting: Cádiz and Tarifa, on the Atlantic and Málaga and Almeria on the Mediterranean.

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1 - Moorish Quarter Albaicin Restaurants and Shops, Granada.2 - Pompidou Centre, Málaga.3 - Metropol Parasol in Plaza de la Encarnacion, Seville.4- Castle Monument of Colomares, Benalmádena.5 - Patio Fest (Flowers Decoration, Córdoba.6 - Donkey Taxis, Mijas.

ANDALUSIA

ANDALUSIA

ABOUT SPAIN

WHERE TO STAY

There are various types of accommodation in Spain, ranging from simple family-run guest houses to the opulence of the Paradores.Paradores: The Paradores are owned and run by the Spanish government, which converts historical and emblematic buildings such as castles, fortresses, monasteries and palaces into luxury hotels. They can be found all over Spain, often in some of the prettiest areas of the country, as well as other more remote locations. The fact that they are publicly-owned means their rates are sometimes lower than those of other hotels in the same segment. (http://www.parador.es/es).Hoteles: Star ratings range from one to five. The higher the quality of the service and the number of facilities offered, the higher the rating. Hotels normally operate in purpose-built buildings. Hostales and hostal-residencias: With star ratings ranging from one to three, these are cheaper hotels than the category above. Nevertheless, some are high in quality, offering good, functional rooms with private bathroom.Hostales and Hostal-Residencias: With star ratings ranging from one to three, these are cheaper hotels than the category above. Nevertheless, some are high in quality, offering good, functional rooms with private bathroom.Pensiones: Or Fondas or Casas de Huéspedes. No-frills budget accommodation, usually family-run, offering only the basic essentials for an overnight stay. Some rooms may not have private bathrooms. This type of accommodation can just as easily be in an old house or in a small guest house remodelled in boutique style (B&B – Bed & Breakfast).Villas and Apartments: Rented by the week, these consist of small apartments, which may be more or less luxurious, and are available for use by tourists and visitors.Casas Rurales: These are properties in a rural

ABOUT SPAIN ABOUT SPAIN

setting, such as country houses or mansions, which have been renovated for the purpose of receiving guests. Sometimes featuring pools and gardens, they offer peace and quiet complemented by a full range of services that may include a variety of outdoor activities. (http://ecoturismorural.com/).Albergues Juveniles: The equivalent of youth hostels. Although they may have basic rooms similar to those of a guest house, they mostly offer low-cost, shared dormitory-style accommodation.Refugios: Situated in mountainous areas and managed by local mountaineering organizations, these shelters are nothing more than dormitories with basic kitchen facilities.Albergues de Peregrinos: These are modest little inns that can accommodate between five and ten guests, but which may not even meet some of the basic standards. Their purpose is to provide shelter for pilgrims travelling along the Way of St. James. Guests may stay for one night only and are charged a symbolic price for the accommodation.Campsites: There are more than 100 authorized campsites/caravan parks across Spain, especially next to the coast. They offer facilities that range from the mere basics to restaurants, swimming pools, bars and site-operated supermarkets. All can be found in the Guía de Campings, published annually. See: http://www.vayacamping.net.

TIME ZONE

+1 GMT

CLIMATE

Spain has a reputation for being one of the sunniest countries in Europe, largely due to its Mediterranean coast, which can average more than 300 sunny days a year. However, this is actually a rather inaccurate generalization. Although mainland Spain is located in a part of the world with a normally temperate climate, the country is geographically so vast that it can be divided into three distinct climatic regions:

Atlantic, Continental and Mediterranean. Also known as the Costa Verde, the Atlantic or maritime climate zone encompasses the northern part of the country: Galicia, Cantabria, the Basque Country and the Pyrenees. Its proximity to the sea means it is a region with cool summers and mild winters. It is also the rainiest region of Spain, so a cloudy sky is normal, but you can still expect some sunshine nevertheless. The continental climate is found in the central area of Spain known as meseta (Castilla-La Mancha, Castile and León, Extremadura and parts of Navarre and Aragon) and the Ebro river valley. Summers here are typically scorching and winters are freezing. Located in the centre of the meseta, Madrid records some of the lowest temperatures in Spain during winter, while Murcia’s climate is almost African. And even though the winters become more bearable the farther south you travel, Seville and Cordoba are also known for their blisteringly hot summers, typical of this climate. Meanwhile, the Mediterranean zone stretches from Andalusia to Catalonia, an extensive coastline all lapped by the Mediterranean Sea. With very little rainfall, the region suffers from the effects of drought. Summers are hot and winters are mild, but there are no marked extremes of temperature; it simply gets a little cooler the farther north you go.

ELECTRICITY

220v (240V in Gibraltar)

LANGUAGE

Castilian Spanish, which derives from Latin, is the most-spoken language across most of Spain. It is thought to have originated sometime around the ninth century. Although its roots lie in the central/northern area of the Iberian Peninsula, the language eventually spread across the entire country, due to the expansion of the Kingdom of Castile during the Middle Ages. It was also the language taken by Spanish explorers to the colonies in South America. In Gibraltar,

English is the official language, given the Rock’s origins as a British colony. Meanwhile, various autonomous communities in Spain are fiercely nationalist, some more so than others, and insist on maintaining co-official status for their local languages, even using them on signage. This is the case in Catalonia (Catalan), the Basque Country (Basque), Galicia (Galician), Aragon (Aragonese) and Valencia (Valencian).

INTERNATIONAL DIALLING CODE

+34. Spanish mobile phone numbers start with 6, whereas landline numbers start with 900. Numbers starting with 901, 905, 902, 800, 803, 806 and 807 may have additional charges associated with them.

EMERGENCIES

In an emergency dial 112. Alternatively, you could go to the hospital emergency department or even a pharmacy. There is always a pharmacy on duty round the clock (farmácia de guardia) to provide assistance in minor cases. You should take precautions to safeguard yourself against altitude sickness and hypothermia when travelling in mountainous areas. If you are likely to be spending several hours at altitude, take paracetamol and food with you to guard against the former and warm clothing for the latter. Jellyfish have been becoming an increasing nuisance along Mediterranean beaches. Lataste’s viper is a species of snake that lives in dry and rocky areas. It is not particularly common but it is Spain’s only venomous animal.

SAFETY

Spain is a relatively safe country where, for example, there are no restrictions on going out and about. However, some unpleasant situations can arise where theft is concerned so, although infrequent, it’s best to be on the lookout. One of the tricks used by thieves is to distract their victims’ attention in some way while an accomplice picks their pockets. Another involves

faking a problem with a car. Kind-hearted motorists who stop to help the “breakdown victims” become victims themselves as their cars are robbed while their backs are turned. Yet another common trick is to deflate a car’s tyres when it is parked at a service station. The thieves then offer to help the driver change the tyres. The pattern is generally one of subtle theft while the victim’s attention is elsewhere, so do be on your guard.

EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES

Your country’s embassy or consulate is the best place to seek help in an emergency, whether of a medical nature or the loss of travel documents.South Africa: 91 436 3780. Edificio Lista Calle de Claudio Coello 91-6 Cor of J Ortega Y Gasset Madrid 28006.Australia 91 353 6600. Planta 24, Torre Espacio, Paseo de la Castellana 259D, 28046, Madrid.Brazil 91 700 4650. Calle Fernando El Santo, 6, 28010 – Madrid.Canada 91 382 8400. Torre Espacio, Paseo de la Castellana 259D, 28046, Madrid; 932 703 614. Plaça de Catalunya, 9, 1º, 2ª 08002 Barcelona; 952 223 346. Plaza de la Malagueta 2, 1º 29016 Malaga.United States of America 93 280 22 27. Paseo Reina Elisenda de Montcada, 23, 08034 Barcelona; 91 587 2200 Calle de Serrano, 75, 28006 MadridIsrael 917829500. Calle Velázquez, 150 7º 28002 MadridUnited Kingdom 917 146 300. Torre Espacio, Paseo de la Castellana 259D, 28046 Madrid

PEOPLE WITH REDUCED MOBILITY

Although Spain is aware of such situations and does now offer some infrastructures for people with reduced mobility, it still has a way to go with regard to the mobility of wheelchair users. However, you will be able to find spare wheelchairs, disabled toilets and dedicated parking spaces just about everywhere. Some

taxi companies also have adapted vehicles and buses are often fitted with ramps.

INTERNET ACCESS

Nowadays, internet access is available in the vast majority of Spanish hotels. Access is usually password-protected, so you will need to contact reception in the first instance. Free internet access is also often available at hotspots in public places such as bus and train stations, large shopping centres or even in restaurants and cafés.

CURRENCY

Euro (since 2002)

MONEY

Although debit and credit cards are generally accepted throughout Spain, it’s always best to have some spare euros with you for emergencies. Cashpoint (ATM) machines take Visa, MasterCard or even Cirrus cards, but a fee of between 1.5 and 2% is charged on every withdrawal. Cash can be exchanged at various places in the city, such as banks or bureaux de change (called “Cambio”). The latter operate longer opening hours but their rates are not as good. And in shops you can always pay with your Visa, MasterCard or American Express (Amex) card (the most widely accepted ones). If your card goes missing, contact the appropriate help centre: Amex (900 994 426), MasterCard (900 971 231) and Visa (900 991 124).

PRICE RANGES

€ 0-20; €€ 21-35; €€€ 36-50; €€€€ >50

NATIONAL PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

New Year – January 1st;Dia de los Reyes Magos (Epiphany) – January 6th;Maundy Thursday – March/April (not celebrated in Catalonia or Valencia);

Good Friday – March/April;Labour Day – May 1st; Corpus Christi – June;Feast of St. James the Apostle – July 25th;Assumption Day – August 15th;Fiesta Nacional de España (National Day) – October 12th; All Saints’ Day – November 1st;Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day) – December 6th; Feast of the Immaculate Conception – December 8th;Christmas – December 25th.In addition to the national public holidays, there are various other local holidays set by the regional governments and local councils.

OPENING HOURS

The hours shown below apply only to high season; in low season opening hours tend to be shorter. Banks are open to the public from 8.30am to 2pm; post offices from 8.30am to 9.30pm Monday to Friday, and from 8.30am to 2pm on Saturdays ; and shops are open from 10am to 2pm and from 4.30pm to 7.30pm. Restaurants serve lunch from 1pm to 4pm and dinner from 8.30pm to 11pm. Discos open at 1am and close at 5am/6am.

LA SIESTA

In Spain, and especially so outside the main urban areas, it is customary to take a “siesta”. This consists of taking an extended lunch break for a rest in the middle of the day. The custom is most noticeable in traditional commerce, restaurants and some services.

DRIVING IN SPAIN

The legal driving age in Spain is eighteen. Citizens from any EU country, and from Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, may drive using the driving licence issued by their own country’s authority. Citizens from other countries must obtain an international

driving licence. Driving conditions in Spain have been improving over the years. Autovias are major toll-free highways that connect the entire territory, including some less central areas, and they complement the network of national roads. Autopistas, on the other hand, are toll motorways. They are more common around the capital and along the Mediterranean coast. Autopistas are numbered with an “AP” prefix for easy identification. Tolls can be paid in cash, with a credit card or by means of a specific electronic device.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

All large Spanish cities have excellent bus and underground (metro) networks, while Barcelona, Valencia, Bilbao and Zaragoza also offer public trams. The bus company ALSA (902 422 242. https://www.alsa.es/), provides intercity services between cities such as Madrid, Granada, Bilbao, Barcelona, Malaga and Zaragoza, as well as a regional service within the different autonomous communities. The railways in Spain are operated by Renfe (902 320 320. http://www.renfe.com/). Services include high-speed and regional trains, as well as overnight sleepers.

ABOUT SPAIN ABOUT SPAIN

ABOUT SPAIN

ABOUT SPAIN TRAILSWe are a local tour operator, founded in 2009, specialized in organizing Customized Self-Guided Tours in Spain and Portugal. We provide a unique and comprehensive set of end-to-end services with exclusive materials designed to enhance the travel experience of all those who wish to visit these countries in an independent, enriching, safe and comfortable way. Our savvy team of 18 members has expert travel consultants who will design an itinerary, select the hotels and suggest activities based on the client’s interests and budget. We will then produce a Personalized Roadbook, with tips, suggestions and directions, and pre-program the GPS according to the client’s itinerary on a day-to-day basis. These materials are supplemented with an Exclusive Guidebook of Portugal, written and produced with our inside knowledge and / or a Guidebook of Spain. When on location, should clients need any assistance, support or additional information, they can contact our travel consultants via a helpline number, available every day from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.. We offer three transport options: Car Rental (Self-Drive), Private Driver, or Train and Transfers. Whichever the option, the client will be greeted on arrival at the airport and transferred to the first hotel. All bookings and confirmations will be made by us. Clients are presented with a turnkey package solution with a single price, leaving them free to really enjoy their holiday. Dimension wise, we have reached a volume business of 1.9 million euros in 2015, an amount that grew to 3 million euros in 2016.

UNIQUE SERVICE BUNDLE

You won’t find one like it on the market. It includes a Personalized Roadbook of the entire trip, with a selection of hotels and your reservations; a Pre-Programmed GPS with your daily itinerary; a complete and exclusive Guidebook of Spain and Portugal written and produced based on our knowledge; transportation throughout the

country; reception at the airport and a helpline which you may call if needed during your stay.

UNIQUE LOCAL TEAM

Our motivation is to offer the best travel experience to those who choose to go on holiday with us. And we’re prepared and committed to do so. Not only are we local and on scene, but we are also available to show you the beautiful landscapes, the astonishing monuments, the remarkable history, our very own particular culture and the secular gastronomy. That is, the essence that defines these two countries as unique and captivating destinations. However, distinct individuals have, naturally, different interests and goals. Thus, our travel consultants want to know you, know your interests, in order to be able to design an itinerary of the Iberian Peninsula that suits you better. An itinerary that expresses what you’re looking for. And this is our main priority.

ENHANCED INDEPENDENT TRAVEL

We want it to be your experience, so, while dropping you off at your hotel, we also deliver all you need to have an independent, safe and amusing trip. Our team is backstage, behind the curtains, while preparing your trip (and materials needed) and by being available through our helpline to assist if necessary.

VALUABLE BENEFITS

You will start valuing our services and materials for a customized, safe and independent trip long before your arrival to Spain, but will value them much more on your departure. By travelling with us you will benefit from:– Customization;– Consultancy;– Logistic & Organization;– Independent travel;– Support on location;– Safety;– Experience enrichment;– Convenience.