Spain Inside Out

Advertise a holiday home in Spain

2011-12-12T19:21:00.003Z

Spain-Holiday.com was one of the first holiday rental companies to advertise holiday homes in Spain.

Last year more than 6.000.000 potential holiday renters visited their site.

They only focus on rentals in Spain.

Your advertisement will appear in 10 different languages.

Combining our top positions on Google and on other major search engines with the fact that they only advertise properties in Spain, have made Spain-holiday.com the most popular website amongst Spanish holiday homeowners.

Read here what other homeowners say about us.

Their friendly support team is always ready to assist you by telephone or e-mail.

Advertise your holiday home in Spain at Spain-Holiday.com

The Golden Tower - Sevilla

2011-11-20T11:30:00.003Z

The “Torre de Oro” Tower of Gold is one of the most easily recognised and photographed historic landmarks in Sevilla and is located in the citys historic centre next to the Guadalquivir river .

The tower was constructed around 1220 by order of Abu Eola, the governor at that time and formed part of the city’s defensive walls and was linked to an octagonal tower, the Silver Tower ( Torre de Plata ) The copula shaped top of the golden tower was built in 1760.

The tower probably got its name from the gilded ceramic tiles which originally decorated the tower, or maybe from the time when Gold was unloaded here during the time when Sevilla was a major player in world trade.

It is used today as a navel museum with a really impressive collection relating to the city’s rich naval past.

The Move Channel - Overseas Property Portal

2011-10-11T19:22:00.002+01:00

TheMoveChannel.com is a leading independent overseas property portal that has been helping private owners, agents and developers to buy and sell property since 1999. We cater to our large customer base of both investors and home buyers with the widest selection of Spanish property online. Our listings of apartments, villas and houses in Spain cover all the major hotspots.

Here’s what you can expect from each area:

Southern Spain

The Mediterranean Sea gives South Spain sandy beaches in some of its most popular hotspots, while islands off the coast such as Mallorca remain a firm tourist favourite.

Browse our range of property in Southern Spain.

Northern Spain

North Spain is full of culture. San Sebastien is quiet coastal town in the Basque Country, while Pamplona has been famed for the running of the bulls for years. Lakes and mountains provide landscapes for visitors as diverse as the area’s history.

Browse our range of property in Northern Spain.

Ibiza

Ibiza is a famous holiday destination thanks to its nightlife of hotels, bars and clubs. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, which have seen more stable property prices than other inland destinations.

Browse our range of property in Ibiza.

Majorca

Mallorca is another of the Balearic Islands, relying mostly on tourism for its income. Millions of olive and almond trees add to the gastronomic culture of the sunny community.

Browse our range of property in Majorca.

Menorca

Menorca is Majorca’s smaller brother, again offering residents a Mediterranean climate that makes property on the island extremely desirable.

Browse our range of property in Menorca.

Lanzarote

Lanzarote is perhaps the most popular member of the Canary Islands, with over 5,000 Brits owning homes. The gorgeous coves and beaches add to the environment’s exotic appeal.

Browse our range of property in Lanzarote.

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is officially the Canary Island that houses the most people. Its variety of landscapes, from rocky ravines and green villages to sandy white dunes attract more than 2 million tourists per year, particularly to the warm Southern coasts.

Browse our range of property in Gran Canaria.

Fuerteventura

The second biggest Canary Island, the Atlantic Ocean gives Fuerteventura a pleasant climate, but the strong winds and expansive plains make this a prime location for windsurfers, ambitious fishermen and adventurous holidaymakers.

Browse our range of property in Fuerteventura.

Costa Blanca

The coastline around Alicante is a popular stretch of Spain, with property in Denia boasting hills and trees, while apartments down on the coast have the sea and the surf. Buy to let opportunities are strong, and seconds houses in demand.

Browse our range of property in Costa Blanca.

Costa Del Sol

Literally, the “Coast of the Sun”, Spain’s Mediterranean coastline is a milder destination that welcomes visitors (particularly holiday homeowners) all year round.

Browse our range of property in Costa Del Sol.

Costa Brava

Catalonia’s Costa has the cultural background of Salvador Dali and Roman ruins, but also its own supply of popular beaches and sunny coastline.

Browse our range of property in Costa Brava.

Costa Calida

This “Warm Coast” is a hit with those who like sailing, windsurfing and other aquatic sports thanks to the hot water that lines the coast of the province of Murcia.

Browse our range of property in Costa Calida.

Murcia

Murcia’s Mediterranean weather makes it a popular tourist destination, but investment in the area is generating lots of interest in real estate as the newly built Paramount Theme Park plans to open in 2015.

Browse our range of property in Murcia.

Malaga

Boasting the second highest population in Andalusia, Malaga has historical ruins and a significant heritage, which includes the birthplace of Picasso, to attract foreign property buyers and holidaymakers.

Browse our range of property in Malaga.

Marbella

Hotels and tennis tournaments define Marbella, a popular destination for both tourists and celebrities. Sean Connery and Antonio Banderas have both owned houses in the town, and TV programmes such as Nip/Tuck cement its image as a place for wealthy visitors.

Browse our range of property in Marbella.

Visit TheMoveChannel.com to see our full range of Spanish property.

Wine Tasting in the Rioja Region

2011-10-04T21:31:00.006+01:00

The wine region of La Rioja is located in the central Northern area of Spain and is home to some of the worlds most famous wines including – Marques de Riscal.

The area not only produces some of Spain,s finest wines it is also well geared up now for quality wine tourism including, wine tasting trips, architecture, cellar tours , wine festivals and feasts.
One of the most well know of the reds from this area, Marques de Riscal has one of the finest hotels in the area named after it.

The stunning Hotel Marques de Riscal is located in Elciego in La Rioja’s Alava province. Designed by Frank Gehry, this avant-garde hotel offers a Michelin-starred restaurant. All stylish rooms at the Hotel Marques de Riscal feature a distinctive zig-zag window seat with views of the valley.

The nearest airport is Vitoria

Google Map of the
El Ciejo - la Rioja

Holidays in Spain - Adjust your Body Clock

2011-07-14T09:10:00.001+01:00

Due to the warm climate of Spain and traditions of its people, there is a different daily routine to observe while you're on holiday here. Be prepared to readjust your body clock, so that you are in tune to the 'Spanish schedule' and get the most of your experience.

Two notable differences that you need to be aware of are meal times and siestas. It can be difficult or frustrating to find that there is little to do during the siesta period of around 1:30 PM until 5:00 PM, thus it is important to plan ahead and make sure you don't need to shop during that time, as most stores close for the siesta period In terms of mealtimes, breakfast and dinner are generally eaten at around 10 AM and 9 PM, respectively, with restaurants opening at around 7 PM, so remember to either eat a late lunch, or have a small snack to tide you over, if you're used to eating dinner earlier.

This travel tip is brought to you by Essential Travel.

Magical Ibiza Sunsets

2011-05-09T09:31:00.007+01:00

What makes Ibiza such a perfect place to chill out see some of the most amazing sunsets you will find anywhere in the world.

Being an island you have uninterrupted views out to sea and Ibiza has almost no big polluting industries to fog up the surrounding skies. In July its sets more to the North West and in December the South West , all the months in between it will be setting somewhere between those points but always to the west of the island.

Many cool chill out bars have sprung up along the west coast including the ever popular café del Mar bar near San Antonio , one the islands most famous meeting points where beach and party goers hang out and enjoy some of the most stunning sunsets this unique Spanish Island has to offer.

A fantastic way to enjoy the sunsets around Ibiza is boat, there are numerous companies offering trips which is also a great way to discover the pristine clear blue waters and the beautiful Ibiza coastline.

Ibiza - Travel and Tourism Guide

The best family resorts in Fuerteventura

2011-03-18T13:08:00.001Z

Fuerteventura is a quiet island ideal for family holidays and a favourite with water sport and sun lovers. It is about relaxation rather than partying and has some excellent beaches for all the family to enjoy. This is a year round sun destination for families, particularly those with young children thanks to its friendly village atmosphere.

Costa Calma is a top Fuerteventura family resort and has a long stretch of glorious sandy beach. Costa Calma's beach is very sheltered and ideal for families. There's lots of space so if it's peace and quiet you're looking for you can find it here.

Costa Calma is a pretty resort with the streets lined with palm trees. It is bustling with character and there’s reasonable windsurfing to be had. There's a good choice of accommodation and a great selection of bars and restaurants to suit all. La Lajita is nearby and home to the zoo, also known as Oasis Park, offering an enormous array of animal attractions, a perfect family day out on your Fuerteventura holiday.

Morro Jable is a major tourist resort with an attractive coastline and a quaint harbour. The beach, known as the Playa del Matorral, features miles of stunning sandy stretches, a busy harbour and a prominent lighthouse. It is perfect for a variety of water sports and hosts a great selection of restaurants, bars and cafes clustered along the beachfront.

Caleta de Fuste is very family orientated and perfect for quiet family holidays. The beach is nicely sheltered and there is a great swimming complex next to the El Castillo Fort. There are plenty of boat trips from the harbour. There is also a great selection of cafes, bars and restaurants in the area and the fortress castle on the front gives the town some character. The manmade beach at Caleta de Fuste is large and perfectly safe and sheltered for family bathing, a great place to go on your holidays in Fuerteventura.

Corralejo is one of the prettiest resorts, especially the harbour and beaches, with eye-catching sand dunes, which form part of Corralejo Natural Park. Corralejo is a bustling Fuerteventura holiday resort but has a chilled out vibe. The pleasant harbour and old town is a delightful area, crammed with shops and friendly bars. Corralejo combines good resort facilities with an attractive setting. A lovely resort with a nature park nearby, excellent surfing, diving and sailing and easy access to Lanzarote and Los Lobos Island via the harbour.

Sotavento Beach just to the south of Costa Calma is the most beautiful beach on the Canary Islands. This Fuerteventura beach is host to the prestigious Windsurf World Cup and has great windsurfing and kite surfing.

TOP 5 ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES ON HOLIDAY IN COSTA BRAVA

2011-02-16T18:27:00.001Z

There are plenty of things to do on your holidays to Costa Brava - sun, sea, sand and don’t forget the tasty tapas! You will be surrounded by beautiful sandy beaches where you can enjoy your favourite water sport activities, have the chance to explore incredible Roman ruins and get in touch with nature in the beautiful large forest and mountain areas – you really will be spoilt for choice in Costa Brava.

Camping in Costa Brava: There’s no better place to enjoy a camping holiday than in Costa Brava. Incredible terrains, diverse plant and wildlife and a fantastic variety of outdoor activities are just a few of the things you can expect when camping in Costa Brava. Camping is one of the greatest ways to escape the crowds and get in touch with nature; you can guarantee to leave your holiday with incredible memories of your trip! If you don’t fancy putting up your own tent, there are camping facilities in the area, so you can make the most of your time.

Golfing in Costa Brava with the beautiful natural scenery and the incredible year round climate, golf is one of the best activities to enjoy. The Golf Costa Brava is the main golf course of Costa Brava and is surrounded by farm houses where you can enjoy of a great meal. Golf d’Aro Mas Nou’s, at the top of the mountains, gives you a great view of the whole of Costa Brava. What’s more, The Cataluña Golf Course is considered one of the top ten best golf courses of Europe, for those of you who are looking for a challenge!

Theme Parks Visit Aquabrava, with the biggest wave pool in Europe it is considered one of the best water parks in the Mediterranean. Whether you are young or just young at heart, you can guarantee the whole family will have a fantastic day on the great variety of slides, waterfalls and pools.

Visit Figueres the birthplace of Salvador Dali, home to a museum about his life and work. Nearby you will also find many historical monuments and the Church of San Pedro - go inside the church and be amazed with all the art which covers the ceiling and walls.

Visit Pals. This region, whose architecture resembles that of medieval times, makes a great day out for the whole family. Learn about the culture and history of the town, pick up some hand crafted souvenirs and wind down the day with a delicious meal in one of the local restaurants.
Your holidays to Costa Brava will be truly unforgettable – beautiful beaches, stunning scenery and plenty of things to do, what more could you want from a holiday?

Marbella Beaches

2011-01-12T15:45:00.001Z

Marbella is popular for its weather, its yachting opportunities and its night life, but how about its beaches? There are dozens of long sandy stretches and tiny secluded coves to choose from on your Marbella holidays. Here are just a few of our favourites.

Guadalmina Beach

Situated within the town of San Pedro de Alcántara, next to the Guadalmina urbanisation, this beach has the thick golden sand that is typical to this area of the Mediterranean. Different water sports can be practiced here such as windsurfing, jet skiing, and kayaking, as well as swimming and kite surfing. The four star Guadalmina Hotel is nearby, and there are also two beach clubs and two chiringuitos (beach restaurants) with sun beds for hire. Looking for a bit of history on your holidays to Marbella? Then you will love Guadalmina Beach. Just nearby is Bovedas, the 3rd Century historic ruins, which are situated within a protected archaeological area.

La Fontanilla Beach

La Fontanilla Beach is a rustic beach that varies in size depending on the tide. A hugely popular beach because of its location – it is right in the middle of Marbella, near the Marbella Port – and its facilities – the list here is endless, those keen on busy social beaches will be best off at La Fontanilla.

Nikki Beach

For a taste of luxury, head to Nikki Beach. This is basically a super-upmarket beach club – exclusive and costly, but as a treat it is unparalleled. Hire massive beach bed for the day, and let immaculate waiting staff serve you champagne, shell fish platters and fresh sushi. Nestled against the spectacular backdrop of the Don Carlos Beach Resort, Nikki Beach plays host to some of the world’s most glamorous people, from celebrities to local it girls and boys, as well as visitors looking for a decadent good time. This is the ultimate venue for relaxation, celebration and partying in Marbella.

Buddha Beach

Buddha Beach was one of the first boutique beaches in Marbella, and it is still one of the most popular hang outs in Puerto Banus. Two tropical bars overlook the Mediterranean, and there’s a wide range of delicious smoothies and juices, sundowners and meals on offer. Bagsy a Cabaña bed for two, and make the most of your Marbella holidays.

Top Tourist Attractions in Barcelona

2010-12-15T12:06:00.002Z

Top places to Visit in Barcelona

La Sagrada Familia - probably Gaudi’s most well known and visible masterpieces. It is the most visited tourist attraction in Barcelona with over 2 Million visitors each year . It is a structure and ongoing building of immense proportions and respected by architects around the world. It was started in 1882 and will not be finished for another 20 to 25 years !!.

Gothic Quarter: ( Bari Gotic Area ) Located in the old quarter of Barcelona, on the right hand side of the Las Ramba area, it is well known for its cobbled streets and high old buildings. Picasso lived and worked in this area from 1895 to 1904 and famous local artist Joan Miro was born here and where he spent much of his youth.

Las Ramblas – is one of the most famous streets in Barcelona. Just over one kilometer in length is lined with established trees and has all kinds of shops, bars, restaurants , there are street performers and local characters, it really is a great place to stroll around until the early hours.

Calle Feran – is one of the most important streets in Barcelona and offers a wide selection of great shops and an excellent choice of quality bars and restaurants. It also has easy access to Las Ramblas.

Placa de Catalyuna – One of the most emblematic plazas in Barcelona and regarded as the central point of the city. For all lovers of local architecture, sculptures and pretty fountains, it is also a favorite spot for chilling out in the heart of the city.

The Barcelona Cathedral – an enormous gothic structure and a main focal point in the zona Gotica. Along the front of this impressive cathedral you will find more than a smattering of fine shops, bars and restaurants and be entertained by many of the street performers which frequent this area.

Casa Batllo - was designed by Gaudi for a wealthy Barcelona aristocrat and is often overlooked by travelers who are visiting the nearby La Pedresa ( another Gaudi treasure ) . Much of the house used to be rented out but is now thankfully a museum and is well worth a visit if you are in the area. What made Gaudi such an impressionable artist, well by visiting some of his most famous works around the city it may help you to understand this unusual and brilliant artist.

Port Olimpic – as the name suggests was completely rebuilt for the 1992 Olympics held in the city. It is now a beautiful and classy marina with an excellent selection of Bars and restaurants, flashy boats and yachts and connects the two large beaches either side.

Barcelona Football Club – for all footy lovers this really is a must visit. A regular home crowd of around 100.000 noisy fans makes this one the biggest football stadiums in the world.

Placa de Juanme - This is where Barcelona Town council and the regional government headquarters are based. Use the yellow line to get there. On Sundays it is home to the Sardana dance, a traditional dance performed by local Catalans.

The Olympic Stadium - ( Estadi Olimpic ) This was the main stadium used for the 1992 Olympics and is now open to the public who have access to all areas where the games took place. ( Use the Green Line on the Metro )

Barceloneta Beach – Is the nearest beach to the cities centre and around 15 minutes walk from the Ramblas area. For sea food lovers this is the place to enjoy some of the freshest fish and sea food dishes anywhere in Spain. ( Take the Yellow Line on the Metro )

Park Guell – is another one of Gaudi’s unusual creations and is located in the northern part of the city. Sculptures, mosaics and tiling are all on show in this picturesque and leafy park . The park was cleverly built on land high above Barcelona which gives visitors superb views over the city.

BARCELONA is one of the top three tourist destinations of the WORLD !! and as such offers every kind of hotel and other accommodation to suit all tastes and pockets.

Some of the most popular Hotels in Barcelona include the Pulman Barcelona Skipper

This fabulous hotel offers 5-star luxury next to Barcelona’s Olympic Port. It is just 100 metres from the beach and has 2 outdoor pools. This modern hotel has spacious bedrooms, with a 32-inch (81 cm) LCD TV and DVD player. They have an elegant bathroom with rain shower. The Pullman Skipper has a rooftop pool, with beautiful views of the city and sea. It is heated and opens all year round. The hotel also has a large terrace with sun loungers. It is located next to Ciutadella Vila Olimpica Metro Station, just 2 stops from the historic city centre. Barcelona Zoo and the pretty Ciutadella Park are also nearby.

Another highly rated hotel is the Barcelo Raval This is a modern design hotel, in Barcelona’s vibrant Raval district. It offers free Wi-Fi access, and a roof terrace with pool and panoramic views. Bedrooms at the hotel are all en suite, and have 32-inch plasma TV with 73 channels. They all offer an iPod charger and a Nespresso coffee machine. The restaurant has stylish décor, and serves creative Mediterranean food. There is also an elegant cocktail lounge. The hotel is in the heart of the fashionable Raval area, a short walk from the MACBA Modern Art Gallery. Liceu Metro Station and the Ramblas are only 400 metres away.

Other recommended hotels in the city include the Acta Atrium Palace , the Gallery Hotel and the Silken Ramblas .

Photos Around Spain

2010-12-15T09:28:00.002Z

Our Photo Albums are steadily growing, we have some great photos in different categories including, towns anc cites, food, sunsets, beaches, landmarks, historic buildings and much more.

If you wouold like to share you holiday or travel photograpsh with our visitors please contact us as we would love to hear from you.

Famous Ibiza Sunsets and Beach Parties

2010-12-14T17:53:00.001Z

Ibiza’s famous for its amazing sunsets, and for the general vibe of easygoing evening fun that goes with them. If you want to check out the best spots to see the sunset before you go huge, these are some of the top choices. And if you’re looking for beach parties (and who isn’t) these are some of out top tips too on your holidays to Ibiza

Seeing the Best Sunsets

Thanks to its lack of industry, and clear views of the sea to the Wes, Ibiza is treated to the best sunsets in Europe. But where exactly is the best place to view it from? Let’s not get into a science lesson here – all you need to know is that the best place to see the sunset changes throughout the year. Basically, if you want to see the best sunrises in the summer time, head to the North East on your Ibiza holiday. If you want to see the Best Sunsets, head to the North West. Easy.

All year round you can watch amazing Sunsets from the relatively central San Antonio Bay. There’s a stretch of top bars and clubs known as the Sunset Strip that take advantage of the amazing evenings to set the tone for partying. Expect great views and cocktails aplenty. Alternatively the view from the tour boats across the Salinas Slat Flats is pretty hard to beat.

Beach Parties

One of the standard setters has been the Bora Bora beach party. Check out the Playa D’en Bossa for fun in the sand and in the shallows all through peak season. Ushuaia pumps out electronic onto the beach from early June, so if you’re looking to get in on some outdoor fun you won’t be disappointed there.

The beaches are there to be enjoyed, so whether you’re sunbathing, catching 40 winks after a crazy night, or getting a bit of footy in, everything’s up for grabs on a Ibiza holiday.

Hotels in Spain - Big Autumn Sales on Mini Breaks

2010-11-24T09:09:00.006Z

TOP DEALS - BOOK FAST OR MISS OUT....

The Dormavalencia Hostel ( VALENCIA ) ... From only 35 Euros

Dormavalencia Hostel, just 15 minutes' walk from City of Arts and Sciences, has free Wi-Fi and soundproofed, air-conditioned rooms with parquet floors. All of the rooms in Dormavalencia have TV and a seating area. They also have heating and private bathrooms with hairdryer. The property offers bicycle hire and an airport shuttle. It also has a tour desk. The Dormavalencia is close to Valencia's nightlife, as well as the University. It is just 300 metres from both Amistat and Aragón Metro stations.

BOOK NOW..

All 96 HOTELS in VALENCIA

The PENSION ADUAR ( Marbella ) .. From only 20 Euros

Situated in the heart of Marbella’s charming old town, the guest house is just a short walk away from Malaga´s fine beaches. The recently renovated guest house is ideally located in a quiet part of Marbella, just a short distance away from the shopping area and restaurants. The guest house is affordable and comfortable, in a luxurious resort town that has it all. There are many attractions in the local area, the “Plaza de los Naranjos” is just 100 meters away, here you can find many traditional shops, bars and bistros, day or night it reflects the colours of a more traditional Andalusia

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All 65 HOTELS in MARBELLA...

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Cruising and Ferries to Spain

2010-11-17T11:35:00.005Z

CRUISING

Sailing to the exciting Spanish port destinations of La Coruna, Vigo, Barcelona, Gibraltar, Cadiz and Palma de Mallorca, among others. At each of the destinations, passengers can disembark and explore the cities and surrounds at their leisure, or join a guided shore excursion that will highlight the best tourist hotspots in each area.

Some of the must-see locations in each city include the Tower of Hercules, a 2,000 year old Roman built lighthouse just outside La Coruna, the historic town centre of Vigo, and the many grand plazas of Cadiz, the oldest occupied city in Western Europe. In Gibraltar, passengers can take a cable car to the top of The Rock and look out across the Straits of Gibraltar to North Africa.

Barcelona's famous pedestrian mall, Las Ramblas, and the awe-inspiring gothic cathedral of Sagrada Familia are always popular attractions, as are the magnificent Sa Seu Cathedral and Bellver Castle in Palma.

Cruising to Spain provides holidaymakers with an unforgettable opportunity to experience the best this Mediterranean country has to offer.

There are a good many reputable cruise companies offering luxury cruises around the Mediterranean including Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean, MSC and Carnival.

FERRIES to and From SPAIN

There are daily sailings of ferries to Mainlain Spain and the Islands from around Europe including the Uk, Italy and Morocco, there is also an excellent internal network which operates from all the major ports along the mainland and the Spanish Islands and for all sea lovers this is a great way to travel around and explore Spain by sea. With ferry travel of course you have the added advantage of travelling with your vehicle.

The largest selection of low cost ferry companies sail from the UK including P&O Ferries , Brittany Ferries, LD Lines, sea France and Condor Ferries amongst many others. They cater for every major route into Spain on a variety of ferries including fast craft and a choice of daytime and overnight crossings. Portsmouth to Bilbao for instance is a popular route run by P&O Ferries . Most companies have an excellent online presence with simple to use online booking systems which will make your holiday planning easy.

There are Spain ferry sailings from Algeciras to Tangier and Ceuta (North African enclave); Malaga and Almeria to Melilla ( Spanish -North African enclave ), Barcelona, Valencia and Alicante to the Balearic Islands , and Cadiz to the Canary Islands.

Ferries to Spain from Italy are operated by Grimaldi Lines and Grandi Navi Veloci; you can travel to Barcelona from the ports of Civitavecchia, Livorno and Genoa.

Acciona Trasmediterranea run ferries to Spain from Tanger and Nador in Morocco, and from Alger, Oran and Ghazaouet in Algeria.

Ferries to Spain from the Balearic islands are operated by Balearia, Iscomar and Acciona Trasmediterranea. These operators offer frequent sailings from between the Balearic islands and mainland Spain, and also offer many inter-island services. Book a ferry to Spain from the Balearic ports of Alcudia, Palma, Ciutadella, Mahon, , Ibiza town, San Antonio and Formentera.

Acciona Trasmediterranea also offer ferries to Spain from the Canary islands of La Palma, Gran Canaria and Tenerife.

Valencia Tourist Attractions

2010-11-16T09:34:00.004Z

There really is so much to do and see around the city of Valencia that visitors are rarely bored when it comes to finding exciting places and attractions to visit.

Probably the most popular attraction at the moment is the City of Arts and Sciences located at the end of the Turia Gardens and just a ten minute walk from the beach and port area of Valencia. Within the area of this top attraction you will find the fascinating Aquarium which houses the largest marine and aquarium park in the Europe . It is housed in a stunning building designed by Felix Candela and is reminiscent of one of Gaudi’s impressive works.

As well a housing the Aquarium the City of Arts and Science is this truly a modern and stunning complex where will find the planetarium, science museum, botanical gardens and the grand opera house.

The aquarium is undoubtedly the most popular, and is divided into sections which represent the whole spectrum of the sea environment. The MEDITERRANEAN area contains the largest aquarium in Europe with almost 7.500 species to explore within several smaller aquariums. The OCEANOGRAPHIC area is situated mainly underground and houses the marshland, wetland areas and mangrove swamps. The ARCA de MAR zone is dedicated to the species under threat of extinction. It also has an impressive arctic space within an igloo and is where marine biologists monitor walruses and whales amongst other species. There is also a large colony of penguins which are great fun to watch during feeding time. The DOLPHINARIUM is the largest in Europe with a seating capacity for over 2.000 people and holds around 23 million liters of water !. As you would expect he dolphinarium provides great entertainment for all the family.

And when you are ready to eat you can do so in the impressive submarine restaurant and gaze at the marine life placed in tanks which surround the dining area.

Valencia is also home to some fine historic buildings which are a must see for all history fans and include the VALENCIA CATHEDRAL which is located in the old quarter and is home to the SEU museum, the oldest in Valencia containing the Holy Chalice of Valencia or the holey grail. El MICELET is a tower attached the cathedral and a great place to sharpen up your appetite by climbing up the 207 steps to the top where you and be rewarded with spectacular views over the city. The SANTA CATALINA church tower is also located in the old quarter and is a famous land mark in the area located near the town hall plaza. Another stunning building is LA LONGA where the silk merchants once plied their trades.

Also must visits is the beautiful CENTRAL MARKET ( Mercado Central ) which is one the largest in Europe and where you will find a vast array of local and national produce on offer from fresh fish and seafood , Spanish cured hams to clothes and bric-a-brac… a great to simply browse or pick up a holiday bargain or two.

Oh yes and Valencia is home to some great beaches including the Las Arenas and Las Malvarrosa areas which are easily reached by bus from the town center.

Valencia offers a wide and varied range of accommodation to suit all pockets and tasted from the reasonably priced establishments such as the Hostal Bisbal to the more elegant Vinci Lys

Other great value hotels around the city include the Las Arenas Balneario Resort As luxury resort with a superb seafront location by Las Arenas beach. Las Arenas Balneario Resort has a huge outdoor swimming pool and a spa. Another populer choice is the Zenit Valencia located in the heart of Valencia, opposite the Estación del Norte Station and the bullring. The hotel has its own restaurant, El Azahar, which serves Mediterranean cuisine and has a roof terrace. The Zenit is just 200 metres from Valencia Town Hall, and the Cathedral is a 15-minute walk away. Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences is 2.5 km away from the hotel. Xàtiva Metro Station is just outside the Zenit Valencia.

Skiing in Spain this Winter

2010-11-14T16:12:00.005Z

DONT MISS OUT ON THIS YEARS SKI SEASON

Spain is ranked second as the worlds hottest tourist destination and for most visitors its the sun and sand that brings them to the land of passion and not the skiing...until now !!.

The first snow falls on the mountanous regions of Spain are just around the corner and that meansone thing ... the ski resorts will be busy preparing to open their doors in the coming weeks to the hundreds of thousands of winter sports enthusiasts preparing to decend on some of best skii resorts in Europe.

For the winter sports and skiing enthusiasts Spain currently offers some 1.000 Kilometres of quality marked trails and slopes situated in over 36 superb ski resorts half of which are proud owners of the Q awards for their quality tourism facilities and services offered. And all this set in a country that is second only to Switzerland with the greatest amount of mountains.

The main skiing regions of Spain are located in Aragon and Catalonian Pyrenees , the Cantabrian, Iberian and Central mountains and the Penibetico mountain range in the south.

The Aragonese and Catalonian Pyrenees in Northern Spain is the home of most of this countries leading ski resorts although the Sierra Nevada located in the heart of Andalucia in Southern Spain ranks amongst one the most popular. Sierra Nevada although the southern most ski resort in Europe has the longest winter season with skiers enjoying snow for almost 5 months a year. There is also a good selection of Ski resorts near Madrid, Galicia, Leon and Cantabria in the north west and La Rioja and Teruel in the mid north.

Please check out our complete guide to sking in Spain where you will find usefull information on all the major ski resorts around Spain including resort facilities , updated weather and snow reports , where to stay, ski hotels , chalet rentals ,other nearby accommodation and much more.

Family Holidays on the Costa de la Luz

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With a beautiful coastline and many attractions, it’s no surprise that family holidays in Costa de la Luz are increasingly popular. With a name literally meaning ‘Coast of Light,’ Costa de la Luz is a varied and tourist friendly region of Spain that retains more of its culture than the Costa del Sol.

Attractions

Renting a villa for the family in one of scenic towns, such as Chiclana de la Frontera or Vejer de la Fontera, gives you a great base to explore the countryside, pine wood forests, or one of the many nature reserves. Most holiday homes come with personal swimming pools and spacious patios, so there’s space to relax at home too.

The beaches in this region are less windswept that the Cadiz coastline, and offer some pristine sections of sand. The Playa de Castilla is only accessible on foot, but with around fifteen miles of gorgeous sand to enjoy it’s well worth the effort. In the height of summer the beaches become vibrant holiday hubs, which does mean a lot of other tourists around. But there are all the facilities to make your time on the sands pleasant and relaxed - and there are plenty of sunbeds too.

Activities and food

The capital of Costa de la Luz, Huelva city, is a great place to shop and explore. With numerous historical sites and easy access to transport you can take things at your own pace and get some perfect holiday snaps too.

For water sports the Costa de la Luz has numerous great locations. West of Huelva city is Barra de El Rompido, which is a fine beach and a great place to try out some new adventurous activities. Along the coast you’ll also find plenty of other places with activities for the kids, such as snorkelling and banana boat rides.

The region is famous for its seafood, so expect some amazing traditional Spanish fare. You can always treat yourself to tapas, and in and around Huelva there are plenty of international restaurants too. So there’s no need to worry if the kids are feeling fussy. With such a tourist friendly set up you’re bound to have a great time on your Costa de la Luz holidays.

The Golden Coast of the Costa Dorada

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The Golden Coast of Costa Dorada

The Costa Dorada, or “Gold Coast”, is a stretch of southern Catalonia in Spain, deservedly famous for its gorgeous sandy shores and great summer weather. With numerous blue-flag beaches, you’ll find the resorts on your Costa Dorada holidays are perfect for sun and sea. And if you like adventure, you’ll find fun activities for you and the whole family. The region has a strong culture with an amazing history, so if you love exploring beautiful places, then you have a great choice: the ancient city of Tarragona, the spectacular mountain monastery at Montserrat, and only a couple of hours away - Barcelona, one of the world’s most stunning cities.

Holidays to Costa Dorada are simple; a couple of hours by plane from the UK, and as it’s within the European Union there’s no visa hassle. You’ll find superb resorts all along the coast; places like Salou, Cambrils, and La Pineda, and these are fully geared for your holidays, with a good range of hotels and restaurants offering good food at reasonable prices, which means cheap Costa Dorada holidays are within easy reach.

Summer time is the most popular for holidays to Costa Dorada. The coast is dry and hot but nicely cooled by the Mediterranean breezes, and the temperature is generally around 25-30°C. One of the great things about holidays in Costa Dorada is the beaches, many of them blue-flag beaches that shelve gently, so they’re ideal for young families. Salou, La Pineda and Cambrils are also worth a visit. The watersports on offer range from windsurfing to kite-surfing to sailing, and at La Pineda there’s a superb waterpark. Or you could visit the exciting amusement park at Salou; Port Aventura has some great rides, including some outstanding rollercoasters.

Holidays in Costa Dorada are ideal if you love culture. Catalonia is a region with a strong sense of its own identity and with its own language, Catalan, so you don’t have to go far to find the true Catalonia. Barcelona is only a couple of hours away, with its amazing cathedral designed by Gaudi, the famous Ramblas and the old city. Or take the cable car up to the monastery at Montserrat, worth it just for the spectacular views. Your cheap Costa Dorada holidays will be a wonderful time for you and your family.

The Ancient Temple of Debod in Madrid

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You may well ask what is such an Egyptian monument doing in the centre of Madrid.

Well the Debod Temple ( Templo de Debod ) was relocated to Madrid due to the construction of the Aswan Dam in 1960. During the construction of thre world famous dam in Egypt , UNESCO made a special appeal to countries around the world to help save many historic monuments that where in danger of being lost underwater maybe for ever.

The temple was dedicated to the gods of Amon and Isis and was built in the fourth century in Debod, near to the sacred temple Philae in the Nile valley, which is located not far from Aswan .

Due to the invaluable aid given by Spain at that time, and in particular in helping to save the sacred buildingsof ABU SIMBEL, the Egyptian government decided in 1968 to donate the ancient monument to the Spanish people.

In 1969 the temple was dismantled stone by stone and shipped to the Spanish Port of Valencia where it was moved to Madrid and painstakingly reconstructed, finally opening to the public in 1972. The temple is located on the site of a former army barracks within the Parque de la Montana area of Madrid.

There is also an interesting exhibition which depicts the rebuilding of the temple in Madrid.

Location : Parque del Cuartel de la Montaña
Ferraz, 1 - 28008 Madrid.
Telephone: (+34 ) 91 366 74 15

Nearest Metro: Plaza de España

Buses: Number 74

Opening times:
Tuesday to Friday, 1 April to 30 September: 10am to 2pm and 6-8pm. 1 October to 31 March: 9:45am to 1:45pm and 4:15 - 6:15pm. Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 2pm.

The temple is closed Mondays and public holidays.

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The Costa Blanca – A great family holiday destination

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Costa Blanca draws in millions of tourists each year and is one of the most famous coasts in Spain. With hot weather all summer, and mild conditions right through the year, it is a great destination to visit all year round. There is something for everyone on a holiday to Costa Blanca and with a range of quiet and busy resorts, everyone can find the perfect place to relax and enjoy themselves.

Costa Blanca is a great holiday destination for families as it has plenty on offer for adults and children alike. The beaches have beautiful clear blue waters which are shallow and calm, making them ideal for young children, whilst the white sandy shores not only provide the perfect place to rest your head and catch some rays, but are also great for making sandcastles! Many of the beaches in Costa Blanca also have shops and restaurants nearby, meaning you won’t even have to venture too far from your sunbed in order to find refreshments.

Benidorm is by far the most well-known and popular resort in Costa Blanca. With a safe atmosphere, lively nightlife and plenty of activities on offer, it is a great resort for a family holiday. Many of Europe’s best Theme Parks can be found in Benidorm and they provide a great day out for the whole family. For those of you who love excitement, Terra Mitica is where you will find the biggest thrill rides, and for those of you who prefer to get up close with nature; Terra Natura is a great park to explore. There is also a great range of evening shows to go and see on your Costa Blanca holiday. From spectacular, musical shows, to comedic and raunchy shows, you will easily find something to suit your tastes.

Whatever you do on your Costa Blanca holiday you can be sure that it will be fun-packed and family friendly!

Great Hotel Prices Guaranteed - OUR PICK OF THE WEEK

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HOTEL EUROSTARS ANGLI **** BARCELONA

SEPTEMBER OFFER . FROM 106.92 Euros - Double Room Per Room - Per Night

This stunning design hotel is set in a quiet residential area of Barcelona, and features beautiful glass walls and a lovely swimming pool/garden area with amazing views of Tibidabo mountain.

Enjoy a relaxing break at the stylish Eurostars Angli, lying in the elegant Sarrià neighbourhood, just a 10-minute train journey from Plaça Catalunya.

You can admire the hotel’s contemporary architecture, as well as the many beautiful buildings located in the surroundings.

Make the most of the tour desk and free Wi-Fi in public areas to plan your visit to the city centre.

After a busy day of sightseeing, enjoy a dip in the Eurostars Angli’s lovely outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi.

You can sleep well in the spacious rooms, with large beds and huge windows, offering plenty of natural light.

At night, have a drink at the cosy bar, and an original Mediterranean meal in the Eurostars Angli’s delicious restaurant.

Rooms: 48

Hotel Chain: Hotusa – Eurostars Hotels

BOOK ONLINE NOW at the fabulous

The Hotel Castillo - A gem in the Basque Countryside

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The Hotel Castillo is located at Olaberria, in the beautiful Basque countryside of northern Spain, just 40 km from San Sebastian.

It has a lovely charm and is in a an excellent location in the middle of the San Sebastian, Pamplona and the Vitoria triangle.

The city of Vitoria and the beaches of the Costa Verde are less than an hour’s drive away. The hotel’s 24-hour reception has a tour desk, which will be happy to provide full information on the local area.

It offers a traditional Basque restaurant , air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, and free public parking. Each room at the Castillo has a private bathroom, TV and a minibar.

Explore the Basque Countryside at the lovely Hotel CASTILLO from as little as 45 Euros per room per night.

Book the Hotel Castillo now through our discounted online Hotel Reservations section.

Spain Tops the Blue Flag Beach list for 2010

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520 Blue Flags have been awarded to Spain’s beaches for 2010, that’s 28 new beaches from the previous year giving Spain the highest number of blue flag beaches in the world.

The Balearic and Canary Islands, Galicia, Asturias, and Valencia have all increased the number of Beaches awarded the Blue Flag, only Andalucia and Catalonia have had a slight decrease. The Blue Flag is a voluntary eco-label awarded to over 3450 beaches and marinas in 41 countries across Europe and around the world. It is owned and run by the independent non-profit organisation Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

The Blue Flag works towards sustainable development at beaches/marinas through strict criteria dealing with water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management, and safety and other services. The program also includes environmental education and information for the public, decision makers and tourism operators.

From Galicia in the North to Marbella in the south, Spain really can boast it has some of the most beautiful and best beaches in Spain

Click HERE to see the 2010 list of Blue Flag beaches for Spain.

The Costa Dorada - Spain`s very own "Gold Coast"

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The Costa Dorada ( Duarada in Catalan ) means the Gold Coast and is around 135 Kms long stretching from Mataro in the north to Pensicola in the southern part of this beautiful coastline.

The Costa Dorada has many spacious sandy beaches with clean clear and shallow waters. The fertile lands around the coast produce some of the best wine in Spain along with olive groves, almonds hazel nuts, carobs and a wide selection of vegetables.

There are areas of pure natural beauty including two nature reserves,: the Deltra del Ebro National Park and the National Reserve of Tortoda-Besserit Passes. Another picturesque area of note and well worth a visit is the extremely beautiful Prados Mountain range.

The Coast is made up of 10 counties and 183 municipalities , the capital of which is the city of Tarragona. The 12 areas of the coast comprise of Altafulla, Calafell, Cambrils, Coma-Ruga, El Vendrell, Hospitalet Infant, L Ametlla de Mar, La Pineda, Miami Platja, Montbrio del Camp, Salou, and Tarragona.

Some of the most famous beach resorts can be found along the Costa Dorada including Salou and Cambrills, not to mention the picturesque towns of Cunit and Mont-Roig in the northern area, the Ebro delta, with long wide beaches and very fine sand . The delta to Les Cases d'Alcanar offers long beaches of clean heavy sand. Steeper and narrower beaches influenced by the nearby mountains around can be found at Vandellos, L'Ampolla and L'Ametlla de Mar btu are well worth a visit.

If you are a Spanish fiesta lover a good time to visit is between then February and March during the Carnival days. The Diada de Sant Jordi -also known as the Book Day is celebrated on April 23rd . The Revetlla de Sant Joan ( Nit del Foc or Fire Night ) is celebrated on June 23rd, and is the prelude to a series of summer events which include parties, firework displays and authentic dancing.

For food lovers the Catalan cuisine is second to none with a wide variety of international dishes , authentic Mediterranean cuisine can be found in numerous restaurants all along the Costa Dorada and as you can imagine the sea influences much of the Tarragona cooking including a wide variety of grilled and fried fish, fresh caught baby octopus, sea base cooked in salt, baby squid sautéed with broad beans, sea cucumbers and many more dishes that makes eating out in these parts something very special and unforgettable. In addition you have some excellent local wine which including Perlat Montsant and C N Èstruc Negre 2008.

The Costa Dorada has more then its fair share of accommodation of all types and to suit all pockets and tastes. Our pick of some of the most highly rated hotels along the gold coast include:

The Hotel Dorada Palace This fine hotel has a central setting in the resort of Salou with Port Aventura within a short drive. Green Fees are also available on site for nearby golf courses. The Dorada Palace is surrounded by gardens and has several terraces where guests can relax. There is a games room and a play area for children. It also has a rooftop terrace offers views over Salou and Port Aventura.

Another popular and great hotel located in Salou is the Santa Monica Playa located just 250 metres from the beach it has 2 outdoor swimming pools, a sun terrace and a garden. The hotel is in the centre of Salou, only 2 km from Port Aventura Theme Park. The historic Roman city of Tarragona is about 10 km away. Each room at the Santa Monica has a private balcony and satellite TV. A safe is available on request, and rooms are air-conditioned during the summer. The hotel has a buffet restaurant, including a children’s buffet. In summer there are regular theme dinners. The hotel also offers live entertainment, music and discos.

Other hotels of note located along the Costa Dorada include the Villagarcia de Arosa Situated along the waterfront promenade, this modern, 4-star hotel offers a range of facilities, each with enchanting views of Ria de Arousa estuary. The hotel is located 1 km from Vallagarcía de Arosay, approximately a 15 minute walk to the centre. During your stay you can relax and soak up the sun out on the terrace, cooling off in the pool. There is also a sitting room where you can unwind in peace and quiet.

A favourite located in Salou is the Augustus . This hotel is located along Salou’s seafront promenade, just 30 metres from the beach. It has 2 swimming pools by the sea, 1 for adults and 1 for children. Rooms at Hotel Augustus have a private balcony with views over the sea and the city of Salou. There is air conditioning and heating and a work desk in every room. Hotel Augustus offers wired internet in public areas and private parking, both at an additional cost. There is also a games room, a children’s playground and a large sun terrace.

Pamplona - Rich in History and Charm

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Pamplona full of History and Charm

Located in the centre of the Autonomous region of Navarre, lies Pamplona, the capital of the Ancient Kingdom of Navarre.

Pamplona has always been an important stopping point on the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela and was founded by the Roman general Pompey on the ancient Vascon settlement of Iruña in 75 B.C

Pamplona now has a population of around 200.000 and is a historic , charming, welcoming and modern city. The old quarter is a travelers delight and full of narrow streets, small plazas, churches, towers and Nobel dwellings.

Go deeper into the city and so much of the cities history will be revealed. Some of the cities most fascinating and popular destinations include the town hall, built in 1752 which commemorates the union of the hamlets of San Cernin, San Nicolas and Navarrería. Theres is the gothic church of Santo Domingo from the 16th Century. The Museum of Navarre houses an important collection of archaeological pieces and works of art. The outstanding Santa María la Real Cathedra is located in the La Navarrería neighborhood and so much more.

And remember some of the finest Spanish cuisine and wine comes from this beautiful region. Walking around the old quarter you will come across an amazing choice of restaurants serving a wide variety of local delicacies including lamb, small green peppers and locally grown asparagus dishes, not to mention an array of tapas ( Pinchos ) bars.

Exploring the historic part of Pamplona is easy by staying at some of the great value hotels located in the central part of the city . They include the AV Ciudad de Pamplona .This smart and modern hotel is situated in the centre of Pamplona, between the university site and the Ciudadela Park. From here you can stroll into the historic centre. Relax with friends or colleagues in the comfortable AC Lounge, at the end of a long day’s sightseeing the city. During the running of the bull festival, this is the ideal place to retreat from the festivities in the city centre and get some rest. The hotel also boasts a fitness centre, where you can unwind and exercise while on holiday. There is also a smart restaurant onsite, which allows you to sample typical local cuisine without leaving the hotel.

Another popular hotel in the central area is the Iruna Palace Tres Reyes Set in Taconera Park gardens, this modern hotel is situated in the very centre of Pamplona, close to the conference centre and Navarran Auditorium. The Tres Reyes hotel has all the services and facilities to help make your stay pleasant and relaxing. Guests can enjoy the summer swimming pool and garden.
There is also access to the picturesque Ulzama Golf Club.

Another highly rated establishment located in central Pamplona is the Sercotel Suites Mendebaldea . The hotel offers stylish suites and is located some 20-minutes walk from Pamplona's centre. Enjoy a private terrace, well-fitted kitchen and free Wi-Fi. The Sercotel Suites Mendebaldea are conveniently located near the University of Navarra and Pamplona's industrial parks. You can easily balance work and play with visits to Pamplona's charming centre for authentic Spanish food and wine.