Andalucia

Arcos de la Frontera is a picturesque white hilltop town, perched on the edge of a cliff face overlooking the open countryside towards the Sierra de Cadiz. Declared a National Monument of historic and artistic interest, this quaint town is full of interesting sights such as the Plaza de Cabildos, numerous gothic and baroque churches, a castle and a myriad of winding cobbled streets full of tapas bars, local shops and markets. At the bottom of the hill the lake beach of El Santiscal can be found, great for sunbathing, swimming or practicing water sports.

The fishing town of Conil, with its long stretches of sandy beaches, sheltered coves and pine forests, has long been a popular destination with Spanish tourists. Its promenade is lined with fish and seafood restaurants, and its pedestrianised centre is full of local tapas bars and artisan shops. The west facing beach bars are ideal spots to watch the sun set over the ocean. For those wishing to keep active, this coast has surf and kite schools, as well as centres that rent out bikes, kayaks and snorkelling equipment. The weekly Friday flea market is not to be missed.

El Bosque is situated on the banks of River Majaciete in the foothills of the Sierra de Grazalema. This typical Andalucían village cannot fail to charm. A refreshing walk along the river banks, a tapa of local goats’ cheese, a tipple of sherry, or a visit to the botanical gardens - these are just a few things to do here. Famous for its furniture making, El Bosque (translation ‘the forest’), is surrounded by luscious greenery, so there is plentiful flora and fauna to be enjoyed, easy walks, and some excellent restaurants in which to discover the delights of the local cuisine.

Known as the balcony to the white villages, 360° views can be enjoyed from many points around this traditional Andalucían village. El Gastor is a place to get away from it all and feel that time has stood still. Meandering through the maze of narrow streets, exploring its many hidden treasures, visitors can expect to be welcomed with a friendly smile. A relaxing time can be spent sipping a cool drink in a small café in the church square, and, just as the unhurried locals do, watch the world go by. For the more energetic there are some stunning local walks. During the summer months kayaks are available on the lake at nearby Zahara, and amongst various other activities, cycling along the Via Verde at nearby Olvera is popular.

A pretty whitewashed town, declared a National Monument of Tourist Interest, Vejer is perched on a hill, 200 metres above sea level. The old town is a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets, archways and geranium filled patios, as well as churches, a castle, the old city walls, a Jewish quarter and the Plaza de España with its famous fountain. In recent years Vejer has become a gastronomic hub and offers a delicious choice of traditional Spanish tapas as well as locally caught Almadraba tuna, Retinto beef, Italian, Moroccan, French, Japanese cuisine, wine and sherry bars. The town is conveniently located 10 kilometres inland from the wonderful Costa de la Luz beaches of El Palmar, Zahora, Los Caños de Meca and Cape Trafalgar.

Perched in the Serrania de Ronda mountains, on the edge of an impressive gorge, Ronda is a delight for all who visit. Ronda claims to be one of the prettiest towns in Spain, and rightly so. There is plenty to discover and explore. The iconic bridge leads into the old town, with its labyrinth of little lanes and hidden squares, interior patios, historic monuments and thrilling views into the dramatic landscape below. The bustling new town is a hive of activity, with tapas bars, restaurants and shops offering plenty of local products, with large squares to sit and watch the world go by and soak in the atmosphere of this romantic town.

Órgiva is conveniently located between the Moorish city of Granada, home of La Alhambra Palace, and the sandy beaches and marinas of the Costa Tropical. Nestled within the National Park of the Sierra Nevada, it is an ideal base to go hiking, cycling and horse riding through the olive groves and countryside dotted with lemon and almond trees. Órgiva is within easy reach of the quaint white hilltop villages of the Alpujarras and also the spa town of Lanjarón. The popular market each Thursday is an opportunity to purchase local produce including hams, cheeses, olives, fresh fruit and vegetables.

A nature lover’s paradise, Grazalema nestles into a backdrop of steep limestone rocks and verdant pine forests. It is a charismatic whitewashed village, with tightly packed houses adorned with colourful potted plants, friendly people, and a good choice of small cafés and restaurants in which to sample typical Andalucían dishes. Local crafts such as leather goods, honey, cakes, cheese, ceramics, wines, and wool blankets and shawls, can all be found in the plentiful local shops. The surrounding area is perfect for walkers, birdwatchers, photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a multitude of rocky ridges, gorges, and fertile valleys, there is an impressive array of wildlife to be enjoyed.