Archive for 'Must See Attractions in Spain'

Two of the best holidays of my childhood, which we all still remember fondly as a family, took place in Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands. In fact, the second time that we visited we actually returned to the exact same part of the island, Maspalomas, and the very same villa complex, we liked it so much. One of the main tourist centres on Gran Canaria, the resort town of Maspalomas went from a small hamlet to a vision of what tourism could be when it was redeveloped in the 1960s. It is touristy, to be sure, but it is also charming with lots of eccentricities, unique-looking buildings, stunning beaches, lots of places to eat and go for drinks, and plenty to see and do. For a family holiday, a vacation rental in Maspalomas is a great idea as there will be something to keep everyone in the group happy and interested. One such perfect family-friendly attraction in Gran Canaria is Palmitos Park.

At the time that we visited Maspalomas, my younger brother’s dinosaur obsession was in full swing. As birds are a direct descendant of dinosaurs and have been described as living dinosaurs, his interest carried over to them too and Palmitos Park was chosen for one of our family outings to cater to his particular interests. However, it wasn’t just him that enjoyed it, the entire family had an incredible time and we still talk about it today.

The famous Sierra Nevada mountain range is located in the region of Andalusia in Spain, is Europe’s most southerly ski resort, and boasts one of Europe’s longest ski seasons. For those looking to plan a European ski break over the Christmas holidays or over half term or spring break next year, it is a perfect destination. But don’t just take our word for it, here are five reasons to find a vacation rental in Andalusia and head to the Sierra Nevada ski resort for a ski holiday this winter season.

1. How long is the ski season in the Sierra Nevada?

As noted, the Sierra Nevada ski resort boasts one of the longest ski seasons in Europe, usually starting in late November and running all the way until early May, with the Alpine meadows of the mountain resort transformed by a blanket of snow for almost half of the year. It also offers almost guaranteed sunshine and night skiing on Saturday nights, weather permitting. All of this means that you can easily plan a trip to the area and that you have lots of options and wiggle room for when you can go on your ski holiday in the Sierra Nevada. This is a great reason to choose it as your next ski trip destination!

This week, we were talking about the beautiful Catalonian city of Tarragona and one of her Medieval architectural gems. However, the city has much older roots than that and, therefore, there are some more ancient architectural gems that are also worth mentioning. One of these is the Amphitheatre. Located right by the coast and often home to recreation events of the gladiatorial games that once took place in the venue during Roman times, it is a fascinating monument to the city’s ancient past and a must-see for anyone who has found a vacation rental in Catalonia and is spending time exploring Tarragona.

Casa Castellarnau de Tarragona is one of the few noble homes in the city of Tarragona that has been fully preserved to this day. It is a grand Catalan stately home that dates back to the early 15th century and is a fascinating beauty, filled with incredible antique furniture, objects, and works of art. Once the home of the powerful Castellarnau family, it is now the Museu d'Història de Tarragona, or History Museum of Tarragona. Showcasing 1700s and 1800s furniture & decorative objects in the setting of a stunning restored aristocratic residence, this inexpensive museum is a great place to go and step back through time for an afternoon while exploring the city.

Carrer Cavallers was the street on which all of the city’s noble families lived during the Middle Ages and this home, number 14, was built in the 15th century for one of these families. It has, however, undergone many different periods of restoration and refurbishment throughout the centuries, largely reflecting 18th and 19th century alterations today. In the 18th century the building was purchased by Carles de Castellarnau and under his direction there were significant changes made to both the façade and to the interior and layout of the building.

We have previously written about travel tips for those undertaking the famous Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James, one of the most well-known hiking routes in the world, and an immense network of paths that connect to the shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, northwestern Spain, and which has been a popular pilgrimage and hiking route since all the way back in the Middle Ages. However, in this piece, we are focussing on one point along the route and something that might be a welcome surprise to those undertaking the hike: a wine fountain! So, if you have the Camino on your bucket list and have always wanted to do it for yourself, then just find a vacation rental in Galicia and finally do it! Whether you’re only doing a section of the walk or want to do various trips to highlights along the way, such as that aforementioned wine fountain, then don’t delay and get booking today!