Archive for 'Parks & Gardens in Spain'

The Generalife of Granada is a palace and series of large gardens that was built in the 13th century during the reign of Muhammad III (1302–1309) and remodelled and added to several times over the centuries. Positioned on the slopes of the Hill of the Sun, or Cerro del Sol, the whole estate offers amazing panoramic views over the city below. It was the summer palace and country estate of the Nasrid rulers of the Emirate of Granada in Al-Andalus but is thought to have originally been an architect's house that later passed to the royal family and remodelled accordingly. One of the translations of the name is actually “garden of the architect”, though there are multiple interpretations and theories.

Seville is an incredibly beautiful city in the Spanish region of Andalusia that boasts an incredible amount of architectural gems, stunning attractions and things to see and do. A romantic and charming place, steeped in history and culture and photogenic spots around every corner, it is an ideal holiday destination. Once you find a perfect vacation in Seville, you'll find endless reasons to fall in love with the city. However, we have been listing just ten of them and here are the final entries into this selection...

7. Seville Cathedral

Seville's incredible cathedral, Santa Maria de la Sede, is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built from 1401 to 1506, it is ornate, massive and utterly glorious and awe-inspiring. It is said that when the plans for the building, the aim of those involved was to “build a church so beautiful and so magnificent that those who see it finished will think we are mad”.

Seville is the capital of the region of Andalusia, the third largest city in the entire country, which is famous for flamenco dancing, its ornate and rich architectural landscape (particularly its great monuments such as the Cathedral), and its lushness. One of the most beloved tourist destinations in Spain, it is a magical place that will make you fall utterly in love. Just find your perfect vacation rental in Seville and come see it with your own eyes to discover why people adore it so. Here are just ten of the most amazing attractions you'll come across...

1. Real Alcázar

One of the most beautiful palaces in the entire world, the Alcázar of Seville is a royal palace that was originally developed by Moorish Muslim kings and one of the most outstanding examples of mudéjar architecture. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe. While older buildings existed on the site in the past, the current palace structure largely dates to the 12th and 13th centuries.

Parc de la Ciutadella is a 19th century park located at the heart of Barcelona that is known as the city's “green lung”. Composed of a small lake, large areas of greenery and plenty of surprises and little gems along the way, it is the perfect place to spend some time and take a breather from running between tourist attractions. If you have found a vacation rental in Barcelona, be sure to pencil in some time relaxing in this lovely park.

In 1869, the military citadel at the heart of the city was demolished and a park was planned as Barcelona made a bid to host the 1888 Universal Exhibition. Designed by architect Josep Fontseré to fit the needs of the world fair, it is still littered with reminders of this times, such as the Castell dels Tres Dragons, home to the original restaurant designed for the exhibition by Domènech i Montaner, the waterfall and lake that were designed by Fontseré, the beautiful plant house, and the glass house. The park is also home to Barcelona's Zoo, which was established in 1892.

The Turia Gardens in Valencia is a beautiful park that is one of the largest urban areas of parkland in all of Spain. It takes up nine kilometres of greenery and is comprised of foot paths, cycling routes and leisure, sport and play areas, making it the perfect place to relax, have fun with your family or get in some exercise in a scenic setting.

The route of the park passes along the city's main museums and monuments and is formed of a unique itinerary of palm trees and orange trees, fountains and pine woods, aromatic plants and ponds, sports facilities and rose beds.

For anyone who has found a vacation rental in Valencia and is looking for somewhere to wander and truly live in the moment and enjoy their holiday, it is a great spot to spend some time!