Leisure Parks

A variety of factors make Andalusia ideal for leisure parks. There is a wide variety to choose from, to suit your tastes and those of your friends and family.

The wonderful weather, the long hours of sunshine and different geographical areas add value to this broad range of leisure attractions. Nature areas for lovers of the countryside are complemented by theme parks where you can enjoy culture and education side by side on your holidays. There are also amusement parks where you will experience new, exciting sensations.

Andalusia teams up with Mother Nature, giving you the chance to discover an array of areas dedicated to the conservation of flora and fauna. Zoos, aquaria and botanical gardens will immerse you in direct, open contact with the world of animals and plants.

If you are looking for fun and entertainment with some adventure and excitement thrown in, then we also have much to offer. Andalusia’s theme parks carry visitors back in time and give young and old the chance to take a close, practical look at the fundaments of science and technology, all with the fun of a host of different shows and spectacles on offer. Its amusement parks provide all the excitement of speed and a host of other sensations, with a wide array of ingenious rides. Whichever you choose, you will be able to let your imagination run free and have a great time. You will also find restaurants and areas to suit all tastes where you can rest and get your strength back, along with shops for all you requirements, where you can also buy a souvenir to remember your visit.

You are also invited to discover Andalusia’s water parks, where water plays the lead role for your fun and excitement, with water slides and pools, along with green areas and parks.

Nightlife

Andalusia offers a range of nightlife options to suit all tastes. There are giant nightclubs for a great night out with various different dance floors, bars, rooms for private parties and eating areas where you can get your strength back.

If you would rather have a more quiet night out, there are cinemas with all the latest films, and theaters offering top-level performances from the best of today’s companies and groups. You can also sit at any of the terrace bars to be found throughout Andalusia, and enjoy a drink and good company. Summer is the best time for this. Beforehand you also have the chance to try some tapas at one of the many typical bars offering excellent Andalusian cuisine.

If you prefer to be indoors, then there is a multitude of bars to go for a drink at night. They have all kinds of different atmospheres, so you are sure to find one that suits you.

You can round off your cultural entertainment in the afternoons, with a stroll around the city or a visit to art galleries and exhibitions showing works by established artists and new talent.

If you like gambling, or would just like a different night out, why not spend a fun and glamorous night at one of Andalusia’s casinos.

The nightlife in Andalusian cities tends to be grouped into areas, according to age and styles, so that you will always find a fun option to suit you.

Come and have a great time in Andalusia.

Spas

Welcome to the world of spas. Here you will find medicinal, mineral-rich waters, facilities ideal for personalized treatments and specialist medical teams.

You are sure to love this chance to relax and spend a few days of rest surrounded by peace and tranquillity.

Set in natural locations, in the mountains or close to the beach, they are warm and welcoming, and offer a full range of services to make you feel at home.

Each spa has its own techniques, but the most common are steam baths, contrast showers, sauna, pools with water jets, heat chairs and massages, amongst others.

Purify your body and recover the wellbeing of body and mind.

Once you have tried them you will be hooked.

Flamenco

Get to know flamenco through Andalusia, or get to know Andalusia through flamenco.

There is no better way to learn about this art at first hand than to travel the roads that lead to its roots. The itineraries of the ‘Routes through Flamenco Country' cover all of Andalusia, permitting tourists to experience a sample of this great cultural treasure in just a few days.

‘The Bajañí Route' extends along the coast of Cadiz to Morón de la Frontera, revealing along the way two great geniuses, Paco de Lucía and Camarón de la Isla.

In the footsteps of Antonio Chacón begins the second route called ‘creation', which runs from Malaga, through Granada's fertile plain to the flamenco districts of the city of Granada.

The 'Cayetano Route' in honour of Niño de Cabra, runs through the mountains of Cordoba, and of course includes the city of Cordoba.

‘The three-four time  route. The basic song forms'starts from the Triana district of the city of Seville and from other towns in the province, like Utrera and Lebrija, and brings us back to Cadiz, its high point being Jerez de la Frontera.

A route through Huelva and its Fandango style of flamenco, and ‘The Las Minas route', between Almería and Jaén, round off the routes on offer.

Astrotourism

Stars, Constellations and Planetas give beautiful images of the skies of Andalusia, which have exceptional conditions to view this world, which despite being so far away.

The spectacle of the setting sun and nightfall gives way to thousands or millions of twinkling stars which will take you back to another time, or rather, to another planet.

When night falls, find a hideway that really shows the darkness of the night, such as, for example, Starlight Bookings and Destinations of Andalusia.

For more detailed stargazing, the Astronomical Observatories provide visitors with the conditions, equipment and information to investigate the cosmos, or simply enjoy the sky of Andalusia.

Even you don't recognize the stars or you does not know the names of the constellations, star gazing is a different kind of activity, which will be engraved in your memory.

Andalusia's distinctive traditional character can be most clearly seen through its arts and crafts. Although there has recently been a trend towards modernization, the variety and richness of the traditional handicrafts has been preserved, making the region one of the number one producers of this type of goods.

Andalusian craftsmen and women are committed to maintaining the authenticity and vitality of their production through the recovery and revival of traditional activities.

A thousand kilometers of coastline with one common factor: the Sun. Let yourself be captivated by Andalusia’s coast, where you will find a succession of unspoilt beaches, majestic cliffs, salt marshes teeming with wildlife and a little-known underwater world just waiting to be discovered.

You'll find it a veritable paradise for your holidays. With pleasant temperatures no matter what the season, Andalusia's outstanding beaches are a gift to any traveler.

Small coves and immense golden-sand beaches line the hundreds of kilometres of Andalusia’s coast, where you can enjoy an unforgettable holiday.

Andalusia shares its life between two loves: the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. One is calm and gentle, the other aggressive and exciting; two large coastal areas with their own identities, both governed by a sub-tropical Mediterranean climate. The coast of Andalusia offers you the chance to lose yourself in contemplation of its deep red sunsets and its waters, caressed by the easterly wind.

Andalusia’s beaches are its natural heritage and have their own personality. The coastline, encompassing the Almería Coast, the Costa Tropical in Granada, the Costa del Sol in Malaga, the Costa de la Luz in Cadiz and the Costa de la Luz in Huelva, is an idyllic natural setting, with warm waters and non-stop sunshine.

Mild temperatures join forces with the magic of Andalusia’s towns and villages, its charming harbors and an excellent range of hotels, along with splendid countryside and the convergence of sea and breezes. These are the basic ingredients for a destination not to be missed.

These are the beaches of Andalusia.

Costa de Almería

In the southern part of the peninsula, the Almería Coast extends along the Mediterranean Sea. Its landscape is very unusual: some areas are desert-like while greenhouse crops flourish in others. It is also mountainous, with rocky beaches or dunes, affording a wide range of leisure options to enjoy.

Its towns and cities still bear the traces of ancient civilizations, such as the El Argar and Los Millares cultures, with a wealth of ancient buildings, such as the Alcazaba citadel in the city of Almería and the watchtowers and castles along the coast, a sign of this area’s historical importance.

The most modern cities are located at the end of the coast and beckon tourists to enjoy the climate, sea and beaches, with resorts that make the Almería Coast the perfect place for a holiday.

Heading west, before reaching Aguadulce, the coastline becomes rugged, with harsh cliffs. After this point, a flat area begins, with a succession of rapidly expanding tourist centers, such as Roquetas de Mar with its broad beaches and excellent hotel facilities. All along the coast, there are tourist areas offering a variety of sports, such as golf, tennis, sailing, windsurfing, etc. Beautiful Almerimar is a fine example. One captivating beach follows another—Guardias Viejas, Balerma and Balanegra are a few—all the way to Adra, a town dating from the Phoenician era that reached the height of its splendor during Roman times.

This coast’s nature areas are also beyond compare. The Cabo de Gata-Nijar Nature Reserve is a paradisiacal spot with pristine, secluded beaches where you can enjoy the clean waters, ideal for sports like scuba diving, sailing and windsurfing. The sight of its high cliffs being struck by roaring waves is awe-inspiring.

Costa de la Luz- Cadiz

Its location at the southernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula and its outstanding climate have made it an object of desire for millennia, coveted by the Tartessians, Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Visigoths and Moors. There is one attraction after another along these 200 km of the peninsula’s finest golden sands.

Sanlúcar de Barrameda is at the mouth of the Guadalquivir River, the natural channel along which major cultures and civilizations have traveled, leaving behind their indelible marks. Its exceptional location opposite Doñana National Park, Spain’s most important Biological Reserve, makes it an ideal starting point for visitors who want to reach this nature area. The popular Bajo de Guía Beach is where its famous horse races are held every year.

Chipiona, Rota, El Puerto de Santa María, Puerto Real, Chiclana, Conil, Barbate and Tarifa are some of the main towns and cities, with spacious beaches, tourism infrastructures and clear waters.

These areas are perfect for windsurfing, while underwater fishing is also popular in the crystalline waters off the numerous beaches: Los Lances, Bolonia, Punta Paloma, de la Plata, Valdevaqueros and Torre de la Peña.

Costa de la Luz- Huelva

Huelva’s Costa de la Luz goes from the mouth of the Guadiana River, which forms part of the border between Spain and Portugal, to the mouth of the Guadalquivir River, which separates the provinces of Huelva and Cadiz.

This area features a series of spacious white-sand beaches where water, dunes and pine forests meet. Visitors will find everything from fully equipped areas with a lively atmosphere to wild, solitary spots.

Huelva’s coast, which has numerous marinas, offers outstanding conditions for sailing thanks to the good climate, which makes it possible to enjoy the sea year-round.

Huelva also has strong ties to Christopher Columbus, making America seem closer.

Ayamonte, Isla Cristina, Lepe, Cartaya, Punta Umbría, Mazagón and Matalascañas are the most important locations on this coast. The features of these primarily fishing towns have changed because of the influx of tourism.

Its location near Doñana National Park makes it an ideal place for nature lovers and for anyone seeking rest and relaxation. Those who are more active will be able to take part in a variety of land and water sports.

Costa Tropical

The Costa Tropical, situated between the Costa del Sol and the Almería Coast, is on an exceptional strip of land with unmatched conditions and attractions for an excellent holiday.

Its Mediterranean location and its proximity to northern Africa and the Sierra Nevada Mountains, with the highest peaks on the Iberian Peninsula, protect this coastline from cold winds from the north. A sub-tropical microclimate, with 320 sunny days a year and an average temperature of around 20º C, makes it possible to grow tropical fruits on the lush fertile plains.

Cliffs, coves and broad beaches make up the landscape of this coast, coveted and conquered by numerous settlers, including Phoenicians, Romans and Moors, who vied for it and left the imprint of their cultures.

There are five tourist centers on the Costa Tropical: Almuñécar (La Herradura), Salobreña, Motril, Castell de Ferro and La Rábita. All have good tourism infrastructures and are ideal for a number of sports, including windsurfing, surfing, scuba diving, fishing, sailing, water skiing, golf, tennis, squash, horse riding, etc. The Sierra Nevada Mountains, at an altitude of 3,400 m and just 40 km from the coast, are the perfect place for alpine skiing and mountaineering.

You will also find everything from marinas and places where you can take part in a multitude of water sports to spectacularly beautiful cliffs and secluded natural coves, as well as some outstanding beaches.

Costal del Sol

Washed by the Mediterranean Sea, the Costa del Sol extends along more than 150 kilometres of coastline in the province of Malaga, in the southern Iberian Peninsula. Its name, the “Coast of the Sun”, is not due to mere chance: with over 325 sunny days a year and a benevolent climate, this is a paradisiacal place with beaches to suit all tastes.

Starting at the Maro cliffs, and extending through Nerja, with its Balcón de Europa viewing point and cave; delightful Torrox; stately Vélez-Málaga; attractive Rincón de la Victoria; the magnificent capital; the famed Torremolinos; Benalmádena, Fuengirola, Mijas, Marbella, Estepona, Manilva and peaceful Casares, the Costa del Sol is a dream location for a holiday where the possibilities are endless.

Each beach has its own charms. Some are livelier, others are quieter and more solitary; some are absolutely untouched and others have the most modern services. You will surely find your own personal paradise on the Costa del Sol.

From the western coast of Cadiz to Nerja, on the border with the province of Granada, there is an area where tourism is highly developed. The waters are calm, warm and transparent, and the scenery is beautiful and varied, as many beaches are set between the mountains and the sea.

A large percentage of the total accommodation available in Andalusia is concentrated on the western Costa del Sol. There are many tourist services of all types, including berths for sporting boats at 13 marinas and yacht clubs, as well as golf courses, all types of sports facilities, casinos and a myriad of leisure and entertainment options.

Blue Flag beaches

The Andalusian beaches and marinas have earned this year 98 blue flags, which demonstrates the high-quality of the waters around Andalusia.

This summer will fly 78 beaches and 17 ports.

The Blue Flag is a quality that rewards compliance with standards of hygiene, health, safety, accessibility, information, lifeguard, in an initiative by the Association of Environmental and Consumer Education (ADEAC) and World Trade Organization (WTO).

Below you will find the beaches of Andalusia which this year have been awarded the Blue Flag, symbol unmistakable quality.

Andalusia has a rich ancient cultural heritage, which has increased in value in recent decades; both in recovering signs of identity reflected in its historic heritage as well the force provided by creative activity.

Over a third of the copyright that occurs in Spain is now concentrated in the community.

Of the 771 Andalusian municipalities, 126 have been declared historic areas. The old towns of Granada, Cordoba, Ubeda and Baeza have been recognized as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, just like Seville overall.

Along with this historical legacy, Andalusia has a wide network of cultural institutions. These include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Andalusian Centre of Contemporary Art and the Theatre of the Maestranza in Seville; the Andalusian Library and the Andalusian Legacy Foundation in Granada; the Andalusian Film House in Cordoba, the Andalusian Centre of Flamenco in Jerez de la Frontera; the Andalusian Centre for Underwater Archaeology in Cadiz; the Andalusian Centre of Photography in Almeria, and the Picasso Museum and the Andalusian Centre of Arts in Malaga.

Here you will find a magical place that transcends descriptions. The mountainous, colourful landscape, hidden tracks and trails, the grace and charm of Andalusia's countryside... They will wrap you up in a world so special that you will never forget it.

Andalusia is the Autonomous Region in Spain with the most protected nature areas, and each and every one is outstanding in its own right. Emblematic places like the Doñana National Park and Sierra Nevada in Granada, with the Biosphere Reserve designation; the Cabo de Gata Nature Reserve in Almería, the Sierra de Grazalema Mountains in Cadiz... They all contribute to Andalusia's special charm.

Andalusia's array of contrasts in landscapes and microclimates mean that on the same day you can enjoy the snowy peaks of Sierra Nevada and the sub-tropical surroundings of the beaches of Granada province. There is the source of the warm Guadalquivir River, the wild beauty of the Almería desert and the moist atmosphere in the rainy woodland of Grazalema.

Each one of Andalusia's eight provinces has its own unique traits, arising from their geographical situation and cultural heritage.

The main attraction of the landscape of Andalusia centers on its impressive contrasts: mountains and beaches, deserts and salt flats, plains and countryside where Mediterranean crops alternate with pastureland. Andalusia's contrasting landscapes, geographical situation and varied climate mean it can boast a huge array of flora and fauna, including birds, mammals and reptiles.

The natural vegetation, with holm-oaks, cork trees, pines, etc., lives alongside swathes of olive groves. Together they form an idyllic cloak that covers the whole of Andalusia.

Andalusia's countryside will conquer the heart of the most daring travelers, all those who want to take active advantage of its geographical situation, or who prefer to delight in its most hidden spots. It is sure to win you over.

The Mediterranean diet is in fashion. Basic products such as fresh vegetables and pulses, fruit, fish and virgin olive oil have made Andalusian cuisine a major attraction.

Andalusian cuisine centers on fresh, local ingredients, with fish dishes available in coastal provinces and the finest meat dishes inland. A huge variety of fruit is to be found throughout. Perhaps the only difference is the personal touch that each town and village gives to its typical dishes.

Andalusia’s gastronomy is a faithful reflection of its history, packed with aromas, flavors and colors . It is a highly varied cuisine and its traditional products make it different and delicious.

The gastronomy of Andalusia owes much to the Moorish cuisine of Al-Andalus. Its refinement came to transform many customs.

Casseroles with vegetables and pulses, game stews, along with different seafood dishes are the essence of this cuisine.

Going to Andalusia and letting yourself be guided, step-by-step, from monument to monument, is there anything better? The ancient history of this land inhabited since prehistoric times has left behind an immense legacy of artistic heritage throughout Andalusia. 

The following are declared World Heritage Sites: Alhambra, Generalife and Albaycín de Granada; the Alcázar, the Cathedral and Seville Indias Archive ; the Great Mosque and Córdoba's historic center; and the Renaissance Cities Úbeda and Baeza.

All with one common point: they are unmissable!

Art reveals itself in all forms at the museums in Andalusia: paintings, sculptures, photography.… in addition to important art galleries, archaeological museums, or simply open-air museums Andalusia has many exhibition points of interest related to the closest themes of our culture.

Almería

The province of Almería offers pleasures which are hard to come by in the Mediterranean: over 100 Km. of untamed coastline, and landscapes of outstanding beauty.

The peculiarities of the landscape and the bountiful Almerían climate have made this province the perfect place to locate a substantial film industry, and the region has played host to some of the most famous stars of the screen.

Its untouched beaches in the east with their emerging nudist complexes and the larger tourist centers in the west offer a quality destination for the more demanding traveler. Its exceptional coastline borders the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Nature Reserve, with long sandy beaches and secluded coves bathed by the warm waters of the Mediterranean. The traditional festivities of the Moors and the Christians will transform your trip to Almería into a wonderful adventure.

Located on the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula, on the shores of the Mediterranean, it has a coastline with 200 Km. of beaches, stretching from Pulpí in the east to Adra in the west. It descends from the Sierra de Gádor mountains until it joins the Mediterranean sea in some exceptionally beautiful beaches.

Almería, thanks to its strategic situation on the Mediterranean, has been home to different civilizations throughout its history. Significant traces of their presence can be seen in the archaeological remains scattered all over the province.

There is evidence of a very special prehistoric culture in Los Millares and el Argar. Phoenicians, Carthaginians and Greeks exploited its mines and traded up and down its coast. The Romans, who settled here in the 3rd century B.C., transformed it into "Porto Magnus" on the Mediterranean and dominated the area until the later arrival of the Visigoths in the 7th century. The Arabs created the current capital in the 10th century, and from here they ruled over one of the most important taifas (kingdoms) in Muslim Spain. The Arab influence was the most significant, as they remained in Spain for almost eight centuries. There are several monuments which bear witness to the fertile history of this land. The castles and fortresses provide an exceptional historic testimony for understanding the societies of the past.

Long exposed to border conflicts and the need to defend itself, the province of Almería has a large number and variety of castles which comprise a heritage known to few. The mining industry brought about an economic recovery in the 19th century.

The sea and the desert coexist alongside the most fertile and productive agricultural lands on the continent. Arid terrain, where survival becomes a permanent challenge, and saltwater lakes which are home to a variety of animal and plant species, unique on our planet… this is what awaits visitors to this province, which is blessed with a subtropical Mediterranean climate, warm and dry.

The Sierra María-Los Vélez Nature Reserves with their castle, their caves and their rich fauna, and the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Nature Reserve, with its deserted beaches, wild cliffs and transparent sea beds, bring alive a landscape which offers the traveller the magic of snow, the Mediterranean forest, the desert and the sea.

The gastronomy of the province of Almería is varied and natural, and ever since ancient times has featured a combination of first-rate produce from land and sea. A certain traditional isolation has given rise to a cuisine with a big personality, which retains the most ancient essences of the past influences which can still be felt today.

Peppers and their derivative, ground red pepper, are the mainstays of this cuisine which has been handed down to the present, and is still served today in numerous houses and in some of the region’s restaurants.

Cádiz

In Cadiz , the sea, its people, its bay, its history and its joie de vivre .

The province of Cadiz is very diverse and contains numerous places which are well worth a visit, from the countryside around Jerez de la Frontera to the villages in Campo de Gibraltar, or you can take a tour of the white villages and stop to relax somewhere along the coast between Tarifa and Sanlúcar de Barrameda.

And all this without forgetting the capital of the region, which holds within its walls the culture and the traditions which set the city –and its people– apart.

Don’t think twice, Cadiz is the perfect destination for your holidays.

This is the southernmost province on the Iberian peninsula, and is only 14 km. from Africa.

It borders the provinces of Seville and Huelva in the north, the province of Malaga to the east, the Atlantic Ocean in the southeast, the Mediterranean Sea in the southwest, and the Strait of Gibraltar and the British colony of Gibraltar in the south.

Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans peopled this province and left behind an important testimony of their presence all along the Cadiz coast.

What’s more, a series of historic milestones highlight how closely Cadiz is linked to the rest of the Iberian peninsula: in 711, the Muslims conquered these lands by defeating the Visigoths at the Guadalete river, thus changing the course of history; on three occasions Columbus’ ships set sail from here on his voyages to the New World,   and arrived home in these same ports, which over time were transformed into a meeting point for the cultural currents between Andalusia and America; finally, another important event was the signing in Cadiz in 1812 of the first Spanish Constitution, which made the city into the capital of the nation for three years.

Its 260 kilometers of Atlantic coastline feature long beaches with fine sand, many of them undeveloped and not excessively exploited for tourism. The whole coast is part of the Costa de la Luz.

You will find everything from first-rate urban beaches like La Victoria in the city of Cadiz or La Barrosa in Chiclana, through to virgin beaches such as the Levante in El Puerto; Los Caños de Meca and Zahora in the Barbate area, Bolonia in Tarifa and El Palmar in Vejer.

Places worth visiting inland include the vineyards of Jerez or the White Villages Route and the Bullfighting Route.

The delicious gastronomy of Cadiz is a compilation of Andalusia’s most appetizing dishes. The produce of the mountains and the sea, accompanied by outstanding wines, will transform any visit into a delicious experience. There is a wide range of fish and shellfish, including the local langoustines from Sanlúcar from which they take their name, the bienmesabe (fried marinated dogfish), the sea bream à la roteña, the gilthead sea bream baked in salt, clams with noodles, tiny shrimp omelettes, and numerous other dishes which are better to try than to describe.

In the mountain area the local fare includes game casseroles (venison, wild boar, rabbit, partridge...), ajo caliente (garlic and pepper soup), Grazalema soup, kidneys with sherry, baby chorizos from El Bosque, pork loin in lard,...

The pastries and sweets, infused with the region’s Arab heritage, feature unique products such as the typical tortas from Chiclana, alfajores and Christmas sweets from Medina, tocinillos de cielo from Jerez, andamarguillos from Grazalema... Every town and village offers something to tempt the sweet-toothed on their travels around the geography of Cadiz.

Córdoba

Córdoba, capital of Muslim Spain, is the main city in a territory located in the center of Andalusia. The Guadalquivir river, at its wider middle course, crosses this province from east to west and provides irrigation for a wide plain where cereals, grapevines and olive trees grow.

Towards the north, the landscape becomes progressively wilder until it reaches the summits of the Sierra Morena, with dense forests and abundant wild game for hunting.

In the south, the land rises gradually until it reaches the mountains of the Subbética range. These lands with their limestone soils feature spreading olive groves and white villages and noble towns with well-conserved Baroque architecture.

This mountainous landscape is home to a varied fauna. The province of Córdoba, which still bears traces of its Iberian, Roman and Muslim past, is rich in traditions; it has an outstanding architectural heritage, and its gastronomy has undergone a considerable resurgence with the revival of a range of dishes from the traditional cooking of the region.

The province of Cordoba is located in the north center of the Autonomous Region of Andalusia.  It borders the provinces of Malaga, Seville, Badajoz, Ciudad Real, Jaén, and Granada.

The capital city is Cordoba.

Since Palaeolithic times, the province of Cordoba has been marked by the hand of man. The Tartessians and Oretani people fought over these lands and the exploitation of its iron, lead and copper mines.

The Romans conquered it, and were fascinated by its beautiful landscapes and the fertile valley. Numerous constructions throughout the province stand as witness to their presence. After the Muslim expansion across the Iberian peninsula, the territory of the Al-Andalus empire in Cordoba became a major hub for the export of cultural and economic ideas in medieval Europe.

With the independent Emirate established by Abderramán I and the Omeya caliphate of Abderramán III, Cordoba reached the pinnacle of its historical prominence. The teachings of great men –Seneca, Maimonides, Averroes...– spread the splendor and influence of Cordoba all over the world.

After the Christian conquest, the re-population of the valley of the Guadalquivir by Charles III of Spain and the social unrest in the 19th century, the province changed course towards a new historical destination. Today this privileged enclave in Andalusia is home to a priceless architectural heritage, which will captivate the most demanding traveler.

The land in the province of Cordoba spreads between olive groves and grapevines and is bathed by the tributaries of the Guadalquivir river which runs through it from one side to the other and separates it in two: the mountain area of Sierra Morena and the flat countryside of the Guadalquivir. To the south there is another area which is not as extensive, but higher: the Subbética mountain ranges.

The cuisine of Cordoba, typical of inland areas, includes ingredients such as game, locally produced meat and the abundant fruits and vegetables produced in its gardens and orchards.

Olive oil and the excellent local wine are the perfect accompaniment for this delicious cuisine. Travelers can sample the broad bean casserole, asparagus with scrambled eggs, the cochifrito (fried suckling pig), lamb casserole, the typical migas serranas (fried seasoned breadcrumbs) and the stewed bull’s tail, whose main ingredient comes from the fighting bulls.

The gazpacho and salmorejo (thick gazpacho made with bread) are delicious dishes for tempering the summer heat. The restaurants in Cordoba have also added to their menus Mozarabic dishes such as lamb with honey, a specialty that can be enjoyed all year round.

Granada

Granada is music and poetry, monuments which are pure art, and ancient culture. This province reaches towards the skies from the craggy summits of the Sierra Nevada mountains; cities with breathtaking architecture which reside serenely in the Altiplano region; white villages scattered across hills and valleys which slope down to the cliffs and beaches of the Costa Tropical. The province of Granada, tourist destination par excellence, offers travelers the chance to ski in the Sierra Nevada mountains, discover hidden villages in the Alpujarra region, explore the last frontier of the Al-Andalus empire in eastern Granada or stay in caves and experience a troglodyte’s lifestyle.

A land of mild warm summers and winters which are ideal for snow sports.

On the banks of the Mediterranean Sea and in the heart of the Penibética mountain range. The capital is the city of Granada.

It borders the provinces of Málaga and Cordoba in the west, Jaén in the north, Almería in the east and it is open to the Mediterranean in the south.

The whole province is full of incentives for those who love architecture and culture. The district of Santa Fe was where the discovery of America was planned by Christopher Columbus, and Fuente Vaqueros is the birthplace of Federico García Lorca, one of the most important poets and playwrights to grace Spanish literature.

The remains of a hominid dating between one and two million years old were discovered in the Altiplano region of Granada. The Bastetani, an Iberian people, bequeathed to posterity a relic of great historic and cultural value: the Lady of Baza.

Some coins struck by the Turduli people towards the 5th century bear witness to the origin of the capital of this lovely province. In the 8th century, the Berbers conquered these lands which reached their apogee with the Nasrids, who brought an economic, social, artistic and cultural development whose influence can still be seen today.

The province of Granada is characterised by a descending series of raised plains which start at the high summits and go right down to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. These plains and the height of the terrain mean that the climate in winter is extremely cold. This greatly affects the vegetation, agriculture, cattle farming and game animals.

Three clearly distinct zones can be seen in Granada: the coast, the river plain in Granada, and the mountain area. Each one has its own climate, geography, history and location which set it apart from the others.

This has a marked Arab influence and is based on excellent ingredients. It features traditional dishes such as tender broad beans with ham, cardoons, the typical remojón (salad with cod and orange) and gazpacho. All accompanied by the delicious bread from Alfacar.

Six products have been recognized with the official Designation of Origin or Quality: olive oils from los Montes and the west, the green asparagus from Huétor Tájar, honey, cured ham from Trevélez and the custard apple from the Costa Tropical.

In Riofrío, they make the only quality Beluga caviar in Spain, and on the Costa Tropical you are guaranteed good fish and shellfish.

Huelva

From the westernmost foothills of Sierra Morena to the Atlantic coast, travellers exploring the province of Huelva will enjoy bountiful and delicate natural landscapes beneath bright blue skies.

The mountain climate is warm and mild, and tempers the high summer temperatures and the rigours of winter. The centre –warmer and drier– is cooled in the evening by sea breezes.

The temperate climate on the coast is perfect for enjoying the sun and the sea all year round, in a landscape dotted with inviting white villages, equipped with all modern amenities.

Bordering Portugal and bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, it is located in the west of Andalusia. It borders the province of Badajoz in the north and the provinces of Seville and Cadiz in the east, the Atlantic Ocean in the south and Portugal in the west.

Although it neighbors the province of Cadiz, it is the only Spanish province which is not directly connected with its neighbour, making it necessary to go through the province of Seville. The capital of the province of Huelva is the city of Huelva.

The history of this province, with its inescapable maritime tradition, goes back to the first millennium BC. Tartessians and Phoenicians exploited the inland mines, transformed the coastal towns into prosperous trading centers, and created a maritime trade route to transport the minerals from Tharsis and Riotinto to the cities of the eastern Mediterranean.

At the end of the Middle Ages, the Atlantic ports in Huelva experienced a period of great splendor. Christopher Columbus’ first expedition set sail for the New World from the dock of Palos de la Frontera in 1492. Columbus’ heroic deed marked a watershed in Huelva’s history.

The province is rich in traditions, and its scenic and cultural heritage goes back to the times of the Tartessian civilization, of which traces can be found around Andévalo and the mining region. The shady forests in the mountain areas, the holm oak pastures and the ancient mines offer a chance to enjoy large expanses of unspoilt scenery.

The fertile countryside of el Condado, with large agricultural towns and characteristic architecture, extends to the coast, with its mild climate and endless beaches against a backdrop of pines and junipers. The coast reaches the boundaries of the Doñana National Park, where the Guadalquivir river flows into the sea.

Seafood-based cuisine and the cooking of the mountains are the two characteristic types of gastronomy in Huelva.

Products from the sea such as mackerel, sea bass, grouper, tuna, white prawns, langoustines and cocklesenable the traveller to sample such delicious dishes as squid prepared in a whole range of styles, skate with red pepper, swordfish with vinaigrette or tuna belly and a wide variety of canned and potted seafood.

Inland, pork-based produce and delicious wild mushrooms from the mountains make this excellent cuisine justly famous.

Jaén

The varied geography of the province of Jaén offers the beauty of its natural landscapes and thearchitecture and monuments in its villages and cities which keep alive the memory of a past of great splendour.

Large expanses of gentle landscapes with olive groves stretching to the horizon. And among the olives and the lush vegetation of its nature reserves you will find outstanding examples of Iberian art, churches, cathedrals, palaces and castles built in the Gothic, Renaissance or Baroque style. Jaén is a land of excellentolive oil, and offers a dreamlike landscape for anyone passing through the Despeñaperros ravine which leads to the south.

The province of Jaén is the gateway to Andalusia, and is located to the northeast of the Autonomous Region of Andalusia, at the head of the Guadalquivir river, halfway between the Sierra Morena and the Bética ranges. It has an extension of 13,496.09 km2, and borders the province of Ciudad Real in the north, Cordoba in the west, Granada in the south and Albacete in the east.

The capital of the province is the city of Jaén.

The province of Jaén has had a significant historic role since ancient times. You can still see important remains dating from the time of the Phoenician, Greek and Carthaginian settlers. The battle of Navas de Tolosa in 1212 marked the end of five centuries of Muslim domination.

The kingdom of Jaén became a major strategic enclave on the frontier with the kingdom of Granada. From the 16th century on the province entered a period of decline. In 1808 it regained its historic role when Napoleon was defeated at the battle of Bailén.

The Spanish Civil War brought a deep depression, until in the 60s the industrial boom of Linares and La Carolina gave a significant economic boost to the province. Úbeda and Baeza, with their cultural prominence and the rise of the olive oil industry, have a good outlook for future development.

The geographic profile of the province of Jaén, in which flat areas of fertile countryside with gentle contours alternate with zones of ridges and craggy mountain ranges, offers a landscape of imposing natural beauty, in which olive groves occupy two thirds of the cultivable land.

In the mountain areas, with their rich and varied fauna, the typical Mediterranean vegetation can be seen in all its splendour.

Olive oil, which is delicious and in abundant supply throughout the province, gives flavour and personality to this original cuisine.

Salads like the typical pipirrana (tomato and cucumber salad) will satisfy the most demanding palates. Thecod with potatoes or the dumplings, game meats –both large and small game–, lamb from the Sierra de Segura, the characteristic rinrán (cod and potato dish) form part of a gastronomy which visitors can enjoy in villages and towns throughout the region of Jaén.

Olive oil also makes an appearance in pastries and sweets such as the tortas de matalahúva, ochíos and Christmas sweets.

Málaga

Ancient and cosmopolitan Malaga in the past still retains its historic roots intact. In long-gone times it bore witness to the origins of man and of the Mediterranean culture, and is today the primary force in the Andalusian tourist industry, keeping alive its tradition of a welcoming and creative land.

Maritime Malaga on the coast where winter never comes; and with a mountain vocation inland, where nature is displayed in all its splendour. White villages with their attractive architecture, wrapped in romantic legend, bring points of light into secluded valleys where life goes by peacefully. And from the peaks of the mountains you can watch the horizon until it becomes lost in the immense blue of the sea.

The province of Malaga is located in the south of the Mediterranean coast, between the provinces of Granada and Cadiz, and bordering the provinces of Cordoba and Seville in the north.

The capital city is Málaga.

The history of this province has taken place between the sea and the mountains. Its capital was a witness to the economic and cultural boom of the western Mediterranean. The town known as Malaka by the Phoenicians was transformed into a prosperous commercial centre. After the Muslim invasion of the 8th century, the territory became Arabised and later became part of the Nasrid kingdom in Granada, when it underwent a new period of commercial and cultural prominence.

In the 19th century, the iron and steel industries of los Larios and the commercialisation of its wines provided significant economic development for the province.

After decades of economic downturn, Malaga underwent rapid economic growth in the second half of the20th century, thanks to the tourist industry. Each year millions of citizens from all over the world choose this idyllic land to relax on its sun-drenched beaches, discover its rich architectural heritage or explore the wild beauty of its mountain geography.

The province of Málaga has over 160 kilometres of coastline. A total of 14 districts are located directly on the Mediterranean Sea. You can find secluded enclaves set in unspoilt nature, as well as more established tourist resorts. The beaches in both the eastern and the western part of the province are so attractive they have made the Costa del Sol one of the top international destinations.

Also a must is the landscape inland, with more than 15 officially protected areas classified as nature reserves, natural spaces or natural landmarks. Places that may be either in the depths of the Mediterranean or on the highest peaks. Magical forests and rivers where you can still find foxes, golden eagles and Spanish ibex.

Visitors will find endless gastronomic delights on the coast of Malaga. Small fish (anchovies, red mullet, mackerel, squid and baby squid) served fried are the hallmark dish in a cuisine which is characterised by its simple presentation and its exquisite tastes. The prawns from the bay, the clams and the boiled or grilled Dublin Bay prawns all have a special flavour.

In the interior of the province you will find delicious cured meats and hearty fare: kid with garlic, fried kid, hare... There are countless recipes for gazpacho in Malaga: ajoblanco (with garlic and almonds), porra antequerana, gazpachuelo (with fish)... The locally-produced wines, made from raisins and muscatel grapes, and the Pedro Ximénez sweet wine are internationally renowned.

A whole universe of flavours to be enjoyed by visitors to this ancient land.

Sevilla

The Guadalquivir river –the ancient Betis– flows between the foothills of the Sierra Morena to the north and the Sierra Sur mountains in the south, irrigating a rich and fertile valley. In its lower course, 70 kilometres from the sea, is the ancient city of Seville, the capital of the Autonomous Region of Andalusia and of the largest and most densely populated province in Andalusia.

The towns and cities on the shores of the river are living testimony to its historic and cultural past. Seville, the emblematic city of universal renown, has been Arab, Jewish and Roman, and its river and its river port have served as a privileged destination for trade with the West Indies. Its art and folklore make this an exceptional tourist destination.

It is the capital of Andalusia, and the largest province in the Autonomous Region. It borders the provinces of Malaga and Cadiz to the south, Huelva to the west, Badajoz to the north, and Cordoba to the east.

The capital city is Seville.

The origin of the city of Seville dates from around the first millennium BC, coinciding with its settlement by the Phoenicians and the Tartessians. Its location at the confluence of river and land routes favoured the rapid economic growth of the valley and the surrounding lands.

The settlement of Julia Romula Hispalis, founded by Julius Caesar, was the hub of spectacular commercial activity. Major settlements were established throughout the territory, whose buildings and monuments can still be seen in the present day. The Arabs left an indelible mark on the culture and monuments of these lands. In the 16th century, Seville experienced its period of maximum splendour. The port of Seville received goods from all over Europe, as well as precious metals from the New World, which contributed to the development of western Europe. The Enlightenment saw a revival of trade, agriculture and industry. The Universal Exhibition of 1992 promoted and enhanced even more the reputation of Seville.

The province of Seville is a mosaic of cultures whose roots are buried in the remote past. The great river basin of the Guadalquivir, the Sierra Morena mountains and the marshes of the Doñana Nature Reserve offer visitors a scenic map of extensive wetlands, and a sanctuary for a variety of birdlife; you can exploremountain paths among lush Mediterranean vegetation, contemplate the fighting bulls grazing in pastures dotted with ancient holm oaks, or lose yourself in gently sloping lands with inviting villages and monumental cities which are living testimony to a historic past of unparalleled splendour.

Game meats, pork products made from pigs raised in the mountain pastures, rice from the rice fields of theGuadalquivir marshes, and the fish and shellfish from the Andalusian coast comprise the ingredients of avaried gastronomy, which has its maximum expression in its “tapas”. The custom of visiting bars, taverns and "tascas" (typical watering holes) is widespread throughout the villages, towns and cities in the Sevillian geography.

The fare also includes hearty soups and stews, and the traditional sweets and handmade pastries of the district of Estepa.

Eating well in Andalusia is easy. The excellent local products that come from its diverse geography and climate, together with the historic legacy left by the villages of the land have created a very varied, rich and incomparable gastronomy.. Andalusian traditional cooking has a wide culinary range native to the land. And its dishes, passed down from generation to generation are highly appreciated by the most demanding palates.

The typical "grandma's cooking", based in the healthy Mediterranean diet, takes the flavors and aromas from the land, sea and mountains, which are then drizzled with local olive oil and served with a wonderful Andalusian wine.

Andalusia has a living cuisine, offering pleasant and delicious surprises. This selection of recipes serves as an example, with stews, casseroles and fish from way back, and culminating in the irresistible desserts.

If you are in Andalusia you should not miss a visit to the craft shops, street markets and shopping centres to be found throughout the Region.

Andalusia is home to excellent craftsmen, and you will find an array of different items in wrought iron, wood, wicker, fans, embroidered shawls and mantillas, ceramics, leather items, riding accessories, glassware, etc. Here you will also find wonderful cured meats, with different specialties to try in each area. Why not take back a sample to delight your friends and family? If you have more of a sweet tooth, then the different convents to be found across Andalusia produce traditional sweets and pastries, baked with love, patience and excellent natural ingredients. There are also confectioners that maintain the sweet-making skills of the Moors. You can sample these Arabic delicacies with a good cup of coffee or take them home with you.

In all the provinces of Andalusia there are shopping centers offering top Spanish and international brands in clothing, home accessories, gifts, appliances and anything else you might require. They also have leisure and eating areas where you can rest and recover after a look around the different shops.

The street markets to be found in different towns and villages around Andalusia offer a wide, unusual array of items. There are fruit and vegetable markets, antiques, clothes and footwear markets. In some places you will find markets offering the most unusual mix of different products. Outdoor markets are ideal to have a pleasant stroll around the place in question, and at the same time you can learn about local customs and people.

Finally, if you tend to leave your souvenirs for the very end, then don’t worry, there are Duty Free shops at Spanish airports offering a complete range of items for all your last minute shopping. You will find all kinds of things, from perfumes to typical souvenirs of Andalusia.

Enjoy your stay in Andalusia and don’t forget to take home a souvenir to remind you of all the happy times spent in the Region.

Golf

Enjoying the sun and golfing in Andalusia twelve months a year is a reality. With close to 120 golf courses, you can enjoy your favorite sport in any of the region's eight provinces, and in world-class courses designed by legendary players and the world's most prestigious designers.

Andalusia is Europe's leading golf tourist destination due to the quality of its courses located in privileged areas, with beautiful landscapes and near idyllic beaches.

Beginners, amateurs and professionals alike can enjoy these courses; in the Costa del Sol, with more than half of Andalusia's golf courses; in the province of Cadiz, with its impeccable greens and the enchanting beaches of its coastline; in the Costa Tropical, where you can combine beach, golf and snow; in the province of Almeria, with some ten courses, including two Arizona desert-style courses; in the province of Huelva, with unrivaled sites, such as the Doñana National Park, with 11 golf courses.

In the interior provinces, Seville has 5 golf courses, Cordoba has two and Jaen has one, rounding out Andalusia's golf selection.

Throughout the entire year Andalusia's golf courses hold important tournaments in the amateur category; in the professional category Andalusia annually hosts several tournaments of the  European Golf Circuit, bringing together the best golfers in the world so that fans may enjoy the great beauty of this sport in the incomparable setting of Andalusia.