Spain
DON QUIXOTE adventured through Spain on horseback. These days you can do it all in huge style – zipping in on low-cost flights and staying everywhere from rustic ranches and hip haciendas to swish townhouse hideaways.
The country that spawned flamenco, tapas and bullfighting offers a cornucopia of travel experiences – whether it’s the cultural fizz of arty Barcelona, the dazzling white villages of Moorish Andalucia or the palaces and plazas of the capital Madrid.
Andalucia
Andalucia's dazzling white villages, bullfighting traditions and flamboyant flamenco lend it a vibrant character all of its own.
Don't miss a walk through splendid Seville's old Jewish quarter, or an excursion to Cordoba, Granada and Jerez. Prefer the beach? Marbella's golden palm-lined sands come with promenades, parasols and watersports galore.
Barcelona
Fewer cities have more cultural fizz than Barcelona. Take in the city's dazzling art and architecture, then party till late at the city's hot-hot bars and clubs.
See some of Gaudi's greatest works, wander through the city’s Gothic quarter, join the crowds along the world-famous Las Ramblas or dip into some fabulous museums.
Madrid
Palaces, parks and plazas make Madrid a pretty special city – and there’s plenty of late-night buzz here too.
The city’s world class museums include the Big Three – the Prado, Thyssen and Reina Sofia – all with vast and mesmerising art collections. Sundays are the time for strolls in Retiro park, watching boats on the lake and demolishing a local ice cream.
Mallorca
Biggest and best known of the Balaeric Islands, Mallorca an island of dramatic mountains, secluded coves and quaint old towns. The capital, Palma, is now one of the Med’s trendiest destinations and home to some drool-worthy designer hotels.
Elsewhere, you can join the arty set in Deià, wander around laidback Soller or promenade at Pollença, on the north coast.
Menorca
Laidback Menorca is a rustic backwater compared to its busier neighbours Mallorca and Ibiza. Beyond the island's main coastal resorts you'll find a rugged coastline with pretty horseshoe bays and quiet, unspoilt coves.
Rolling fields, wooded ravines and humpy hills fill the interior between the two main towns of Mahon and Ciutadella.
Ibiza
Hedonists, hippies and party animals flock to Ibiza. Famous as the Mediterranean’s clubbing capital, this is the place for round-the-clock sangria and dusk-till-dawn nightlife.
Those who prefer to play by day – preferably around the pool – will find plenty to love here, with sandy Balearic beaches and endless sunshine for honing that holiday tan.
Romantic hotels in spain
Andalucia
Barcelona
Madrid
Mallorca
Menorca
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