Friday, 27 August 2010

An Insiders Guide to AndalusiaAndalusia is one of the most beloved tourist destinations in Spain bringing in millions of tourists every year, flocking

Andalusia is one of the most beloved tourist destinations in Spain bringing in millions of tourists every year, flocking here to enjoy the sun drenched white sand beaches.

For years tourists have travelled here to their Spanish villas, and to enjoy the southern Spain experience.

While many have their holiday activities here are some ideas garnered from the experts.

With suggestions from the editors and staff of some local publications, here are some of the best outings and culinary trips in the region.

Cycling and Hiking in Via Verde
One of the best kept activity secrets of Andalusia is the Via Verde Sierra cycle and hiking track. Running a long a 36km railway track that was started but never completed in 1926, this runs from the wonderful white washed town of Olvera, through to Puerto Serrano. On the way there is three great restaurants to eat in, and the world's largest griffon vulture colony to admire.

Art in Malaga
Malaga has a great significance to the art world, one of the grand masters of 20th century painting was born here. Picasso's birthplace duly celebrates one of its progeny with its museum dedicated to his name. In the Picasso museum there is a great display of the master's work, along with exhibitions of other prominent artists. Malaga also plays host to a great contemporary art museum which has held exhibitions of work by the Chapman brothers and Tracy Emin.

Vineyards in Ronda
For all Oenophiles Andalusia is a great little getaway. There are many beautiful vineyards producing excellent wine. Be sure to book in advance.

Foodie Trawls in Fuengirola
While Fuengirola is an overdeveloped concrete mess, in the old town it offers its salvation. Behind the promenade are some wonderful tapas bars to hop from. Well worth making the trip in to town.

Seafood by the sea in Malaga
You can't really beat a good but of fish next to the ocean. In Torre Del Mar, just east of Malaga, is the Bar Negri, a veritable sea food institution. Delicious Prawns are served as tapas appetisers while you consider your order. The Swordfish, the Clams, and the squid are all a treat for seafood lovers. The restaurant also offers a great wine list.

Open air concerts in Seville
Throughout the summer Seville offers some great musical events under an open sky. Jazz and Classical concerts take place here as well as lavish costume dramas performed in Alcazar Gardens in Seville. It's an enchanting setting with swaying palm trees and a wonderful floral scent floating throughout. Thankfully the concerts start late, when the blistering heat has subsided.

Art and Fortified wine at the home of Sherry in Jerez
Bodegas Tradicion in Jerez is a compact but impressive bodega. It produce only four sherries and a brandy, but has proven its weight in gold in regard to the quality of its produce. It is also home to one an extremely impressive art collection featuring some of Spain's masters such as Goya and Velásquez.

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