In Granada, below the Sierra Nevada mountain range can be seen one of the wonders of Moorish Spain, the fortified palace of the Nasrid Kings, the Alhambra, which takes its name from the orange tints of its walls and offers a breathtaking insight into skills and craftsmanship of the Moorish civilisation.

Seville, the bustling capital of Andalucia is a short car journey away and has the largest gothic cathedral in the world which incorporates, the symbol of the city, the Giralda tower. Close by, surrounded by the intimate cloisters is the Alcazar Palace. At Cordoba, on the banks of the Guadalquivir it is possible to embrace the remnants of three distinct empires; a Roman bridge, an arch of triumph built for Philip II and the Great Mosque, La Mezquita, over a thousand years old.

Also within easy reach is the ancient sea port of Cadiz which claims to be the oldest city in western Europe. The sherry region of Jerez is close by, a visit to the vinyards and bodegas or to one of the famous riding schools is within a short drive.

For those wishing to spend time at the beach the resorts of the Costa Del Sol are just thirty miles away. Less developed beaches can be found west of Gibraltar. However you may just wish to relax and simply enjoy the peace of our country and village houses in what promises to be yet another sun filled summer

FERIAS

The feria of Ronda takes place from the first weekend of September and lasts for one week culminating with a bullfight in the historical Plaza de Toros where traditional costumes are worn from the period of Goya. This is called The Goyesca and is attended by people and celebrities from all over the world. The festivities last throughout the week and go on until the late hours of the morning. During late August a festival of traditional flamenco singing is held.

The proceedings take place in the cool of the night and carry on until dawn with well known acts attending from all over Spain. At Easter nearly all towns hold a procession through the streets to remember the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. This week is called Semana Santa in Spain and is one of the most important dates on the Christian calendar. The feria of Arriate takes place during the last weekend of June and again bars are evident throughout the village as well as a fun fair and music.

The festivities last throughout the night.The feriàs of Montejaque take place in mid June and mid August. The ferias of Benaojan are during the weekend at the end of April and the beginning of October. Throughout the summer months there is usually a feria in one of the local villages.They all have a few things in common in that they all start at around ten in the evening and go on until dawn. Information is provided in our guide at each property.