Spain TRAVEL GUIDE
Discover the world for less.
04. Spain
general information
06. Five local dishes you need to try in Spain
TABLE OF content
08. Our Top 10 UNESCO Sites in Spain
14. Majorca 16. Things to in Majorca
18. Barcelona
24. Granada
20. Thing to see in and
26. Things to see
around Barcelona
nearby (Granada)
28. Madrid 30. Salamanca
22. Fleetway Travels:
Experiencing the Grand Prix 2017
32. Things to see on your next holiday to Tenerife
34. Fuerteventura 36. Lanzarote
SPAIN
Famous for its luxurious resorts, beach holidays, fortified wine, as well as being the birthplace of football-legend Cristiano Ronaldo, Madeira is a multifaceted destination that opens up more of itself the further into the island you venture. The capital of Funchal is a good place to start your exploration. The squares and the streets of the centre are dotted with tiles in endearing patterns and quaint buildings abound these walkways. Interspersed among the shops and cafĂŠs are stunning cathedrals and churches and numerous museums and monuments (including one by the harbour dedicated to Mr Ronaldo). Explore the narrow streets and alleyways of the Old Town, stroll along the palm-lined promenade by the sea, gaze at the impressive cathedral and indulge in a bit of art and culture in the local museums.
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FIVE LOCAL DISHES You need to try in Spain Spain is a delightful blend of culture, architecture, history, friendly faces and of course, food! From the delicious tapas, which you’ll find in any self-respecting restaurant and bar in any city across the Iberian Peninsula, to the gastronomic seafood celeb of paella and not forgetting lots and lots great wine, the options are endless. Each region in Spain is fiercely proud of its local identity and culture and regardless of where you find yourself in this vast and fascinating country, you’ll quickly discover that one of the cornerstones in every regional self-image is the local food. We’ve collected (and sampled) the five following dishes, yet these are just a few examples of the great variety of dishes you’ll find in Spain.
PINTXOS
Basque Country Tapas is one of the main food pillars of Spanish society and an absolute mainstay in every bar on the Iberian Peninsula. In the northern parts of Spain, tapas has a culinary sibling that, particularly in the Basque Country, is an absolute must for any bar-dwelling visitor. Knowns as pintxos, this delicious snack usually consists of a little piece of bread, whereupon various ingredients, such as small sausages, anchovies or cured ham, are fastened to it by a toothpick, making it an easy thing to pinch(o) when you’re feeling a bit peckish. 06
GAZPACHO
AREPAS
Andalucia
Canary Islands
The midday heat of the Andalusian sun can be relentless during the summer months. Luckily, locals have invented a dish that is as refreshing as it is delicious. Served cool, gazpacho is a dish that comes with numerous different twists and is said to have been introduced to the region originally by the Romans. The dish mainly consists of bread, raw vegetables, olive oil, vinegar and of course tomatoes. The latter was added to the recipe by locals a couple of centuries ago, and although today you’ll find many gastronomic variations on the theme, nothing beats the classic version of chilled Gazpacho.
For centuries the Canary Islands were the main stopping point for sailors travelling between Spain and South America. These seafarers not only brought things from their native lands with them, they also introduced many South American things to these small islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. One of these is the Venezuelan arepa. A fried corn pancake, they are served with lots of fillings and trimmings, usually including shredded beef or chicken, black beans and salsa. Throughout the islands, you’ll find this delicious street food and you can usually choose between a wide range of ingredients, meaning that you can create the exact combination that your taste buds are searching for.
SOBRASADA
CREMA CATALANA
Balearics
Catalonia
Selections of cured meat is a favourite snack throughout the country, and if you’re holidaying in either Majorca or Menorca, you must try the local delicacy that is known as the Sobrasada sausage. Consisting mainly of ground pork, paprika and other spices, the soft content of this sausage means that it is usually spread across bread when served. If you’re a fan of the more famous Spanish snack, chorizo, then a slice of Sobrasada is definitely something to try in between basking in the Balearic sun.
A delicious dessert similar to crème brulee (although if you’re ordering this in Barcelona, it’s probably wise not to mention any relation to its French counterpart, apparently it’s a touchy subject). The Crema Catalana is a great conclusion to any dinner when holidaying in Barcelona and the northern parts of Spain. The desserts differ from the French “other”, by using milk rather than cream, as well as being prepared in a slightly different way. The main point, however, is that regardless of anything, this is a dessert that has to be sampled at least once –and preferably more, when you’re dining in Catalonia. 07
OUR TOP 10 UNESCO Sites in Spain
Spain is a colourful bouquet of distinct regions, each with their own flavours, fashions and amazing sights. From the rugged peaks of the Basque Country and Catalonia to the sun-baked shores of Andalucía, as well as the urban bustle of the Castilian plateau around Madrid and the island gems in the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean, Spain offers a seemingly endless supply of enticing holiday destinations. A nation full of history and culture, it boasts an impressive 45 UNESCO Heritage Sites, generously scattered across the mainland and islands, and although it’s difficult to decide, we’ve chosen our 10 favourites that you have to see if you’re holidaying in Spain.
ALCAZAR, SEVILLE This magnificent complex of courtyards, grand rooms and gardens was founded by the Moors in the Middle Ages and added to the UNESCO list in 1987. The name Alcazar loosely translates as “Royal House” and as you wander through the elaborately decorated corridors and the meticulously landscaped gardens, you can’t help but feel a bit regal yourself. Along with the Plaza de España, which is located right next to it, in the heart of Seville, the magnificent palace is a wonderful way to discover the many different brushes of history that have painted the last dozen centuries and made Spain a fascinating destination to explore.
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TEIDE NATIONAL PARK, TENERIFE Did you know that the tallest mountain in Spain is not located on the Iberian mainland, but is found on the island of Tenerife? The 12,198 ft tall Mount Teide and the surrounding national park, rise majestically above the Atlantic Ocean and the rest of the island. The island’s original population, the Guanches, thought that the mountain was the gate to hell and thus named it as such. The Spanish derivative of this developed into its modern name of Teide. The park consists of unique landscapes where each shape and colour has been created by volcanos, and regardless of where you find yourself holidaying on the island, the national park is easy to reach and perfect for a few hours of hiking.
OLD TOWN OF SEGOVIA AND AQUEDUCT, NORTH OF MADRID Constructed by the Romans in the 1st century, the aqueduct still runs through the centre of the quaint old town of Segovia, situated just north of Madrid. A perfect destination for a day-trip, if you’re holidaying in the Spanish capital, Segovia’s fascinating history is visible throughout its narrow streets and plazas. Apart from the imposing aqueduct, the city also boasts an impressive former royal palace, located on the top of a hill, lots of Romanesque churches as well as a gigantic Gothic Cathedral. If you want to explore the diverse history of Spain, this town is a place where every building has a story to tell.
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ROYAL SITE OF SAN LORENZO DE EL ESCORIAL, NORTH OF MADRID A short drive north-west from Madrid will take you to the stunning palace known as the Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Concerned by the rise of Protestantism across Northern Europe in the 16th century, King Philip II used the seemingly endless inflow of gold from South America to create a truly awe-inspiring palace in the heart of Spain to stand as a monument to the nation’s dedication to and position within the Catholic Church. A Renaissance behemoth of colossal scale, the palace and its surrounding gardens somehow seem to complement the surround hilltops of pine-clad mountains, and you can spend hours just wandering through the numerous majestic rooms, squares and halls, without ever really appearing to discover all of it.
ALHAMBRA, GRANADA Founded in the 9th century, the majestic, hilltop fortification of Alhambra towers over the ancient city of Granada in Southern Spain. Initia lly a fortress to cement the power of the Moors on the Iberian Peninsula, the complex grew in size gradually as the various centuries saw different rulers and styles sweep through the region. Today, the Alhambra includes not only walls and battlements to keep out invaders, but it’s also the home of grandiose Renaissance palaces, romantic courtyards and serene paths and corridors. Immediately next to it, the vast gardens of the Generalife, opens up in green splendour and regardless of which part of the Alhambra you find yourself exploring, you’re never far from breathtaking views of the city of Granada and the Andalusian hinterland that sprawls in front of the palace.
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THE WORKS OF ANTONI GAUDI, BARCELONA Barcelona wouldn’t be the cultural and architectural jewel that it is today, without the amazing buildings and structures designed by Antoni Gaudi that adorn the streets and boulevards of the city. Arguably most famous for his still unfinished Sagrada Família, the works of Antoni Gaudi appear as playful and adventurous buildings across the city, and even if you’re not a great fan of modern architecture, you can’t help but being amazed by how the great vision and imagination of one man has shaped the look of the city. From the soft, natural beauty of Park Güell to the colourful and idiosyncratic Casa Batlló and the imposing magnificence of Sagrada Família, Barcelona is very much Gaudi’s live canvas.
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THE CULTURAL LANDSCAPE OF THE SERRA DE TRAMUNTANA, MAJORCA The island of Majorca is geographically divided between the serene beaches and urban south, and the more rugged, mountainous region in the north, known as the Serra de Tramuntana. A more rural and raw landscape than the touristfriendly regions around the capital of Palma, this part of the island offers its own stunning sights and holiday gems. The local villages and farms have, for over a millennium, work hard to transform the hard mountain range into farmland through ingenious agricultural inventions. Interconnected irrigation systems, water mills and terraces surround the villages and as you travel through this beautiful landscape, you can experience the friendly, local communities that exist here and try some of the delicious food, made from produce grown in the hills and mountains around you.
GARAJONAY NATIONAL PARK, CANARY ISLANDS A large, pristine natural spot located in the middle of La Gomera in the Canaries, the Garajonay Park is a green haven, where the lush Laurel forest, or Laurisilva, covers around 70% of the area. This fertile landscape is only interrupted by the tall, jagged peaks, from which the national park takes its name. The separation of the Canary Islands from the African mainland means that places like La Gomera have been left uninterrupted for millions of years. Visitors to this wonderful park will discover plants and trees that exist nowhere else on this planet, giving it a feel of a truly prehistoric place.
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SA CALETA PHOENICIAN SETTLEMENT, IBIZA Discovered and unearthed by archaeologists in the 1980s, the Sa Caleta ruins stand as a testament to a time when the area was a thriving Phoenician settlement. The nearby salt marshes gave the settlers a lucrative commodity to trade with other empires across the Mediterranean, and visitors can stroll through the surviving ruins of what was once a prosperous neighbourhood and learn more about the area and the Phoenician Empire. Located just west of Ibiza Town and surrounded by scenic beaches, this is a place that should definitely be visited when holidaying on this sunny island.
TOWER OF HERCULES, A CORUÑA Built almost 2,000 years ago, the Tower of Hercules is today the oldest Roman lighthouse still in use. Rising majestically over the Atlantic Sea and the Galician city of A Coruña, this monolith has faithfully safeguarded sailors from the rugged cliffs of Northern Spain since its creation. Today, visitors can ascend the lighthouse and learn more about the stories and legends that surround this magnificent structure. Nearby, you’ll also find the statue erected in honour of Breogan, the Gaelic king said to have constructed a large tower as well as founded the city that predates A Coruña.
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Majorca SPAIN
The largest of the Balearic Islands, Majorca is divided between the white beaches, luxurious resorts, vivacious nightlife and urban charm on the southern side of the island, and the wild, jagged painting of sharp seaside cliffs, mountainous ridges and azure coves in the northern part. Start your exploration of the island from the top of Bellver Castle in Palma. Perched
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on top of a hill north of the city, it offers panoramic views of the city below and the moutntains rising in the background. Walk along the seafront until you come to the majestic Majorca Cathedral and the Royal Palace of L’Almudain. Among other stunning places to experience in Palma, remember to visit the surrealist Joan Miro Museum, the beautiful buildings around Plaça del Mercat and the Pueblo Español museum.
Outside the capital you can explore the breathtaking Drach Caves near the city of Porto Cristo. Small boats will take you through the lit-up caves where numerous stalactites hang from the ceiling. Regardless of what brings you to Majorca you’re guaranteed to find something new and enchanting about this sun-swept destination.
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CALA MAJOR A small seaside town, separated from Palma de Majorca by the impressive Bellver Castle, Cala Major is a quaint little place in the sun. Here you can lounge on the vast stretches of golden beach that run in front of the town, or spend a few hours exploring glorious surrealist paintings and sculptures in the Joan Miro Foundation.
MAGALUF Known for its vibrant nightlife and great beaches, Magaluf is a bustling destination hugging the western coast of Majorca. In addition to the bars, clubs and scenic coastline, the town also offers a number of amusements and waterparks, including the Katmandu Park and the cowboytheme Western Water Park. Located just next to Palmanova, all the offerings of Magaluf are within easy reach of the hotel.
SERRA DE TRAMUNTANA Rent a car or go on a day to the wild and rugged mountains and coasts of Majorca’s northern side. Known as the Serra de Tramuntana, the entire area has been listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site, due to the unique way in which local villagers have turned the harsh but breathtaking landscape into rich farmland. Stop in one of the small settlements along the way and taste some of the delicious local produce that is on the menu in the local restaurants and cafÊs.
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Things to in Majorca
PALMA DE MAJORCA Start your exploration of Palma from the top of Bellver Castle. Perched on top of a hill north of the city, it offers panoramic views of the area below and the mountains rising in the background. Walk along the seafront until you come to the majestic Majorca Cathedral and the Royal Palace of L’Almudain. Among other stunning places to experience in Palma, remember to visit the beautiful buildings around Plaça del Mercat and the Pueblo Español museum; and on a Saturday, try out some of the many local treats at the Olivar Market located on the Plaça d’Espanya in the heart of the city. 17
Barcelona SPAIN
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Barcelona, the colourful capital of Catalonia, is where sport, history and culture course through the veins of the locals. The city where every building appears like an artwork, every open space is a canvas and where passion is painted with pride in the red and yellow stripes that adorn the regional flag. This is Barcelona – an avant-garde city always on the move and you’re invited to tag along. Artists have thrived in the city for centuries, and one of the most influential people to have left a mark on its appearance is undoubtedly Antoni Gaudi, so much so in fact that his works
have collectively been accepted as a UNESCO Heritage Site. Next to the restaurants and tapas bars of La Rambla, you’ll find the first of Gaudi’s masterpieces. The Palau Güell rises majestically from a rather non-descript street, and behind the cast-iron gates, you can discover its truly awe-inspiring palatial splendor. Heading further north you’ll come to two of Gaudi’s most famous buildings. First the Casa Batlló, with its surreal façade of egg-shaped windows and wave-like features, and next, the truly magnificent, albeit still unfinished, Sagrada Familia. With its steep spires, gargoyles and sheer size, this Catalan
jewel is guaranteed to take your breath away. Complete the Gaudi-tour by making your way to Park Güell. With panoramic views of the city, colorful, mosaic-like architecture and greenery, it’s a delightful place of rest away from the urban bustle. Regardless of which direction you go in, in the city, you are never far from something truly stunning. The city is full of castles, museums, quirky restaurants, trendy bars, theatres, churches and just generally lots of great things to see and do. 19
Thing to see in and around Barcelona
LA RAMBLA The main street in Barcelona, La Rambla runs from the Columbus Monument by the sea, through the Gothic Quarter and into the very heart of the old part of town. Lined by trees and full of colorful cafés and bars, the street continues to offer new sights the further you venture into it. See the mosaic by the surrealist painter Joan Miro, drink from the Font de Canaletes fountain, hang out in the La Boqueria market, where you can find lots of little ornaments and souvenirs, and remember to visit the Güell Palace. The famous Spanish poet, Lorca, once said that this street is the only one “in the world that I wish would never end”, and who are we to disagree?
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SAGRADA FAMILIA The absolute crown in the jewel of Barcelona, Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, towers above the rest of the city with its elaborate and ornate spires. The imposing cathedral has been under construction for almost 150 years, with several stops along the way. Although it is not expected to be completed until 2026, it is still one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring buildings in the city – perhaps even in Spain.
PARK GÜELL Another one of Gaudi’s fantastic creations, this green park is a wonderful place to escape to after a day of taking in the many sights of the city. Full of lots of artistic gems and serene tree-covered paths, the absolute centerpiece is without a doubt the viewing platform, from where you can gaze out across the vibrant city.
NOU CAMP No matter where you go in Barcelona, you’ll never be far from the main passion of Catalonia, soccer. The beautiful game is discussed and celebrated by locals at every opportunity and throughout the city you’ll constantly be reminded of their pride and joy: FC Barcelona. For decades, fans have been entertained by the team’s exuberant style of play at their home ground, the gigantic Camp Nou, which, in itself, is worth a visit.
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Fleetway Travels: Experiencing the Grand Prix 2017 A thrilling, bucket-list experience, the F1 Grand Prix is a must do for any and all sports fans. We sent Harry from Fleetway HQ in London to the Barcelona races, and he’s shared his experiences with us across all three days. Read on for an inside-scoop on what the Grand Prix with Fleetway includes...
TOUCHDOWN
QUALIFYING RACE
Touching down in Barcelona a few days before the Grand Prix, I could immediately feel a real buzz around the city. Formula 1’s popularity and support in Spain was apparent, and when you add to that a sea of Ferrari and Mercedes cap-wearing fans, that had travelled from all over Europe or the rest of the world to be there, the stage was set perfectly for a weekend of exhilarating motor sport. Just a short transfer from the airport and we were checking into the Renaissance Barcelona Fira Hotel, a perfect base for the weekend. Chic, comfortable rooms were a short elevator ride away from the vast, quirky foyer decorated with interesting plant motifs - this provided a very welcome break from the hot Catalonian sun.
Bright and early on Saturday morning is when the excitement really started building - we jumped on our coach transfer to the Circuit de Catalunya, and after a speedy ticket check, we were in! Walking around, taking in the surroundings and soaking up the atmosphere, we took our seats ready for the racing to begin. Before the official Formula 1 qualifying kicked off, a number of slick Formula 3 and rally car races served to get us in the mood, and above anything else, get us accustomed to the unmistakable noise that these cars make!
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When the qualifying race came around, it was evident to almost everyone that Lewis Hamilton was in fast form, as he coasted into pole position quickly – this made the prospect of the race the next day all the more exciting! However, perhaps the biggest highlight of the day was watching a struggling Fernando Alonso manage to fight his way into 7th place on the grid to the frenzied delight of the home fans! What a response from the crowd!
RACE DAY Our swift transfers to the track on race day were much the same, but already the feel of the day was very different. A tension was building that could only be broken by the glare of the green lights, and the start of the race. For the British fans, the start of the race was a disaster! Lewis Hamilton, a favourite, was already overtaken before the first corner and by the time the racing cars sped past our seats, it was the Ferrari of Sebastian Vettel, not the Mercedes of Lewis Hamilton, that lead the pack. He fought valiantly, however, and in a thrilling turn of events he came back to win the race and make our day! After a day of nail-biting excitement in under the Barcelonan sun, we retired to the roof terrace of the Renaissance Barcelona Fira for a few cocktails and a dip in the refreshing rooftop pool. A lovely end to a weekend packed full of sport and unforgettable moments. Do we have you excited to book on for 2018?
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Granada SPAIN
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Surrounded by the sun-swept hills and the Sierra Nevada Mountains of AndalucĂa, the ancient city of Granada is a stunning testament to the rich and diverse history of not just the region, but the Iberian Peninsula in general. From the Spanish Renaissance splendour of the Palace of Charles V, to the old Nasrid fortifications of the jaw-dropping Alhambra, the history of the city appears around every corner and is complemented by the modern, vibrant feel of
the bars and restaurants around Puerta Real in the centre of the city. Spend hours exploring the labyrinthine streets of the centre, marvel at the spectacular decor inside the city’s cathedral, relax in the Garcia Lorca Park –named after the famous poet who came from Granada, and then make your way to the Andalusian jewel of Alhambra. A fortified complex with lots of interesting structures amidst lush gardens, this is a true wonder of the world. Discover
the beautiful gardens of Generalife, wander through the magnificence of the palaces and then finish your tour at the top of the Torre de la Vela, where you can gaze across the romantic city below.
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GENERALIFE Located just behind the Alhambra, the stunning gardens and buildings of Generalife offer a tranquil oasis away from the busy city. Founded 400 years after the neighbouring fortress, this verdant complex features flowerbeds, fountains, pavilions and an elongated pool that are all meant to preserve the original ideals of an ancient Persian garden.
GRANADA CATHEDRAL An imposing architectural giant rising out of the narrow streets of Granada’s Old Town, the cathedral is a stunning monument to the religious and cultural importance of the city in Southern Spain. The fourth largest cathedral in the world, its interior offers breath-taking features and artwork, where its magnificent altar is its undisputed centrepiece.
GRANADA SCIENCE PARK If you want to explore a more modern side to the city, then head to its southern parts where the Granada Science Park awaits. Spread out across over 70,000 sq metres, you’ll be inundated with options to explore. Take a day out of the holiday schedule and go on an adventure in this vast space where kids and adults alike can learn about everything from planets to dinosaurs and from human evolution to wildlife and butterflies. 26
Things to see NEARBY
ALHAMBRA The crown and jewel of Granada, the jawdropping Alhambra fortress rises majestically above the rest of the city. Built by the Moors over 1,100 years ago, today it houses palaces, courtyards and viewing platforms from where you can get unrivalled vistas of the region, with the bustling city below and the snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains in the background. 27
Madrid SPAIN A modern and thriving city, Madrid has grown steadily over the last couple of centuries and is today an artistic and vibrant metropolis with glimpses of its medieval and romantic past. The city’s endless list of boutiques, cafes and gastro-bars will leave you spoilt for choice with many places to eat, drink and experience Spanish culture. When you think of Madrid, greenery is probably not the first thing that comes to mind but the city is home to stunning parks that will blow you away, including the 8-hectare Botanical Garden and the Retiro Park, which is the largest park in the city. All the main streets meet in the Puerta del Sol from which you can easily walk north passing Gran Via to the lively and vibrant areas of Malasana and Chueca. Here you will find narrow streets lined with vintage boutiques, restaurants and bars where the sound of live music and the scent of great food fill the air. Stroll through the Paseo de la Castellana, Madrid’s most stylish avenue, which has designer shops and luxurious hotels to marvel at. For culture, don’t miss the museums such as the famous Prado, the modern Reina Sofia and the fascinating Thyssen-Bornemisza.
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Salamanca SPAIN Stunning Salamanca sits in northwestern Spain, 200 kilometers from the Capital, Madrid. Known for its vibrant culture and historical traditions, which make it a UNESCO World Heritage City, you will be enchanted by the winding lanes and intricate sandstone architecture you find here. The Tormes River winds its way through the city, and the hilly landscape provides ample opportunity for stylish panoramas and sunset spotting; the domes and towers create a striking backdrop. Host to the oldest university in Spain, Salamanca is popular with students wishing to learn Spanish, as the purest form of the language, Castellano, is spoken in this region. The Castilian culinary offerings also tempt visitors to the city. Meat is a staple and the cured ham is a must-try delicacy!
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THINGS TO SEE ON YOUR NEXT Holiday to Tenerife CARNIVAL OF SANTA CRUZ If you’re visiting Tenerife in February, you’re in for a treat, which the locals have been preparing for all year. The carnival is recognised as one of the biggest in Spain, and costumes, floats and lots of music makes this event packed full of a wide array of colours, sounds and local flavours. Stretching throughout the month and even a few days into March, there is something for all ages here, as the carnival hosts activities for both children and grown-ups. Spot the many different characters that parade through the city, see the crowning of the Queen and participate in one of the numerous competitions and activities that liven up the city like no other place in Spain.
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AUDITORIUM IN SANTA CRUZ, PUNTA DEL HIDALGO LIGHTHOUSE Rising sharply above the harbour-front of the island’s capital, Santa Cruz, the Auditorium of Tenerife, is a white-washed, architectural marvel that resembles an abstract take on a wave crashing against the shore. The auditorium itself is home to various cultural events, including music and theatre, so if you’re looking for a cultural night out, this is the place to head. On the northern side of the island, architecture enthusiasts can indulge in another modernist construction. In the village of Punta del Hidalgo, the local lighthouse looks more like a cartoon skyscraper than a typical lighthouse, and is definitely worth a visit if you’re journeying across the northern landscapes of Tenerife.
CATCH THE SUNSET AT MASCA OR PALMAR If you’re based in the south or just happen to make your way from Santa Cruz to the opposite end of the island, you should not miss what is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular views across the Canary Islands. The southwestern tip of the island is carved in rugged crags and peaks, where narrow roads wind their way around the sharp landscape. Here small villages, perched on the slopes and hillsides, populate the otherwise sparse area, and it’s near these that you’ll find the most amazing views of the sun glistening in the sea and the surrounding cliffs. Masca is one of the more popular destinations, where visitors will find picture-perfect scenery set against the image of a charming little village. However, roaming the nearby geography will reveal unique viewpoints just for you. 33
Fuerteventura CANARIES
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The second-largest of the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura emerges from the Atlantic Ocean as a striking blend of wide-reaching sandy beaches, enormous sand dunes and jagged volcanic landscapes. The Spanish poet Miguel de Unamuno described the island as ‘an oasis in the desert of civilisation’, and with its charming little towns and luxurious seaside-resorts, this is really the perfect destination if you’re seeking to relax and
recharge, while enjoying the sun and clear waters. The hotel is set in the quaint town of Jandia on the southern tip of Fuerteventura. Perched between the wild mountains that extends northwards, and the sugar-white beaches, you’ll be in an opportune position to explore the natural splendour of the region. In Jandia, you’ll find a great number of shops and authentic restaurants, while the beach
invites you to spend a day lounging by the gentle waves or testing your skills at the various water sports available here. Daytrips from the hotel will take you into the stunningly unique landscapes of the Jandia Natural Park or even to the island capital of Corralejo, adding extra colour to your holiday in Fuerteventura.
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Lanzarote CANARIES
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The island of Lanzarote, despite its relatively small size, has many sights to see and activities to partake in. Wherever you find yourself on the island, you’ll never be far from picture-perfect scenery and adventures. Lounge on a white sand beach, go swimming or snorkelling in the bright blue sea, or have a go at some of the water sports on offer here. Alternatively, hire a car or take a guided day tour to see the stunning sights inland.
Wander around the exotic gardens at Guinate Tropical Park, gaze across at the volcanic solitude of the Timanfaya National Park, or head underground to explore the Cueva de los Verdes. Used as a hiding place for locals from marauding pirates and slave traders, the network of caves is today a beautiful system of coloured rock and tunnels that even include a concert hall. Day tours to local vineyards are also possible from the various luxurious
resorts and hotels that are found along the coastline. Lanzarote grapes are grown in a unique way, resulting in a delicious and sweet wine that should be enjoyed against the backdrop of the setting sun over volcanic peaks.
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