Weekender Autumn 2009

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Q U I C K B R E A K S C L O S E T O G I B R A L T A R ­ — U K · S P A I N · M O R O C C O · P O R T U G A L

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29 Oct - 1 Nov 2009

fincacortesin.com

Crta. de Casares s/n • 29690 Casares - Málaga

GPS: N 36º - 23´- 49”

W 5º - 13´- 30”

reservas +34 952 937 800 reservations

AD-09-CORTES-GIB-MGZ-H.indd 1

10/7/09 12:06:09

SUPPLEMENT TO THE GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE

VOLUME 2 Autumn 2009

What’s on in York York Ghost Festival: ’Orribly Original: 30 Oct - 1 Nov 2009 Including the opportunity to take part in a real paranormal overnight investigation. Email: ghostfinder.general@gmail. com or visit www.yorkghostfestival. co.uk St Nicholas Fayre Christmas Market: 26 - 29 Nov 2009 The run-up to Christmas finds York in truly festive spirit with the St Nicholas Fayre. This is when the city becomes a sparkling, enticing concoction of decorations, lights, Christmas trees and street stalls, all helping to create the kind of cheerful, authentic Christmas atmosphere you thought had gone for ever. Tel: + 44 1904 554430.

York Early Music Christmas Festival: 2 - 8 Dec 2009 Taking place in a wide variety of uniquely attractive venues including the Chapter House of York Minster, the stunningly simple beauty of St Mary’s Church, Bishophill and the National Centre for Early Music, Walmgate. Box Office + 44 1904 658338.

Festival of Angels: Dec 2009 (dates to be confirmed) This two day festival includes a stunning display of ice sculptures exhibited in the streets, plus a parade of angels of all ages and sizes, for more information, tel + 44 1904 610676 or visit www. festivalofangels.co.uk

York

Heritage & History in the heart of the dales

Monarch’s flights to Manchester have opened up the north of England to Gibraltar’s weekend traveller. Less than two hours by train from Manchester airport is the walled city of York one of England’s finest and most beautiful historic cities. York’s history characterises the city — York Minster Gothic cathedral and medieval architecture, its Georgian town houses, and its wonderful Victorian railway station.

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oday York successfully combines its heritage and superb historic architecture with sophisticated designer shops, smart restaurants, bars and cafes. Visitors soon discover that every aspect of York’s modern life is inextricably linked with its past. Even their evening entertainment includes ghost walks through the city’s shadowy alleys and ginnels to find haunted pubs — of which York boasts a great many.

Within its ancient, encircling walls York’s medieval streets and buildings are beautifully preserved and the historic heart of the city is largely traffic-free, making it quiet, clean and very pleasant to stroll around, day and night. Stonegate and Petergate, York’s two most stylish shopping streets, still run along the same routes as they did 2,000 years ago.

The city is recognised the world over as an archaeological treasure trove. Jorvik, now a state-of-theart visitor attraction, is one of the best-known sites in the city, and since its excavation in 1976 it has captured and sustained the public imagination. The most spectacular find was an exquisitely-preserved Anglo Saxon helmet, now on view in the Castle Museum.

There is nothing more evoca-

SHORT BREAKS SUPPLEMENT · AUTUMN 2009

tive of York’s medieval era than the narrow streets, winding haphazardly through the city centre and these days home to fashionable boutiques and cafes, with unforgettable names such as Coffee Yard, Swinegate, Grape Lane (formerly Grope Lane), Mad Alice Lane and the Shambles.

The Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, the Guildhall and the Minster itself are all enduring examples of extraordinary medieval endeavour, and a relatively recent discovery was Barley Hall - a timber-framed hall house dating from the Wars of the Roses, tucked away in the alleys off Stonegate.

York’s first railway station was built in 1839, and the present magnificent edifice dates from 1877 - when opened it was the largest in Europe. The city is therefore a natural setting for the National Railway Museum.

For shopaholics, the York De-

signer Outlet on the outskirts of the city will provide an ideal opportunity to bag some bargain designer clothes. In the city centre itself you will find shops with character, with everything from high street stores to unusual boutiques, cafes and restaurants and a plethora of antiques shops to browse at leisure. n

How to get there: Flights: Monarch flights to Manchester leave Friday midday and will bring you back Sunday evening - full Schedule on P7.

Train: trains run regularly from Manchester airport — details and bookings at www.nationalrail.co.uk Car Hire: You can get to York quickly from the UK motorway network.

Travelling north on the M1 or A1 you’ll come to the A64 intersection. The city is 15 minutes away via dual carriageway.

WEEKENDER ·

Photos this page and Weekender cover courtesy York tourist board

One of the great things about living in Gibraltar is its fantastic location, not just for the Mediterranean weather, but for its ideal position as a springboard to visit many diverse locations for weekends away.

Fly, drive or get a train or ferry and your weekend can be haggling in the souks of Tangiers, windsurfing off the beaches in Portugal, exploring Spanish cities or soaking up historic sites in the UK and you’ll still be back in work for Monday morning.

We have featured a few great places in this, our Autumn edition of Weekender, which are within easy reach of Gibraltar or its air destinations.

WEEKENDER

El Molino Del Carmen

self catering with a touch of class

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nce an Olive Oil mill, the business closed down in 1967 after over 100 years and originally employed mules to provide power. It wasn’t until after the civil war in 1939 that electricity was installed and the mules retired. The huge grinding stones, water pump and other original items now make up part of the interesting mix of modern and traditional deco which lend an original touch to the building.

The Molino has been in use as a hotel since the early ’80s and has been well known for providing accommodation to visitors to the village. Today, the Molino is a haven of calm for traveller to and through the peaceful slopes which wind up towards Ronda.

The apartments have been fashioned and named around the story of Carmen by Prospero Merimee with names such as Dancaire’s Den, with Arabic arched entrance mixed with Andalucian style and modern furnishings whilst Don Jose’s Chambers offers a patio overlooking the heated pool with a traditional rustic feel.

The Lillias Pastia Apartment

· WEEKENDER

Overlooking Gaucin from the Barrio Alto with incredible views right down to the coast and Gibraltar, The Molino del Carmen has been recently refurbished into five self-catering apartments by a British couple, Pip and Clinton who have owned the property for a couple of years now.

Castillo del Aguila, Gaucin

with pure white, peach and red decor again has an Arabesque feel complete with mosquito net crowning the queen-sized bed with Moorish flair.

The largest apartment, Escamillo’s Villa, accommodates up to four with plenty of space for a family or two couples to share.

Beamed ceilings and airy, openplan living and dining area offer modern comfort with time-hon-

oured elegance. With a private terrace overlooking the ancient Roman road, the apartment offers the most spectacular views of any room at the Molino.

Smuggler’s Suite is an excellent option for a family or group too, with separate bedrooms on the floor above, each with ensuite bathrooms, the lounge is on the main terrace just below with panoramic sliding doors which

make the most of the views past the church and to the Rock in the hazy distance.

Scented with Jasmine, roses and bougainvillea you’ll find the Molino perfectly situated for exploring the white streets of Gaucin which spreads out below.

The apartments share a pool which is heated in the cooler months and well protected from the elements. Alongside the pool, you’ll find the library with a wide range of books and DVDs to borrow to while away the cold evenings hugging up to a log fire.

Linen is provided in the form of luxury Egyptian cotton sheets and thick and thirsty towels and the kitchens are fitted out with everything you will need to make your stay and your cooking a success.

As self catering, the apartments are usually booked out on a weekly basis, but if you’re interested in just a weekend give Pip a call as you never know what the availability will be — she might just squeeze you in. Their telephone is 0034 952 151 277 or drop them an email to info@molinodelcarmen. com n

AUTUMN 2009 · SHORT BREAKS SUPPLEMENT

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SUPPLEMENT TO THE GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE

Gaucin & El Colmenar

From Mountian Views to River Valleys Many of us have passed Gaucin on the old road up to Ronda, and possibly stopped for quick refreshments and a leg-stretch before carrying on our journey. But Gaucin is worth much more than just a quick stop — a weekend in the hills and valleys in the Sierra is a sure way to wind down.

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ommanding spectacular views down to the coast Gaucin is a perfect retreat for anyone looking for a little weekend peace and quiet. Thin streets bordered by ageing white houses make this a picturesque village with plenty of charm.

We found the neighbourhood not only friendly, but locals will go out of their way to point you in the right direction and to give you some history on their heritage.

The centre-piece being the Castillo de Aguila where ancient Iberian ceramics have been found.

Originally built by the Romans, the remains seen today are of Arabic origin.

The church of San Sebastian, built in 1487 on the site of the old mosque after the re-conquest has an interesting interior with Mudejar influence.

During your stay you’ll find typical tapas bars and restaurants for every taste, including international cuisine at La Fuente, located just above the old baroque stone fountain. Located above the restaurant is a one bedroom self catering flat with beautiful south facing views.

Normally only available for weekly holiday rentals it is available on a nightly basis to clients dining at La Fuente should they wish to stay the night.

Colmenar is just a 20 minute drive from Gaucin and is well sheltered through the autumn and winter from its valley location. Better known as the Gaucin Station on the Algeciras to Ronda rail route, you may want to think about making arrangements without your car. A day trip will see you arrive on the train from Algeciras around

about 1pm, with ample time to enjoy the diverse culinary experiences available and to take a stroll along the river or up to the Valle de Buitres (Valley of Vultures) before catching the last train back at around 8pm.

If you want to take more time to explore the area, Casa Rural Ahora offers an interesting and alternative option to relax and take in the nature close to hand. With rustic style rooms and one small TV for those who really need their injection of the outside world, Miguel offers an excellent service with meals made from natural foods in a natural environment with massages and baths on hand to help you totally de-stress.

Looking for something a little less Bohemian? We were recommended to try the tapas at el Rincon de Cani for a budget bite — seven tapas and three drinks for €8 is hard to beat anywhere.

Again we were surprised that, in such a small village, there is yet another type of dining. For those who want something special, you’ll find the Caserio Ananda if you turn right just after the level crossing and follow the track back up past the station. Right in front is what used to be an old store house which dates back to when the British Engineers built the tracks.

Pedro and Angeles have converted the building into a restaurant with a wine list and guest book to be proud of.

During September and October, rutting stags in the hills around can be heard clashing their horns late at night ­ — if you’re staying overnight it’s well worth a trip into the hills for the experience. n

Relax by the river in El Colmenar

SHORT BREAKS SUPPLEMENT · AUTUMN 2009

WEEKENDER ·

WEEKENDER

Cuenca

A Tale of Two Cities For short break destinations there’s a lot to be gained from taking advantage of Gibraltar’s flights to Madrid as a springboard to discover other cities in central Spain. The Spanish capital has excellent connections both by train and bus and cities such as Segovia, Toledo, Guadalajara and Cuenca are suddenly accessible and only a few hours away from the Rock.

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uenca, situated to the south east of Madrid, is a World Heritage Site with spectacular landscapes and monuments which inspired Cervantes to write the famed Don Quixote. In reality, Cuenca is actually two cities in one — Monumental Cuenca sits on a high cliff between two rivers with medieval defenses and winding streets which adapt to the terrain which was captured by Alfonso VIII in 1177, whilst the lower, modern Cuenca has gradually sprawled out below during the last two centuries.

Access to the old town is via the San Pablo bridge where you’ll see the impressive Hanging Houses to your left jutting out over the gorge, and the most emblematic building in Cuenca. Its precise origin is unknown, but it is believed to have Moslem roots although there are those who believe it may be a medieval manor house. Restored in the 20th century, the building now comprises the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art and a traditional restaurant.

From an architectural point of view both the Palacio Episcopal

and the Town Hall are features of the town. The Palacio’s meandering design has constantly been built on in different styles since the 13th century with the last modifications made in the 18th century.

The San Pablo Monastery was built in 1523 as a Dominican enclave. The building has now been converted into the Parador Nacional de Turismo which houses the artwork of Gustavo Torner.

The bells from the Tower of Mangana have rung out over the city since the 16th century and everywhere you look you’ll find the town telling a story of history and heritage — even from the city streets such as Calle San Pedro where the blue-blooded nobles once lived, you’ll see their coats of arms and liveries above the doorways, or Calle Alfonso VIII with the interlocking architecture of more humble dwellings.

Walks down from the old town towards the river mean city and countryside are minutes apart and a wide choice of lodgings and hotels priced to suite all comers from back-packers through to luxury, Cuenca is a great place to visit. n

How to get there:

Flights: Andalus flights leave Gibraltar for Madrid early mornings on Fridays with a late evening flight landing you back in Gibraltar on Sunday evening (see the schedule on P7 opposite).

Bus: From Madrid there are excellent connections with four or five journeys each way per day from as little as 9 euros each direction. Find out more from www.avanzabus.es including online bookings.

Train: Spain’s RENFE service is well known for excellent service at great prices. Cuenca is a regular stop on the Atocha to Valencia Route and takes just a couple of hours. www.renfe.es for itineraries and online booking.

Car Hire: Arrange at Madrid Barajas on arrival, but to avoid problems you’d be well advised to book online beforehand. This is a great option if you want a little more time exploring the countryside without being tied down to timetables.

· WEEKENDER

AUTUMN 2009 · SHORT BREAKS SUPPLEMENT

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SUPPLEMENT TO THE GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE

TRIED & TESTED...

10BEST OF THE

YORK Hotel du Vin

89 The Mount, York YO24 1AX T: +44 1904 557350 F: +44 1904 557354

Luxury boutique hotel in the heart of York and set in a Grade II listed building.

Lady Anne Middleton’s Hotel

Skeldergate, York, YO1 6DS T: +44 1904 611570 F: +44 1904 613043 E: bookings@ladyannes.co.uk

Country-style hotel in the centre of York, great for sight-seeing and reasonably priced.

Portugal Algarve Vila Vita Parc Hotel

Alporchinos, P-8400-450 T: +351 282 310 100 E: reservas@vilavitaparc.com www.vilavitaparc.com

Five star luxury — golf, gourmet food at 8 seasonal restaurants.

Vila Joya

Praia Da Gale, 8201-902 Albufeira T: +351 289 591 795 E: info@vilajoya.com www.vilajoya.com

Award winning boutique hotel with 21 individually designed rooms.

Morocco Tangiers El Minzah Hotel

85 Rue De La Liberte T: +212 (39) 333 444 E: reservation@elminzah.com www.elminzah.com

Great place for short break in Tangier. Within walking distance of ferry.

Spain

Cuenca

Posada de San Jose

c/Julian Romero 4, 16001 Cuenca T: +34 969 21 13 00 F: +34 969 23 03 65 E: info@posadasanjose.com www.posadasanjose.com

Panoramic views of the Gorge and the old quarter of Cuenca from this 18th century building. Home cooked meals at a family run hotel.

Andalucia

San Roque Suites

San Roque Golf Resort, KM 127, A-7 San Roque T: +34 956 584 901 E: rentals@sanroquesuites.com www.sanroquegolfrentals.com

Quick get-away minutes from Gibraltar — perfect for a weekend of golf.

Finca Cortesin

Crta de Casares, 29690 Casares, Malaga T. +34 952 937 800 www.fincacortesin.com

Complete luxury hotel with golf and spa. For a very special occasion.

Molino del Carmen

Bario Alto, Gaucin T: +34 952 151 277 E: info@molinodelcarmen.com www.molinodelcarmen.com

Classically styled self catering apartments. Great views and good base from which to explore the area.

Casa Rural Ahora

Colmenar, Estacion de Gaucin T. +34 687 320 910 / +34 952 153 046 www.ahoraya.es

Rustic finca by the river with individual rooms, ecological food, massage & spa. A great place to de-stress

Day Mon

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gibraltar airport flight schedule

United Kingdom

If you like the idea of any of the destinations mentioned, take a look at our tried and tested recommendations for board and lodgings.

Flight No.

ZB574 EZY8901 ZB068

EA2104 BA2494 EZY8905 EA2106

EZY8901 BA2494 EZY8905 EA2206

ZB574 EZY8901 EA2302 EA2304 BA2494

EZY8905 ZB062 EA2306

EZY8901 BA2494 EZY8905 ZB062 EA2406

ZB068 ZB574 EZY8901 EA2504 BA2494 EZY8905 EA2506 EZY8901 ZB068 BA2494 EA2704 BA2494

ZB062 EZY8905 EA2706

Airline ● Andalus ● Monarch ● easyJet ● Monarch ● Monarch ● Andalus ● British Air. ● easyJet ● Andalus ● Andalus ● easyJet ● British Air. ● easyJet ● Andalus ● Andalus ● Monarch ● easyJet ● Andalus ● Andalus ● British Air. ● Andalus ● easyJet ● Monarch ● Andalus ● Andalus ● easyJet ● British Air. ● easyJet ● Monarch ● Andalus ● Andalus ● Monarch ● Monarch ● easyJet ● Andalus ● British Air. ● easyJet ● Andalus ● easyJet ● Monarch ● British Air. ● Andalus ● British Air. ● Andalus ● Monarch ● easyJet ● Andalus

Arr.

10.55 11.00 11.55

14.20 17.25 18.10 21.50

11.00 17.25 18.10 21.50

10.55 11.00 12.00 14.20 17.25

18.10 18.55 21.50

11.00 17.25 18.10 18.55 21.50

10.40 10.45 11.00 14.20 17.25 18.10 21.50 11.00 11.35 17.25 14.20 17.25

18.10 18.15 21.50

From 08.25 Manchester Gatwick Luton

Barcelona Gatwick Gatwick Madrid

Gatwick Gatwick Gatwick Madrid

Manchester Gatwick Madrid Barcelona Gatwick

Gatwick Luton Madrid

Gatwick Gatwick Gatwick Luton Madrid

Luton Manchester Gatwick Barcelona Gatwick Gatwick Madrid Gatwick Luton Gatwick Barcelona Gatwick

Luton Gatwick Madrid

Dep. EA2101 11.40 11.40

Flight No. To Madrid ZB575 Manchester EZY8902 Gatwick

12.40 15.00 18.10 18.50

ZB069 EA2103 BA2495 EZY8906

Luton Barcelona Gatwick Gatwick

08.25 11.40 18.10 18.50

EA2201 EZY8902 BA2495 EZY8906

Madrid Gatwick Gatwick Gatwick

08.25 11.40 11.40

EA2301 ZB575 EZY8902

Madrid Manchester Gatwick

15.00 18.10 18.20 18.50 19.40

EA2403 BA2495 EA2305 EZY8906 ZB063

Barcelona Gatwick Madrid Gatwick Luton

08.25 11.40 18.10 18.50 19.40

EA2401 EZY8902 BA2495 EZY8906 ZB063

Madrid Gatwick Gatwick Gatwick Luton

08.25 11.30 11.40 11.40 15.00 18.10 18.50

EA2501 ZB069 ZB575 EZY8902 EA2503 BA2495 EZY8906

Madrid Luton Manchester Gatwick Barcelona Gatwick Gatwick

11.35 12.35 18.10 15.00 18.10 18.20 18.55 18.55

EZY8902 ZB069 BA2495 EA2703 BA2495 EA2705 ZB063 EZY8906

Gatwick Luton Gatwick Barcelona Gatwick Madrid Luton Gatwick

Brian T Richards, Air Travel Consultant info@briantrichards.com www.briantrichards.com SCHEDULE CORRECT TO 24th OCTOBER 2009

SHORT BREAKS SUPPLEMENT · AUTUMN 2009

WEEKENDER ·

gibraltar

to manchester to luton 3 flights a week

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ÂŁ32 one way including taxes

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