Santander – the ideal place to holiday while in Spain
Planning your holiday in Spain is very difficult. It is difficult because there are lots of places of interest to be seen. There are places ideal for short visits and even for visits of longer duration. Every place of visit in Spain has its own uniqueness. There are places of historical importance, places for recreation and places for relaxing. In short, you plan what type of holiday outings you want, you get them in Spain. There are many tourist agencies that assist you in planning your tour and they provide all the guidance so that the tour can be a happy memory.

Among the places of visit, Santander, a city in the province of Cantabria is one of the most sought after places of visit by most of the tourists. Santander is most popular for its natural beauty and the city is rich in many historical buildings, beautiful beach, churches, etc. If one is desirous of touring all the places of interest in Santander, then he must make himself free for a couple of days. Some of the places of interest in Santander are described here:

Shopping:

Among other things, Santander is popular with those who have a fascination for shopping. The entire city has many shopping areas. Works of art made by local artisans are sold here. Apart from this, the city is also popular for best fabrics. Some of the most popular shops are Plaza de Numancia and Volunteer Firefighters' Park Building.

Pronillo Palace:

You will be fascinated by this amazingly beautiful 16th century palace. Located in the town of Ciudad in Jardín district, which is a neighbor of Santander city, this palace is one of the oldest buildings of Cantabria. The architectural beauty of this palace is something which has no parallel.

Plaza de Mexico:  

Spain is the leader in bullfight. Some people do not approve of bullfight because they are of the opinion that it is a cruelty on the animal. Irrespective of that opinion, bullfight is considered a sport in Spain. Many bullfight rings do operate in Spain and the sport is held periodically. Annual bullfight is held in many places in Spain. Plaza de Mexico has a bullring and also a museum depicting the history of bullfight.

Eateries:

Throughout Spain there are many restaurants, hotels and bars serving the popular wine and other local specialties. Maliano Dock is one of the places which have most popular restaurants and hotels.


Read About Villas in Calpe Also About Spanish Villa and Villa Ibiza

Also Read About Spain Villa on articledashboard and Villa in Spain buzz vox

Places of interest in Spain – Santander

When you visit Cantabria province in Spain, the suggestion is never miss the city of Santander and be assured that you need at least about three days to fairly cover all the places of interest in this city. The city is overwhelming with places of interest starting from beach, churches, museums, parks and what not. Let us just take a round of this beautiful city.

We will start our tour visiting the beach. A word of caution, please remember there are many places to be covered in Santander, so try to be on time. This is because you will be totally immersed in the natural beauty of this beach and will not realize how much time you have spent on this beach. It is immaculately beautiful and perhaps one feels a dearth of words to explain the beauty of this beach. When you are on the tranquil beach, do not miss seeing the coves; some of the coves have historic importance and others are believed to have been formed thousands of years ago.

Do not forget to enjoy the most famous Avenida Reina Victoria, the Boardwalk where one can get a spectacular view of the beach as one goes for a walk. The residential area of Santander is situated to the left. As you walk along, you would reach another famous beach called Magdalena Peninsula. The other popular beaches of the region are Camello and La Concha which are also frequently visited by most of the visitors.

Just near the beach are the rows of cafes, hotels and bars which are open till the wee hours. They are popular for the tasty wine, Tapas and boogie and local specialties. There are also rows of shops where one can shop.

Now let us find a place to relax. Two famous parks are Piquío Gardens and Matalenas Park situated at a walking distance from the beach.  Apart from these, there are also other parks like the famous Parque de Cabo Mayor which is also most ideally located. The parks have some of the rare species of plants. They are full of fountains and pathway for walking, etc. There are places to relax. You will be certainly mesmerized by the way these parks are maintained.  

The famous lighthouse of Santander is an appropriate place to have a spectacular view of the Cantabria province and coves. This lighthouse is believed to have been built in the 19th century.

 
Read About Villa Denia Also About Villa Calpe and Villa Rental Javea

Also Read About Spain Villa on articleadventure and Villa in Spain blurty

Places of interest in Spain – Madrid

Madrid is the most precious jewel in the tourist map of Spain. The province is brimming with tourists all through the year. It is not only a welcome place for tourists, it is also a popular industrial town. There is a hectic trade and commerce activity in this town. Madrid is in the most preferred places amongst the population throughout the world. Amongst various other places of interest for tourists, Madrid has many museums which are briefly discussed here:

Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza:

This 13th century museum is most popular amongst those who love artifacts. The museum has many precious collections of artifacts. The building in which the museum is built looks aesthetically beautiful. Entry to the museum is through tickets.

Museo Nacional Centro do Arte Reina Sofia (MNCARS):

This museum has collections of some of the most popular artists like Pablo Picasso, Joan Miro, Juan Grist, Slvador Dali, etc. The museum has different sections like works starting from 19th century to the end of World War II; the other section of the museum has collections from early 40’s to early 80’s. Separate galleries are made for different great artists like Picasso, Eduardo Chillida and Antonia Saura. The museum has free entry on Saturday. On other days entry is through ticket only. It is a museum worth seeing.

National Museum of Decorative Arts:

Perhaps this is the only museum throughout the world which is dedicated exclusively for works of Gems, ceramic and other glass articles. The artifacts created by people of earlier civilizations using gems, etc. are also on display in this museum. These are some of the rarest collections which are available here. The decorative art works and jewels made from gems are also on display. The authorities of the museum say that there are about 30000 decorative articles which are on display and these are made from gems, silver, etc.  

Royal Museum of Fine Arts:

The museum is dedicated for Spanish arts and artifacts. Apart from this there are also works of sculpture and art works made on silverwares. Etchings on brass, silver, etc. are also on display in this museum. Lots of people visit this museum.

Wax museum:

The wax museum has many artifacts made of wax. Wax models of many of the famous personalities are also available in this museum. A separate section has been made for famous personalities from Spain. A movie has also been prepared about the history of Spain. Those who want can also enjoy a joy ride in a train around the museum.

Read About Holiday Villas Spain Also About Villa Lloret and Luxury Villas Mallorca

Also Read About Spain Villa on articlefeeder and Villa in Spain soulcast

Places of interest in Spain – Caceres

Spain is a country rich in many heritage buildings. In fact Spain is one of the countries which have the highest number of World heritage buildings as declared by UNESCO. Another interesting fact is that these buildings have been maintained perfectly well. It is not only the buildings; even the places surrounding them are maintained in perfect order.

Caceres is one such city in the province of Extremadura which has great historical importance. This city has a history dating prior to Romans. Today this is one of the very well planned cities of Spain. Even in the midst of this modernity, the heritage buildings, towers, churches have been well retained in splendor and are in fact attractions for tourists.  
 
Let us just take a tour of the city. We start our tour with a visit to the fort. Interestingly this fort has thirty towers. Out of these thirty towers, twelve are believed to have been built in the 18th century by Churriguera. The towers are built with immaculate planning. It takes considerable time to go round all these thirty towers but some of the important towers should be visited.

Our next visit is to the Episcopal Palace which is built in traditional Gothic and renaissance architecture. This beautiful building has been attracting a large number of visitors. The palace of interest is the Gothic Mayoralgo Palace. The beauty of the palace is enhanced by the flagstone streets, La Plata tower, El Socorro Archl and such other towers. Many other historic buildings located just near the palace have actually beautified the palace.

The House of Monkeys called the Casa del mono has many ancient painting works. There are also works of sculpture and religions. The interesting feature of this museum is that the monuments are hidden inside the wall. In fact the sculpture works displayed in Spain have no parallel. Popular works of sculpture also adorn this museum.

Read About Rent Villas Spain Also About Villa Rental Ibiza and Villa Mallorca

Also Read About Spain Villa on articleadventure and Villa in Spain blurty

Places of interest in Spain – Algar

Spain, this European country is one of the leaders in the tourism industry. Spain has many places of interest for the tourists. Blessed with the vast beach of the Mediterranean Sea and many mountains which run parallel to the sea; Spain has splendid natural beauty. The islands and rich vegetations around its great rivers are the other places which would be of interest to the visitor. Spain has a rich history dating back to several thousands of years BC. It was the home for many civilizations like the Celts, Moors, Romans, etc. During the rule of these civilizations several castles, churches, cathedrals, etc. were built.

Although most of these constructions have been destroyed due to passage of time, the Government of Spain has been successful in preserving thousands of these constructions. They speak of the great heritage of Spain. Now these places have become places of tourist attraction.

One unique feature in Spain is that every city, town, village, however big or small; has something or the other which is of interest for the tourist. One such place of interest is Algar which is one of the places which attracts a large number of tourists throughout the year. This tiny city in the province of Cadiz with a population of about 1700 inhabitants is rich in natural beauty. Interestingly this tiny city has many things to offer the tourists.

The great natural waterfall called the Les Fonts de Algar is one of the places of interest which has been attracting a large number of tourists round the year. Along the waterfall are the swimming pools formed out of the natural water springs. Local people say that these swimming pools have medicinal value because they are formed by the natural springs. Along the path of this natural waterfall, a walkway has been formed and this is the most ideal place for those who enjoy walking.

The walk path is filled with natural vegetation like Bamboo groves and many herbs which have great medicinal value. Apart from this, for the convenience of the tourists; several bath areas have been formed. On the top of the bathing area, facilities like dining table, chairs, etc. have been provided where the tourist can enjoy his picnic.

This tiny city has a railway museum which also attracts a large number of visitors. The museum has many photographs showing the growth of the railway industry in Spain. Some of the old railway engines, coaches, etc. are also on display. By visiting this museum one can get a vivid picture of the working of the Railways.

Read About Villa Spain Also About Villa in Spain and Villas Rent Ibiza

Also Read About Spain Villa on selectarticle and Villa in Spain weblog

Places of importance in Spain – Barcelona

Barcelona, the most precious jewel of Spain had the honor of hosting the Olympic Games and is braced in the race for holding one more Olympic Game. Barcelona is rich in natural beauty and has the pride of having many buildings of architectural excellence, churches and castles of historical importance and largest number of parks. To crown it all, it is an industrially advanced province. It is no surprise that a province with all these features is the first choice amongst tourists. Let us just go round this beautiful city:

La Rambla:

This is actually an avenue or road which connects the Monument of Columbus. Newspapers, flowers, birds, etc. are sold in this avenue. The famous Palau de la Virreina mansion which is said to have been built in the 18th century is located on La Rambla. The largest food market of Europe Boqueria is also located here. The famous Barcelona Opera House is also in La Rambla. However, tour operators advise the visitors to be cautious because pick pocketing is rampant here. There are also instances of bags being snatched from the visitors. They also advise the tourists that while shopping the rates should be checked thoroughly.  

Port Vell:

Located at the end of La Rambla, Port Vell is a very busy port. Interestingly this Port Vell also called as Port of Barcelona (its earlier name) is also considered as a ‘leisure zone’. One can enjoy boating. A boating excursion is also held where the visitors are taken around the harbor and also around the ‘port Olympic’. It was here that the sailing events were held during the 1992 Olympic Games. The port has many bars, hotels and restaurants where the visitor can rest and enjoy the mouth watering local dishes. The visitor can also enjoy water sports which are available at designated places.

Montjuïc:

This is a hill located on the southwestern side of Barcelona. It was an Olympic Stadium of the 1992 Olympic Games. One of the most popular museums called ‘Museu Nacional d'Art De Catalunya’ is also located on this hill. In the midst of the hill, as one starts to descend, there are many fountains which give a spectacular view. The largest fountain is called ‘La Font Magica’. As darkness descends, one can watch the unbelievably beautiful light and music display in these fountains. Normally no visitor misses this show of light and music. The visitor can also enjoy the spectacular view of the Barcelona city from the top of the hill.

Read About Villas Lloret Also About Villa in Denia and Villas Calpe

Also Read About Spain Villa on qwesz and Villa in Spain mister-wong

Madrid - Spain always keeps the tourist busy and entertained

Normally we prefer a holiday trip to a place where there is a lot to enjoy and relax. If it is a place where we get entertainment and are also kept busy visiting some historical places, such a place is all the more welcome. Madrid, a province in Spain is a place where we have a lot of places to enjoy in the midst of beautiful nature and also a lot of historical places like churches, castles, etc. These places are both entertaining and educative. Let us just go round some of these castles.

San Lorenzo de el Escorial:

This palace is believed to have been built in 1584. This beautiful palace also has a basilica church, monastery, library, spacious court hall, etc. The interior of the palace is beautifully decorated with works of sculpture, paintings of renowned artists like Velazquez, Tibaldi, Luca Giordano, Zuccaro and Cambiaso, etc. It is said that King Phillip II was a lover of Italian art. So he decorated the palace with Italian Renaissance art works.

Castle of Buitrago del Lozoya:

This castle is located just on the banks of the great river Lozoya and is about 70 kilometers from Madrid. It is now becoming popular amongst tourists. Those who visit this 15th century castle built in traditional Gothic style are mesmerized by the way the castle is maintained. The castle is maintained perfectly well. In the year 1949 this castle was declared as a historic monument by the government of Spain.

The Royal Palace of Aranjuez:  

Located at a distance of about 48 kilometers from Madrid, this palace is built in the town of Aranjuez in the midst of the marvelous surroundings of the great rivers Tagus and Jarama. It has great history behind it and is one of the most marvelous structures of Madrid. It has been declared as a world cultural heritage site by UNESCO. History says that the construction of this palace was commenced under the orders of King Phillip II and completed during the time of King Ferdinand IV.  The palace has four wings with an inner courtyard and Royal Garden with walking paths, etc. The palace is beautifully decorated with ornaments of rococo. There is a red and white Baroque façade. There is a room with walls and even the articles in that room are made of porcelain.  This room has a great attraction for tourists. The palace is a standing example of the outstanding work of architects.  

Read About Villa Costa Brava Also About Villa Calella and Villas Majorca Pollensa

Also Read About Spain Villa on thefreelibrary and Villa in Spain stumbleupon

Castles in Madrid

Madrid is a wonderful place which is popular for places of natural beauty and buildings which exhibit architectural excellence. It is an industrial town and a heaven for tourists. Perhaps Madrid is one of the places in Spain which has largest castles which are of historical importance. Apart from castles, it also has many churches, parks, etc. which all attract tourists. Some of the castles in Madrid are introduced here because this information would be of benefit for the tourists:

Castle of Manzanares El Real:

This castle is located about 50 kilometers from Madrid. According to historians, the castle was built by one of the most powerful families of that time called the Mendozas. It is believed to have been built in the 15th century. It is a Gothic style castle having six floors. Each of the towers has smaller towers and the largest tower which is named as ‘Homage tower’ has six towers within it which are all in Octagonal shape. This marvel castle has enough space for storing armor. Apart from this, there is a courtyard, observatory stations, etc. Some of the portion of the building which was in dilapidated condition was renewed recently and its original splendor was retained and now this castle is one of the most sought after tourist places of Madrid.

Castle of Villaviciosa de Odon:

Of course, this castle is closed for the time being because of renovation work that is going on. But once it is opened for public, make it a point to visit this beautiful castle which was originally built in the 16th century. The Air force of Spain has an ‘air force museum’ in this Castle of Villaviciosa. This very well planned castle is in the town of Villaviciosa and is very close to Madrid. This castle in its original form was built in Gothic architecture.

Castle of Batres:

This castle is very close to Madrid and Toledo and is located in the town of Batres. There is no historical record to say who constructed this beautiful castle; but according to the available records, some influential people of Batres constructed it in the 15th and 16th century. It was actually used as their residence. According to history, the counts of Onate took control of the castle. The uniqueness of this castle is its flawless planning. It has a palace, enough fortifications, cathedral, etc. Places around the castle are beautifully landscaped and in 1980, it was declared by the Government of Spain as a historical monument.

Read About Villas Pals Also About Villas Majorca and Majorca Villas Rent

Also Read About Spain Villa on articlecube and Villa in Spain webmaster911

Carboneras - City Information & Guide

Overview

The town, Carboneras is in the province Almeria in Andalusia, Spain and is a municipality. Its population is about 7300.

It is located near the mouth of the river Albas that is in the south of Cabrera Sierra. This town is situated along the Almerian coast and is very beautiful. The mountains surrounding this town have no trees at present; however in the ancient times they were full of large leafy trees. Some people constructed ovens in this place to process coal and became economically prosperous; they made use of these trees for feeding their ovens. This town became an active port for fishing after they ran out of coal.

History

Felipe II, in 1559, gave the coast of Carboneras to the Marquis of Carpio.

A number of coal and wooden ovens were built near the coast and these were sold in the peninsula. Since this town was in an isolated location, Moors took advantage of it to connect with Africa when there was an uprising in 1568. This became an important port during this period.

Climate

The maximum and minimum average temperatures in this city are 30°C in July-August and 10 °C in January.

Art and Culture

The following monuments are popular in this town:

Tower of the Thunderbolt or lightning tower – was built in the year 1584 and is at present in ruins. This is a cultural monument.

Torre de Mesa Roldán – was built in the year 1776.

Parish Church de San Antonio de Padua – is the patron saint of Carboneras.

Labyrinth House – was designed in 1964 by Andre Bloc.

Town hall – has been built from the 19th Century Mansion House.

Plaza del Castillo – is a castle square.

San Andrés Castle – was built in the 16th century.

Cuisine

Fresh fish and seafood are mainly used in the restaurants and local bars. The most popular dish – galanes – is made from white fleshed fish and has a good flavor.

Sports and Entertainment

The beauty of Carboneras lies in its sandy beaches. Some of them are listed below:

Las Martinicas Beach – is a wide and beautiful beach located near the port.

Los Barquicos Beach – is an urban beach and is ideal for your stay and taking bath.

El Lancon Beach – is a large urban beach having good facilities.

La Galera Beach – is nearer to the town but has limited service facilities and parking.

El Algarrobico Beach – is a virgin beach with good environment and is ideal for shooting movies.

Shopping

There is a market held on every Thursday in the town centre and you can buy items such as fresh fish, handicrafts and ceramics.

Business

The economy of this town is dependent on cement, energy and tourism.

Read About Villas in Mallorca Also About Villa in Moraira and Villa Begur

Also Read About Spain Villa on articlefeeder and Villa in Spain blurpalicious

Capileira - City Information & Guide
Overview

There are 3 villages in the gorge of the river Poqueira in the Granada province and Capileira is the highest of these three villages. It is located at a height of 1436 m above sea level. You can either walk in the gorge or walk up to the Sierra Nevada.

This village has become very popular among the tourists. It is the main centre from which the tourists go for walking and also for accessing the mountains, in particular the mountain Mulhacén, which is the tallest in Spain. It is a climb of two days with an overnight stop. Its population was about 590 in the year 2005.

History

Some people are of the opinion that the village Capileira originated at the time of the Godos; there are others who believe that it was much earlier than that. The meaning of the Latin word capilaris is “more elevated place” and Capileira is located at a higher level among the three villages. Its location is such that it was not easily conquerable and hence the Arabs and Romans conquered this place last.

Climate

The maximum and minimum average temperatures in this place are 30°C in July-August and 5 °C in January.

Art and Culture

Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza – was a church constructed on the site where there was a mosque in the 16th century on orders from the Catholic Monarchs. In the 18th century this building was replaced by the current Mudéjar-style building.

Iglesia Parroquial de Santa María la Mayor – was built in the 18th century by replacing a mosque of 1502.

Museo Etnológico Pedro Antonio Alarcón is a village museum wherein local handicrafts and dresses are displayed.

Cuisine

Bread is the most important food item in this place and many people bake their bread at home. People in Capileira use Arab-style ovens for baking their bread. These ovens are constructed with brick or clay-lined and they are capable of holding the heat well.

Poor Man’s Potatoes – Patatas a lo Pobre – is a popular dish made using ingredients like potatoes, onions, green peppers and olive oil and fried until the dish becomes crispy. Fried eggs as well as chorizo or black pudding are also popular dishes in this place. Local diet always contains hunting meat. Other popular items are fennel stew and choto capilurrio. There are hotels where you can get vegetarian foods.

Sports and Entertainment

This place is relatively small but it still has nightclubs and a number of tapas bars. The nightclubs are small but have good dance tunes selection and dance floors.

Shopping

This village is popular for local craft items of good quality hand stitched by the locals; these are hand-woven rugs and leather goods – shoes, bags and belts.  

Business

The economy of this village is mainly dependent on tourism.
Read About Villas Spain Also About Villas in Spain and Villa in Ibiza

Also Read About Spain Villa on ezinearticles and Villa in Spain dropjack