Spain Travel Guide

Catalonia is the most northerly of Spain's Mediterranean regions, with a coastline of pretty pine-backed coves, white-washed fishing ports, medieval walled villages hidden amongst the pine-clad rocky Catalonian mountains, and small hill-top towns that have kept their ancient Catalan character intact. The Mediterranean Sea laps at the endless sandy beaches of the Costa Brava and the Costa Dorada, where you will find charming resorts such as Sitges and the unspoilt old town of Tarragona. The region's capital is Barcelona one of the most dynamic and stylish cities in the world, with its uniquely captivating mix of history, culture and architecture.

Watch the sunrise from the spectacular summit of the 330 metre high Penon de Ifach, a towering granite outcrop on the Calpe shoreline, and you will see why this region has earned the name Levante - land of the rising sun. And this is just one of the superb views that await at every turn along the Costa Blanca. The vibrant seaside resorts are perfect for sun-worshippers - the Costa Blanca is credited with more Blue Flag beaches than anywhere else in Europe, but you are also never far away from Old Spain. The region is rich in historic towns and cities - the medieval fortress town of Peniscola, Castellon de la Plana the province's attractive capital and Alicante dominated by the vast Moorish Santa Barbara Castle. Highlights include Elche, famous for its forest of million palm trees, the eagle's nest village of Guadalest perched high in the mountains and the blue and the white dome of the church at Altea, one of the symbolic images of the Costa Blanca. Benidorm is a resort of contrast. Between the old town and the new modern Benidorm, visitors cab experience traditional Spain and modern Europe. Entertainment varies from cabaret bars to tea dances and discos to bingo and not forgetting the popular Terra Mitica theme park.

Where better to relax than on the fabulous golden beaches of Spain's most southerly region, basking in the Mediterranean sun. But travel beyond the tourist buzz of Almeria, Costa del Sol and Costa de la Luz and you will find an even more exotic Andalucia few get to know. From Moorish-styled, white washed villages to undiscovered National Parks and the snow-capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada, this is Spain at its most charming and traditional. Andalucia is also where you will find the cultural riches of some of the most magical cities and sights in Europe, such as Seville, the capital of Andalucia, famous for its orange trees and wealth of national monuments including the Giralda Tower, the Plaza de Espana and the Sta.Cruz quarter. With its panoramic views of the Sierra Morena Mountains, the beautiful city of Cordoba is much praised for its medieval quarter and narrow streets. Of particular interest is the Mezquita, a great mosque with unique Islamic architecture, justly reckoned to be one of Spain's most fascinating buildings. Granada, one of the undoubted highlights of Andalucia, where you can visit the famous Alhambra, a 14th century Moorish Palace and the historical cathedral. And if all that sightseeing leaves you exhausted, you won't need to look far to find the region's famous food, nightlife and flamenco dancing.

Port Aventura: Enjoy the thrills and adrenalin rush of the Port Aventura Theme Park. In the holiday resort of Salou on the Costa Dorada, this is one of the largest theme parks in Europe and takes you a journey of adventure through exotic lands around the world, including rides and attractions such as the terrifying Dragon Khan rollercoaster, the 300ft freefall Hurakan Condor and the Fiestaventura, named the Best Live Show in the world.

What to do: Many of those travelling to Spain simply want to get away from it all and enjoy the sun. But if you are after an action-packed holiday, you will find everything from tennis to golf, hot air ballooning and every kind of water sport imaginable. In the country's designated natural parks, hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, rock climbing, canyoning and pot-holing are all popular activities. For a more relaxed pace try a wildlife or wine tour, or simply walking, cycling or painting among the unspoilt plains, hills, pine forests and sierra.

Unmissable: The 11th Century Alhambra Palaces is the greatest Muslim legacy in Europe and its russet ramparts are said to be one of the most inspiring sights in the world. Still more or less intact, the fortress is the greatest surviving example of ornate Moorish architecture; an extraordinary complex of sumptuous palaces, historical museums and luxurious pools, fountains and gardens.

Local Flavour: Spanish food deserves its fabulous reputation. Delicious dishes such as the famous Valencian paella, the Andalusian Gazpacho and Chorizo can quickly become favorite choices. But you may need to reorganise your routine around Spanish mealtimes and the relaxed attitude. Try a late breakfast, a light lunch, an afternoon siesta, and a little tapas to keep you going so you can sit far a late dinner with the locals. With its traditional heritage well rooted in Spain, Sangria, is a must. This wine 'punch' is made with red wine, fresh, seasonal fruit, a bit of bubbly water or citrus flavoured soda, it is easy to make, and easy to drink.

Getting around: Spain has a good network of domestic flight connections with regular shuttles to airports in all the major cities and some of the smaller cities and towns as well. One alternative for city-to-city travellers is to use the high speed train service. Elsewhere, the bus network is more extensive than the train system. Taxis are plentiful in all the main cities - colours vary but look for the green light on the roof - and car hire in Spain is available from all the major towns, cities and airports.