Andalucia's best spots

Granada

Many overlook Granada and concentrate on the more famous Seville a few hours away. But many visitors are pleasantly surprised by Granada, spend longer than planned and it often becomes their favourite stop in the Andalucian south. Without a doubt it is my favourite place in Spain and one of Andalucia’s gems. Its Moorish past is encaptured in the amazing Alhambra which dominates the city skyline where you can wile away a whole day. There are fantastic Arab tea and bath houses, markets lining narrow alleyways, warm sunny plaza’s and a resident gypsy population.

Seville

Seville is the capital of Andalusia and an absolute must on any Spanish itinerary. Truly it beats to the sound of flamenco guitar and you can catch the strains of it in bars and alleys all over the city. However it's also the monuments that tourists flock here to see. Among the most famous includ the Alcazar, a beautiful blend of Moorish and Christian themes and the largest cathedral in the world. It was built between 1401 and 1507 on the site of Moorish Seville's main mosque. The gardens are also noteable and you could easily spend the better part of a day here. Seville is also known for its festivals including the Semana Santa leading up to Easter. Bullfighting is also renowned and the season runs from April to about October.

Cordova

Cordoba was originally founded by the Romans due to its importance as the highest navigable point of the Guadalquivir River. Today it's renowned for the romantic sounding Mezquita, an original Islamic structure that was altered by the Christian Kings when they reconquered Spain. It's as beautiful as it sounds - rows of two-tier arches in stripes of red brick and white stone number more than 850, and more arches, domes and decoration around the mihrab, the place of worship. Other sights to see in Cordoba include the the Alcazar or Fortress, built by the Christians in 1328. The Calahorra Fort rises up from the south end of the Roman bridge. Remnants of the Jewish past remain in the old medieval quarter La Juderia, a labyrinth of winding narrow streets. In the centre of the quarter is the Synagoge in Calle de los Judios. This old quarter of the town features lovely shady courtyards brimming with flowers and potted plants. In fact in early May homeowners compete in the city's "most beautiful courtyard" contest. There are cute little squares like La Plaza del Potro and busking guitarists often set up at choice spots through here.

Ronda

Ronda has a lot of charm and there are plenty of reasons to come here beyond its world famous escarpments. Although you probably will want to see the amazing bridge straddling the 100m chasm known as the El Tajo gorge. Ronda has lots of points of historic intrest. It is known as the birthplace of modern bullfighting and you can come in September to see fighters in action. You can also wander the glorious cobbled streets and marvel at the old mansions and gardens. One of the best gardens is the Plaza Duquesa de Parcent with a convent, two churches and belltower.

Cadiz

Cadiz offers a different side to Andalucia, hemmed in as it is on a narrow spit of land by the sea. It has a lot of old quarters, narrow winding alleys with large plazas, numerous parks and historical landmarks that are typically Andalusian. There are cathedrals, castles, beaches, museums, towers and even Roman theatres to enjoy. People of Cadiz are particularly renowned for their warmth and friendliness and there's a great spring carnival held annually here.