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Villas in North Spain – Perfect Destination to Stay

March 4th, 2010

While attracting around 60 million tourists every year, Spain is no doubt a wonderful place to visit for family holidays. The holiday choice is yours, whether it’s a two day holiday or two wees holiday, villas in Spain with fantastic weather give you a great choice of accommodation. With the homely feeling, a villa in Spain offers you a great value for money.

The Villas in Spain give an option of different kinds of villas depending upon your preference of stay. Whether you want to stay on the coast or on the countryside or on the luxury villas, Spain provides you your kind of villas. There is an inclusive selection of finest holiday villas with the pools facility as well as they are very near to the main beaches in mainland Spain.

In addition to this, there is an option of renting private villas is incredibly alluring, if you are looking for an accommodation for a family holiday in Spain. In order to explore your surroundings in Spain and enjoy at your villa while holidaying, the villas in Spain reduces your stress by providing a private and safe base with the plenty of privacy, space and complete flexibility.

Main areas in North Spain

The most popular and must visited areas of the north region of Spain are Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and Pais vasco.

Main cities in North Spain

Few of the cities of north Spain where you must go and explore are Santiago de Compostela, Pontevedra, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Santander, Alava, Oviedo, Gijon and Vigo.

Countryside Villas

With the vast variety of scenic beauty in the countryside of Catalunya, villas in Spian’s countryside make your trip so special, that you can never forget your holiday. Further the bold mountain of the Pyrenees to the sandy river Ebre adds a great flavor in your holiday. Even the warm climate of Catalunya, along with it’s and rich cultural heritage, historic towns and gastronomic delights makes Catalonia an ideal place for your next trip to Spain.

Luxury Villas

The original castles, superb houses and stunning villas in exciting locations offer the highest level of leisure and comfort with all the facilities available. Also the region has so many different and beautiful landscapes. With fully furnished kitchens that are must in all villas in Spain, gives you a perfect opportunity to make your trip perfect.

Read About Villas Costa Blanca Also About Villa Costa Brava and Villas Costa Brava

Author: R Coenen
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Credit card currency-exchange fees

Scintillating Spain – The Many Charms of the Spanish Lifestyle

March 4th, 2010

If you want a lifestyle full of warmth and colour, there’s no need to travel halfway across the globe. Just hop on a plane to Spain and in under three hours you’re in a new world of great weather, a vibrant culture and a matchless variety of things to do and places to go. Spain offers the ultimate lifestyle – a rich blend of a balmy climate, stunning scenery, and a relaxed and sensuous way of life. Here’s why Spain is such a special place.

First, there’s the sheer beauty of the country. Spain has a varied topography from the rugged mountains of the north to the glorious stretches of coast on the Atlantic and Mediterranean. There are timeless monuments, solitary castles looming on hilltops, medieval towns with winding cobbled streets, and chic cities such as Madrid and Barcelona offering grand shopping, art galleries and restaurants.

While Spain’s inland cities such as Granada, Seville and the capital Madrid are a must visit, it’s the coastline that attracts most visitors and offers the real Spanish lifestyle. For one thing, the weather is better along the coast. True, it does occasionally rain even in the summer months, but compared to the oppressive heat of the hinterland, temperatures along the coast are generally pleasant.

Southeast Spain is one of the country’s choice areas and is home to lovely cities, towns and fishing villages nestled between the mountains and the harbours and beaches on the Mediterranean. Holidays in this part of Spain give every day the feeling of a fiesta. Then there’s the matter of the weather.

Natural beauty always looks much better under sunny skies and that’s where Spain wins out. Spain has the warmest, sunniest and driest winter climate of all Europe. And if you visit in summer, the long swathe of Mediterranean coast will bask to temperatures of over 20C for most of the time.

A great benefit of the balmy weather is the outdoor lifestyle. Being able to spend most of the day outdoors makes for a much more socially connected community. Here you can live the village life, the beach life and the leisure life. One thing’s for sure, life in Spain is never dull.

There’s always something happening in Spain and if you’re lucky, you can witness one of the many fiestas and religious celebrations that pepper the Spanish calendar. Many of these festivals are real extravaganzas in which the people dress in exotic costumes and parade through the town. Fireworks, burning effigies and such endeavours such as creating the world’s largest paella are also popular at festival time.

And another great thing about living in Spain is the cost of living. Though Spain isn’t the bargain it was in the 1970s, you can still live around two thirds of what you’d spend in the UK. Rents and property are cheaper and you can eat well for very reasonable prices. For example, you could dine on freshly caught and grilled seafood every day if you wished. And of course the wine is plentiful and reasonably priced.

Finally, Spain offers the opportunity to partake an unparalleled range of activities, especially outdoor ones. In southeastern Spain, you can enjoy water sports virtually every day of the year and if golf is your thing, you can tee off on some of Europe’s finest courses.

So if you’d like to spend your days playing golf or relaxing on long sandy beaches, the Almeria coast (Costa de Almeria) in Andalusia is your place. After a strenuous day, you can spend your evenings nibbling on tapas and drinking a few glasses of wine or just relax on the terrace of your hotel or villa.

If you decide to make the smart move and relocate or get a second home in Spain, property is still a great investment. You can acquire villas, cottages, apartments or townhouses at reasonable prices.

All the infrastructure you need for modern life is there, too – international schools, first-class medical facilities, and English-speaking doctors and lawyers. It’s little wonder that southern Spain is the most popular country for Europeans seeking a home overseas.

When investing in overseas property you need experts to help you. So it makes sense to buy into an established resort where you get the professionalism, stability and security you need for your perfect new home. for Spanish properties and golf holidays, Almanzora is the place to go. Check online for holidays in Spain or facts on Spain property.

Michiel Van Kets writes articles for The Almanzora Group Ltd, specialists in quality holidays in Spain and Spain property alternatives. Almanzora is a region that has something for everyone, the unhurried rhythm of daily life, its celebrations, sociability and the region’s emphasis on the outdoors creates an easy, relaxed, atmosphere. Enjoy quality of life and a genuine Spanish lifestyle with a true warmth of spirit.

Author: Michiel Van Kets
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Canada duty

Lanzarote Holidays – The Ideal Destination to Break Those Winter Blues

February 25th, 2010

Spring still doesn’t appear to be on its way in any particular hurry, so as the UK prepares itself for another spell of freezing weather if anyone is determined to see blue skies and feel the suns rays on their skin in the coming months, it seems as if one of the best options would be to book a holiday somewhere else. Holiday prices are still very low so now is a good time to get online and see what’s available to break the winter blues.

But where can holidaymakers go and be confident of better weather than the UK? One of the best and closest destinations has to be Lanzarote. As the most easterly Canary Island it has good weather all year round and almost no rainfall. At only four hours flight time, it is the nearest thing Europe has to a Caribbean island. Lanzarote continues to bask in warm weather, with an average temperature of 20C even in the middle of December.

The island is well respected as a tourist hotspot, and it already has a well-developed infrastructure that includes a range of accommodation. At the cheaper end of the market, there is a wide choice of apartments in Lanzarote that have been designed with self-catering in mind.

Most apartment complexes are set within semi-tropical gardens around a communal swimming pool. None will be more than three storeys tall, as strict rules about construction mean that buildings can only be as tall as a palm tree. A good number of these complexes have been refurbished in recent years to bring the accommodation up to date, with modern style furnishings.

For couples who just want to laze on the beach and try the local bars and restaurants in the evenings, an apartment in Lanzarote is ideal. Most have good basic facilities, so that the odd self-catered meal can be easily thrown together. This style of accommodation is also ideal for the more active, sporty types, who spend all day surfing and cycling and crashing out in the evening.

Meanwhile at the other end of the scale there is marvellous selection of private villas available to rent throughout the year in all three of the main resorts, as well as plenty dotted around the countryside. Holiday villas in Lanzarote provide the kind of home-from-home comforts that many holidaymakers prefer these days including internet access, air conditioning and use of a private swimming pool.

Given the huge variety in decor, there are villas to suit every taste. Which in turn means that every visitor ends up with a highly unique holiday in Lanzarote, reflecting the experience they have from start to finish? Whilst many people come principally for the sun, a large majority of visitors to the island often find plenty of activities to keep them amused as well.

Whether that entails a day’s sailing or golfing or visiting each of the centres of Art and Culture, Lanzarote has a lot to offer. Its tourist attractions are stylishly individual, having been created by the internationally renowned artist, Cesar Manrique who has left a legacy on the island that will remain for decades to come. These centres range from a Cactus Garden to a Farming Museum, with each detailing some aspect of the lives that many locals have lived over the centuries.

Some of the islands villas come equipped as a home-from-home, with DVD libraries and books to entertain their guests. Others have games rooms, with pool tables and PlayStations. Nearly all have built-in barbecues, as the weather allows al-fresco dining at all times of the year. Private swimming pools are also the norm, with most heated during the winter months to just take the chill off the water, and for garden enthusiasts, the wide range of semi-tropical flowers that thrive in this climate will provide splashes of colour throughout the winter if your villa has its own landscaped garden.

By Dave Talbot: Lanzarote is an ideal location for those looking for a year round warm and friendly travel destination closer to Europe and the UK. To investigate more about this stunning island visit Lanzarote1.com for information about Lanzarote villas and self catering Lanzarote apartments

Author: Dave Talbot
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Excise Tax

Golf Course Guide For Costa Del Sol, Spain

February 25th, 2010

The Costa del sol golf course guide is a “rough guide” and is purely the personal opinion of the author. Please take in to consideration that these comments are subjective, personal opinions and standards of golf differ. Please take this rough guide as exactly that, an honest, personal opinion from a fellow golf addict.

Alcaidesa Links Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Alcaidesa golf course is a 18 hole, par 70 golf course.
Address: Ctra de Cadiz (N340), Km 124.6, La Linea, Cadiz. Tel: +34 956 791 040.

This is a beautiful and tricky golf course for every standard of golfer from 28 handicap to scratch. Allis and Clark have made and admirable attempt to create a rare links course on the Costa. Stunning views across the bay to Gibraltar and hilly terrain make it a delight to play. Take plenty of balls, as the fairways are tight and unforgiving surrounded by gorse and ravines.

A buggy is needed – even for the fittest amongst us- and as you play consider taking an extra club up on par threes because of deceptive wind.

Alhaurin Golf Course, Costa del sol, Spain.

Alhaurin golf course is a 18+18+9, par 72 golf course which was designed by Severiano Ballesteros.
Address: Ctra Mijas-Alhaurin, (MA485) Km6, Alhaurin el Grande. Tel: +34 95 259 5970.

Tight beyond belief, difficult beyond anything I have every seen before.

The first hole is extremely difficult with a narrow fairway and rocks to the sides of the fairway, which send your ball bouncing high in to the sky, never to be seen again. As you progress the course gets tougher and if you are not really on top of your game you could easily become more and more disheartened as you progress around the course. I stopped counting shots after I lost my tenth golf ball! By the 18th I had suffered several episodes of golf rage and was close to a nervous breakdown.

I’ve read course guides say that this course “compels golfers to concentrate on their game and choose with care which club they should use for every stroke.” Personally I would say this course is one of the toughest golf course on the Costa del Sol. This course is at best described as a challenge for an experienced player who is on top form, at worst its tight and downright cruel.

Alhaurin golf course is generally cheaper to play than most other local golf courses.

A buggy is essential as is an ample supply of golf balls.

Cabopino Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Cabopino golf course is a 18 hole par 71 golf course.

It’s a relatively new course but it has matured very quickly and is very well maintained. The marshal’s are friendly and very welcoming.

There is a driving range on the approach road to the course, so if you arrive early you can loosen up your swing. Alternatively you could take the approach Andy and I prefer, loosen up with a San Miguel at the bar before you tee off.

Cabopino golf has a pleasant clubhouse, with a pleasant sun terrace where you can sit, eat, drink and enjoy the views of the ocean. The staff in the bar and restaurant are friendly staff and they serve good quality food.

The short at only course is only 5,170 meters long but it’s has tight fairways and is challenging.

The greens are large and were of fantastic quality when we last visited. The third hole is the one most people enjoy the most and it’s not one you will forget, it’s a par 4 which drops dramatically from the tee to the green and has outstanding views. A buggy is advisable on this course, which is hilly.

Dama de Noche Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Dama de Noche golf course is a 9 hole, Par 70 golf course.
Centro Commercial Plaza, Oficinas 51-52, 29660, Nueva Andalucia, Marbella.

Dama de Noche golf course is a nine-hole course, which can be played as 18 holes. It is flat, wide and easy. It is ideal course for a high handicapper or anyone wanting a gentle stroll.

All that changes a night though because the is course is flood lit and can be played at night.

They say that the lighting system is designed to cast no shadows thus giving daylight quality and maximum visibility, does that apply in the rough as well I ask myself?

You do have to make a reservation for night golf because they only put the lights on if there is sufficient demand but for total golfing addicts or insomniac this course offers considerable novelty value and it’s one to talk about in the clubhouse when you go home.

El Chaparral Golf Course, near La Cala de Mijas, Costa del Sol, Spain.

El Chaparral golf course is an 18 hole, par 73 course.
Address: N340 / A7 Km 203.

El Chaparral is a club which closed several years ago for reasons that I don’t need to go into now. The course has now risen from the ashes and is trying to build a reputation for itself. Purely for research purposes, I tested out the clubhouse both before and after my round at El Chaparral and I found the staff to be particularly welcoming and they really did their best to make us feel at home.

Even though El Chaparral is only a stones throw from the coast it has an English parkland course feel to it. The fairways are long and narrow and I found the course testing, I didn’t have enough room to risk my driver off many tee’s yet I needed the driver to get the distance I needed off the tee’s to get any chance of reaching the green in regulation.

El Chaparral is extremely hilly and walking it is only for the bravest of golfers. Overall I would describe it as a very tricky course, bordering on frustrating, it tempted me to use the driver but punished me when I did!

The course is a little pricey for what you get. It was quiet when I played it but I’ve been back since and it is gaining in popularity.

Estepona Golf.

Carretera Cádiz, KM 150, Arroyo Vaquero, Apartado 532, 29680 Estepona.

18 hole, par 72 course.

The first time I played this course about nine years ago I was extremely disappointed. The fairways were worn, bare and baked, the greens were unkempt and the whole feel of the place was one of a lack of investment. Since then I have been tempted to re-visit by a friend who told me that improvements have been made yet the cost has been kept down. Well fair play, the cost has stayed relatively low and there has obviously been a lot of investment and as a result the course has improved considerably. It still needs some TLC but it is now playable. Still nowhere near the quality of Monte Mayor, La Cala or the like but it is perfect for a cheap round in between more serious games.

Flamingos Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Flamingos golf course is a 18-hole, par 72 course.
Address: Ctra de Cadiz Km 166, Marbella / Benhavis.

A relatively new course but the work that has gone into the course makes that incredible, it looks like its been established for years.

Clearly no expense has been spared when they built this course. Everything from the hotel toilets to the course itself is magnificent, lavish and downright opulent. A visit to Flamingos really is a treat (and before you ask I don’t get a commission for writing this, I just tell it as I see it.)

Flamingos is worth a visit just to have a walk around the hotel, which has clearly been fashioned on the Alhambra Palace and its magnificent water gardens.

As for the golf course itself it is every bit as lavish as the hotel and clubhouse. As you meander around the course the views vary from a panoramic views of the Mediterranean to secluded views of the wild countryside. Around the course there is an incredible variety of trees, plants and vegetation, some native, some clearly imported so as to add to the experience.

Every now and them you stumble across an old (well they genuinely look old but they weren’t there in 2005!) ruins or statues and every corner holds a new surprise, all of them pleasant.

The front nine holes have generous wide fairways where you really can open up your shoulders, a rarity for Spanish golf and the greens are ample too, so get the low score on the card in front nine if you can. As you negotiate the back nine the fairways tend to narrow down, especially the 18th which really focuses the mind but even so the back nine are not overly cruel. The fairways are narrower than the front nine but they tend to be shorter and you have loosened up, so even though you have to be a little more precise than on the front nine the golf is still enjoyable.

If you visit Flamingos make sure you take the time to explore the hotel after your round. It’s well worth a look.

Over all I would describe Flamingos as a cracking course which tends to be a little on the pricey side but if you want to treat yourself you will not be disappointed. A Masters or Championship course of the future I will wager.

Lauro Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Lauro golf course is an 18 hole par 72 golf course.
Address:Ctra de Coin,(C344) Km 77, Los Caraclilos, Alhaurin de la Torre. Tel: +34 952 4127 67.

Beautiful parkland course surrounded by lots of Andalucian trees. It offers breathtaking views over the valley and Malaga bay. Nine lakes so there is something to think about but it is a relatively easy and relaxing course.

La Cala Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

La Cala has three golf courses, each of 18 holes, par’s 72,73 and 71.
Address: La Cala de Mijas, Mijas Costa. Tel: +34 95 266 9000.

A personal favourite, all three courses are equally good. I highly recommend La Cala golf, not only because of the quality of the golf but also because of the quality of the clubhouse, facilities, surroundings and the reasonable pricing.

At La Cala golf there are three spectacular 18 hole courses, which are nestled in the countryside about 15-20 minutes drive in land from La Cala town.

La Cala golf is an enormous luxury golfing resort, which is perfect for golfers who want quality golf at a sensible price in an exclusive environment.

Set out like a Country Club in extremely large grounds it has an exclusive clubhouse and restaurant. It also has a separate five star hotel, where you will find an very exclusive restaurant.

All three courses have terrific obstacles & natural water hazards along with narrow fairways and large well-kept greens. Set amongst tranquil mountains, all three courses are long and sculptured into the natural contours of the countryside which means that you have think your way around La Cala golf and use the contours of the landscape to your advantage.

All three courses hilly and a buggy is a must. The South is my favourite, it’s a little more forgiving than the North Course and the Europa.

Try the Leadbetter Golf Academy located at La Cala Golf, it’s a little expensive and you will have to book in advance but the instructor’s improved my game, so they must be good!

At the academy they also have an excellent grass driving range.

La Noria.

La Noria golf is a nine hole, par 33 course.
It is located at the beginning of the road from La Cala de Mijas which runs to La Cala Golf off the N340 or A7.

This 9 hole course has been a long time in the building and it is obviously eventually going to grow into a 18 holes course but that will probably take some time.

The club house is literally a bar come cafe but it is adequate and serves its purpose.

I am no fan of 9 hole courses but I have to say I enjoyed playing this course. It’s relatively simple to negotiate and very easy to walk around. The fairways are wide and none of the holes were particularly long. There is water to cross and a few challenges as you negotiate the course and while it’s no Carnoustie for what you pay its not at all bad.

It’s not every day that you want to play challenging golf and if that’s the case then La Noria is worth thinking about. This course is perfect for a high handicapper, a novice golfer or simply for a warm up for a more serious round later on in your holiday. As nine hole courses go this is one of the better ones and for the price its worth bearing in mind.

Los Naranjos golf course, Costa del sol, Spain.

A relatively flat and wide 18 hole course, something which is rare on the Costa del sol.

The best summary I can give of this course is to say it is wide and forgiving and it allows you to “go for it” when the opportunity arises yet there are enough challenges to keep you focused and maintain your interest.

In all honesty a buggy is not essential but if you do hire one the in built satnav is very hand, it even gives you a distance to the buggy in front of you, so there’s no excuse for taking out the four ball ahead of you, never mind such is life!

We found the course to be well marshalled, nothing oppressive but they gave the slow golfers a hint when needed. The course staff were all very polite and helpful and we were made to feel very welcome.

The course has a excellent restaurant and the beer at the end of the round was suitably chilled, what more could you ask for.

Reasonably priced and definitely a course I will be re-visiting.

Mijas Golf Courses, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Mijas golf has two 18 hole golf courses, par 71 & 72.

Address: Urb. Mijas Golf, Mijas-Costa. Tel: +34 95 247 6843

Two relaxing 18 hole courses both having flat and wide fairways. Both courses are generous and forgiving leaving the option of a safe shot down the middle for a bogie or a par, alternatively you can take the driver out and go for the birdie. Good scores are achievable on either of the courses, which are set both in an attractive and tranquil landscape.

If you hire a buggy they have satellite / GPS tracking and mapping which gives you distances from where you park the buggy to the green and to hazards. Watch out though, don’t make the same mistake I made, the distances are in meters not 1yards, don’t forget to add 10% to get yardages!

All level of golfers will find that both courses at Mijas golf are a fair and enjoyable test of golf. Being one of the better-known clubs Mijas can get busy. A four and a half hour round is not unusual because it is so popular but the surroundings are so pleasant you hardly notice. I recommend both of the Mijas courses, play them and you will see why.

Just a tip for those playing out of season at Mijas golf course. They often close half of each of the golf courses to rest them out of season so you may find that you are playing the front nine of Los Olivios and the back nine of Los Largos one day and vice versa the next day. It’s not a problem as both are nice courses but sometimes this takes people by surprise.

Miraflores Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Miraflores golf course is an 18 hole, par 72 golf course.

Address: Urb. Riviera del Sol, 29647 Mijas-Costa. Tel: (952) 83 36 47.

This used to be a favourite and regular golf course for me, sadly there has been extensive building work all around the course edge of Miraflores golf course and it appears never ending. In my opinion the building work has taken the edge off the natural beauty and spoilt the course somewhat. While prices have been reduced in an apparent attempt to tempt golfers back to the course I have to ask myself if I want to go all the way to Spain to play golf in the middle of a building site?

It is one of the more forgiving courses on the Costa and a buggy is not essential.

If you do try Miraflores golf course loosen up in advance of the first tee, the first hole is a tight and requires a straight shot or you could end up in the garden of one of the many villa’s next to the fairway.

Monte Mayor Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Address: Ctra de Cadiz (N340), Km 165.6, La Cancelada, San Pedro. Tel: +34 95 211 3088.

A challenging course but in my opinion this is the best golf course on the Costa del sol, if your game is on form. It is extremely tight, very hilly and is carefully sculptured into the natural mountainous terrain. The natural views and beauty of this course are second to none.

Your golf needs to be accurate, sensible club selection and course management are a must. If you play sensibly and stay on the fairways you will be rewarded, if not make sure you have a good supply of golf balls.

If you play Monte Mayor golf course you are guaranteed a day to remember and you will want to go back as often as I do.

Most of the year golf buggies are included in the green fee’s. If you visit in high season they may not be, in which case I strongly recommend that visit hire a buggy, you will need it.

This is a very isolated golf course, in a location where you have to ask “Who thought of putting a golf course way up here?” The isolation adds to attraction of this incredible golf course but it means that it is difficult to find, so I strongly recommend that you drive to it for a “test run” the day before your golf.

It is set in spectacular mountainous terrain where you will find peace and tranquility combined with natural beauty and unforgettable golf. A challenge but a fantastic golf course in surroundings that are literally unsurpassable. To sum up, if your game is on form do not miss this golf course, its brilliant.

Parador Malaga Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Parador golf course is an 18 hole, par 72 golf course.

Apartado de Correos, 324 29080 Málaga. Tel. +34 952376677

Parador golf Course is famous because it hosted the Spanish Open’s in 1992 and 1999. Personally I am not sure why they would host such a prestigious event at this course because it is literally at the end of the busy runway of Malaga International Airport and there is constant noise as planes take off and land right next to the course.

I found this course boring, the greens were in a terrible condition and bunkers were in a state of total disrepair with bare soil and mud instead of sand.

Famous it may be but I found it to be a total let down. In my opinion the best way to view this golf course is out of the airplane window as you land or from the main road as you drive past to one of the many more pleasant courses in Andalucia.

Rio Real Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Rio Real golf course is an 18 hole, par 72 golf course.
Urb Rio Real, P.O.BOX 82, 29600 Marbella, Malaga. Tel: +34 95 277 95 09.

A mature, tranquil course that gradually meanders way up into the hills and then it wanders all the way back down to the beach. At one stage you feel you are alone in the middle of the mountains, next you are on a green that is literally next to the beach.

The course generally has wide fairways and while you have to concentrate it does not punish you unfairly. Water come in to play on a few times but in all honesty if you play sensible golf it won’t cost you any golf balls. Pleasant countryside and views in the hills and a fantastic vista as you play down to the edge of the Mediterranean Ocean. A relaxing day of golf, this course comes in my top three golf courses but it does tend to be pricey because of its popularity.

The club house has a magnificent balcony / terrace restaurant where you can sit, watch fellow golfers playing out the 18th and reminisce on your “shot of the day.”

The down side of Rio real golf course is the cost. A round of golf here tends to be expensive and the golf buggies, which I would recommend hiring due to the hilly location, are an expensive addition to this already high cost.

Santa Clara.

18 holes, par 71.
Address Ctra A7, KM 187.5, Junto a Hospital Comarcal, 29600, Marbella. Tel. +34.952.85.01.11.
Being next to a busy main road you could easily assume that it would suffer from traffic noise. For some inexplicable reason it doesn’t. As soon as you tee off the course meanders away from the Coast following the gentle contours of the land leading you into a natural and peaceful setting. The course has several wide and relatively trouble free fairways where you can open your shoulders and let the ball fly but that said there are holes where course management is wise and where a little caution can pay dividends.

Santa Clara is relatively flat and is suitable for walking. The course is a fair test of golf and is similar in difficulty to many UK golf clubs, as opposed to many of the Spanish golf courses, which can be cruel at times. The course is perfect for an easy and relaxing round or for a golf society. It has many similarities to Rio Real but it is slightly easier, slightly flatter and has slightly less trouble. The course is relatively new and consequently it is not as well established as Rio Real.

When you arrive in the car park you will be met by an attendant on a buggy, who takes you your bag to the magnificent clubhouse, even thought it is only about forty yards from the car park. In the palatial clubhouse there are excellent changing rooms, shower facilities and a restaurant that serves a variety of quality food and drink.

My only reservation with this course is the green fee, which is very high compared to other courses in the area. The choice is yours.

San Roque Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

San Roque golf course is an 18 hole, par 72 golf course, which was designed by Dave Thomas.
Address:Urb. San Roque Club,Ctra de Cadiz (N340), Km 127, San Roque.Tel: +34 956 61 30 30.

The old course is expensive but is ideal for both experts and those looking for a leisurely game. Superb practice facilities and wonderful manicured greens and idyllic fairways. A real treat, if you are prepared to spend the money..

As a cheaper alternative you can always try the new course at San Roque, we visited and got a really good deal, half the price of the old course and we found it a fantastic days golf. There is a course is what I can best describe as a fair test, not too tough but not too easy either. They have got this course design absolutely spot on.

Santa Maria Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Santa Maria golf course is an 18 hole, Par 72 golf course, which was designed by Antonio Garcia Garrido.
Address: Coto de Los Dolores, Urb. Elviria. Tel: +34 95 283 1036.

A pleasant and popular course, which is challenging. It has plenty of long holes where you can open up and swing the driver but every now and then they throw in a tight par three to bring you back down to earth. The course starts off with a hole over a lake where you can “go for it” and get the driver out. There is ample fairway and a decent drive makes it a short par four. The course gradually winds its way into the hills and far, far away, we recommend a buggy.

Santa Maria golf course tends to be a little on the pricey side. I found the staff to be unhelpful and less friendly than most other golf courses in the area but if you let the golf course speak for itself you will enjoy a round here.

If you want a buggy or a Powakaddy we strongly recommend that buggy pre-book it, they have a limited supply and they soon get taken.

Sotogrande Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Sotogrande golf course is an 18 hole (Par 72) with an additional nine holes. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones.
Address: Paseo del Parque, Sotogrande, Cadiz. Tel +34 956 785 014

Another Robert Trent Jones success. He is reputed to have described Sotogrande as one of his proudest pieces of work, that’s a compliment from a golf course designer of such ability.

European Tour pros battle here at the end of the season to gain their cards for the forthcoming season so that’s an indication of the quality of this golf course.

Torrequebrada Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Torrequebrada golf has an 18 hole, par 72 course and addition nine holes, which were designed by Jose Gancedo.
Address: Ctra de Cadiz (N340), Km 220, Benalmadena-Costa. Tel: +34 95 244 2742.

Every hole is a different experience. Fantastic views of the Mediterranean and has the shortest par 3 on the coast. The 1979 Spanish Open was played here and you can see why after you turn for home on the back nine. A large number of lakes and strategically placed wide bunkers ensure that this course retains its reputation as one of the most popular courses on the Costa. Welcoming and luxurious clubhouse.

Valderrama Golf Course, Costa del Sol, Spain.

Valderama has 18 holes and is a tough par 72.

Valderama golf course is a world famous golf course and is ranked number one course in Continental Europe.

Valderama golf course is always in superb condition and enjoys worldwide fame, not least due to having had the privilege to have hosted the 1997 Ryder Cup and the last two American Express World Championships.

Extremely expensive but if you can play a round of golf here you are privileged!

One word of warning, I have pre-booked to play Valderama twice and had the booking cancelled at very short notice by the course. Both times they blamed disease on the greens. Strange how this never happens when the Volvo Masters is being played there!

There are new golf courses appearing all the time in Andalucia and the Costa del sol has understandably become known as the Costa del golf. As avid lovers of golf we are regularly visiting the area and we will try to play as many golf courses in Andalucia as we possibly can just so that we can keep this web page up to date (well that’s the reason I give to my wife for playing so much golf anyway!)

The Costa del Sol Golf Guide is purely the subjective and personal opinion of the author.
The Costa del sol Golf Guide is “rough guide” of golf courses on and around the Costa del sol, Spain.

© copy write http://www.spanish-apartment.com all rights reserved

Author: Cherie Bottomley
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Things to Do on a Holiday in Spain

December 23rd, 2009

Spain is one of the most popular family holiday destinations in Europe for families staying in luxury holiday villas with swimming pools. Spain has all the necessary ingredients of a perfect holiday destination- breathtaking sceneries, beautiful nature, Mediterranean beaches, plateful paella and refreshing sangria by the seaside in the sun and much more.

Spain is a treasure trove for the culture enthusiasts, nature lovers and adventure seekers. Many families come to Spain and stay in self catering accommodation which they rent direct from their holiday home owners. The things to do on a holiday in Spain are abundant and include sightseeing, colourful fiestas, flamenco, opera, arts, literature, painting, sports, skiing, bullfighting, exciting night life, adventure activities, water sports and shopping in addition to many more staying in holiday villas with swimming pools.

You can see the three world renowned museums in Madrid, the capital city of Spain. While there you can stay in one of the many luxury self catering apartments or holiday villas in the capital. Families on vacation visit many of the museums in Madrid including the Thyssen-Bornemisza, Sofia and Prado. When staying in self catering accommodation in Madrid you will get a chance to see the priceless paintings of master artists like Picasso, Dali, Miro and Juan Gris.

Madrid’s Royal Palace is also a landmark tourist attraction and has stunning exhibits. Madrid is also home to the impressive historic square of Plaza Mayor, Retiro Park, Botanical Gardens and Casa de Campo in addition to other interesting places. It is said that Madrid is home to some of the best luxury villas with swimming pools in Spain.

You can go on excursions from Madrid to see the other places of tourist interest in Spain. Many tourists rent a holiday villa and visit the world heritage site of Alcala de Henares, Aranjuez Summer Palace and Gardens, Seville Cathedral, Great Mosque of Cordoba, Alhambra of Granada and Castle of Santa Catalina in Jaen.

You can enjoy soaking in the sun on the beach resorts of Mediterranean coastline. Relax by the seaside on the beaches of Costa Brava, Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol. Families come here to enjoy the sun soaked beaches and rent a holiday villa with swimming pools or self catering apartments.

Spain has a great deal to offer by way of nature and the tourists who love the great outdoors can take recourse to the diverse landscape of coniferous and deciduous forests, salty marshes, rocky coves and bays, fertile river valleys, mountain peaks and mountain streams staying in holiday cottages. You can indulge in nature watching at the various national parks of Spain and enjoy the ample wildlife. The famous national parks of Spain are Tablas de Daimiel, Ordesa, Coto de Donana, Montana de Covadonga and Aigues Tortes. Near all of these beautiful park are many holiday homes to rent direct from their holiday owners.

You can enjoy exciting nightlife at the numerous bars, discos and clubs in Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s hub for nightlife. This place is also famous for shopping. Enjoy fun filled recreational activities like tennis, swimming, jogging at Casa de Campo and Parque de Atracciones. Many tourists choose to stay in holiday self catering apartments and enjoy the local nightlife and culture to the full.

Spain has world class facilities for golfing at the Canary Islands like Gran Canaria, Tenerife and so on. The avid golfers can look forward to excellent golf at many other places like La Manga, Costa del Sol and Valderrama in Spain. Golfers go to Spain on short golfing breaks and stay in self catering accommodation. Other golfers stay there for longer periods on a golfing holiday and some rent holiday villas.

You can see the typical white washed Spanish village in Andalucia and the charming whitewashed houses dotting the narrow streets of cobblestones in addition to ancient churches make for stunning sights. If you are lucky enough you will be able to rent one of these beautiful holiday cottages.

Spain is renowned for skiing and has ample ski resorts of world class facilities. The skiers will enjoy the lovely slopes, blue skies and warm sun. When there you can rent a log cabin or chalet and fully explore the beautiful countryside. The Pyrenees area is best suited for nature walks, hikes and mountain climbing. You can also explore this area on horseback. Go windsurfing or water skiing by the seaside. Canoeing and white water rafting can be enjoyed in north Spain.

Spain is a great place to spend your vacation and has some of the best holiday homes in Europe. There are luxurious holiday villas, holiday cottages and self catering holiday apartments available to rent in Spain. There are holiday rental homes in Spain to suite almost every budget.

Author: Andy Gibson
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Enjoy an Exciting and Fascinating Spain Vacation

December 23rd, 2009

We all love a good vacation, and the more choice there is when it comes to entertainment and attractions, the better it is likely to be. Of course, wonderful weather, beautiful surroundings, rich history, and colorful culture always helps, and if this sounds like your sort of holiday then a Spain vacation could be the ideal choice for you. Many people now decide to take their holidays in Spain, and this is because traveling to Spain can be such an exciting and diverse experience. There are many exciting places to visit in this country, with areas such as the Costa Del Sol and the Costa Blanca, and towns and cities such as Alicante, Valencia, Granada, Benidorm, Murcia, Seville, Madrid, and many other fabulous areas offering an array of sights, entertainment, attractions, recreational opportunities, and places to relax. When you go to Spain for your vacation you can look forward to a wonderful vacation experience and a diverse itinerary with something for everyone in your party to enjoy.

Find the ideal destination for your needs when you go to Spain

With so many diverse, exciting, and fascinating areas to select from in Spain, you will find it easy to locate the perfect destination for your vacation, no matter what your idea of the perfect holiday. You will find cities and towns that offer rich history, with a range of historical monuments, museums, and incredible architecture. You will also find places where you can soak up the incredible and colorful culture of the country, with exciting events and festivities taking place over the course of the year, enabling you to learn more about the way of life and local traditions in the area. If you are after sun, sea, and sand you will find plenty of places to chill out and relax, where you can kick back and watch the world go by as you soak up the glorious sunshine. Those looking for a wide range of recreational opportunities, nightlife, and great entertainment will also find plenty of choice. So, no matter what you want from your vacation you will find just the place for your needs when you come to Spain.

Enjoy great deals on your Spanish vacation

If you want to enjoy the beauty and wonder of Spain, you can get some great deals, which means that you won’t have to worry about spending the earth in order to enjoy a fabulous vacation experience in this vibrant and fascinating country. You can enjoy excellent deals on flights, accommodation, insurance, and car hire, which means that you can look forward to great value for money as well as the chance to explore a truly wonderful destination. You will also find some fabulous deals available on package vacations, so you can book your Spanish vacation with minimal hassle and without having to break the bank. The Internet is the ideal place to find great deals and deeply discounted prices on vacations to Spain, and this method offers the added advantage of being able to browse, compare, and book your vacation easily and quickly from the comfort of your own home and at your own pace.

No matter which part of Spain you decide to visit when you go on vacation, you can rest assured that your time here will be memorable and satisfying, and that the whole family gets to enjoy a vacation experience that they will want to repeat time and time again.

Author: Clinton T. Maxwell
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Andalucia, a Wonderful Holiday Destination

December 16th, 2009

The Costa del Sol has long been one of the most popular holiday destinations in southern Europe, and quite rightly so as it has much to offer in the form of reliable sunshine, beautiful safe beaches, good restaurants and nightlife, good quality and affordable accommodation along with plentiful and cheap flights from a vast choice of airports. However The Costa del Sol is only a very small part of the wonderful Autonomous Region of Andalucia.

Rural tourism has opened up this superb area of southern europe and it is
now possible to rent a villa in many outstanding and remote areas hither
too unexplored by the vast majority of tourists. To a large extent the
countryside has been unspoilt by the recent developments along the Costas
and there are still many out of the way and remote areas to explore. In
recognition of this several new air routes have now been opened up
with very reasonable flights into both Jerez and Granada airports.

The white villages, or “Pueblos Blancos” are a good starting point as in the main
life goes on in them much as it has done for centuries. Casares, Gaucin, Benaojen,
Estacion de Cortes, Cortes de la Frontera, to name but a few, are all
delightful places to spend a few hours ambling around, marvelling at
the architecture, the slow unchanging pace of life and sampling the
various tapas bars. During the summer months every village holds a tradtional
feria with music and dancing in the streets all night long.

Andlaucia is of course the home of Flamenco dancing and bull fighting. The oldest
bullring in Spain is to be found at Ronda, and whatever your feelings are
on this rather emotive sport it is an interesting building to visit as is the
adjacent museum. The old part of the town is also a lovely place to visit
with its amazing Tajo ( gorge) and wealth of old buildings. A train ride
from one of the white villages further down country such as Jimena or Gaucin,
is a lovely way to arrive at Ronda as the train passes through some beautiful
countryside not visable from the road.It also continues on upto
Granada which is a must for any visitor to Andalucia with its stunning
Alhambra Palace, old gypsey quarter and many other places of interest.

The wildlife in Andalucia is amongst the best now left in Europe with an
astonishing array of birds, both resident and migrant, it is particuarly
well blessed with birds of prey such as Griffon and Eygptian Vultures,
Bonnelli’s and Booted Eagles,Peregrine falcons, Red and Black Kites, to name
but a few. These magnificent birds are a common site soaring majestically above the
mountain ranges of Andalucia. It is also home to wild boar, mongeese and genets
most of which are not particuarly well appreciated by the local population
as they do alot of damage to gardens and live stock, however they are all
now protected by law. In the spring the countryside puts on a stunning
display of wild flowers, some of which are now quite rare in other parts of
Europe.

There is much unspoilt countryside where one is quite at liberty to walk
and camp, just being careful with fires in the dry summer months. Whilst
official footpaths and signposting are rather limited there are few real
restrictions as to where you can wander as long as you just use common sense
with regard to rubbish, fires etc. However always take water with you
as you can easily find yourself in the middle of nowhere with no natural
source of water nearby.

So take a holiday away from all the hustle and bustle, rent a private villa,
hire a car and just enjoy exploring this delightful region of Spain.

Author: Ruth Polak
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Living and Working Abroad: British Family Moves to Spain and Opens an Adventure Travel Company

December 16th, 2009

I connected with Mel and Marie just recently, from one webmaster to another, through working on our mutual websites. I found out that the couple had just recently moved to Spain from Britain and set up an adventure travel company that after one only year in business is already doing pretty well.

Many of you know already that Spain is one of my favourite countries, so I absolutely had to find out how these Northern Europeans made the transition into the hot south of Andalucia and how there were adjusting personally, socially and with their new business in this brand new lifestyle. Here is what they had to say:

1. Please tell us a bit about your background. Where are you from, what is your work background?

Mel: I’m from Bedworth, Warwickshire, England. Formerly a coal miner and policeman.

Marie: I’m from Maghera, County Londonderry, Northern Ireland, and am a nurse.

Prior to moving to Spain, we lived in Nuneaton, Warwickshire. We have 3 children; Stuart (19), Niall (15) and Stephanie (14).

2. How did you come up with the idea of opening an adventure holiday company in Spain?

Marie: For all of his adult life, Mel has been a keen trail runner, cyclist and cross-country skier; the children and myself are also lovers of the great outdoors. As a family we had holidayed all over Europe, including a number of cycling breaks in Spain. Having experienced the local climate, the stunning scenery and the apparently limitless tracks and incredibly quiet roads, moving to Spain to establish our own activity holiday business seemed the perfect choice.

3. How did you select your location? What type of property did you choose and why? Please talk to us about the real estate purchasing process in Spain.

Andalucia is the most beautiful part of Spain. We wanted to avoid the mayhem of the coast, but didn’t want to be more than an hour away from Malaga airport, in order to reduce the traveling time for guests. It was then just a question of drawing a line on a map and visiting available properties within that circle.

We did a lot of browsing on the internet, then made appointments with estate agents to view the properties that seemed right. We eventually chose this property because of the stunning views, the excellent road access and because, with only a little work, we were able to convert an outbuilding into a self-contained guest apartment.

The purchasing process was relatively simple for us. We granted power of attorney to a local solicitor, who then handled everything on our behalf. All we had to do was transfer over the money whenever it was required. The only aspect of the process that we would caution people about is the tactics of some of the estate agents. Not all of the properties listed on websites were actually for sale and some of those that were for sale were only available at a much higher price than advertised or were not at all like their descriptions!

4. Did you have to do any renovations to the property you bought? If so, what was it like to deal with Spanish contractors and construction workers?

We had to convert a building with 2 very basic rooms and 2 shed type rooms into the guest accommodation. However, we were able to do a lot of the work ourselves and only employed builders for the more skilled tasks. We have learned that there are good and bad builders amongst the Spanish and the British builders working locally, but only a properly registered firm does work with any sort of guarantee. And that is an important consideration.

5. Please talk to us about Rio-Frio, the adventure holiday company that you founded. When did you start it?

We founded Rio Frio Holidays in the summer of 2004, with the intention of offering activity holidays and holiday accommodation specifically tailored to the requirements of our guests, whether they are individual travellers, families or groups.

6. What does your company offer? How is it different from other adventure holiday operations? What type of people vacation with your company?

We offer holiday accommodation, activity holidays and training camps for families, single travelers, corporate groups and groups of sports people. Mel is the main guide/coordinator for hiking, mountain biking, road cycling and running; other activities, such as canoeing, rock climbing, abseiling and archery and provided by local Spanish companies.

We have had visits from keen cyclists and runners, as well as families wanting a multi-activity break and people who wanted to do nothing more than relax in the garden between visits to Granada, Seville and other sightseeing highlights.

7. What was it like opening a business in Spain? What processes did you have to go through?

Our first step was to hire a good accountant (“Gestoria”) who took us through the process of registering with the Spanish authorities as self-employed and helped us with the bureaucracy of registering the business with the local tourist authorities. He also handles our regular tax returns and ensures that we comply with all of the relevant tax and other legislation.

8. Please tell us how the first year has gone for you with your new business. What has been your biggest challenge of operating a business in a new country? What have been your greatest rewards of operating this business?

The first year has been fantastic! We have had nothing but positive feedback from all of our guests and their comments, to their friends and in our online guestbook, have been our best form of advertising.

The biggest challenge has been identifying where to spend our marketing budget. We are constantly receiving calls from sales reps trying to sell us advertising space and it is very difficult to tell which publications are likely to have the greatest impact. We are still learning!

The greatest reward is the thanks of the guests and knowing that we have helped someone to have a great holiday or helped to put them on track to achieving their health or fitness goals.

9. How good was your knowledge of Spanish when you moved there? How has it improved since then?

We barely spoke a word of Spanish between us – and even less Andaluz (the local dialect!) However, after many hours of hard work, we are all well on the way to learning the language now.

10. Please tell us about your interaction with the locals. How much contact do you have with local people? What about the cultural adjustment process, adjusting to Spanish culture, coming from England for yourselves and your children?

The children went straight into the local Spanish secondary school. Unfortunately, the recent influx of British children has left the school struggling to cope.

Outside of school, things are much better. Our Spanish neighbours and friends are terrific; there is a real sense of community in our village and, through Mel’s membership of the local cycling club, we have developed a wide network of Spanish friends.

Until you relax and accept that the Spanish especially the bureaucrats – do not work to deadlines in the same way that the British do, life in Spain can be quite stressful for the average Brit. However, there is little about the way of life that doesn’t come out favourably in comparison with British culture.

11. What advice would give you someone who would like to relocate to Spain and start a business there?

Do it! And please feel free to drop us a line if you have any specific questions.

Thanks, Mel and Marie, for sharing with us how you achieved your dream of living in the South of Spain and good luck with your business. It’s great to hear that you were able to fit in in your new environment so quickly and have managed such a smooth transition. It’s true, sometimes you just gotta do it….

Author: Susanne Pacher
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Denia – Costa Blanca Holiday Resort On The Rise

December 9th, 2009

The Northern Costa Blanca in Spain is among the most popular holiday destinations for UK tourists. The popular areas are the beach resorts, but an ever-increasing band of holiday makers are heading for the golf courses, and Denia is able to offer both types of holiday. The town sits at the foot of the Montgo Mountain with holiday villas lining its lower slopes with stunning views over Denia and out to sea. Many of these are available to rent and make an excellent base for a self-catering holiday.

The closest golf course to Denia is the 18 hole La Sella course, set in the grounds of the Denia Marriott Hotel. A little further up the coast towards Valencia is the Oliva Nova Golf Course that was designed by Spain’s famous golfer Seve Ballesteros. There is also the Javea Golf Club, Ifach Golf Course near Calpe, and the Club de Golf Don Cayo near Altea, all within an hour’s drive of Denia.

Denia itself has 20km of beach which means that you can have a beach holiday in Spain without having to worry about overcrowding. Beach bars and restaurants are always close by with prices ranging from low budget to high class and with summer temperatures that can reach the 40 degree mark, the beach bars are very handy.

Many of the car rentals companies have offices in Denia, so you can explore the local countryside or visit one of the golf courses. If you want to try going further a field, you can take a boat trip to one of the other Costa Blanca resorts such as Javea, Calpe, Altea or Benidorm. Denia also boasts a large port with ferries going to Mallorca, Ibiza and Formentera which lie in the Mediterranean just off Denia, and can be seen from the San Antoni Lighthouse that sits between Denia and Javea.

Getting to and from Alicante is also easy from Denia as the Railway Station is built next to the port with regular services to Alicante via Benissa, Calpe, Altea and Benidorm.

Directly opposite the port is the main shopping area of Denia. The longest and most well-known of the shopping streets is the tree lined “Marques de Campo” that ends in a large square. This area often forms the centre of the local fiestas. It is easy to spend an entire day exploring the department stores and side streets, and relaxing in the many bars and cafes.

The whole of Denia is overlooked by the Castle. It was built in the 11th and 12th centuries and includes the Church of the Assumption and a number of interesting museums, as well as wonderful views over the sea and the countryside and towns close to Denia.

With so much to offer Denia is becoming more popular because of its large beaches, excellent shopping, regular train service to Alicante, ferry links to many other towns both on mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands, and recreational facilities such as the local golf courses.

Author: Sean O’Brien
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Denia – Costa Blanca Holiday Resort On The Rise

December 9th, 2009

The Northern Costa Blanca in Spain is among the most popular holiday destinations for UK tourists. The popular areas are the beach resorts, but an ever-increasing band of holiday makers are heading for the golf courses, and Denia is able to offer both types of holiday. The town sits at the foot of the Montgo Mountain with holiday villas lining its lower slopes with stunning views over Denia and out to sea. Many of these are available to rent and make an excellent base for a self-catering holiday.

The closest golf course to Denia is the 18 hole La Sella course, set in the grounds of the Denia Marriott Hotel. A little further up the coast towards Valencia is the Oliva Nova Golf Course that was designed by Spain’s famous golfer Seve Ballesteros. There is also the Javea Golf Club, Ifach Golf Course near Calpe, and the Club de Golf Don Cayo near Altea, all within an hour’s drive of Denia.

Denia itself has 20km of beach which means that you can have a beach holiday in Spain without having to worry about overcrowding. Beach bars and restaurants are always close by with prices ranging from low budget to high class and with summer temperatures that can reach the 40 degree mark, the beach bars are very handy.

Many of the car rentals companies have offices in Denia, so you can explore the local countryside or visit one of the golf courses. If you want to try going further a field, you can take a boat trip to one of the other Costa Blanca resorts such as Javea, Calpe, Altea or Benidorm. Denia also boasts a large port with ferries going to Mallorca, Ibiza and Formentera which lie in the Mediterranean just off Denia, and can be seen from the San Antoni Lighthouse that sits between Denia and Javea.

Getting to and from Alicante is also easy from Denia as the Railway Station is built next to the port with regular services to Alicante via Benissa, Calpe, Altea and Benidorm.

Directly opposite the port is the main shopping area of Denia. The longest and most well-known of the shopping streets is the tree lined “Marques de Campo” that ends in a large square. This area often forms the centre of the local fiestas. It is easy to spend an entire day exploring the department stores and side streets, and relaxing in the many bars and cafes.

The whole of Denia is overlooked by the Castle. It was built in the 11th and 12th centuries and includes the Church of the Assumption and a number of interesting museums, as well as wonderful views over the sea and the countryside and towns close to Denia.

With so much to offer Denia is becoming more popular because of its large beaches, excellent shopping, regular train service to Alicante, ferry links to many other towns both on mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands, and recreational facilities such as the local golf courses.

Author: Sean O’Brien
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