things to do in Spain before you die competition. As promised, not

500 things to do in Spain before you die: Competition entries
Introduction: Please Read!
These are the 100 or so entries to the notesfromspain.com 500
things to do in Spain before you die competition. As promised,
these will be made into a book which will be sold for charity
purposes, but this list is being made available now for a limited
period for download from our site. Please note that this list is
completely unedited, these are just the raw entries as they came
in. This is not the finished book! The book will contain an
additional 400 entries that we shall build up with your help over
the coming weeks, as we categorise these entries, add more
great ideas, and fill in all the gaps.
As these entries are to be used in a book for charity, please do
not publish or in any way distribute this list either on paper or
electronically. The list is being made available for this limited
period so that, as also promised, members of the Notes from
Spain community can immediately enjoy some of the wonderful
ideas sent in for the competition. Just wait until the whole book
is complete, it should be the finest collaborative guide to Spain
ever printed!
N.B. If you entered the competition and cannot find your entry
here, please let me know as soon as possible!
Ben Curtis, www.notesfromspain.com
The Raw Entries:
Marismas del Odiel (Huelva). Take a trip by bus to visit the marsh
areas where the rivers Odiel and Tinto meet and flow into the sea
- the trip includes the salt lakes / marshes / forest areas plus a
spot of bird watching (quite spectacular depending which on
time of year you go). Contrasted with 'industrial Huelva' in the
background, this is a very interesting 3 / 4 hour visit, especially
if you manage to catch the sunset.
- Alistair Wood, Madrid
A night out in the Sacremonte (gypsy quarter) in Granada. Just
when you thought everything was shut - if you make your way
through / round the Albaicin (Moorish quarter). This street
(follow the Carrera del Darro, turn left up Cuesta del Chapiz and
then right onto Camino del Sacromonte), leading into the
Sacromonte quarter, is lined with bars, many in small caves. Very
often you get to see some authentic flamenco performances. The
discoteca, 'Camboria', is a mini cave system and often packed,
well into the early hours. A truly unique Spanish experience. Top
this off afterwards by walking to the Mirador de San Nicolas for a
spectacular view of the Alhambra with the early morning light.
- Alistair Wood, Madrid
El Camino de la Cabra. If you like driving and spectacular scenery
then take this scenic route from Granada to the coast
(Almuñecar). Views from the mountain passes are breathtaking
on a clear day, with views out across the Mediteranean to
Morocco.
- Alistair Wood, Madrid
Real Madrid vs Barcelona in the Santiago Bernabeu. Getting
tickets is not easy but not surprising - this is one of the greatest
footballing spectacles on earth. With 80,000 'aficionados'
cheering on Real Madrid, the noise is deafening. The first time I
went the capacity was still a 100,000 and it did bring a tear to
my eye.
- Alistair Wood, Madrid
The August Feria in Malaga. Starting the third Friday (I think) in
August, at midnight, with a huge firework display in the port
which people gather to watch on the Malagueta beach. It goes on
for a week and the great thing about it is being in the centre of
the city during the day. Bars play music (all sorts) with lots of
Sevillanas (traditional Andalucian music / dancing) - the streets
are full with young and old, drinking different dry wines (fino),
partying until early evening when everything moves to the
'recinto ferial', where the fair is, and the merrymaking continues
until the very wee hours of the morning. Highly recommended.
- Alistair Wood, Madrid
The Romería de La Virgen de la Cabeza, Andalucia, Sierra Morena
(40 km from Andujar - more details to follow…)
- Alistair Wood, Madrid
Un paisaje idílico entre montañas: el Barranco de la Hoz. Está
situado en Molina de Aragón (Guadalajara). Es un lugar para
caminar entre árboles centenarios, teniendo por compañero un
río y rodeado de montañas, puesto que el río fluye por el fondo
de un barranco. En él podemos visitar el santuario de Sta. María
de Molina, y subir a la cima por unas escaleras interminables,
que harán las delicias de los deportistas. Fotos y más
información en: http://www.molinaaragon.com/virgen/guia/index.htm
- Raquel, Madrid
Ir a la Festa Major de la Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona para
escuchar una buena musica, participar a una de las mejores
fiestas estudiantes, y vivir una fiesta española (catalana ?? :-) )
de verdad!! Tambien puedes comer y beber cosas tipicamente
españolas para nada!!
- Estelle
Catch hold of the moving party that travels from night spot to
night spot in Barcelona, and stay with it all night until the sun
comes up!
- Johann M
To avoid the heat of summer head off to the idyllic terrace of La
Horizontal restaurant. Located in the top of a very step hill above
El Escorial and under the thick shade of enormous trees is
perfect for both breakfast and a tapas dinner. In a sunny spring
day it is also worth it to go in the late afternoon to enjoy a coffee
and a homemade cake.
- Marina Diez, Madrid
Ride a bicycle across the little Balearic island of Formentera:
Enjoy its beautiful inland escape full of fig and olive trees or head
off to one of its crystal clear beaches like the one located in the
prominent strip of land in the north of the Island, known as Ses
Illetes, with no more than 50 m wide and with a beach in each
side.
- Marina Diez, Madrid
Go for an evening walk in the old part of the white village of
Altea located in the top of a hill with a view of the sea. Have a
wine in the beautiful square with lovely terraces or best of all
dinner in "El Negro de Altea" where all of their fish and meats are
slow cooked in a coal grill (reserve in advance and ask for a table
with a sea view).
- Marina Diez, Madrid
Whenever I go to Gandia the first thing I like eating is a plate of
Sepia Troceada (medium size squid fried in pieces with garlic and
parsley) they cook it in most of the restaurants around but my
favourite is the one served in Marenostrum, more or less in the
middle of the beach front and very near to Tano's patisserie.
- Marina Diez, Madrid
Go walking amongst the beautiful orchards of cork oaks covering
the rolling hills of the Sierra de Aracena, contemplate black pigs
grazing on acorns, and later eat them in one of the many good
restaurants in the attractive towns and villages around Galaroza.
Those used to the insipid white meat that is the only type of pork
available in many countries could, initially, easily mistake the
fillets that come from this animal for the most succulent beef
steak imaginable. One restaurant worth visiting for its almost
surreal dining hall, furnished nearly entirely in cork: El Corcho in
Alájar.
- Rod, rodsspanishstuff.blogspot.com
Visit Montserrat in Catalunya for the magnificent walks on the
mountain itself. Take the funicular right to the top and walk up
to the summit at Sant Jeroni, which offers wonderful panoramic
views of Catalunya between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean.
Around the monastery itself, the cluster of buildings catering for
tourists and pilgrims is a bit depressing. But don’t let that put
you off the place. Take one of the many walks out amongst the
distinctive jagged rock formations (unique to this place as far as I
know), and you can understand why Montserrat has become such
a powerful national and religious spiritual symbol.
- Rod, rodsspanishstuff.blogspot.com
THE COMPETITION WINNER:
Walk through the pine forests of the Parque Natural de la Breña
(a few kilometres south of Vejer de la Frontera and west of
Barbate on the Costa de la Luz) on a sunny Autumn day, through
the distinctive trees that form a bizarrely shaped continuous
parasol formed by exposure to the savage wind here. Pass the
Torre del Tajo to the mirador which overlooks the sheer cliffs and
gives you such a magnificent view, on your left down the coast to
Tarifa (and even Morocco on a clear day), and on the right over
the Cape Trafalgar lighthouse to where the battle was fought
about 200 years ago. At the end of the day, drive down to
Trafalgar in the orange light of sunset, walking past the
kitesurfers and windsurfers packing up, up to the memorial,
around the lighthouse and onto the almost certainly deserted
beach.
- Rod, rodsspanishstuff.blogspot.com
Visit the hilltop ‘white towns’ of south western Andalucía. Arcos
de la Frontera is the most impressive both for the view you get as
you drive towards it and for the breathtaking panorama over the
surrounding countryside it gives you from the tower of the
church of Santa María de la Asunción. Vejer de la Frontera is the
next most impressive, a largely unspoilt white town with
miradors on each of its three sides offering wonderful views
inland and both ways down the coast. If you have time, visit the
third white town Medina Sidonia and see if you can climb to its
highest point (behind the church of Santa María la Coronada)
without being blown away by the wind.
- Rod, rodsspanishstuff.blogspot.com
If it is early June head for the Bajo de Guia (seafront) in Sanlucar
de Barrameda while the "pilgrims" are crossing the Guadalquivir
to El Rocio. Go early and get a table outside at Casa Bigote or any
of the other seafront restaurants. Order chilled Manzanilla and
the freshest seafood - the more of you the bigger selection you
will be able to order - and sit back and enjoy the show as the
"pilgrims" (not much religion apparent unless the worship of
Bacchus still qualifies) arrive in their gipsy caravans and flamenco
outfits and carouse, drink and dance to their own impromptu
music right by you as they await their turn to board an antique
landing craft on the beach. Meanwhile the sun sets behind the
sea on the distant horizon.
- Mark Taylor, Oxford
Climbing the giant sand dunes in Bolonia, Andalusia: This is one
of the wildest beaches in Spain, with random cows, dogs, and
fisherman wandering up and down the white sands with no
particular destination in mind. Climb to the top of the giant
dunes at the far end of the beach for an eye-watering view
across the glistening Straits of Gibraltar to the shores of
Morocco, the very edge of Africa.
- Ben Curtis, Madrid
…when you are in those dunes in Bolonia don't forget the Roman
site. It must be the most beautifully located classical site as well
as being as well preserved/restored and interesting as most;
although what it smelt like when the Romans were making their
rotten fish paste there does not bear thinking about!
- Mark Taylor, Oxford
Walking down the Cares Gorge: This spectacular six hour walk
between the hamlets of Poncebos and Cain in the Picos de
Europa mountain range, follows a narrow footpath that clings to
the sides of a 1,500 m deep ravine. Not for the faint-hearted, as
the drops are severe and, being Spain, there isn’t a safety railing
in sight!
- Ben Curtis, Madrid
Eating freshly bought sea snails out of a paper cone with a pin,
on the harbour in San Sebastian, while trying to spot the friendly
dolphin in the bay!
- Ben Curtis, Madrid
CATALONIA: WALK PART OF THE CAMI DE RONDA - the old
coastguard's trail. This meanders around one of the most
beautiful coastal routes on the Costa Brava and incorporates
parts of GR2.
- Jill Winwood
For those who can't get to La Fallas in Valencia, June in Alicante
is very good too. Processions of lovely girls in traditional
costume carrying flowers (offrendos) to the Virgin. Wonderful
creations in the streets reading for burning on night of 24th.
Dancing, music, food, fireworks - it's party time.
- Jill Winwood
VISIT PORTLLIGAT - Salvador Dali's enchanting cottage is an
absolute must see. www.salvador-dali.org
- Jill Winwood
VISIT MONELLS - a little known, but beautiful, historic
town/village "Monells allows visitors to enjoy the peace and quiet
of the countryside while strolling through stone doorways and
under arches of the placa major".
- Jill Winwood
TAKE THE RIBES CREMELLERA TRAIN - to the Nuria Valley. The
small train steeply climbs 1000 metres up a mountain with
stunning views and fabulous photo opportunities. For maximum
enjoyment sit on right hand side of carriage. Try
www.valldenuria.com or www.trenscat.com/nuria/tracat_ct.html
- Jill Winwood
MURCIA:
DON'T MISS CARTAGENA - The processions of Semana Santa are
arguably the best in Spain. Decorated with thousands of flowers
and beautifully illuminated the procession winds it's way through
the streets of Cartagena with military precision in two parallel
columns. The richly embroidered robes of the
participants/penitents, and the huge 'thrones' depicting scenes
of The Passion (each one carried by over 100 men) are a wonder
to behold. My favourite day is the Wednesday.
- Jill Winwood
Visiting El Monumento Nacional de Santa Cruz del Valle de los
Caídos: Built during the 1940's and 1950's by Republican
prisoners on the instructions of Franco; this is no ordinary
basilica - it is the largest in the world. Experience the haunting
150 metre walk through the narrowing tunnel hewn out of
granite to the altar by the graves of Franco and Primo de Rivera.
150 metres above you is the base of an 150 metre high cross
which can be seen from over 50 kilometres. Once visited, never
forgotten.
- Eldeano
Party until dawn with gypsies in caves. One of my most
memorable experiences of Spain and one I have tried in vain to
reconjure in quite the same way was a night out in the caves of
Sacromonte, a short walk uphill from Plaza Nueva in Granada. I
was on a weekend away in Granada with a few friends, one of
which, Al, knew the city well and acted as tour guide.
We spent the evening doing the usual Spanish thing: drinking
and eating tapas, which come free with the drinks there. Then at
around two Al took us up the hill to Sacromonte. Instead of
taking the direct route our guide took us through the dark
narrow back streets of the Moorish Albaicin district which just
added to the mystery of the place.
The main strip in Sacromonte is not like any other I've seen. It
isn't just that it is lined with bars packed with people overflowing
into the streets, areas like that are two-to-a-penny in Spain. But
if you take away the neon lights, the bricks, steel and mortar,
and replace them with caves and a jaw-dropping view of the
Alhambra then you get the Sacromonte twist. Add the sound of
guitars, the resounding stamps of the dancers and the mournful
laments of the singers and you are well and truly transported to
another planet.
We weaved round the ubiquitous throngs of people that come
with any Spanish night spot, dodged the broken glass and
skipped past a couple of more touristy joints offering pay-toget-in shows - we were looking for something slightly less
contrived, something a bit more improvised, which essentially is
at the heart of flamenco.
There were various small bars in caves with singers and guitarists
taking turns at performing, some of gipsy origin, others of
Spanish origin. All surrounded by their friends cheering them on
and helping mark out the complex bulerias and seguirias
rhythms with palmadas, rhythmic hand clapping.
The evening didn't end there. At the end of the street there was
one more cave, one almighty huge final cavern boasting an allnight discoteca, which we entered and stayed until around dawn.
The surprising thing was that as we were leaving there was a
queue of young Granadanians waiting to get in, fresh from the
clubs and bars lower down in the city. Had we completely mistimed things?
Not really. It was great to see the Alhambra at dawn, to meander
through the streets behind Sacromonte in the morning haze, and
finally head back into Plaza Nueva for breakfast and then more
beer. My head finally hit the sack at midday. Not much rest
though, our illustrious guide was knocking on our door at 4 to
take us to the local football match.
- Mike Coulstock
Tablao El Arenal in Sevilla. It is one of the best Flamenco
Restaurant experiences. It is set in a small quaint setting with
good food, wine and service, but most of all the show is
everything you would expect in the capital of the Flamenco
world. The powerful dance and music just makes you feel like
part of something that you can't experience in any other city in
the world.
- George Contreras
Darse un baño al atardecer en la playa de Rodas, en las Islas
Cíes, provincia de Pontevedra. Irrepetible.
- Cristina
Spend a couple of winter months in the faldas of the Sierra de
Cazorla as part of a group of eight or ten beating olive trees with
sticks to make the fruit come down.
- Charles Butler
While visiting Toledo, drive or taxi to the Toledo parador about
an hour before sunset. Walk through the building to the patio
that overlooks Toledo. Sit down, order something to drink
(recommended: a nice Rioja or Ribero del Duero, maybe a pitcher
of Sangria, a beer; acceptable: anything!), and watch the sunset
over this wonderful city.
Stay there until the sky is dark and all the lights of Toledo are on.
If you're lucky, you'll see a spectacular sunset (I've seen two
spectacular ones from this vantage point). And if you don't get a
spectacular sunset, you'll still see one of the most beautiful
sights in Spain -- Toledo settling down for the night.
- John Zumsteg, Seattle
Winning El Gordo, any location in Spain.
- Jose Leandro
Sipping a glass of wine in Isla Marina, Alicante while you admire
the Mediterranean sea, enjoy the breeze and chat with your
friends about the great life in Spain.
http://www.islamarina.com/
- Nuria
How about an early morning climb on Peñón de Ifach in Calpe,
followed by a walk along the water and stopping by one of those
fishing boats which grill fresh-caught sardines for a tasty lunch.
- Jose Leandro
There is a restaurant known as EL SEQUER DE TONICA which for
15€ offers authentic paella served on board a boat which
provides you a tour of the marshlands of Albufera.
- Jose Leandro
Watching 'el clásico' (the match between Real Madrid and
Barcelona) at Santiago Bernabau in Madrid or Camp Nou in
Barcelona.
- Osman Solmaz, Turkey
Visiting the famous Alhambra in Granada, Andalucia.
- Osman Solmaz, Turkey
Going to 'Cordoba Mezquita/Cathedral' through a walk on Roman
Bridge in Cordoba, Andalucia.
- Osman Solmaz, Turkey
Eating Valencian Paella at a local family house in Fellas (Fallas)
- Osman Solmaz, Turkey
Participating at 'San Fermin Festival' in July in Pamplona, Navarre.
- Osman Solmaz, Turkey
Watching one of the local Spanish movies with Spaniards in
Madrid.
- Osman Solmaz, Turkey
Retreat from ‘la ruida’ at Osel Ling in the Alpujarras: Noise, cars,
buildings and people gradually melt away as you wind up the
long steep track to this Tibetan Buddhist monastery, whose name
means 'Place of Clear Light'. Its rugged stone buildings and
stupas are perched at the top of the Poqueira gorge above
Pampaneira in Andalucia's High Alpujarra foothills. Retreat to
one of the simple huts on the herb-scented hillside, attend
lectures on Buddhism and drink in the silence that is sweeter
than any music.
- Arpi Shively, Spain
Howl with the wolves at Lobo Park near Antequera: Just outside
the handsome historic town of Antequera in Malaga province,
‘Wolfman’ Daniel Weigend pours passion and energy into
maintaining Europe’s only truly wild wolf park. Packs from
Alaska, Canada, Russia and Spain roam 40 hectares of unspoilt
nature reserve. Eat the primitive Lobo barbecue, then take a
torchlight safari. At midnight, Daniel leads visitors and wolves in
an electrifying chorus of howls that will literally raise your
hackles.
- Arpi Shively, Spain
Eat red sea scorpion paté at El Faro in Cadiz: Grab a fluorescent
pink wig and plastic devil’s pitchfork, and join the parade for
February’s Carnaval celebrations in warmhearted, witty,
welcoming Cádiz. Let yourself be carried by the good-natured
crowds surging through the fishermen’s quarter of La Viña to
bustling El Faro, the city’s most famous seafood restaurant.
Order the red sea scorpion paté (it’s actually sea urchin) and
become a lifelong addict of its creamy blush-coloured
smoothness and delicate briny taste.
- Arpi Shively, Spain
Feel the beat at Dragonfest in Orgiva, Granada: Swap your
prejudices for body paint, weave your hair (or your kids’ and
dogs’ hair) into dreadlocks and join thousands of revellers from
all over Europe at this free annual New Age music festival in the
Cigarrones encampment near Orgiva in the Alpujarras. Every
March, the Green Dragon field hosts 72 hours of live music,
comedy, circus and poetry, and you can refuel with organic food,
drink and, er, other stimulants. Arrive in a beaten-up but highly
decorated van from the Seventies for maximum festival cred.
- Arpi Shively, Spain
Speaking of things to do before you "die" a must on anyone's list
is: the Cemetery of San José in Cadiz. When you enter the
cemetery you'll notice the air is cooler and of course mustier.
Walking around you'll start humming a song and suddenly find
yourself trying to remember where you heard the song or if
you're humming it because you´re hearing it. You'll hear
different voices that you think are only from wind. But when a
little boy in a stripe shirt comes to you beckoning with his hand
and goose bumps run up your arm you'll know you've done one
of the 500 things to do in Spain before you "die". Spain is FULL of
Paranormal activity and makes for an excellent hobby while you
live here.
- Chris, Barcelona
Stand in the middle of the Plaza Mayor in Salamanca, and do your
own 360º panorama by slowing turning to take it all in. Do not
hurry this process in the least -- it should take about 30 minutes
if done properly!
- Keith Love, California
La Mesquita in the Morning: Experiencing one of the jewels of
Mudejar Andalucia is something you’ll never forget. Make your
way to Cordoba and visit La Mesquita first thing in the morning,
right at opening time. As you walk through the courtyard you are
teased by the bricked up Moorish arches that were originally
open to the interior. When you enter through the tall wooden
doors, and once your eyes adjust to the darkness, you’ll see what
makes this place so breathtaking. Stretching seemingly into
infinity is a forest of columns, connected by graceful white and
red arches and dimly lit by hanging chandeliers. Wander through
the streams of morning light, splashing pools of color onto the
marble floor. If you’re lucky, you’ll pass through a wisp of orange
incense in the air. Inside La Mesquita, you are transported to
another time where you experience a special piece of ancient
Spain. It is magic.
- Scott Andress, ayearineurope.com
Watch the Easter parades in Almoradi - one of the statues
actually moves!! What a spectacle!
- Carole, www.costablancaforums.com
I would like to enjoy a morning coffee in the City of Granada
within sight of the Alhambra Palace, take a trip up the nearby
Sierra Nevada mountains for a bit of snow fun and a nice lunch,
then spend the rest of the afternoon sunbathing on a beach in
Malaga, finishing off the evening at a friendly Spanish bar with
flamenco.... The thought that you can enjoy culture, snow, beach
and fiesta all in the one day really appeals to me.
- Jan (landlady), www.costablancaforums.com
Go to Lo Pagan with a crowd of friends and have a mud bath!!!!!!
funniest thing ever!
- Carol33, www.costablancaforums.com
View "the Garden of Earthly Delights" by Hieronymous Bosch at
the Prado
- Carol33, www.costablancaforums.com
Visit Cuenca and the Enchanted City in the Autumn when the
trees are changing colour
- Carol33, www.costablancaforums.com
Moors and Christians from a square in Orihuela
- Carol33, www.costablancaforums.com
Enjoy some piping hot "espetos" at a beach bar in Pedregalejo,
Málaga: The beaches in Málaga are lined with small restaurants
called "chiringitos" where you can eat some marvelous seafood
dishes, amongst them being the famous "espetos", which are
skewered sardines barbecued in coal-filled boats. Not only
delicious, but also a curious sight to see. I especially
recommend visiting "Miguelito el Cariñoso", which has been
around since the 1920's, has a great view, and the best espetos
around.
- Theresa Osinga (photo with email)
Acquire a (notoriously difficult to get for non-locals) invite to a
caseta during Seville's Feria de Abril. Drink rebujito while dancing
Sevillanas dressed in traditional flamenco dress and soak up the
atmosphere. Try tocando las palmas and really get into the Feria
spirit. Olé.
- Sarah Tilley
Climbing the mountains around Roque Nublo on Gran Canaria in
late summer. Bring your own lunch and enjoy the silence, the
magnificent view and the pure mountain air. Inhale and smell the
vegetation… it’s very special!
- Edith Nies, The Netherlands
Eating Free Tapas in Granada: When you buy a drink, eat some
free tapas in Granada.
- Jess, Canada
Go to Las Ventas, Madrid to see a bullfight: There's nothing like
watching a bullfight in Spain on a beautiful day.
- Jess, Canada
Visit the Alhambra in Granada: Take an entire day off and visit
the Alhambra.
- Jess, Canada
Go to Ronda and see the spectacular views: Drive through the
Andalucian mountains and you'll eventually come to Ronda. It's at
the top of a huge cliff, with a magnificiant bridge spanning the
gorge between the old and new towns.
- Jess, Canada
Walk along the street of Las Ramblas in Barcelona: Spend an
entire day walking along this street that's filled with outdoor
shops, restaurants and markets.
- Jess, Canada
Visit the Prado Museum in Madrid: Take a stroll inside a museum
and look at some art.
- Jess, Canada
Visit the Palacio Real in Madrid: Take a day off and gaze at
sculptures, paintings, etc in this enormous building. Definitely an
experience one should not miss.
- Jess, Canada
Go to Tibidabo in Barcelona: An amazing view that will take your
breath away.
- Jess, Canada
Visit the Plaza de Espana in Seville: A must visit that one has to
see to believe. This plaza has amazing archtecture.
- Jess, Canada
Wander in the Zoo (El) in Barcelona: Stroll around this zoo but
don't forget to go visit the dolphins!
- Jess, Canada
Go to Salobre to play some golf: Play golf in this club which is a
10 minute drive from Puerto Rico.
- Jess, Canada
Ride camels on Maspalomas Dunes: One cannot leave Spain
without riding a camel.
- Jess, Canada
Visit the National Park of Montaqa de Covadonga: Visit this park
in July or August, hike around and look at the stunning lakes.
- Jess, Canada
Sail around...and off Gibraltar: Tarifa is an excellent place to sail
around which is right outside Gibraltar. Lie back and enjoy.
- Jess, Canada
Go watch birds in Doqana: This national park has a lot of birds so
take a day and watch them!
- Jess, Canada
Take a stroll in Galicia: Pack a tent and walk in Galicia. Sample
some fresh seafood and wash it down with wine.
- Jess, Canada
Go to Tenerife: Go to this park which surrounds Mount Teide.
While you're at it, why not take some pictures.
- Jess, Canada
Sit and watch...people?: El Rastro is the place to be for some
people watching. Just relax, enjoy this flea market and watch
some people walking along.
- Jess, Canada
Visit Zafra: Visit this small town which has a castle.
- Jess, Canada
Whether you're a tourist in Madrid or not, you just have to visit
Chocolatería San Ginés, the best ever place for 'chocolate con
churros' which is in Plaza San Ginés, near one of the most
characteristic spots in the city, Puerta del Sol. Crowds of locals
visit the place as well as tourists from anywhere by now...expect
a queue inside AND outside the cafetería during the weekend!
I just fell in love with their smooth and ultrarich chocolate that
will be served to you with a good bunch of hot churros (or the
larger version-PORRAS) , traditional, simple deep fried dough but
soooo tasty you'll probably never have enough :-D !
CHOCOLATERÍA SAN GINÉS
Plaza San Ginés, 5
28013 Madrid
Phone 913656546
- Angela Musci
Enjoy a short stretch of El Camino de Santiago in El Bierzo: Begin
your trip in the quaint city of Ponferrada by visiting the Castillo
de los Templarios. Don’t miss the Puerta del Reloj and the Plaza
Mayor while you are there. From Ponferrada continue on to
Villafranca del Bierzo where there are a few nice churches to
explore. It’s a perfect town to find a great snack. After that you
must, I mean must move on to see Las Médulas, a very curious
and enormous old Roman gold mining sight. You can take a
hike down through many of the strange formations left from this
ancient strip mine.
- Chris Hadley, Ogden, USA
Andar por el Camino de Santiago
- Tyler Lincoln
Plaza Cardinal Belluga, Murcia City: Nothing could be more
relaxing than making the short drive into the city on a Sunday
morning, and sitting in the Plaza Cardinal Belluga with your
newspaper (La Verdad for Marcus and El Semanal for me – I like
the pictures!) and a coffee and tostadas, watching the world go
by. On many occasions we’ve been entertained by marching
bands, balloon sellers or by watching cars magically appear out
of buildings.
- Debbie Jenkins, NativeSpain.com
Bando De La Huerta, Murcia Traditional Fiesta: On the first
Tuesday after Easter this one day in particular stands out as
something to do before you die – Bando De La Huerta
(‘proclamation of the countryside’). If there’s only one fiesta that
you should go to in Murcia this is it. Simply eschewing shorts
and tee shirts will not be enough to prevent you from standing
out as the extranjero in this fiesta. About 90% of the people at
the festival wear national dress, so take a camera! There are lots
of stalls (barracas) where you might be lucky to get a sample of
traditional local food and drink – alternatively, all the restaurants
and bars will be open. The processions and entertainment start
in mid afternoon and go on all night – have a good siesta
beforehand and enjoy!
- Debbie Jenkins, NativeSpain.com
Stay for the end of San Fermín: On the last day of San Fermín in
Pamplona everyone gathers in front of the town hall (or at least
as close as possible) at midnight to sing the "Pobre de Mí". So,
grab a candle and join the crowd to experience the most
poignant part of this celebration. By now most of the tourists
have gone and the atmosphere is truly Spanish. You'll find whole
families, even children, all carrying a candle in a cup singing
together about how sad they are that the festivities have ended
(actually, most are relieved after 81/2 days of partying). Let the
crowd carry you along slowly to the church of San Lorenzo, and
there remove your scarf and tie it to the gate as an offering to
San Fermín. Although the celebration is officially over you can
still party the night away and participate in the unofficial
"Encierro de la Villavesa" (running of the bus, in Pamplona the
city buses are known as villavesas) the next morning.
- Theresa Osinga
La Venencia is a sherry bar located dead center of Madrid, named
after a long narrow tool used to sample wines through a small
opening in sherry butts (casks). It is also commonly known as a
wine thief. The bar is tucked into the side of a narrow street
hidden from the busy boisterous streets, which is easy to miss if
you don't exactly know where to look. Stepping inside the large
creaky doors is like stepping back in history when wood was
more popular than cement and large wooden barrels of sherry
stand boldly behind the bar like sentries recording the minutes
of time. Looking around the room, you glance upon nicotine
stained walls and ancient posters heralding extinct vintages, you
half expect to see Hemingway crouched in a corner scribbling
illegible notes for his next novel. If your new to Sherry or a die
hard lover of the magical elixir, don't miss this piece of history
tucked in a lost corner of Madrid.
- Ryan Opaz, Catavino.net
Drinking Manzanilla in San Lucar de Barremeda
Sitting on the beach in San Lucar de Barremeda watching the
sunset with a glass of Sherry is heaven. Manzanilla Sherry is my
love, and there is not better place in the world to drink it than in
the city that produces it. Imagine my laying back watching the
water lap up against the shore with a small tray of almonds, a icy
cold glass of Manzanilla sherry and the smell of the salty ocean
complementing the flavors sitting before me. This, for me, is one
of the very best reasons to visit Spain. Follow this up the next
morning with a stroll over to La Cigarerra, one of the oldest
producers of sherry, and wander through their towers of barrels
aging one of the most noblest beverages in the world.
- Ryan Opaz, Catavino.net
Drinking Toro Wine in Toro Itself
Columbus's manifesto states that he stocked wines from the
region of Toro, Spain, due to both their strength and power. The
variety of Tempranillo grown in Toro has a skin thicker than
most, and therefore, the wines made from it are denser, darker
and richer than what we normally think of wines made from
Tempranillo. To visit Toro is like visiting a town set back in time
a hundred years, where one can stroll into a bar and while tasting
the local variations of porcine flesh, you can confidently choose
from any Toro wine listed on their chalk written boards. If you
choose to visit in the winter, the bitter cold is held at bay by the
wine's strength; whereas by summer, the rich dark fruits help to
quench your thirst as you enjoy the intense and dry heat of the
Castilla y Leon region.
- Ryan Opaz, Catavino.net
My vote would be to climb, cycle (for iron men or masochists) or
drive to the top of Los Reales the mountain behind Estepona in
the province of Málaga. Why? It is still part of untouched 'real'
Spain where in Summer you can escape from the coast for a cool
mountain retreat complete with refugio at the top that has a
blazing log fire going all year round (and its not for decoration,
the temperature typically being about 12 C cooler than the
coast). The view allows you to see from Algeciras to Málaga on a
not too hazy day and you can take a walk through the pinsapo
pine forest that clings to the mountainside. The mountain is for
some reason redder than the surrounding mountains (not just a
trick of the light). It's not the highest mountain in Andalucía
(though taller than Ben Nevis, the UK's highest) at 5,000ft, but
the drive is both beautiful and challenging. You have to go right
into the centre of Estepona to find the road up to it (signposted
to Genalguacíl).
There are photos and an article of it at:
http://www.mirabosques.com/losreales.html.
- Nigel Myall, Casares, elcasarenoingles.blogspot.com/
Spend a day at the beaches near Almería and a night eating tapas
in the city. Venture beyond the city beaches to the stretch of
sand between San José and Cabo de Gata and check out Playa de
los Genoveses, a beautiful, crescent-shaped beach with calm,
clear waters. At night head into the center of Almería to Café
Calzada, where each drink (about 2 euros) comes with an
enormous, made-to-order tapa of your choice.
- Katie Goldstein
Hang out with trout in the heart of El Maestrazgo. Deep in a
valley in the middle of nowhere Teruel, Aragón, you’ll find a
lovely hotel surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery
in all of Spain. The Hostal de la Trucha is styled tastefully like an
old hunting lodge and sits on the Río Pitarque next to a small
fish farm that provides the hotel with trout every morning for the
day’s meals. To top it off, there are plenty of well-marked hiking
trails in the area.
- Katie Goldstein
Visit Mount Tibidabo and take in the panoramic view of the entire
city from the observation point in the Collersola tower. Given
that the tower is on top of a mountain that already has a pretty
good vantage point, you’ll not get anywhere higher!
- Dave Hall, Barcelona
Take a walk down La Rambla, but do it on a weekday if possible.
The crowds on a Sunday can turn a nice walk into a chore. Start
in Plaza Catalunya and work down slowly, making sure you dip in
and out of the adjoining streets. If the weather’s good, stop in
the Port area at the bottom and enjoy an ice cream! Don’t forget
the “little sister” of La Rambla, which continues on the other side
of Plaza Catalunya (called La Rambla de Catalunya). It’s a much
more relaxed affair, and has less touristy street cafes.
- Dave Hall, Barcelona
Visit the city on the day of Sant Jordi (23rd April) as it’s the “day
of the lovers” in Catalunya. Forget Valentines - THIS is where the
romance is in Barcelona! Rose sellers are everywhere and it’s
traditional of course to exchange flowers with the one you love,
perhaps along with a book too, as the day also coincides with
International Book Day. La Rambla and many other parts of the
city are full of book stalls and street events are staged to mark
the day. Very romantic!
- Dave Hall, Barcelona
Head into the Gracia district. With its “villagey” feel, cut-off from
the worst of the noise of Barcelona, and huge number of café
bars and small plazas, you can wonder around for hours and
stop off at any café that you like the look of to take an aperitivo
or two. There are so many bars that you needn’t ever visit the
same one twice – unless you find one you particularly like of
course!
- Dave Hall, Barcelona
If you’re gay, go to the Metro or Salvation Discos. Both have two
rooms with different music (pop and house) and are especially
jammed at the weekend. Don’t forget your “consumición” which
is a ticket you receive on entry to buy your first drink with.
Remember that for a night out in Spain, no-one goes leaves
home before about 1130pm, and you should hit the bars first
before even thinking about going to a disco. If you can’t bear to
wait that long, an evening meal beforehand (nothing too heavy
though, as you need to be able to dance!) in a nearby restaurant
will lead you nicely into a night of dancing until dawn (or even
beyond if you go to an “after” party). Talk to the locals on the
night itself for ideas where to go afterwards - if you’re still
standing by then!
- Dave Hall, Barcelona
Visit Gaudí’s Parc Guell and enjoy the fresh air, and the amazing
architecture, including the “Sala de cien columnas” which is a
beautiful covered area almost like a cave supported by columns,
and of course you must take a look at Gaudí’s incredible mosaic
dragons. You can go on the Metro, although the nearest two
stations (Lesseps and Vallarca) aren’t actually as close as you
might like, so if you’re pushed for time, use the tourist bus and
take advantage of the door-to-door drop off.
- Dave Hall, Barcelona
Play Russian Roulette with the Piminientos de Padrón (some are
hot, some are not!) along with other truly great quality tapas at
the Ciutat Comtal restaurant on La Rambla de Catalunya. It’s
always busy so you might struggle to get in, but the food,
service, and atmosphere are all definitely well worth it.
- Dave Hall, Barcelona
Get lost in the Laberinto de Horta, which is a huge park with
immaculate gardens, and a maze. The multi-levelled gardens
are surrounded by a beautiful pine forest. Within the park is the
old house of the Marqués de Llúpia i d'Alfarràs (the former
owner).
- Dave Hall, Barcelona
Go and see the Magic Fountains located between the twin towers
of Plaza España and the grand entrance to Montjuic. Aside from
the Olympic stadium of course, the fountains were the
centrepiece for the 1992 Games and the nightly shows are
amazing, combining huge amounts of water and light to make a
dazzling effect, and many shows are also set to music. Check
the timetables on the internet before you go, for more details, as
there’s a reduced program during the winter.
- Dave Hall, Barcelona
Visit the city just before Christmas for the Feria de Santa Llucia
where you can buy everything Christmas related. Papa Noel isn't
big in Catalunya (The Magic Kings on 6th January take his place),
but for Christmas itself they have the "Tió de Nadal" which is a
fantastic tradition for children. The Tió is a small partially hollow
wooden log that you can buy at this time of year. He's lay on his
side and has a cute little face stuck to the front, two small front
legs, and wears a "Barretina" (the traditional Catalan hat which is
like a red hood). Inside the Tió, parents put treats and sweets
which are covered with a small blanket. Then the fun begins!
The children beat the living daylights out of the poor Tió with
sticks and encourage him to "poo" (yes - poo!) the treats out! All
the time singing "¡Caga tió caga!" to encourage him in his task!
When the children can take no more (and presumably the poor
old Tió is pretty worn out too) they reach in under the blanket
and share out the treats. A short version of the typical song
(with a rough translation) is...
Caga tió caga! (Poo tió poo!)
Atmetlles i torró (Almonds and turron)
Si no vols cagar (If you don't want to poo)
Et donaré un cop de bastó! (We'll give you a bash!)
- Dave Hall, Barcelona
One thing that everyone must do at least once in this brief life we
are given is spend a few days in Valencia during the Fallas
celebrations if for no other reason than that words and pictures
do it no justice. Cameras can't capture anything this big. Trying
to describe Fallas in print makes you realize how desperately
inadequate words can be. The festival revolves around gigantic,
three-dimensional, satirical, cartoon-like structures built in every
neighborhood of the city. Just make sure that you sleep before
you arrive because you won't have time once the party begins,
especially during the final five days. There are bullfights, block
parties, concerts, parades, fireworks (both day and night), plenty
of food and drink, ancient folklore, and modern iconoclasm.
- Leftbanker
Keep an eye out for details of the release of the completed book
at www.notesfromspain.com