Spirit of Spain

Looking out across the Mediterranean, Malaga overflows with an assortment of architectural treasures and Spain's prized jewel, the Alhambra Palace, is within easy striking distance. Andalucia's second largest city, Malaga, is a bustling port on Spain's sunny Costa del Sol. Standing on a hillside overlooking the city is the 8th-century ‘Alcazaba', an impressive Moorish fortress. Malaga's cathedral is affectionately known as ‘La Manquita', meaning ‘the onearmed one' owing to its half-built tower, abandoned in the 1700s due to insufficient funds. During the Arab occupation of Spain, Malaga was the principle port of the Moorish kingdom of Granada. A short drive inland takes you to the heart of this wonderful city and its celebrated centrepiece, the breathtaking Alhambra Palace

Beaches or bargains, the sea or sights. Palma has it all, together with enough sunshine and souvenirs to keep anyone happy. If you like beaches, cafes or simply lazing around in the sunshine, you'll love Palma, together with the nearby resorts of Palma Nova and Magaluf. Before you relax, though, make sure you visit Palma City itself to see the Moorish palace, the designer stores and the quaint shops and cobbled streets of the old city, behind the Gothic Cathedral. And for souvenirs, make a bee-line for Inca, the largest street market on the island which opens every Thursday.

Its phenomenal reputation makes other cities positively green with envy, and bohemian Barcelona continues to top the popularity charts. So what makes it such a big hit? Well, where do we start?

The birthplace of paella, Valencia is an enchanting city that offers visitors beautiful sights as well as unforgettable food. Outside the city of Valencia, orange groves stretch away into the distance across the irrigated lands of the coastal plain. Inside the city, its sights add to its appeal. The Ceramics Museum is one of Europe's finest and includes a gallery of ceramics made by Picasso. The Silk Exchange, Square Central Market and octagonal gothic cathedral with alabaster windows give you the opportunity to explore further. That's before you discover the rest of the old town or even travel out to Albufera, the largest freshwater lake in Spain.

Once a haven for art and architecture, Alicante is today a welcoming and fascinating destination with something for everyone. With its 3rd century fortress perching 350 feet above the city and the flotilla of pleasure boats in the harbour, there is no mistaking the beautiful destination of Alicante. There is no excuse for not finding something of interest either because it is brimming with attractions. Sunlovers can flock to the long, golden Playa del Postiguet beach. Those seeking souvenirs will stroll along Rambla de Mendez Nuñez to the lively market. For marvellous panoramic views, visit the Castillo de Santa Barbara. And if you just want to relax, amble around the old quarter, the Baroque town hall, and the 18th century Gravina Palace.

Looking out across the Mediterranean, Malaga overflows with an assortment of architectural treasures and Spain's prized jewel, the Alhambra Palace, is within easy striking distance. Andalucia's second largest city, Malaga, is a bustling port on Spain's sunny Costa del Sol. Standing on a hillside overlooking the city is the 8th-century ‘Alcazaba', an impressive Moorish fortress. Malaga's cathedral is affectionately known as ‘La Manquita', meaning ‘the onearmed one' owing to its half-built tower, abandoned in the 1700s due to insufficient funds. During the Arab occupation of Spain, Malaga was the principle port of the Moorish kingdom of Granada. A short drive inland takes you to the heart of this wonderful city and its celebrated centrepiece, the breathtaking Alhambra Palace