The Alhambra, Granada
Part palace, part fortress, the Alhambra is a 14th-century masterpiece. The complex includes several buildings, towers, walls, and beautiful gardens. Every detail will take your breath away, from the intricate stone carvings to the graceful arches. The palace was constructed by the Nasrid sultans, and is the artistic highlight of Spain’s Islamic period. If you’re planning to visit during high season, make sure to book in advance as tickets are easily booked out.
Explore Cabo de Gata
Cabo de Gata is Andalucia’s largest coastal protected area, and one of the last relatively unspoiled stretches along the Mediterranean. It’s a breathtaking landscape with plenty to see: hidden coves, stunning half-moon bays, old castles, dizzying cliffs, extensive coral reefs, volcanic rock formations, and spectacular flora and fauna. It’s also a great spot for campers and caravanners. Visitors can can drive along the old fisherman’s villages of San Miguel de Cabo de Gata and La Isleta del Moro, hike the beautiful surroundings, laze on one of the pristine beaches, have lunch at a nearby village, and explore the abandoned gold mines.
Marvel at the Sagrada Familia
Make the most of your long term holidays in Spain by taking a trip to Barcelona. Known as Barcelona’s greatest building, the La Sagrada Familia is one of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous designs. Every part of this basilica has a rich and unique style of architecture that takes several hours to truly appreciate. Believe it or not, the building is still under construction, 90 years since Gaudi died. With over two million visitors a year, it’s also the most visited monument in Spain.
Route of Washington Irving
The route of Washington Irving is great for romantic travellers who are interested in history. It traces the steps followed in 1829 by the romantic North American writer Washington Irving who was fascinated by the Moorish exoticism he found in Andalusia. From Seville to Granada (the main stops), you’ll find beautiful palaces, churches, fortresses and vernacular architecture, all influenced by muslim culture. The road joins two traditional Andalusias – lowlands and highlands, the open country and the fertile plain. You’ll see a lot of fascinating things along this route, making your long term holidays in Spain all the more memorable.
The Mosque of Cordoba
The Mosque of Cordoba is one of the largest in the world, and undoubtedly one of the most enchanting. The Mezquita has been a world heritage site since 1984 and has been around for about 1000 years. Splendid arches, incredibly high ceilings, intricate patterns, and a spacious interior make this stunning landmark a must-see during your long term holidays in Spain. The city of Cordoba is a great place for exploring on bicycle or foot, and has many fiestas from mid-April to mid-June.
City of Arts and Science in Valencia
The City of Arts and Science in Valencia is one of the largest scientific and cultural complexes in Europe. It is made up of five main elements: the Hemisfèric (IMAX cinema and digital projections), the Umbracle (a landscaped vantage point and car park), the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum (an innovative centre of interactive science), the Oceanográfico (the largest aquarium in Europe with over 500 marine species) and the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía (dedicated to opera).
Soak up the sun on the Costa Del Sol and Costa Blanca beaches
The Costa Del Sol (the sunny coast) has resort-style locations and a wide array of watersports for people of all ages. During your visit, take some time to enjoy the apricity, Andalusian architecture, and the charming white-washed villages. The Costa Blanca (the white coast) is a 200 km stretch of coast with lively towns, quality golf courses, and pristine beaches with white sands. If taking long strolls in tiny seaside villages sounds like your idea of a good time, then you’ll love the Costa Blanca. Both the Costa Del Sol and Costa Blanca are ideal for anyone looking for a quick fix of sunshine, any time of the year.
If it’s not already, camping in Costa Blanca should be on your list too. Camping trips make long term holidays in Spain affordable and fun. If it piques your interest, consider staying at Marjal Costa Blanca Camping & Resort. As one of the most entertainment-packed resorts in Alicante, guests of all ages will have the time of their lives – whether it’s in our bungalows or modern camping plots.
