Lisbon to Barcelona

Lisbon

Lisbon has somewhat rediscovered itself in recent years,
reclaiming its rightful place as the 'golden city' of southern
Europe. Much of this is due to the officials of Lisbon having
elected to rejuvenate the city during the 1990s. This ongoing focus
on the future has meant making the most of the attractions, both
old and new.

One day can span centuries as visitors move between the
picturesque medieval section of the Alfama district and historic
São Jorge castle to being amazed by the spectacle of the futuristic
Oceanarium of Lisboa.

Infrastructure has also been improved, with additions like the
impressive Vasco da Gama Bridge across the River Tagus, which links
the city's airport to a network of national motorways and has
facilitated access to other parts of Portugal. There is also a new
showcase railway hub, the Gare de Oriente, which is the pride of a
new modern suburb on the east bank of the Tagus, creating an even
better link between Lisbon and the rest of Europe. But if tourists
really want to see the city in style, they must be sure not to miss
a ride on the famous Tram 28, which winds its way through the
oldest parts of the city and gives visitors a feel of the history
and rich culture Lisbon has to offer.

Gibraltar

Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, is renowned for its strategic position and rich history. This tiny yet culturally diverse area offers stunning vistas and a wealth of attractions. The iconic Rock of Gibraltar dominates the landscape, providing breathtaking views across the Mediterranean and the distant coast of Africa. Visitors can explore the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, home to the famous Barbary macaques, the only wild monkey population in Europe. History enthusiasts will marvel at the Great Siege Tunnels and the Moorish Castle, testifying to Gibraltar’s tumultuous past.

The blend of British and Spanish influences is palpable in Gibraltar's vibrant streets, where English pubs sit alongside tapas bars. Main Street is lined with duty-free shops, making it a shopper’s paradise. The population is equally diverse, reflecting a mix of cultures and traditions.

Gibraltar's appeal is not limited to its land. The surrounding waters offer excellent opportunities for dolphin watching and other marine activities. For those interested in diving, the area's rich underwater heritage includes numerous shipwrecks and unique marine life.

With a pleasant Mediterranean climate, Gibraltar is a year-round destination. Its compact size allows travelers to explore many of its attractions on foot, ensuring a fulfilling experience.

Motril

Motril is a charming coastal town located on the southern coast of Spain, in the province of Granada. Situated in the autonomous community of Andalusia, this hidden gem offers a perfect blend of pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. Whether you are seeking a relaxing beach vacation or an exploration of Andalusian history, Motril has something to offer everyone.

One of the main attractions of Motril is, undoubtedly, its stunning coastline. The town boasts a number of beautiful beaches, such as Playa Poniente and Playa Granada, where visitors can soak up the sun and enjoy the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. These beaches are well-equipped with amenities, including beach bars, umbrellas, and lounge chairs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for beachgoers.

Motril also offers a wide range of water sports and activities for adventure enthusiasts. From jet skiing and paddleboarding to sailing and canoeing, there are plenty of options for those looking to have a thrilling time on the water. The marina in Motril is a popular spot for boating and fishing enthusiasts, with various charter companies offering fishing trips and boat rentals.

In addition to its natural beauty, Motril is steeped in history and culture. The town is home to several historical landmarks, such as the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza and the Castle of Carchuna. These architectural gems showcase the rich heritage of the region and provide a glimpse into Motril's past.

For those interested in learning more about the town's history, the Archaeological Museum of Motril houses a collection of artifacts from different periods, including the Roman and Moorish eras. The museum also organizes guided tours and educational programs for visitors, offering a deeper understanding of Motril's cultural significance.

When it comes to gastronomy, Motril is famous for its fresh seafood and traditional Andalusian dishes. The town's location near the sea ensures a steady supply of high-quality seafood, which is expertly prepared in local restaurants. From grilled sardines to paella, the culinary delights of Motril are a must-try for any food lover.

In terms of events and festivals, Motril hosts a number of vibrant celebrations throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Fiestas Patronales de la Virgen de la Cabeza, held in mid-August, which includes religious processions, live music, dance performances, and a fireworks display. This festival is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience traditional Andalusian festivities.

In conclusion, Motril offers a fantastic combination of beautiful beaches, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Whether you are seeking relaxation or adventure, this coastal town in southern Spain is sure to leave a lasting impression. With its stunning coastline, cultural landmarks, and vibrant festivals, Motril is a destination that should not be missed. So pack your sunscreen, immerse yourself in the local culture, and create unforgettable memories in this charming Andalusian town.

Alicante

Lying on the eastern coast of Spain, the Costa Blanca draws
millions of tourists each year to its turquoise waters and miles of
white, sandy beaches. Alicante is the capital and major city on
this stretch of coast, but it is Benidorm that attracts the most
visitors, and this is the place to go for those looking for a
lively and entertaining holiday with hundreds of bars and all-night
clubs. However there is more to the Costa Blanca than crowded beach
resorts: within the mountainous interior there are a series of
fascinating medieval towns and fortified villages which have been
largely unaffected by modern development.

Alicante is best known as the gateway to the many glittering
resorts in the region, but the city is actually an interesting
urban destination, with history and culture aplenty to offer those
who can be distracted from the beach. Those who have some time in
Alicante should head to the Catedral de san Nicolas from which the
narrow old streets of the historic quarter, El Barrio, radiate
outwards.

The most popular time to visit the Costa Blanca is between May
and October when the weather is guaranteed to be sunny and warm
most of the time. The temperature can get up to 104F (40C) in
August, with the sea at a very comfortable 77F (25C). It is too hot
and crowded for some during this busy summer season and some
visitors holiday in the spring and autumn months, when it is cooler
and there is the chance of light showers. However, many of the bars
and restaurants close outside of the peak tourist season.

Valencia

Valencia was founded by the ancient Romans in 137 BC
and has been pillaged, burned, and besieged numerous times by
various conquerors since. But vivacious Valencia has nevertheless
sailed into the second millennium as a sophisticated, modern
holiday city.

A favoured location for the America's Cup yacht race,
Valencia is situated on the Mediterranean coast about four hours
south of Barcelona. The city is spread out around its busy port and
backed by hills that give way to the plains of Aragon.

Valencia oozes traditional character, particularly in
its old town (El Carmen), and has retained its cultural heritage
not only in the form of medieval architecture but also in its
quirky, exuberant festivals such as the Battle of the Flowers, the
fireworks of Fallas, and even one dedicated to tomato-hurling.

The Valencians even have their own language.
Interspersed with the old and historic, however, there is much that
is new in Valencia, including its major attraction, the seemingly
futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, which draws around four
million appreciative visitors each year.

Outdoors, it is hard to beat the golden beaches that
fan out from the port along the coast, and the sprawling city
offers plenty of green parks for strolling, cycling, or simply
lolling on a bench to get a breath back after indulging in the
vibrant life of the city.

Football is a local passion, and fans should not miss
the atmosphere at one of the carnival-like Valencia FC home
matches. When night falls, travellers can dine on paella, which
originated here, and then hit the town, because Valencia is
renowned for its lively collection of bars and clubs.

Mahón, Menorca

Despite its popularity as a beach holiday paradise,
the Balearic Island of Minorca remains one of the loveliest, most
unspoilt islands in the Mediterranean. The local population support
the control of resort development and the woodlands and fields of
its hilly rural interior remain largely untouched by the tourism
trade.

This is the result of a thriving local industry that
is less dependent on tourism for its survival than many of the
other islands are. Minorca is therefore a great option for
travellers wanting a more authentic Spanish beach resort holiday.
Minorca is only nine miles (15km) wide and about 32 miles (52km)
long, and boasts stretches of varied beaches, from silver-sanded,
gently curving bays to rugged, rocky inlets.

Aside from beaches and resorts, the island also has
plenty of interest for history buffs and culture connoisseurs, with
several attractions to visit, including a world famous pipe organ
and several mysterious, prehistoric archaeological sites related to
the second millennium BC Talayot culture. The more recent history
of the island is a saga of British, French, and Spanish attempts at
control and colonisation, each of which have left their influence
on the local culture and architecture.

Small as it may be, Minorca has a reliable and safe
public transport system. Buses run from the Placa de s'Esplanada in
Mahon regularly throughout the town and between other towns such as
Fornells, Es Mercadal, Alaior, Ferreries, Ciutadella, and Cala en
Porter. Taxis can also be hailed from the Placa de s'Esplanada in
Mahon. Rental car agencies can be found throughout the towns and at
the airport.

Barcelona

The enchanting city of Barcelona is a visual delight, and has an
atmosphere that combines elegance and sophistication with
provincial charm. In exploring its streets you'll discover medieval
romance in its Gothic quarter and the awe-inspiring delights of the
fantastic and sometimes outrageous Art Nouveau architecture of
Gaudi and his contemporaries.

The funicular up to Tibidabo, or the cable car up Montjuic, both
offer breathtaking views over this attractive city. Its skyline is
perhaps most famous for Antoni Gaudi's masterwork, the still
incomplete church of the Sagrada Familia, as well as the city's
huge Gothic cathedral. The artistic legacy of Barcelona is one of
the city's most appealing attributes, with museums containing
extensive collections of the works of Miro and Picasso. Barcelona
is also a shopper's paradise, with the city's flair for style
reflected in its numerous boutiques and markets, open late into the
evenings. As the sun sets, and the city's many bars and restaurants
open, the night truly comes alive. Dinner is served at any time
between nine o'clock and midnight, and the festivities around the
bars and nightclubs carry on well into the early hours of the
morning.

Barcelona is the commercial centre of the popular holiday region
known as the Costa Brava, the northernmost Mediterranean seafront
in Spain, as well as the Costa Dorada to the south. The coast is
dotted with popular resort towns, many retaining their age-old
charm, which can be easily reached from the city.