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Thirteen unique cities and golf courses to enjoy. Spain's World Heritage Cities are a good alternative when it comes to planning a golfing holiday. You can enjoy your favourite sport and also discover monuments that will leave you speechless. Seeing is believing: Spain is perfect for golfers who also like art and culture. Here is the proof.

Play golf with sea views or surrounded by mountains. Admire buildings with different artistic styles and stroll through streets packed with history. See for yourself just how varied Spanish gastronomy is... These are just a few of the options available on this kind of sporting holiday: those to be found at Spain's World Heritage Cities.

Salamanca, Segovia, Santiago de Compostela, Cordoba… You have probably considered these places as perfect destinations for a cultural holiday. And for a day's golf? They are ideal too - you will find one or more spectacular golf courses close to all these cities. In general, they are modern facilities with good access and excellent value for money. What is more, there are courses to suit all tastes, ideal for experts and beginners alike. So get your clubs ready, because in Spain's thirteen World Heritage Cities you will have the chance to discover some of the country's most important monuments, and have fun getting over obstacles on the green.

Several of these cities are located in central Spain. In Alcalá de Henares, just 30 kilometres from Madrid, don't miss the University, Main Street and the birth house of Miguel de Cervantes; later, practise your swing at the Encín Golf or El Robledal golf courses. In the Castile-La Mancha region there are two further destinations: Toledo and Cuenca. In the former, you should explore the narrow streets of its historic old town, where Muslims, Jews and Christians once lived together in harmony, and later you can play a few holes at the Layos Golf Club. In Cuenca you will love its unique setting and famous Hanging Houses. For golf, you can choose between the La Vereda and Villar de Olalla courses.

If you come to the region of Castile-León, you should visit the cities of Segovia, Ávila and Salamanca. They are fairly close by, so you can discover their most emblematic monuments in just a few days: the Segovia Aqueduct, Ávila City Walls, Plaza Mayor Square in Salamanca… Furthermore, several golf courses await you around Segovia (La Faisanera, Club Campo de Tiro and Los Ángeles de San Rafael are closest to the city), three in Ávila (El Fresnillo, Club Deportivo la Almarza and Casino Abulense) and three in Salamanca (La Valmuza, Villamayor and Salamanca Golf Course).

If you head south, to Andalusia, in Cordoba you can look back at the splendour of Moorish culture at the magnificent Great Mosque, and play a few holes whenever you like, at its Country Club. In the neighbouring region of Extremadura you should not miss the wealth of monuments in the historic centre of Cáceres and, of course, Mérida and its Roman Theatre. Later, you should go to Club Don Tello.

In the far northwest of Spain, in the region of Galicia, is Santiago de Compostela and its magnificent Cathedral, the final destination on the famous Way of Saint James. Golf Val de Rois is one of the nearby places to get out the clubs. Still in the north, but now on the eastern coast of Catalonia, you have the chance to visit Tarragona, where you can see its major Roman archaeological site. You can then choose between the Costa Dorada Club, Reus Aigüesverds, the PortAventura Golf Club and Bonmont Terres Noves when it is time to play golf.

There are World Heritage Cities on the islands, too. In the Balearic Islands, the island of Ibiza is outstanding for its biodiversity and ancient monuments and is also home to the Ibiza Golf Club. In the Canary Islands, on the island of Tenerife, you will find the city of San Cristóbal de la Laguna, with its unique architecture and urban layout. Close by you will find the Real Club de Tenerife. However, just a short distance away you can also enjoy the island's other golf courses.

Try a different kind of holiday, and have great times on and off the green. Play golf, while you discover Spain's World Heritage Cities.

Choose your World Heritage City in Spain

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For many of us in the Eye on Spain community, the dream of exploring the Iberian Peninsula in a motorhome or campervan is the ultimate expression of Spanish freedom. Whether it’s waking up to a sunrise over the Cabo de Gata or finding a quiet spot in the Picos de Europa, "van life" has exploded in popularity since the pandemic.

However, that popularity has brought growing pains. To address rising tensions in coastal towns and urban areas, the Spanish Traffic Authority (DGT) has released Instruction PROT 2026/04, a significant update to the 2023 framework. If you own a camper or are planning a road trip this summer, here is what you need to know to avoid a heavy fine.

1. Parking vs. Camping: The Golden Rule

The most frequent source of fines for expats is the confusion between "parking" and "camping." The DGT has now empowered local councils with much stricter authority to enforce the distinction.

• You are PARKING (Legal): If your vehicle is in contact with the ground only via its tyres (no stabilisers), no windows or awnings are extended, and no liquids are being discharged. In this state, you have the same rights as any car.

• You are CAMPING (Restricted): If you put out chairs, level the vehicle with chocks, or open a side awning. This is now strictly limited to designated campsites and "Area de Autocaravanas."

Local Power: Be warned—town councils (ayuntamientos) now have the green light to ban overnight stays in specific zones, even if you are just "parking," particularly in saturated tourist hotspots. Always check for the new S-128 sign, which indicates official waste disposal and parking zones.

2. Know Your Category: M vs. N

The DGT is cracking down on ITV (technical inspection) schedules. The frequency of your inspection now depends strictly on how your vehicle is registered:

• Category M (Motorhomes): These follow the same rules as private cars. You are exempt for the first four years, then it’s every two years, and finally annually once the vehicle hits ten years old.

• Category N (Campervans/Adapted Vans): Because these are technically "industrial" vehicles, the rules are tougher. They require an annual inspection from day one until they are ten years old, after which they must pass the ITV every six months.

Failure to follow the correct schedule for an N-type vehicle is becoming a "low-hanging fruit" for traffic police during roadside checks.

3. The New "Eco-Enforcement"

A major driver of these new rules is environmental protection. The DGT has noted a rise in the "unregulated dumping" of grey and black water. The new legislation encourages the use of designated reception areas which provide hookups and drainage.

For the Eye on Spain community, the takeaway is clear: while the open road remains open, the "wild" element of camping is being reined in. If you’re heading out, download a reliable app like Park4Night or Caramaps, but always cross-reference it with local signage. The "I didn't know" excuse will no longer hold water—literally or figuratively.

Are you a motorhome owner in Spain? Have you noticed stricter policing in your local area? Share your experiences in the comments section.

For many of us, the local "bar de barrio" is the heartbeat of Spanish life. It’s where we have our first café con leche of the morning, where we catch up on the local gossip, and where the waiter knows exactly how you like your caña.

However, a sobering new report from The Telegraph highlights a worrying trend: Spain is losing its traditional bars at a rate of roughly one per day. As the property market evolves and modern tastes shift, the classic "no-frills" tavern—with its stainless-steel counters, paper napkins on the floor, and legendary tapas—is under threat.

The Changing Face of the Barrio

The decline is being driven by a "perfect storm" of economic factors. Rising commercial rents in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia are forcing out long-term family businesses. In their place, we often see international coffee chains or "chic" brunch spots designed for tourists rather than residents.

For property buyers and renters moving to Spain for "authenticity," this shift is a double-edged sword. While modern amenities are welcome, the loss of these social hubs can change the very character of the neighbourhood you chose to live in.

Madrid Fights Back: "Protected" Status

Recognizing that these bars are more than just businesses—they are cultural heritage—local authorities are starting to take action. In Madrid, several historic taverns have been granted "protected" status. This means:

• Architectural Preservation: The original storefronts, hand-painted tiles, and internal fixtures cannot be removed or modernised beyond recognition.

• Cultural Subsidies: In some cases, bars that have been in operation for over a century receive tax breaks to help them compete with global franchises.

What This Means for Property Buyers

If you are currently scouting for a property in Spain, the presence of a thriving local bar scene is often a "green flag" for a healthy, integrated community. Areas where these bars are closing rapidly are often undergoing intense gentrification, which can lead to higher property prices but a potential loss of that "authentic" Spanish feel.

Tips for Supporting Your Local Bar

If you’ve recently moved or are renting long-term, here is how you can help preserve the local culture:

1. Skip the Chain: For your morning coffee, try the family-run bar on the corner instead of the global franchise.

2. Embrace the "Menu del Día": It remains the best value-for-money lunch in Europe (often still found for £10–£12 / €12–€14) and keeps these kitchens running.

The barrio bar is the ultimate "low-friction" gateway to Spanish society. It’s where the community meets, and for expats, it’s often the best place to truly feel at home. Let’s make sure they stay open for the next generation of arrivals.

In a significant move that signals a warming of post-Brexit relations, the Spanish government has announced it is scrapping visa requirements for British nationals heading to Spain for short-term work.

The decision, which was unveiled during UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ high-profile visit to Madrid this week, is set to remove one of the most frustrating bureaucratic hurdles for British professionals, digital nomads, and business owners since the UK left the European Union.

What is Changing?

Previously, while British tourists could enjoy the "90-day rule" for sun and sand, any activity deemed "work"—from attending a series of business meetings to consulting on a short-term project—technically required a C-type or D-type visa. These had to be secured via a Spanish consulate in the UK, a process often plagued by delays and significant paperwork.

Under the new rules, British citizens will be exempt from these visa requirements provided their work stint in Spain lasts less than 90 days.

A Boost for the Economy and the Property Market

The timing of the announcement coincided with a meeting between Chancellor Reeves and Spanish Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo, alongside representatives from 120 of Spain’s top businesses. The diplomatic push is expected to unlock roughly £250 million in additional services exports over the next five years.

For our community at Eye on Spain, this news is particularly relevant for three key groups:

1. The "Workation" Crowd: If you own a second home in Spain and have previously been nervous about taking "working holidays" due to visa technicalities, this change offers much-needed peace of mind.

2. Property Investors: Greater ease of movement for professionals usually precedes increased interest in commercial and residential real estate. As business ties tighten, the demand for short-term rentals in business hubs like Madrid, Barcelona, and Malaga is likely to see a boost.

3. Tradespeople and Consultants: For those in the UK looking to provide specialised services to the expat community or Spanish firms (from surveying to high-end interior design), the "visa wall" has effectively been lowered.

A Stronger Partnership

The move follows a period of intense lobbying from the hospitality and tech sectors, who have long argued that the post-Brexit visa regime was stifling growth. Minister Carlos Cuerpo highlighted the importance of the relationship, stating, “The United Kingdom is, and will remain, one of Spain's most important partners.”

Chancellor Reeves echoed this sentiment, emphasising that "reducing friction at the border" is a core principle of the UK’s new economic strategy with the EU.

What’s Next?

While the announcement has been met with widespread acclaim from business groups, some legal experts note that we are still awaiting the full publication of the law in the Official State Gazette (Boletín Oficial del Estado) to see the exact implementation date and any specific "fine print" regarding the types of work covered.

For now, however, the message is clear: Spain is open for business, and for British professionals, the journey just got a whole lot easier.

For years, the dream of moving to Spain came with a well-known caveat: the "mañana" culture. While we love the relaxed pace of a three-hour lunch, the paperwork involved in setting up a new life—banking, utilities, and residency—often felt like a relic of a different century.

However, 2026 is proving to be a landmark year for the "Digital Expat." Whether you are looking at a sleek apartment in Marbella or a rustic finca in the Murcian countryside, the digital tools at your disposal have transformed the relocation process.

1. Banking Without the Borders

Traditionally, opening a Spanish bank account was the first "boss level" of moving. You needed a NIE (tax number), a stack of translated documents, and a physical appointment.

Today, digital-first platforms like Revolut and N26 have become the gold standard for new arrivals. They allow you to hold Euros, enjoy competitive exchange rates, and—crucially—handle everything from your smartphone. While a local Spanish IBAN is still often required for certain utility bills, these digital banks provide a bridge that didn't exist five years ago, allowing you to pay for your first café con leche the moment you land.

2. High-Speed Spain: No More Buffering

One of the biggest concerns for property buyers is connectivity, especially for the growing number of digital nomads. Spain has invested heavily in its infrastructure, and the results are impressive. Median fixed internet download speeds in Spain have surged to over 229 Mbps, outperforming many other European neighbours.

Even in semi-rural areas and coastal regions, fiber-optic "FTTH" (Fiber to the Home) is now common. This means you can stream UK or Irish television, join Zoom calls, or manage your property rentals from your terrace without the dreaded "buffering" wheel.

3. Bureaucracy Goes Paperless (Mostly)

The Spanish government has confirmed a major digital overhaul of the residency system for 2026. The goal is to move away from fragmented regional systems toward a unified digital platform for visas and TIE (residency card) renewals.

• Centralised Submissions: Soon, you'll be able to upload digital versions of your documents directly, reducing the risk of "lost paperwork."

• The Cl@ve System: If you haven't already, getting your Cl@ve PIN or digital certificate is now the single most important thing you can do. It allows you to book doctor’s appointments, check your driving licence points, and even pay local taxes from your laptop.

4. Home Comforts via the Cloud

Homesickness is often just "TV-sickness." The way expats consume media has shifted entirely from massive 2-meter satellite dishes to professional IPTV and streaming services. While Amazon and other providers are tightening rules on unapproved apps, the availability of high-speed fiber means that "Internet TV" is now the reliable, high-definition standard for keeping up with the news and shows from back home.

5. Shopping and Services

The "heavy lifting" of moving into a new home is also being mitigated by technology. Major supermarket chains now offer sophisticated delivery apps, and local startups are connecting expats with organic farms and specialty services. If you’re moving into a hilly pueblo where carrying groceries in the heat is a chore, these apps are a literal lifesaver.

The Eye on Spain Verdict

The "digitalization" of Spain isn't just about convenience; it’s about integration. By removing the friction of daily tasks, expats can spend less time at the Extranjería (foreigner’s office) and more time enjoying the culture, gastronomy, and 300 days of sunshine that drew them to Spain in the first place.

If you are currently looking at properties, don't just ask about the view—ask about the fiber connection. In 2026, the best of both worlds is finally within reach.

Are you navigating the new digital landscape in Spain? Share your experiences with our community in the Eye on Spain forums!

If you've been driving in Spain recently, you’ve likely heard the chatter about the new V16 emergency beacons. As of January 1, 2026, these connected flashing lights officially replaced the traditional warning triangles as a mandatory safety requirement for vehicles on Spanish roads.

While the DGT claims the beacons (which cost between €30 and €50) will make breakdowns safer, the rollout has sparked plenty of controversy. Even the European Commission has questioned the legality of making the new tech compulsory. But despite the debates, the first fines are already being handed out.

If you've been slapped with a penalty for not having a V16 beacon, don't panic just yet. Here is a look at what went wrong with the rollout and how you might be able to challenge the fine.

The First Fines Are Already Here. The first highly publicised fine was issued on January 6th (Three Kings' Day) to a driver on the AP-7 motorway near Valencia. A Guardia Civil traffic officer handed the driver an €80 fine (reducible to €40 for prompt payment) for failing to carry the regulatory V-16 signal, citing breaches of the Traffic Law and General Vehicle Regulations.

The fine quickly caught the attention of legal experts, highlighting a massive contradiction between the actions of the Guardia Civil and the promises made by the Spanish government.

What Happened to the Promised "Grace Period"? Before the law came into effect, the DGT and top government officials—including Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska and DGT Director Pere Navarro—spoke publicly about a transitional "grace period." Expats and locals alike were assured that officers would initially focus on informing and educating drivers about the new requirement rather than immediately reaching for their ticket books.

The problem? This grace period was entirely verbal. It was never officially put into writing, nor was an end date defined. This vagueness left a legal grey area, meaning traffic officers on the ground have been legally permitted to issue fines from day one, despite the public reassurances of leniency.

How You Can Challenge the Fine. If you have received a fine during these early weeks of the new law, you have the right to file an appeal (recurso).

According to Pyramid Consulting, a legal firm specialising in Spanish traffic fines, drivers have a solid foundation to appeal based on the legal principle of "legitimate expectations" (principio de confianza legítima). In Spanish law, this doctrine dictates that public administration must act in a predictable, consistent, and transparent manner.

Because top officials publicly promised a grace period and no immediate fines, penalising drivers just days into the new year contradicts those statements. In simple terms, the authorities promised leniency, the public trusted that promise, and therefore, early enforcement is unfair.

While success is never 100% guaranteed—since the law technically remains in force—legal experts suggest that appeals that cite this lack of a defined grace period and the conflicting official messages have a very good chance of succeeding.

A Quick Note for Expats and Tourists If you are driving a rental car, the hire company should be responsible for ensuring the vehicle is equipped with a V16 beacon. Additionally, the mandate currently targets Spanish-registered vehicles, so if you are driving a foreign-registered car on a visit to Spain, you should technically be exempt—though having one certainly doesn't hurt for your own safety.

Whether you’ve just moved to the Costas or you’ve been living in Spain for years, it’s easy to fall into the routine of visiting the same familiar hotspots. But beyond the well-trodden paths of the Costa del Sol and the big-city buzz of Madrid and Barcelona, Spain hides some truly magical corners.

A recent feature by National Geographic highlighted seven lesser-known towns that offer a glimpse into the "real" Spain—perfect for an expat weekend getaway or a scouting trip if you're looking for a quieter pace of life.

From the misty mountains of the north to the windswept Atlantic coast, here is the full list of destinations every Spain-based resident should have on their radar.

1. Beget (Catalonia): The Ultimate Off-Grid Escape

If you really want to leave the modern world behind, head to the Catalan Pyrenees. Beget is so tucked away that it wasn't even accessible by car until the 1960s and only received mobile phone service in 2023. Today, it remains a honey-hued treasure of cobblestone streets and stone bridges.

• Don’t Miss: The 12th-century Church of Sant Cristòfol.

• Best For: Hikers and those looking for authentic mountain cuisine. It’s a key starting point for the Camí de Nord, a stunning trail through ancient oak forests.

2. Aínsa (Aragon): A Medieval Fortress with a View

Located in the Aragonese Pyrenees near the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Aínsa is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s not just a gorgeous medieval village; it’s a strategic hub for some of the best birdwatching and mountain biking in Europe.

• Highlight: The Zona Zero mountain biking destination features over 150 miles of marked trails.

• Nature Lovers: Visit the Pyrenees Bird Centre along the town's fortress walls to see majestic birds of prey.

3. Combarro (Galicia): Coastal Charm Without the Crowds

Galicia offers a completely different vibe from the Mediterranean south. Combarro is famous for its hórreos—unique stone granaries raised on stilts that line the shoreline. While it is on a variant of the Camino de Santiago, it remains much quieter than the main routes.

• Why Go: To see quintessential Galician architecture and enjoy some of the freshest seafood in the country.

• Pro Tip: Visit during the low season (even if it rains!) to see the 60+ stone granaries without the summer crowds.

4. Priego de Córdoba (Andalusia): The World's Best Olive Oil

This village checks every box for a southern Spanish escape: whitewashed facades, cascading magenta flowers, and sweeping hilltop views. But Priego’s true "liquid gold" is its extra-virgin olive oil, which has been recognized as the best in the world for 14 consecutive years.

• The Experience: Take a tour of 1,000-year-old groves at mills like Aceites Vizcántar to see the extraction process.

• Don't Miss: A hike to La Tiñosa, the area’s highest peak, where you can see farmers still harvesting olives by hand.

5. San Martín del Castañar (Castile and León): A Step Back in Time

Located south of Salamanca in the heart of the Sierra de Francia, this town feels like a living museum. It features half-timbered houses, Roman bridges, and the second-oldest bullring in Spain.

• Nature & Art: Hike the Camino de Espejos, a nearly 6-mile trek through chestnut forests where sculptures are hidden among the trees.

• Summer Tip: Cool off like a local in the natural spring pool located in the Parque Municipal.

6. Zumaia (Basque Country): Geological Wonders and Txakoli

An hour east of Bilbao lies Zumaia, home to the "Flysch"—coastal rock formations that look like the pages of a giant stone book revealing 15 million years of history.

• Must Do: Hike the coastal Ruta del Flysch from Deba to Zumaia. At low tide, you can walk right out onto the rocks.

• Taste of the North: Sip on txakoli (the region's famous effervescent white wine) and, if you're feeling indulgent, head to nearby Getaria for the world-famous grilled turbot at Elkano.

7. Trujillo (Extremadura): Ancient History and "3D" Art

Equidistant from Madrid and Lisbon, Trujillo is a powerhouse of history. Its Plaza Mayor and 10th-century Alcazaba (castle) are so atmospheric they were used as filming locations for Game of Thrones.

• The History: Explore the Moorish architecture and the underground cisterns with a local guide.

• Modern Twist: Drive 30 minutes to Romangordo to see the transpantojo murals—stunning 3D-style street art that pays homage to traditional village life.

In recent years, the narrative surrounding Spanish rosé has undergone a radical transformation. Long relegated to the category of "summer-only" refreshment or a second-tier substitute for reds and whites, Spanish rosados are now proving they possess a sophistication once thought impossible: the ability to age gracefully.

There is a  growing movement of wineries that are treating rosé not as a fleeting seasonal product, but as a fine wine capable of developing "the charm of maturity." These producers are utilising old vines, barrel fermentation, and extended bottle ageing to create complex, gastronomic wines that rival the best reds and whites of Spain.

Here are the standout age-worthy rosés featured in the article that are redefining the category:

1. Viña Tondonia Gran Reserva Rosado 2008

Winery: López de Heredia-Viña Tondonia (Rioja DOCa) A true legend in the wine world, this is the only surviving wine of its kind in Rioja. Released only in exceptional vintages (this 2008 is the first since 2000), it undergoes four years in barrels and four more in the bottle. It is celebrated for its delicate elegance, featuring notes of dried rose, cinnamon, and fresh almonds.

2. Chivite Colección 125 Rosado 2022

Winery: Chivite Family Estates (VT 3 Riberas) First created in 1985, this barrel-fermented blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha was a pioneer of quality rosé. While it is delightful when fresh, it is known to be truly surprising after eight years of bottle aging, offering a refined palate with high acidity and notes of noble woods and spices.

3. Classica Gran Reserva Rosado 2013

Winery: López de Haro (Rioja DOCa) Made from old-vine Garnacha Tinta and Viura, this wine spends four years in oak and at least six in the bottle. It is characterised by its bright acidity, spicy floral notes, and a persistence that promises a very long life in the cellar.

4. Le Rosé 2022

Winery: Antídoto (Ribera del Duero DO) Created by French winemaker Bertrand Sourdais, this "Grand Cru" of Ribera del Duero rosés is sourced from a single plot where Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) grows alongside white Albillo. Fermented and aged in barrels, it is a rich, mineral-driven wine that is stunning with age.

5. Valduero Rosado Reserva 2016

Winery: Valduero (Ribera del Duero DO) The García Viadero family applies their expertise in extended aging to this Reserva, which spends four years in barrel and two in bottle. It maintains vibrant red fruit and silky textures while gaining complex spicy undertones.

6. Gran Caus Rosado 2023

Winery: Can Ràfols dels Caus (Penedès DO). This 100% Merlot "rosé with a red soul" comes from the limestone soils of the Garraf Massif. Fermented with native yeasts and aged for six months in the bottle before release, its concentration and firm acidity allow it to evolve beautifully over time, defying the convention that Merlot rosés must be consumed immediately.

7. 200 Monges Rosado Reserva 2017

Winery: Vinícola Real (Rioja DOCa) Winemaker Miguel Ángel Rodríguez honours the Rioja tradition with this bold blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha. Aged for 20 months in new French oak barrels, it offers a sophisticated profile of fruit and sweet spice with a delicate, characteristic bitterness on the finish.

These wines represent a shift in the Spanish wine landscape. By embracing traditional techniques and the inherent potential of their terroirs, these wineries are proving that rosé can be a serious, collectable, and deeply rewarding experience for those patient enough to let them mature.

Discover the rich cultural and natural heritage of Spain through its stunning UNESCO-listed sites. From ancient Roman ruins to stunning Moorish palaces and unique modern architecture, Spain's World Heritage Sites offer a fascinating journey through the country's history and diverse landscapes.

1. Alhambra, Generalife, and Albayzín (Granada) 

This breathtaking complex of palaces, gardens, and fortresses in Granada showcases the exquisite architecture and artistry of the Nasrid dynasty. The Alhambra and Generalife are prime examples of Moorish architecture, while the Albayzín district represents the medieval Moorish town.

2. The Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of the Asturias

The Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of the Asturias are a group of pre-Romanesque buildings and structures in the region of Asturias, Spain. These monuments date back to the 9th and 10th centuries during the reign of the Kingdom of Asturias. They represent some of the earliest examples of Christian architecture on the Iberian Peninsula

3. Historic City of Toledo

Once the capital of Spain, Toledo is a melting pot of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish cultures. Its narrow streets, historic bridges, and impressive cathedral make it a fascinating destination for history buffs.

4. Works of Antoni Gaudí (Barcelona and surrounding areas)

In addition to the Sagrada Família, Gaudí's unique architectural style can be seen in various other buildings in Barcelona, such as Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà. The Colonia Güell Crypt, located just outside Barcelona, is also part of this UNESCO site.

5. Santiago de Compostela (Old Town)

The historic city of Santiago de Compostela is the final destination for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. Its impressive cathedral, Romanesque architecture, and narrow streets make it a truly unique site.

6. Old City of Salamanca

Salamanca is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, and its historic city center is a stunning display of Renaissance, Baroque, and Gothic architecture.

7. Las Médulas (León)

This ancient Roman gold mining site in the region of León offers a glimpse into the engineering prowess of the Roman Empire. The unique landscape, with its red-hued soil and terraces, is a testament to the scale of the mining operations.

8. Doñana National Park (Andalucia)

This vast wetland reserve in Andalusia is a haven for migratory birds and endangered species. Its diverse ecosystems, including marshes, lagoons, and sand dunes, make it a unique natural site.

9. La Lonja de la Seda (Valencia)

This Gothic-style building in Valencia, once a silk exchange, is an exceptional example of European secular architecture from the late Middle Ages.

10. Altamira Cave (Cantabria)

Known as the "Sistine Chapel of Paleolithic Art," the Altamira Cave is home to some of the world's most impressive prehistoric cave paintings, dating back around 15,000 years.

These are just a few of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain, each offering a unique glimpse into the country's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or nature explorer, Spain's World Heritage Sites are sure to leave you in awe.

If you ask the average wine drinker to define Sherry, you might be met with a blank stare or a vague reference to a sweet drink enjoyed by elderly relatives at Christmas. But here in Spain, and specifically in the south-west, Sherry (or Jerez) is a serious cultural institution with a complexity that rivals the world’s finest wines.

For expats and visitors looking to navigate the wine lists of Andalusia, understanding the basics is key. Based on insights from Foods and Wines from Spain, here is a primer on the dry Sherry styles that form the foundation of this iconic Spanish drink.

Sherry is exclusively produced in the "Marco de Jerez," a triangle of land defined by three towns: Jerez de la Frontera, El Puerto de Santa María, and Sanlúcar de Barrameda. While the region is famous for its unique solera ageing system, there is a growing movement returning to the roots of the vine, emphasising specific vineyard parcels (pagos) and how the land influences the final glass.

The vast majority of dry Sherry is made from the white Palomino grape. It is chosen for its neutral flavour profile, which acts as a blank canvas for the ageing process.

After fermentation, the wines are classified into two main paths:

1. Biological Ageing: Wines fortified to about 15.5% alcohol, allowing a layer of native yeast called flor to grow on the surface. This yeast protects the wine from oxygen and imparts unique flavours.

2. Oxidative Ageing: Wines fortified to at least 17% alcohol. This higher strength prevents flor from surviving, exposing the wine to oxygen and creating a darker, richer profile.

The Solera System

Have you ever wondered why Sherry bottles rarely show a vintage year? It’s because of the solera y criaderas system. This method involves fractional blending where younger wines are systematically mixed with older wines. The result is a consistent product where every bottle contains a tiny drop of wine that could be decades (or even a century) old.

The 5 Styles of Dry Sherry You Should Know

1. Fino 

A pale, delicate wine aged entirely under the layer of flor yeast. It is dry, crisp, and carries notes of almonds, wild herbs, and dough. It is the perfect match for tapas, olives, and Iberian ham.

2. Manzanilla 

Essentially a Fino, but produced exclusively in the coastal town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda. The humid sea air leads to a thicker layer of flor, resulting in a wine that is even paler and lighter, often with a distinctive salty, sea-spray "tang."

3. Oloroso 

"Oloroso" means "fragrant." These wines are aged without flor, exposing them to oxygen. They are dark, nutty, and full-bodied, with flavours of toffee, leather, spice, and walnuts. With a texture similar to red wine, they pair beautifully with stews, game meat, and mature cheeses.

4. Amontillado 

An Amontillado starts its life as a Fino (under flor) but is later refortified to kill the yeast, allowing it to age oxidatively. The result is an amber-colored wine that combines the yeasty, sharp aromas of a Fino with the nutty complexity of an Oloroso.

5. Palo Cortado 

The rarest style, Palo Cortado is an elegant enigma. It technically undergoes a similar process to Amontillado (biological followed by oxidative ageing), but typically spends less time under the flor. Connoisseurs say it has the aromatic finesse of an Amontillado but the body and structure of an Oloroso.

Next time you are at a bar in Andalusia, don't just ask for a glass of wine—order a chilled copa of Fino or a glass of Oloroso with your lunch. You’ll be tasting centuries of tradition in a single sip.