Still Discovering Spain...

Chulilla is hidden at the foot of its Arab castle in a spot difficult to imagine: a lake surrounded by lofty limestone walls where the Turia River becomes a mirror. The raging river that once swallowed up loggers has now been tamed.

Chulilla is a picturesque village made up of white houses huddled on the slopes of Cerro del Castillo, next to the natural moat formed by the Turia River which flows through the canyon formed by 160 meter high limestone walls. This canyon is currently one of Spain's rock climbing sanctuaries, with more than 500 routes. Here, at the foot of the rock walls, just a 30-minute walk from the village, we come across Charco Azul (Blue Pool), a haven of calm waters that mirrors the beauty of this vertical, solid rock landscape.

Charco Azul is an ideal place to have a refreshing swim in Summer and remember bygone days when the river flowed freely and unrestrained and logs cut in the mountains were floated downriver to the city of Valencia. Upon reaching this narrow canyon, where the lofty walls nearly touch each other, the logs became jammed and many loggers lost their lives trying to free them, and it is for this reason a chapel was built nearby.

The Charco Azul route is one of the nine self-guided routes that cross Chulilla's landscape. It starts and ends at Baronia square, the village's main square, and is well marked and very easy to follow and is even great for children.

Another route worth taking is the Pantaneros route, which follows the journey taken by the labourers who in the 1950s worked on the construction of the Loriguilla reservoir to travel from the village of Chulilla. It is a 5-kilometer walk (one-way) along the edge of the Turia River's canyon walls and has the added thrill of crossing the canyon on hanging bridges. To regain your strength after the long walk, there is nothing better than an 'olla churra', a stew based on white beans, cardoons, potatoes, pork, and cold meats, typical of this Valencian region of Los Serranos (also known as La Serranía or Alto Turia).

Olla churra and other stews, such as olla de berzas (cabbage stew) or rice with wild boar, are served at the restaurant hostal El Pozo in Chulilla. Another interesting option, of more modern cuisine, is the Restaurant Las Bodegas, which also has a bar that serves tapas and lunches accompanied by wines under the Valencia and Utiel-Requena designations of origin. So if you happen to pass through Valencia take a moment to visit Chulilla and its wonderful Charco Azul.

Spain's coastline and islands is peppered with spectacular beaches so I have decided to pull together some of the best I know and are definitely worth a visit...

1. Es Talaier (Ciudadela, Menorca) 

After a 15-minute walk from Son Saura, everything conspires to push the traveller into this voluptuous pool of translucent waters that shine under the bright sun. Its pine groves are seductive like snake’s eyes, and the beach is free of tourist boats.

2. Cala Fonda, Waikiki (Tarragona) 

The proximity of a petrochemical compound only underscores the value of this Mediterranean relic. It is necessary to park at the restaurant Mirall d’Estiu, on Larga beach, and walk for two kilometers. The pine groves then give way to an uncomfortable final stretch before the actual beach is reached. Some walk about in the nude, others go for a swim. Everyone talks wonders about this place.

3. Escorxada and Fustam (Es Migjorn Gran, Menorca) 

Water taxis were created for those who dislike walking. Taximar (www.menorcataximar.com), based in Cala Galdana, organizes trips to the remote coves of Escorxada and Fustam, with stops at Trebalúger and a couple of sea caves. The parasol-and-cooler-carrying traveler can then choose a beach to enjoy for the next five hours, until pick-up time. The cost of the service is €25.

4. La Granadella (Xàbia, Alicante) 

There is nothing quite like enjoying the majestic Mediterranean early in the morning outside high season, and to practice your swimming strokes as you listen to the rhythmic sound of the pebbles being swept by the waves. Sur restaurant (www.restaurantesur.com) has its own boat and vegetable garden.

5. Melide (Cangas de Morrazo, Pontevedra)  

To say Melide is to evoke the Cíes islands: there are only three kilometers separating Melide from the national park, and no need to stand in line at the ship docks. Both share a creamy-colored sand, freezing waters and loads of pine trees. Its remote location ensures that the masses stay away. A foot trail begins in Donón and ends in Punta Subrido, home to Pedro Piñeiro’s beach bar.

6. Playazo de Rodalquilar (Níjar, Almería) 

Located inside Cabo de Gata, this is a crowded beach (access is easy) but its sand is a joy to behold, and it is set against a cliff of such a pale yellow as to appear white. It was the filming location for the 2015 movie ‘Lejos del mar’ (or, Far from the sea), by Imanol Uribe. The Los Patios hotel is nearby (www.lospatioshotel.es). It is a good idea to walk the 1.4 kilometer trail from San Ramón castle to Cuervo cove.

7. Güí-Güí (La Aldea de San Nicolás, Gran Canaria) 

This is the beach at the end of the (Canary Islands) world. The two-and-a-half hour mountain trek from Tasartico is worth it (remember to bring at least two liters of water per trekker). Anyone who makes it to these two strips of sand with views on Mount Teide should be eligible for a certificate of achievement.

8. Aigua Xelida (Palafrugell, Girona) 

The pungent smell of the pine grove, its narrow shape, the fact that the nearby residential estate is nearly unnoticeable... Everything conspires to make us disconnect from the outside world. A plaque on the fisherman’s shack reminds visitors about the times when the writer Josep Pla spent time here, drawing inspiration from the coastline and the wind to write about a legendary, extinct Costa Brava that we may nevertheless explore in kayaks (www.kayakingcostabrava.com) from the homebase of Tamariu.

9.Xarraca (Sant Joan, Ibiza) 

This cove in northern Ibiza is located next to the road, and its waters are of an arresting turquoise color. This is a pebble beach, meaning that it is good for snorkeling and paddle boats. Rising up from the water near the shore is Penya Grossa, a rock that doubles as a diving board, and the nearby Penya Petita, a small reef where swimmers stop for a break.

10. Barayo (Valdés / Navia, Asturias) 

Anyone approaching Barayo from Navia will be treated to one of the parking lots with the most sublime views on the Cantabrian coast: salt flats, marshes, dunes, tall grass and cane fields, pine trees and eucalyptus on a cliff.

Formentera is the smallest and southernmost island of the Balearic Islands of Spain. Known for its clear waters, white sandy beaches, and tranquil environment, it contrasts sharply with its more bustling neighbour, Ibiza. Despite its modest size, Formentera has a rich history and a vibrant cultural heritage that adds depth to its appeal as a top Mediterranean destination.

The history of Formentera is as layered as it is fascinating. The island was possibly known to the ancient Greeks and later occupied by the Romans, but it was during the medieval era that it witnessed significant transformations. It was frequently raided by pirates due to its strategic position in the Mediterranean. This threat led to depopulation, with the island often being completely abandoned before resettlement efforts in the 18th century under the leadership of King Charles III of Spain.

Significant fortifications from this era still dot the landscape, most notably the watchtowers used to spot pirates. These historical structures offer a glimpse into the island’s tumultuous past and are now intriguing sites for visitors.

Formentera’s cultural fabric is stitched with various traditional Spanish and Balearic elements. The island still celebrates several historic festivals with great zeal. One of the most important is the Fiesta de San Juan, which heralds the arrival of summer with bonfires, dancing, and horseback rituals that are deeply embedded in local lore.

The traditional crafts of Formentera, like basket weaving and pottery, continue to thrive, supported both by local demand and the interest of visitors. These crafts not only provide a livelihood for local artisans but also help maintain the cultural identity of the island.

Formentera’s development into a tourist destination began in earnest in the 1960s and 1970s when the island was discovered by hippies who appreciated its untouched natural beauty and tranquillity, setting a foundation for the kind of tourism that would later define it. Unlike other Balearic islands that pursued high-volume tourism strategies, Formentera took a different path, focusing on sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

The island’s authorities have been particularly forward-thinking in terms of preserving its environment. For instance, the use of motor vehicles is highly regulated to prevent pollution and maintain the quality of air and natural settings. This eco-conscious approach has made Formentera an attractive destination for those seeking a more serene and authentic experience.

Today, Formentera offers an array of experiences that cater to diverse interests. The pristine beaches, such as Illetes and Es Pujols, remain the primary draw. However, the island is also popular for its cycling routes, walking trails, and exceptional spots for snorkelling and sailing.

The local cuisine, which is a delicious blend of Mediterranean flavours, provides another compelling reason to visit. From fresh seafood to traditional pastries, the food reflects the island's blend of historical influences and its strong connection to the sea.

Formentera is much more than just a picturesque backdrop for sun-seekers. It is an island steeped in history, alive with tradition, and deeply committed to preserving its natural beauty while accommodating tourists. For travellers looking to escape the bustle of modern life and dive into an experience that balances relaxation with cultural enrichment, Formentera offers the perfect destination. As it continues to develop sustainably, it sets an example for small-island tourism around the world, proving that it is possible to welcome visitors without losing the essence of what makes a place truly special.

In recent years, Spain has grappled with an escalating environmental and social issue stemming from one of its oldest wild inhabitants - the wild boar (Sus Scrofa). Known for their adaptability and resilience, wild boars have rooted themselves in Spanish culture, history, and ecology. However, their rapidly growing populations across various regions have raised serious concerns due to their impact on human settlements, agriculture, and native wildlife. 

The population of wild boars in Spain has seen an unprecedented increase in recent decades. Factors contributing to this boom include the abandonment of rural areas, changes in agriculture, reforestation efforts, a lack of natural predators, and the adaptable nature of these creatures. They thrive in varied habitats, from the lush forests of the north to the Mediterranean scrublands. With fewer people living in rural areas to hunt them and changes in hunting regulations, boar populations have grown unchecked, leading to more frequent encounters with humans.

Wild boars have a profound impact on the environment and biodiversity. Their feeding habits lead them to dig through the soil, which can cause significant damage to native flora and lead to soil erosion. This alters the natural landscape and can pave the way for invasive plant species to take hold. Additionally, their predation on ground-nesting birds and reptiles can negatively affect local biodiversity. The balance of ecosystems is at risk when one species, such as the wild boar, dominates the environment unchecked.

Perhaps the most visible and concerning aspect of Spain's wild boar problem is their increasing interaction with human populations. Boars are venturing more frequently into urban areas, drawn by the promise of easily accessible food in trash bins and gardens. These incursions can lead to traffic accidents, damage to property, and even confrontations with people. Reports of aggressive behaviour towards humans, including attacks, have raised public health and safety concerns.

Moreover, wild boars pose a significant threat to agriculture. They ravage crops, destroy fences, and contaminate water supplies, leading to considerable economic losses for farmers. Their foraging habits wreak havoc on vineyards, cereal fields, and vegetable patches, prompting calls for more action to control their numbers.

Wild boars also carry diseases that can affect domestic animals and humans. Diseases such as swine fever, tuberculosis, and brucellosis can be transmitted from wild boars to livestock, threatening the agricultural sector and posing serious public health risks. The control of such diseases becomes increasingly challenging with larger boar populations, highlighting the need for effective wildlife management and disease surveillance strategies.

The growing wild boar issue in Spain requires a multifaceted approach. Solutions include more effective population control methods, such as regulated hunting and fertility control, alongside public education on avoiding and managing encounters with wild boars. Additionally, research into more sustainable land management practices could help reduce the habitats' suitability for boars, thereby naturally curbing their numbers.

Urban areas are experimenting with innovative methods to keep boars at bay, including the use of barriers, community compost bins to reduce food sources, and even employing trained dogs to scare them away. Collaboration between communities, government agencies, and wildlife experts is crucial to developing strategies that ensure public safety while preserving Spain's rich biodiversity and the welfare of its wildlife.

The wild boar in Spain is a testament to the complexities of human-wildlife coexistence in the modern world. While they are integral to the country's natural heritage, their unchecked proliferation poses a threat to ecosystems, agriculture, and human settlements. Addressing this issue demands a delicate balance between conservation efforts and the need to protect human interests, a challenge that will require innovative thinking and broad cooperation for years to come.

Whoever goes to Asturias for the first time, without having read or heard anything about it, instantly gets two surprises: first, that it is a place steeped in history and tradition; and second, that its inhabitants have a unique, friendly nature.

Over a thousand years ago, amid high limestone peaks, green mountains, lush forests, mighty rivers, lakes, springs, waterfalls, orchards, high mountain meadows and vast grazing lands... a kingdom emerged that had thirteen kings, the first of whom was Pelayo, whose memory is especially preserved at the Royal Site of Covadonga in Cangas de Onís. The last was Alfonso III, known as The Great, and for nearly one hundred and fifty years in between the two, a great deal of history –battles included– which was to be decisive in the social and geographical evolution of the Iberian Peninsula as well as that of present-day Spain. Asturias was the first Christian kingdom of this European peninsula and many traces remain of that ancient kingdom –the most prominent among which is Asturian Art, also known as Pre-Romanesque Art, declared World Heritage by UNESCO. There have likewise endured numerous reminders of the nobility and lineage that runs through the bowels of this land, which, since the 14th century, also comprises a Principality, the region most closely linked to the Spanish monarchy since those ancient times right up to the present day.

And between the 14th and 20th centuries, so much history…a history of a beautiful, yet forceful rural Asturias, which lives on today; of the development of three cities - Oviedo (the capital), Gijón and Avilés; of almost twenty fishing towns and numerous historic towns and villages; of over 200 beaches and a well-preserved coast; of rich industrial heritage, the result of technological and manufacturing prosperity; of 6 Biosphere Reserves; of 5 World Heritage Caves; of a rich cuisine that makes the region, among other features, the leading cheese-producing area in Europe… and much, much more. A veritable Natural Paradise!

 In this region, the cult of the palate can be perceived by the fact that practically everything is celebrated, commemorated, remembered or enjoyed around a table covered with a tablecloth. The green Asturian terrain is a symbol of fertility, food from a rich fertile land and pasture for cattle producing their famous meat and milk. More than three hundred kilometres of coastline and some of the best Cantabrian ports guarantee excellent fish and shellfish cuisine. It can be said, therefore, that Asturias is a true natural pantry.

When one head towards southwest Asturias you encounter a surprisingly different landscape. Mountains rising to infinity and winding roads racing towards their shelter, where their tiers appear and we get our first impression of that heroic mountain viticulture that is practised in Asturias and which constitutes a unique spectacle. They may look like simple terraces capriciously won from the abyss, but you just have to sharpen your gaze to see in their soil the vineyards that stand up proudly, obvious proof that you have entered wine country.

However, Asturias doesn’t just have wine. In the year 60BC, Estrabon, the Greek traveller and writer, cited cider without ever having tried it. Today this would almost be a sacrilege. In the juice of the apple, the Asturians have not just their local drink, but also a cultural element that forms part of their way of seeing life, an umbrella beneath which territories are joined together, and even a sign of identity. The sensation of pouring cider, for example, is a unique experience, which is experienced in a special way in Asturias because it is the only cider-making region in which this playful-gastronomic ‘ritual' is carried out.

Asturias is a Natural Paradise and this reality as can be proved by the numbers: a third of Asturias's territory is environmentally protected. For this reason, the traveller encounters beautiful untouched landscapes, among which stand out six gems, the six biosphere reserves recognised by UNESCO.

The Asturian coast is one of the best-preserved in the whole of Spain. So much so that its purity makes the cliffs, the level green coastline and the beaches a perfect refuge for those who like untouched nature. In addition, their fishing villages – totalling almost twenty along the three hundred and forty-five kilometres of the coast - have grown, adopting impossible shapes, on hillsides which shelter the ports, and even remember the days when they were whaling docks, landing points for kings and a shelter from storms. Asturias has so much more to offer so why not give it a go and experience the ‘Green Spain’. 

There are destinations that offer many leisure options, but when we stay in certain establishments the pleasure of the trip can be enhanced, either due to their spectacular facilities, their luxury, their services or the special characteristics they have.

So, if you want to live a completely unique experience in one of your getaways, some of the most surprising hotels in Spain will help you live an unforgettable one. Here are some of the most unusual hotels in Spain:

Hotel Aire de Bardenas

https://airebardenas.com/

In the surroundings of the Bardenas Reales Natural Park, a 4-star establishment awaits you that will make you feel like you are in the middle of the desert under the stars, well you actually are! I am referring to the Hotel Aire de Bardenas (Ctra. De Ejea, km 1, 31500 Tudela, Navarra), whose architecture and design have been recognised with awards more than twenty times around the world.

Some of their rooms are in square cubicles, so you can choose between one of these unique cubist buildings to spend a few days of rest and adventure. Some of its rooms have a spectacular outdoor circular bathtub, others are characterised by their private patio and the suites also include a double indoor bathtub.

If you are still looking for something more special, at the Hotel Aire de Bardenas you can stay in inflatable bubbles in the open air, where you can sleep under a starry sky, away from stress, noise and worries. These bubbles also have all the comforts, as they include a shower, a hairdryer, a bathrobe, slippers, an eye mask and a full minibar.

The hotel offers a series of activities for guests, such as a visit to the Bardenas Reales Natural Park by Segway, guided tours through the desert, explanation and tastings on the process of making extra virgin olive oil and massage services. You will find it about 7 kilometres by car from the city of Tudela, following the NA-125 road.

Cave Houses

https://www.casascuevacazorla.com/home

There are many cave hotels where you can stay in Europe, but in Spain, there are also some of these amazing places to stay without having to travel abroad.

One example is the Cueva de Cazorla Houses (Calle Cuevas Nuevas, 37, 23486 Hinojares, Jaén, Andalusia). Located in the Cazorla National Park, each of its houses and caves is completely different, since they are decorated by themes. With regard to its 4 caves, perfect for couples, all of them have a living room with a fireplace and a private Jacuzzi and share a saltwater pool outside.

Vivoo Landscape Hotel

https://www.vivood.com/en/

Among the adults-only hotels that exist throughout the country, there is one that surprises both for its architecture and location and for the beauty of the whole complex. It is the Vivoo Landscape Hotel (Carretera, Ctra. D’Alcoi, 10, 03516 Benimantell, Alicante), a 4-star accommodation, near the Guadalest reservoir and half an hour by car from Benidorm.

The hotel is located on an 84,000 square meter plot, in the middle of the valley, fully integrated with the natural landscape, so that both its common facilities and its suites and villas were designed as if they were incredible viewpoints. You can choose between the Pool Suite, with a private heated outdoor Jacuzzi, suites with a panoramic rain shower and mountain views, and several luxury villas, with two infinity pools open all year round. And if all this was not enough to relax, the hotel has a complete spa with a therapeutic circuit based on Ayurvedic culture.

Marques de Riscal Hotel

https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/biolc-hotel-marques-de-riscal-a-luxury-collection-hotel-elciego/

If you want to spend a night in a surprising building with an avant-garde design, as if it were the Guggenheim Museum itself, and even above you are passionate about wine tourism, you will be very pleasantly surprised by the Hotel Marqués de Riscal (Calle Torrea Kalea, 1, 01340 Eltziego, Álava ).

Designed by the Canadian architect Fran Gehry, this 5-star hotel with a titanium roof is located in the medieval town of Elciego (Eltziego). Its 43 rooms, spread over three floors, are unique, as they match the exterior structure of the building, with sloping walls, high ceilings and zigzag windows. In them, you will find all the comforts you can imagine, such as goose feather pillows, cloud lamps, green and black marble bathrooms, coffee and tea service, courtesy toiletries, minibar, cable TV and internet access and room service 24 hours.

In its facilities, you will also find two restaurants, a bar, a gym and a spa with an indoor pool, water jets, a Turkish bath, a Finnish sauna and a rain shower, which also offers wine therapy treatments. And while you enjoy the hotel, you can pay a visit to the historic Marqués de Riscal wineries.

O Semaforo de Fisterra

http://www.hotelsemaforodefisterra.com/en/

Sleeping at the famous End of the World is possible. You just have to stay in Galicia, in an old lighthouse that is also a 2-star hotel. This would be O Semáforo de Fisterra (Carretera del Faro, s / n, 15155 Finisterre, A Coruña), an incredible place where you can listen to the wind and the sea and that is perfect for travellers looking for rural escapes that are as surprising as they are special. The lighthouse, which rises 138 meters above sea level, was built in 1853, and decades later, in 1888, the annexe building was erected. In 1999 it was converted into a boutique hotel, with five rooms, a restaurant and a cafeteria, where you can forget the world and discover the Galician Costa da Morte.

Toy Hotel

https://www.hoteldeljuguete.com/es

Among all the surprising hotels in Spain, one cannot forget the Toy Hotel (Carrer l’Escoleta, 4, 03440 Ibi, Alicante). This 4-star establishment focuses its theme on toys and cartoons, so among its 21 rooms, you can select those decorated around the Lego, the Nancy doll, the Nenuco, the Pin and Pon or the Playmobil. You will find toys in all of them.

At the Hotel del Juguete, one of the most emblematic dates is Christmas, since activities and special events are organised for this time of year, with the special importance of the Three Kings festival.

It is unknown to many, including car lovers. The circuit of Terramar is the third oldest in Europe after Brooklands and Monza, ahead even of the legendary Le Mans, and the first in Spain. 

The Roaring Twenties were the last time the Terramar race track heard the roar of engines. It opened on the 28th of October 1923, but a failure to pay the construction workers for an unforeseen overrun in construction costs, led to them seizing the money that was taken at the gate, and left the organizers with no money to pay the drivers. 

This disastrous inauguration, led to an immediate ban on the track hosting international events and while a few local automobile clubs held a few races here, they were unsuccessful, and the track was closed by 1925.  

The track has changed hands a few more times over the years, and despite a short-lived revival in the 1950s, it has long served as a chicken farm and a place to graze sheep.

The Autodrome has seen no structural intervention in the last 90 years but has held up incredibly well, a testament to the quality of its original construction. In fact, despite its degradation, Red Bull sponsored the circuit as a showpiece in 2012. 

Today, the track can be viewed from the road, surrounding hills and footpaths. It’s overgrown, banking corners reminiscent of dams that have long since cracked and displaced their water. It is rumoured that the current owner is seeking funding to repair and reinstate the Autodrome, but only time will tell….

In this unique environment that still keeps the greatness, it once had, two of the best riders of the moment, Carlos Sainz and Miguel Molina, tested their skills as drivers. The challenge: to overcome the rigours of the old track at the wheel of one of the fastest cars of the time (Audi R8 LSM).

The Lonely Planet, one of the publishers specialising in tourist guides, have carried out multiple surveys putting a total of 15 World Heritage Cities in Spain head to head to discover which is the most beautiful of them all. Do you agree with the winning choice?

Santiago de Compostela, Tarragona, Ibiza, Cuenca, Baeza, Úbeda, Córdoba, Mérida, Cáceres, Toledo, Salamanca, Ávila, Alcalá de Henares, Segovia and San Cristóbal de la Laguna were the cities that participated in the surveys and the contest...

Although the decision was difficult given the architectural, cultural or historical level that all the aforementioned cities meet, in the end, it was Córdoba that won first place, beating Toledo, in second.

Córdoba is, without a doubt, one of the compulsory visits within the national territory. Its vast historic centre was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984, and it is no wonder. In it, buildings and monuments, both religious and civil, as well as sculptures, walls, temples, bridges and gardens form a perfect route that attracts thousands of tourists each year.

Within this city, the Mosque of Córdoba stands out, which, together with the Roman Bridge, constitutes the main symbol of this territory, one of the oldest in Europe. Therefore, the first obligatory visit is the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba itself, where you can contemplate the complete evolution of the Umayyad style in Spain, in addition to the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles of Christian construction.

Together with this monument, both the river and the Puerta del Puente and the Roman Bridge of Córdoba itself, form a picture and a landscape that none of the visitors can miss. The bridge was built during the 1st century BC although several renovations have been carried out throughout history, the most recent being that of 1876.

After passing the Roman Bridge, the visitor comes across the Torre de la Calahorra in Córdoba, which used to control and defend the city. This tower has been mentioned in some Arab source on al-Andalus, and in numerous historical references from the Christian conquest to the present day. Its architecture does not leave anyone indifferent either.

On the other hand, the Alcázar de Los Reyes Cristianos is another recommended visit. It is a fortress and palace, where Roman and Visigoth remains coexist with those of Arab origin. It was during the time of King Alfonso X the Wise when the restoration of this building began and was completed during the reign of Alfonso XI. In addition, we cannot forget the great beauty of its gardens.

Near Córdoba, Medina Azahara was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2018. It is the city that Abd-al Rahman III had built on the slopes of Sierra Morena, just eight kilometres from Córdoba capital. Legend has it that Abd al-Rahman III, caliph in 929 AD, decided to build a palatine city in honour of his favourite daughter Azahara. 

In the heart of Spain, amidst the rolling landscapes and historic streets, pulsates the vibrant tradition of the Fiestas del Apóstol Santiago, an annual celebration honouring Saint James the Great, the patron saint of Spain. This festivity, deeply rooted in both religious and cultural soils, unfolds a panorama of history, faith, and communal joy. Each year, on the 25th of July, the nation, especially the city of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, becomes a focal point of devotion and festivity, attracting not just the locals but pilgrims and tourists from across the globe.

The origins of the Fiestas del Apóstol Santiago are intertwined with the legend and history of Saint James the Great, one of Jesus Christ's twelve apostles. After Christ's death, Saint James travelled widely, supposedly reaching the Iberian Peninsula to spread Christianity. Following his martyrdom by beheading in Jerusalem, legend states that his disciples transported his body back to Spain, where he was later buried in the site now known as Santiago de Compostela.

The discovery of his tomb in the early 9th century by a hermit, guided by a field of stars, gave rise to the name "Compostela," from Latin "campus stellae" meaning "field of stars." This discovery not only marked the inception of Santiago de Compostela as a pilgrimage site but also laid the foundations for the celebrations that would become the Fiestas del Apóstol Santiago.

The Fiestas del Apóstol Santiago are a melting pot of solemn religious ceremonies, vibrant parades, exhilarating music, and dance performances, embodying the spirit of Galician culture. The festivities span the better part of July but reach their climax on Saint James's Day, the 25th, with a series of events that pay homage to the apostle and celebrate Galician heritage.

One of the most significant traditions tied to the festivity is the Camino de Santiago, a network of ancient pilgrim routes stretching across Europe and converging at the tomb of Saint James in Santiago de Compostela. July witnesses thousands of pilgrims, known as "peregrinos," completing their journey, with many timing their arrival to coincide with the fiestas. This pilgrimage, emblematic of personal, spiritual, or cultural quests, underscores the profound religious essence of the celebrations.

The spiritual heart of the festival is the liturgical celebrations held at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, an architectural marvel and the final destination for the pilgrims. The most awe-inspiring service takes place on the 25th, featuring the "botafumeiro," a giant incense burner that is swung across the transept of the cathedral by eight robed men, disseminating clouds of fragrant smoke over the congregation, a spectacle that blends devotion with breathtaking visual drama.

Beyond the religious observances, the streets of Santiago de Compostela and other Spanish towns brim with cultural festivities. Traditional Galician music and dance performances are ubiquitous, with the sound of bagpipes, known as "gaitas," filling the air, evoking the Celt-influenced heritage of the region. Artisans and vendors set up stalls, offering everything from local handicrafts to exquisite Galician gastronomy, enabling both locals and visitors to indulge in the flavours and crafts of the region.

One of the cultural highlights is the "fuegos del Apóstol," a spectacular fireworks display that illuminates the sky on the eve of Saint James's Day. Cast against the backdrop of the cathedral, this pyrotechnic marvel is a vivid embodiment of the celebration's jubilance.

In the present day, the Fiestas del Apóstol Santiago stand as a testament to the resilience and unity of the Spanish people. Despite the challenges posed by modernity and the complexities of contemporary life, these festivities have not only endured but flourished, drawing people from diverse backgrounds into a shared experience of faith and festivity.

Beyond its religious connotations, the festival is a vibrant canvas showcasing Spain's rich cultural mosaic, a platform for dialogue between the past and present. It is a time when the nation, irrespective of individual beliefs or origins, comes together to celebrate a shared heritage and to welcome those who journey to partake in this unique experience.

As the Fiestas del Apóstol Santiago continue to evolve, they encapsulate the dynamic spirit of Spain, a country deeply proud of its traditions yet open and welcoming to the world. For those who attend, whether as a pilgrim completing their spiritual journey or a visitor drawn by the allure of the festivities, the Fiestas offer an unparalleled experience — a moment to partake in the joy and community spirit that defines the Spanish way of life.

The Fiestas del Apóstol Santiago beautifully intertwines the threads of faith, tradition, and cultural celebration into a vibrant tapestry of Spanish heritage. They remind us of the power of community and the enduring appeal of shared traditions in bringing people together. Whether you are walking the ancient paths of the Camino, participating in the liturgical rites, or simply soaking in the carnival atmosphere, these festivities offer a glimpse into the soul of Spain, eternally animated by the spirit of Saint James.

Sanlucar de Barrameda is famous for its horse racing which takes place along a 1,800m stretch of beach at the mouth of the Río Guadalquivir during the month of August, this year from the 14th to 30th of August This is a thrilling spectacle where real racehorses thunder across the sand watched by a large noisy crowd of spectators. There is nothing amateur about this event and you can expect to see spectator stands, bookies, paddocks and of course the winner's enclosure. Now an international event with horses from other European countries taking part and many famous names amongst the spectators. With more than 165 editions on its back, it is the oldest equestrian activity in Spain and one of the oldest ones in Europe. It has also been declared of International Tourist Interest since 1997.

Run by the "Horseracing Society of Sanlúcar de Barrameda", in its by-laws it expressly states that one of the activities that the society will carry out will be the holding of horse races, with the first ones being held on the beaches of Sanlúcar de Barrameda, in the afternoon of August 31st, in 1845. This marked the beginning of one of the most exhilarating horse races in the country.

It has traditionally been admitted that the origin of the “Horse Races on the Sanlúcar de Barrameda beach" started with the informal competitions, that was held by the owners of horse stock that was used for transporting the fish from the former port of Bajo de Guía to the local markets and nearby towns. It was effectively a past-time while they waited for the fishing trawlers to come back into port. But, how exactly the races started is ambiguous. Another story is that people raced donkeys along the banks for fun and eventually upgraded to horses. 

As of 1981, the “Horse Races on the Sanlúcar Beaches" have gathered momentum with the re-founding of the former Horseracing Society of Sanlúcar de Barrameda and the approval of its by-laws on March 3rd of that year. Since then, the horse races, under the exclusive direction of the society, have reached a scale that was unheard of until then, exceeding the splendour achieved in the first decades of the 20th century. The competition days were expanded to two periods of three days each; the Sanlúcar races were given official status and they were integrated into the national equestrian circuit – along with Madrid, San Sebastián and Seville, Dos Hermanas and Mijas- and received decisive support from the “Society for the Promotion of Horse Breeding of Spain”, which made them famous worldwide.

After many years during which the Horseracing Society of Sanlúcar de Barrameda was solely responsible for holding the annual equestrian competitions on the beach of Sanlúcar, as a social event most representative of its annual activities, the organizing of horse races fell under the authority of the City Council, which included them in its summer programmes.

     Today, the Horse Races on the Sanlúcar beaches, now privately managed, are thriving and enjoying strong support and stand out as one of the main events of the summer in Andalucía. This unique show on the world stage, declared as an International Tourist Interest, captures the attention of thousands of Sanlúcar residents and visitors, who every afternoon of the races approach the Sanlúcar beaches to enjoy the purebreds competing on a natural racetrack, which in the afternoons of the month of August give us a low tide. So if you happen to be near Sanlúcar de Barrameda in August, don't miss an afternoon at the races!

This year the races are on 14, 16 y 17 of August and then on the 28, 29 y 30 of August

http://www.carrerassanlucar.es/es/