Still Discovering Spain...

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/ 

Alcalá de Henares is the city where Miguel de Cervantes was born, writer of the world-famous Don Quixote de la Mancha. Its University and historic neighbourhood are what makes this town so special. The main axis of the historic centre of Alcalá de Henares is the Calle Mayor. The birthplace of Cervantes is located on this very road, which has now been converted into a museum that recreates the atmosphere of a 16th and 17th century home. However, of all the buildings in the town, there is one that stands out in particular: the University. Founded by Cardinal Cisneros, its walls welcomed some of the greatest Spanish minds such as Lope de Vega, Calderón de la Barca and Quevedo.
 

 Alcala de Henares was the first university city that was specifically planned urbanistically to be so, making it unique in the world. And it was so successful that it effectively became the blueprint for other university cities around Europe and America. Cardinal Cisneros was the mind behind the planning and was the one responsible for choosing a somewhat uninhabited area in between the Plaza del Mercado and the gates of Guadalajara, to establish what would become the famous academic district in the 15th Century. The district included all the housing that was necessary for the teachers and their families and all the buildings needed to house the services and suppliers of the university, such as the printers or bookstores. This radical form of urbanism was new for the times but contributed in such a way to the development of the field of humanities that UNESCO declared Alcalá de Henares a World Heritage City in 1998.

The idea of building a Catholic church on the summit of the Mount Tibidabo overlooking Barcelona emerged in the late 19th century amidst rumours about the construction of a Protestant church and a hotel-casino at that location. This motivated a "Board of Catholic Knights" to acquire the ownership of the field and give it to Saint John Bosco in 1886 when he was visiting Barcelona at the invitation of Dorotea de Chopitea, a great patron and promoter of the project.

From this arose the idea of a building dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a dedication very popular at that time thanks to the impetus given by Pope Leo XIII, and following in line with the church built in Rome by Bosco himself (Sacro Cuore di Gesù a Castro Pretorio) and the famous Sacré-Cœur in Paris.

In 1886 a neo-Gothic hermitage was built, and two years later, for the Universal Exposition, the Vallvidrera road was urbanised and a pavilion of Mudejar inspiration was built beside the hermitage to serve as a viewing point for the city below. However, the project to build the church suffered a significant delay mainly because of the development of a new project to build an astronomical observatory on the summit of Tibidabo, which was eventually constructed on a nearby hill - Fabra Observatory.

Finally, on 28 December 1902, the first stone was placed in a ceremony presided by the Bishop of Barcelona, Salvador Casañas i Pagès. The crypt was built between 1903 and 1911, and the main church was built between 1915 and 1951. The church was consecrated by Bishop Gregorio Modrego Casaus during the 35th Eucharistic Congress held in Barcelona in 1952. The towers were completed afterwards, with work officially ending in 1961. On 29 October 1961, the church received the title of minor basilica from Pope John XXIII.

The external appearance of the church is of a Romanesque fortress of stone from Montjuïc (the crypt), topped by a monumental neo-Gothic church accessed by two grand outdoor stairways. The upper church has a central floor with an octagonal dome on eight columns. The dome is crowned with an image of the Sacred Heart; the original work was by Frederic Marès (destroyed in 1936) and replaced in 1950 with another by Josep Miret.

The interior is divided into a nave and two aisles with semicircular apses, with stained glasses and four rose windows on the facades. In the main altar stands the great crucifix, a work by Joan Puigdollers. The windows of the presbytery are dedicated to Pius X, John the Evangelist, Marguerite Marie Alacoque, Paul the Apostle and John Bosco. 

The windows of the four towers contain the Latin phrase tibi dabo ("I'll give you"), the name of the mountain. At the level of the choir include founding saints: Marcellin Champagnat and Jean-Baptiste de La Salle on both sides of the presbytery, and Anthony Mary Claret, Joseph Calasanctius, John Bosco and Maria Domenica Mazzarello next to the main facade. The windows of the four facades are dedicated to Francis de Sales, Pius XI, Ignatius of Loyola, Francisco Javier, Pius IX, Rose of Lima, Leo XIII and Pius XII. The eight stained glasses of the dome depict scenes from the life of Jesus.

In the verdant region of La Rioja, Spain, a unique tradition draws visitors from across the globe. It's the Battle of Wine ("La Batalla del Vino"), a spirited festivity that transforms the historic town of Haro into a vibrant sea of purple hues and joyous celebration.

When is the Battle of Wine?
The Battle of Wine is a firmly set annual event, commemorated on June 29. The next few editions are scheduled for:

• Saturday, June 29, 2024

• Sunday, June 29, 2025

• Monday, June 29, 2026

The event is not just another reason for merrymaking; it is steeped in history and cultural significance. Recognised as a Tourist Festival of National Interest in 2011, the Battle of Wine has deep roots within the local patron saint festivities of Haro, which run from June 24 to June 29. Haro nestles between Logroño and Miranda de Ebro and is famed as a capital for wine aficionados.

Its origin dates back to the sixth century with San Felices de Bilibio, a hermit and spiritual guide to San Millán. Upon his death, San Felices was buried in a cave on a site known as "Los Riscos de Bilibio," which mark the beginning of the Obarenes Mountains next to the Ebro River's entry point, at a spot dubbed "Las Conchas de Haro."

A cofradía - a brotherhood dedicated to San Felices, founded in 1655, parades the relics of both San Felices and San Millán in a procession every year on June 25.

Legend tells that a territorial conflict over "Los Riscos de Bilibio" between Miranda de Ebro and Haro gave birth to the wine battle. The Jarreros, or locals from Haro, armed with jugs or any wine-filled container, must be present at the celebration. If they fail to do so in any year, it's said that Haro would cede control of the coveted Riscos de Bilibio to Miranda de Ebro.

Celebrating the Wine Battle
The main event unfolds on the morning of June 29, to honor San Felices de Bilibio, Haro's patron saint. Following a ceremonial mass, celebrants known as Jarreros make their way towards "Los Riscos de Bilibio," approximately six kilometres from Haro. At around 8 AM, the town's Regidor, or leader, plants the flag of Haro upon the cliffs, declaring the land as Haro's strategic point.

Complying with a set of jovial yet simple rules, an exuberant battle ensues where participants aim to douse each other with wine. Participants are required to:

• Dress in white, donning the traditional red scarf,

• Drench their neighbours with wine as thoroughly and quickly as possible,

• Only use approved 'weapons' like boots, bottles, jugs, sprayers, water pistols, but glass containers are strictly prohibited,

• Maintain laughter and song throughout the Battle, with local musicians playing non-stop until the wine runs dry.

As the battle concludes, the aroma of snails and grilled chops fills the air, indicating the time for a communal meal to regain strength.

A Festival of Epic Proportions
This festival attracts around 10,000 participants annually, who gleefully use roughly 130,000 litres of wine in their epic battle for territorial pride and festivity. It's a sight to behold and an experience to treasure, epitomizing the joy and culture of the region. The Battle of Wine is a call to the world to partake in this unique celebration — a testament to tradition, community, and the universal language of joy found in a shared glass of wine.

In the luxurious realm of hospitality marked by the prestigious MICHELIN Guide's new distinction – the MICHELIN Keys – only a select few properties boast the top tier Three-Key status in Spain. With MICHELIN Guide freshly unveiling their 2024 roster, the spotlight warmly grazes upon these exemplary establishments that showcase unparalleled hospitality, stunning architecture, and deeply ingrained cultures of comfort and elegance. The five properties awarded this accolade are paradigms of hospitality, straddling the vast and vibrant landscapes of Spain, from the historic streets of Madrid to the rolling vineyards and serene mountainsides of rural Spain.

A Beacon of Heritage: Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid

Madrid's Mandarin Oriental Ritz stands as a monument not only to luxury but also to historic preservation. Originally founded by the legendary hotelier César Ritz over a century ago and favoured by King Alfonso XIII, this Belle Époque palace continues to be a cornerstone of Madrid's high society and luxury tourism. The hotel underwent a sweeping renovation in 2021, infusing contemporary comforts into its regally designed suites and rooms. Each space whispers tales of the past while delivering state-of-the-art modernity, ensuring a distinctly plush yet homely feel. Nestled in the heart of Spain's capital, the Mandarin Oriental Ritz exemplifies how tradition and modernity can coexist beautifully, creating an ambience that is both evocative and refreshing.

Rustic Elegance Redefined: Terra Dominicata – Hotel & Winery, Escaladei

In the scenic embrace of Montsant National Park, Terra Dominicata – Hotel & Winery offers a stark contrast to Madrid's urban splendour. Originally a monastery from the 12th century, this establishment has morphed into a luxurious retreat, preserving its historical essence while embracing modern luxury. The hotel's design elegantly incorporates elements of the old world—beamed ceilings, hardwood floors, and stone walls—that coalesce with contemporary aesthetics to create a sophisticated, rustic charm. It stands today not only as a hotel but as a hallmark of the region's rich winemaking heritage, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of its surroundings and the exquisite flavours of its vineyards.

Sustainable Sophistication: Torre del Marques, Teruel

Halfway between Barcelona and Valencia, tucked away in the Matarraña region, the Torre del Marques is the epitome of sustainable luxury. This 18th-century tower has been thoughtfully transformed into an 18-room boutique hotel that blends environmental consciousness with uncompromised luxury. With an emphasis on zero-kilometer cooking and eco-friendly practices, the hotel offers a serene escape amongst olive groves and vineyards. The interiors showcase a minimalist design that highlights natural materials and textures, promoting a sense of calm and connection with the natural world.

A Blend of History and Innovation: Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine, Valladolid

Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine is a masterful conversion of a 12th-century abbey into a high-end contemporary hotel, nestled on a sprawling estate famous for its vineyards in Valladolid. Renowned architect Marco Serra has skilfully preserved the historical architecture, integrating it with modern luxurious facilities. The hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, Refectorio, offers a gastronomic experience that complements the rich wine selection curated from its own vineyards. Guests can enjoy a holistic spa experience and bespoke tours, ensuring a stay that is as indulgent as it is culturally enriching.

Contemporary Art and Hospitality: Atrio Restaurante Hotel, Cáceres

In the ancient walled city of Cáceres in Extremadura, the Atrio Restaurante Hotel presents a unique fusion of contemporary art and avant-garde design set against a backdrop of historic architecture. The hotel is as much a destination for art enthusiasts as it is for those seeking a luxurious stay, with original artworks by Andy Warhol and Georg Baselitz adorning the premises. The minimalist design, accentuated by a monochrome palette and sleek modern furnishings, offers a canvas allowing the art pieces to take centre stage, enhancing the overall aesthetic and experience of hospitality.

The unveiling of Spain's Three-Key hotels by the MICHELIN Guide 2024 not only highlights these establishments' supreme standard of excellence in hospitality but also spotlights the diverse cultural and geographical tapestries of Spain. Each hotel, unique in its architectural and interior expressions, crafts a bespoke experience that goes beyond mere accommodation. These hotels invite guests to immerse in narratives of history, indulge in local flavours, and revel in designs that bridge time. 

For those yet unacquainted with the sensory pleasure that is the Ensaimada de Mallorca, you're in for a treat that goes beyond the ordinary. This traditional recipe from the Balearic gastronomy, famed not just for its sobrasada but for this exquisite pastry too, is poised to take your taste buds on a journey. For the uninitiated, the ensaimada is an emblematic pastry from Mallorca, an island known for its culinary riches. The name 'ensaimada' itself hints at its indulgence, deriving from "saïm" meaning lard, a key ingredient that promises a taste of extravagance in each spiral.

Committing time to its preparation, especially the necessary proofing period, guarantees a confection that's as rewarding to make as it is to savour. For those embarking on this culinary venture, the advice is to let the dough proof overnight and bake it in the morning, making for a breakfast so delightful, it'll become an unforgettable part of your repertoire.

Ingredients

The journey begins with gathering your ingredients, a crucial step to ensure the ensaimada's authentic taste and texture:

• Strong white bread flour: 400 g

• Fresh yeast: 15 g

• A medium egg

• Water: 150 g

• Sugar: 120 g

• A pinch of salt

• Lard for greasing

• Icing sugar for dusting

Method: Crafting Your Ensaimada

The Preparatory Phase

1. Begin by slightly warming the water—this should not be too hot, just pleasantly warm to the touch. This is crucial for dissolving the yeast. In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in the water, ensuring it's fully integrated.

2. Take a large mixing bowl and place the flour within. To this, add the yeast mixture, the beaten egg, sugar, and a pinch of salt. This marks the beginning of your dough's journey.

3. Dedicate about fifteen minutes to kneading. This process isn't just about mixing; it's about infusing the dough with elasticity and smoothness. Continue until you achieve a silky-smooth texture.

4. Shape the dough into a ball and transfer it to a bowl lightly greased with oil. Now, it's time for the dough to rest and double in volume. This takes a minimum of an hour but is vital for the texture.

The Shaping

1. Once proofed and airy, punch down the dough to release excess air, then divide it into six equal parts. It's from these parts that each unique ensaimada will begin to take shape.

2. Roll out each portion with a rolling pin extensively. The aim is to get them as thin as possible without tearing. This is when you generously coat each rolled-out dough with lard, laying the foundation for its unique flavour.

3. Carefully roll each sheet into a tight log. Allow it to rest; this relaxes the gluten, making it easier to shape. Stretch each log gently, then coil it into a spiral on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring there's space between the spirals to allow for expansion.

The Second Proof: An Overnight Affair

1. Place the trays in an oven with a cup of water (the oven should be off) and leave them to proof overnight or for about ten hours. This slow fermentation is the secret behind the ensaimada's texture and depth of flavour.

2. Preheat your oven to 200°C, and bake the ensaimadas for 10-12 minutes, or until golden. When ready, let them cool before dusting generously with icing sugar.

Serving Your Ensaimada

The true joy of ensaimada lies in its versatility—the pleasure of consuming it in its pure, unadulterated form or delighting in variants filled with 'cabello de ángel' (angel hair, a sweet pumpkin jam) before rolling, offering another layer of taste. Pairing it with a thick Spanish hot chocolate elevates the experience, creating a combination that's hard to surpass.

In conclusion, the Ensaimada de Mallorca is not just a recipe; it's a testament to the rich culinary tradition of the Balearic Islands, a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into an extraordinary delight. Whether for a special breakfast, an afternoon snack, or to celebrate a significant occasion, the ensaimada promises a moment of joy in every spiral. Its preparation, a process that involves patience and care, not only brings the flavours of Mallorca to your table but also the island's tradition of taking time to create something truly wonderful. So, why wait? Embark on this culinary adventure and let the ensaimada be a delicious testament to your baking prowess!

With these high temperatures that we are experiencing in recent days, a quick dip is the best solution. But Inland Spain, lacking coasts, has its charms, which are boundless, but it also has idyllic and essential places to soak oneself and cope with this “inhumane” heat in the best possible way.

I invite you to get to discover those places, sometimes unknown, that deserve to be visited to freshen up, some of them located in strategic natural settings. These are lakes, lagoons, river beaches, natural pools or pools that can be found in Castilla y León, Castilla-La Mancha, Aragón, Extremadura, La Rioja, or Navarra. They are of Cours many many more, but this is a good start...

Sanabria and river beaches in Zamora

Our journey starts in Castilla y León, specifically in the province of Zamora, which has a wide range of places to swim, with the Sanabria Lake. But also in Puebla de Sanabria we find the area of ​​"La Chopera" or in Trefacio "La Corneira".

Two river beaches sheltered by reservoirs are found in Cional and Villadeciervos, and the Ricobayo river beach in Zamora is also worth mentioning, or in the capital itself, the “Los Pelambres” recreational area, on the banks of the Duero River.

More in Castile and Leon

If we go through the provinces and start with Ávila, the Charco del Risquillo natural pool deserves to be included, in the heart of the Tiétar Valley, without forgetting the Navaluenga Natural Pools. In León, we are also left with another natural pool, that of Vega de Espinaredasta, one of the largest in the Bierzo region. But we cannot forget the beaches of Balboa or La Ribera de Folgoso or other natural pools in Cacabelos, Llamas de la Ribera or Villafranca del Bierzo. While in Palencia, the Ruesga reservoir is well worth a good swim. On to Segovia, it is worth visiting the Fuente de la Salud in Sepúlveda while in Soria the Pita Beach is the bathing area par excellence in the province.

The Rioja

In the middle of the González Lacasa reservoir, the Club Náutico El Rasillo awaits us, the only place authorized to bathe in Riojan lands. But there are also natural pools, such as the Iregua Park, where you can enjoy the crystal clear and cold waters of the river.

Navarre

River pool of Uztárroz

There are also no beaches in this Autonomous Community, but there are several river areas where you can cool off. One of them is the Urederra River, as it passes through Zudaire and Artavia. Some small pools with cold water. Another point of interest is found in the Alloz reservoir, a privileged place for both fishing and water sports. In Beriáin we come across the Morea raft. And one last recommendation: the Uztárroz river pool, with fresh waters that do not exceed 17 degrees in temperature.

Castilla la Mancha

The Castilian La Mancha community has more than thirty authorized bathing areas, exactly 35. There are several options for bathing here, from the Alarcón Reservoir, passing through the Bolarque Lake in Almonacid de Zorita in Guadalajara, which is joined by the La Toba reservoir (Cuenca) or the Entrepeñas reservoir. But the most famous is found in the Lagunas de Ruidera, especially the pool in Laguna Colgada better known as "Plaza Toros", without forgetting the natural pool of Las Chorreras.

Aragon

The natural spaces in the Aragonese community are varied, starting with the Pyrenees of Huesca, which gives the visitor unexpected dreamlike landscapes. And if they also allow a refreshing dip, what more could you ask for? We begin our journey through Huesca, through one of the most popular areas, Salto de Bierge, located in the Sierra y Cañones de Guara Natural Park. Another option is the Búbal Reservoir, over which a zip line, not suitable for the faint of heart, flies over.

In Zaragoza we find two well pools in Los Chorros in Belchite and El Pígalo in Luesa. Another natural pool is that of Peña del Cuervo, near the capital. And in Teruel, there are three ideal places, the Bergantes river pool, the Valbona reservoir and the Pesquera pools in Beceite.

Extremadura

The Community of Extremadura does not have a coast either, but it does have idyllic places to get lost and river beaches and pools of ten. One of them is found in the Valle del Jerte, in the so-called Garganta de Los Infiernos, with numerous pools. Other nearby places are the Natural Pool of Carreciá in Acebo or those of La Codosera. If we want a beach, Entrerríos between the Zújar and Guadiana rivers has a beach to spend a great day with the family.