La Alhambra, Granada

Discover a new local in Spain

Spain
close up of young woman wearing sunglasses, holding a glass of white wine

Faye Smith

Faye relishes in discovering the history and cuisine of each country she ventures to, usually with a book in one hand and a glass of white wine in the other.

17th February 2023

Spain awaits

Spain. Known for its glistening waters, quaint towns and magnificent architecture.   

Let us take a closer look at this land of passion, tradition and intrigue to uncover how the locals spend their daily lives under the warm European sun.   

 

Discover a new local bar

a glass of red wine and small plate of tapas in dimly lit bar

After your morning of taking in the beauty which transcends the architecture of la Mezquita de Córdoba, Spain, take a stroll to the banks of La Ribera. 

Here, you will find local families, sweethearts and friends sipping glasses of cañas de cerveza (small glasses of beer) in quaint bars as they share stories, anecdotes and laughter.   

Order the locals’ preferred drink of tinto de verano, a blend of red wine and lemonade which tastes sweeter during the warmer months and is best enjoyed with a small plate of tapas.  

Sit back, relax, and take in the calm ambience with views of the tranquil river which basks underneath the warmth of the Spanish afternoon sun.   

 

Discover a new local bath house

inside a dimly lit hammam with a pool in the centre, surrounded by red walls

The heated waters of an age-old tradition invite you to indulge in an Arab bath surrounded by beauty, architecture and charm. In Granada, where the impressive La Alhambra stands, lies a collection of hammams – places of public bathing associated with the Islamic world.  

As you enter one of these evocative settings, behold the swooping arches, colourful tiles, intricate mosaics and crumbling walls which allow you a glimpse into the past.  

Popular hammams include Hammam al Andalus, Baños de Elvira and Comares Palace Arab Baths – a replica of the hammams located within the walls of the prestigious Alhambra.  

In any one of these locations, you will find locals unwinding in the pools, luxuriating in spa treatments and closing their eyes in a peaceful afternoon slumber. 

 

Discover a new taste for Olive Oil

close up of two antiquated double-handled pots

For an authentic taste of Spain, traverse to the beautiful city of Úbeda where an old olive mill has been transformed into the Centro de Interpretacion ‘Olivar y Aceite’. Beyond its simple exterior lies a fascinating world of history, culture and taste.  

Wander through rooms filled with artefacts, tools and stories from centuries ago. Learn the inner workings of the mill with an on-hand expert filled with historical knowledge. And use all your senses to truly experience this ancient culture, including taking part in a sumptuous olive oil tasting. 

 

We invite you to discover Spain and Portugal with us on the road less travelled, uncovering further local stories, traditions and adventures along the way.  

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