23 of the Best Things to Do in Cadiz
Cadiz is a fascinating city where the term travelling deeper is taken to a whole new level. It encourages you to look underground, out to the horizon and be amongst the rooftops. Succumb to the easy…
With more than 50 courses in just a shade over 100km, not for nothing is the coastline west of Malaga known as the ‘Costa del Golf’.
A golf holiday here offers something for all abilities, too, from gentle municipal hacks to tournament courses for seasoned scratch handicappers.
So without any further ado, here’s the LVC pick of a few of the best Costa del Sol golf courses…
Marbella Golf & Country Club, Benahavis
We begin appropriately enough, at the beginning, with the grande dame of Costa del Sol golf courses: Marbella Golf & Country Club. It may not be the oldest course in the region (that honour goes to the Malaga Parador which dates back to the 20s), but founded in 1954 and part of the resort of the same name, it very definitely leads the way in the old-fashioned glamour stakes.
And the course? Designed by Dave Thomas, set back a little from the coast to the north of Benahavis, its gently undulating fairways wind their way between well-placed water features upwards towards the mountains.
Stunning setting aside, the course is both in consistently great nick and challenging, with a mix of elevated tees keeping even low-handicap players guessing for distance and club selection. A major selling point of Marbella Club is the gap between tee times (a generous 12 minutes minimum) which means that the tension when you shank one into the rough is slightly reduced. A class act.
The 19th hole: Tie in tee times to coincide with an evening table booked at Juan Galvez’s The Grill, the hotel’s fabulous (and heavily meat-centric) restaurant.
Address: Carretera Benahavis, Km 3.7, 29679, Malaga; Tel: +34 952 88 06 08; Marbellaclubgolf.com.
La Quinta Golf & Country Club, Nueva Andalucia
La Quinta ticks a lot of boxes. A mature and well-kept course that was designed by Spanish pros Antonio Garrido and Manuel Piñero, it perhaps plays a little easier than some of the others on this list. That’s not to say it’s not a high quality course – nor that it doesn’t have its challenges in the form of some tricky fairways and cavernous bunkers – merely that it’s suitable for mid-handicappers.
The course is made of three nine-hole loops – San Pedro, Ronda and Guadaiza – which can be mixed and matched as you see fit. As a result, along with a scenic driving range, it makes for a good warm-up round at the start of your golf holiday.
The 19th hole: Soothe stiff backs with a post-round soak, steam and massage in the hammam-inspired La Quinta Spa.
Address: Avenida Tomas Pascual, s/n, 29660 Marbella, Malaga; Tel: +34 952 76 23 90; Laquintagolf.com.
San Roque Club, San Roque
When Perry Dye launched his ‘New Course’ back in 2003 it had many critics and in-the-know local golfers licking their lips and comparing it to the stellar likes of Valderrama. Which is high praise indeed.
Layered on top of an original Trent Jones course, it’s small by modern standards, but also perfectly formed. And not just technically, either. Aesthetically, it’s an absolute joy to behold: flanked on one side by a nature reserve and dotted with mature trees, waving grasses and fabulous views of the sea and the rolling hills, it’s one of the more stirring places to play golf on the Costa del Sol.
The 19th hole: In true Cadiz country club style, in addition to the golf there’s also a renowned equestrian centre. So if some of your group are not golf-lovers, they can head off for a lesson or a hack on the beach instead.
Address: The San Roque Club C.N. 340 KM 127 11360 San Roque, Cadiz. Sanroqueclub.com.
Finca Cortesin, Casares
A fairly new addition towards the western end of the Costa del Sol in Casares, Finca Cortesin is a sophisticated luxury resort that mixes indulgence with style and taste throughout.
Two things stand out about the golfing here, though: first of all, despite only having been built in 2006, it’s a mature course with fairways lined with lots of old cork and olive trees and some spectacular scenery; secondly, at nearly 7,000m it’s an absolutely monster. Weak drivers need not apply.
The 19th hole: play an early morning’s round and spend the afternoon stretched out by the pool, before heading down to their beach club for sundowners.
Address: Carretera de Casares, s/n, 29690 Casares, Malaga; Tel: +34 952 93 78 00; Fincacortesin.com.
La Zagaleta, Benahavis
Winding its way up into hills and woodland above Marbella, La Zagaleta country club has two courses, La Zagaleta and Los Barrancos. Both are amongst the very prettiest of this very pretty bunch, with many holes snaking their way through tree-lined valleys criss-crossed with occasional streams. This is the real joy of playing here: not only does nature start as soon as the fairway stops on many holes, but at almost no point do fairways run alongside one another. They feel like golf courses that are integrated into the surrounding natural landscapes rather than imposed on it.
There’s just one potential hitch: it’s a members’ only affair. So unless you’re fortunate enough to have friend who’s in the club you won’t be getting in.
The 19th hole: forget about that disappointing scorecard by heading for the clubhouse’s bowling alley, exclusive for residents of La Zagaleta with prior arrangement (check out our villas in La Zagaleta).
Address: Carretera Ronda Km 38.5, Benahavis, Malaga, 29679; Tel: +34 952 85 54 50; Lazagaleta.com.
Real Club Valderrama, Sotogrande
Valderrama Golf Course has in the past picked up the accolade of the best golf course in mainland Europe. The list of competitions it’s held over the years is a long one taking in the Andalucia Masters, the Volvo Masters and the first Ryder Cup to be played on European soil. Suffice to say that, whichever way you come at it, it’s one of the best places to play golf in Spain for the serious golfer.
And the emphasis here is very much on Serious with a capital ‘S’. The greens are lightning fast, the fairways at times breathtakingly tight, and the rough unforgiving. But the thing that sets Valderrama apart is the fact that there’s not a single dull hole – whether they’re winding their way through the cork woods, both visually and in terms of the challenge they throw up, each offers something slightly different, right up to the famous 17th with its death or glory tee-off.
The 19th hole: start by booking an afternoon tee time. Then, at the end of your round, step off the 18th green, walk to the clubhouse, order yourself a glass of fine champagne and watch as the shadows lengthen over the fairways. Drink it all in. You’re surrounded by a piece of golfing heritage.
Address: Avenida de los Cortijos, s/n, 11310 Sotogrande, Cadiz; +34 956 79 12 00; Valderrama.com.
For accommodation that’s equally refined, choose Villa El Chorrito Sotogrande neighbouring Valderrama golf club.
Los Flamingos, Benahavis
Los Flamingos is Malaga golf ground zero. Right in the heart of the action, and part of the exclusive Villa Padierna resort complex, there are three courses sitting side by side: Alferini, Tramores and Los Flamingos.
Of the three, Alferini is the trickiest – long with punitive rough and countless challenging approach shots. Tramores is a short, friendly warm-up course (an extended pitch and putt, if you like) that’s ideal for grooving your swing. Los Flamingos, though, is probably the most inviting for the average golfer. Designed by Antonio Garcia Garrido, it’s a mix of gently rolling parkland and hillier holes. After a tight front nine, the back nine opens up a bit making for a very pleasant day of golf in the Andalucian sunshine.
The 19th hole: while it’s nowhere near as relaxing as a cold beer or two back in the clubhouse, the Michael Campbell Golf Academy is a great place to hit the driving range, take a lesson (private and group tuition is available) and iron out any kinks in your swing.
Address: Villa Padierna Golf Club, Urbanizacion Los Flamingos Golf, Carretera de Cadiz, Km. 166. 29679 Marbella, Malaga; Tel. +34 952 889 157; Villapadiernagolfclub.com.
Choose one of our Los Flamingos Golf villas for a convenient stay that’s also within easy reach of the coast’s restaurants and bars.
Los Naranjos, Marbella
This Robert Trent Jones Sr-designed course celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2017. Like the other courses he turned his expert hand to on the Costa del Sol, Valderrama, Sotogrande and Las Brisas, it’s as pleasant to play as it is to look at. Aesthetically, the 9th is a particular highlight: having successfully navigated a lovely right to left dogleg, you can lean on your putter and admire beautiful views of La Concha.
In terms of difficulty, it’s something of a course of two halves, with the back nine a more leisurely walk in the park(land) after the challenging terrain – plus tricksy water features and bunkers – of the front nine. It sits firmly in the mid-range end of the spectrum, though, and for higher handicappers is nowhere near such a daunting day out as some of the championship courses on this list.
The 19th hole: the club is Swedish-owned and there’s been great excitement about the appointment of a Scandinavian chef to head up the recently refurbished restaurant in the clubhouse. Locals have been booking the morning tee times to align their rounds with a spot of lunch.
Address: Plaza de Cibeles, s/n, 29660 Marbella, Malaga; Tel. +34 952 81 24 28; Losnaranjos.com.
La Cala Golf, Mijas
Why settle for one course when you can have three? Variety, after all, is the spice of life. Beyond the fact that La Cala Golf takes in 54 holes, each course offers a very different set of challenges to keep your golfing holiday from getting samey.
Campo Asia is the oldest of the three and, with its tight approaches punishing any lapses in accuracy, is not to be entered into lightly for all but the lowest handicappers. Campo America is a long course offering stunning views to the Sierra de Ojen and down to the sea – and slightly more forgiving fairways if you’ve allowed yourself to get distracted by them. A gentler, more leisurely round can be had at Campo Europa. While it’s on the long side, the fairways are broader and flatter and the greens are bigger than handkerchiefs.
Away from the three main courses themselves, there’s even a six-hole par three to warm up – perfect if you’ve just stepped off the plane and need to get your game in order.
Address: Urb. La Cala Golf s/n, Mijas Costa, 29649 Malaga; Tel. +34 952 669 016; Lacala.com.
The 19th hole: The clubhouse is one of the most attractive parts of La Cala. The Laurel Restaurant is a great start to an evening out, with a nice line in drinks and snacks as you watch those coming in struggle with the difficult 18th. You’re part of a luxury resort here, though, so you can also nip off for a quick ‘Back Into Balance’ massage if your back’s starting to creak after all the golf.
Real Club de Golf Sotogrande
This grand old course, inaugurated in 1964, was the first on the Costa del Sol to be designed by Robert Trent Junior. Totally reformed in 2016, it now offers one of the finest rounds of golf in southern Spain.
It’s very easy on the eye, too, with lush, rolling fairways winding their way through cork, eucalyptus and pine woods with regular glimpses of the glittering Mediterranean. Standout holes include two on the front nine – 4, a long par three, and 12, a fiendishly tricky par 4 – but the back nine is also dotted with challenging holes typified by water features and bunker-encircled greens.
Visitors aren’t allowed on the course on weekends, or at one or two peak times of year like Easter week and high summer (mid-July to the end of August) so it’s one for spring or autumn. The history, prestige and impeccable maintenance comes with a hefty green fee making it, all in all, one for the serious golfer rather than the low-handicapper out for a relaxed few holes.
Address: Paseo del Parque, 11310, Sotogrande, Cadiz; Tel. +34 956 78 50 14; Golfsotogrande.com.
The 19th hole: The seafront is just a short saunter from the clubhouse. Here the Trocadero beach club is a great place for a bite to eat and a cooling swim after a long round.
Real Club de Golf Las Brisas
After a tricky few years of remodelling, it’s fair to say that Las Brisas is back where it belongs – right up there amongst Spanish golf royalty. The only snag is: if you’re not friends with a member, you’re not getting on.
You kick things off with a long par 4 where both your drive and approach have to be inch-perfect if you don’t want to see your ball disappear into a lake. And it barely lets up for a minute from there. The 5th is a monster, while with water lining the left-hand side of the fairway all the way down to the green, the 12th punishes even a hint of waywardness. The 7th and 16th are a pair of pretty-as-picture par threes that lull you into a false sense of security and as a result can see you shedding shots in the green-side bunkers.
Address: Calle Londres, 1, 29660 Marbella, Malaga; Tel: 952 81 30 21; Realclubdegolflasbrisas.com.
The 19th hole: The course may be private, but the restaurant’s open to the public – and is excellent. It makes for a great place to meet non-golfing friends for lunch after a round.
Aloha Golf Club
With its rolling parkland fairways running between water features, whispering eucalyptus and bright purple jacaranda trees or stretching away to stunning views of La Concha, Aloha’s certainly something of a looker. It may be one of the more expensive golf courses in Marbella, but it’s also one of the best having been selected to host the Andalucia Open (PGA European Tour) on three occasions in recent years, as well as 2016’s Andalucia Women’s Open.
It’s a tough course, and at over 6,200m, a long one, too, with some of the par 3s – like the 12th – playing very long. There are doglegs aplenty where a decent fade or draw is a requirement to have a sniff of a chance at par, and quite a few blind shots. The greens, invariably ringed by large bunkers and two-tiered on a few occasions, play like lightning. Leave your putting game at home here and your scorecard will certainly feel it.
Address: Urbanizacion los Olivos I, 6B, 29660 Marbella, Malaga; Tel: 952 90 70 85; Clubdegolfaloha.com.
The 19th hole: During the summer months, golf in southern Spain can be something of an endurance feat. Which is why Aloha’s large swimming pool, complete with loungers and parasols, can look like a shimmering oasis in the desert at the end of a round.
Real Club de Golf Guadalmina – Sur
While not perhaps quite as regal as Valderrama, another course on the Costa to bear the royal seal of approval, Guadalmina Sur is still very much a round that’s fit for a king or queen.
Guadalmina Sur became just the Costa’s second course when the first drive was hit back in 1959. These days, beautifully maintained, with lush fairways and pristine greens, it’s very much a course of international standards.
There are several standout holes. Aesthetically, though, the finest has to be the 11th, whose sea views are literally the picture-postcard view of golf in southern Spain.
The 19th hole: In addition to the top-class golf, the Guadalmina resort is also home to tennis and padel courses if you’re looking for somewhere to play a set or two. And if that sounds rather too much like hard work, there’s also a large pool are to kick back in.
Address: Urbanizacion Guadalmina Alta, Club de Golf Guadalmina, s/n, 29670 San Pedro Alcantara, Malaga; Tel: 952 88 33 75; Guadalminagolf.com.
Costa del Sol Golf Holiday Need-to-Knows
When’s the best time of year to play? With over +300 days of sunshine per year, it’s never exactly a bad time for a Costa del Sol golf holiday. Autumn and Spring, though, are perhaps the most popular seasons as the temperatures are pleasant, without ever hitting the scorching summer highs.
How much are green fees on the Costa del Sol? It very much depends. At the upper end, the green fees at Valderrama won’t leave you with much change from €400, whereas a round of golf at Los Flamingos or Los Naranjos might set you back somewhere in the region of €70-80 in low season.
How do I find the best Costa del Sol golf deals? Whether it’s making sure you get the most favourable tee times or booking you the best caddy, the LVC concierge team are on hand. Ask and you shall receive.
Like our pick of the best golf courses on the Costa del Sol, and now looking for a suitably indulgent place to stay? Check out our collection of luxury golf villas.
After something a little less energetic from your holiday? Stretch out on one of our pick of the best Marbella beaches instead.
Lindsay Gregory
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[post_content] => Cadiz is a fascinating city where the term travelling deeper is taken to a whole new level. It encourages you to look underground, out to the horizon and be amongst the rooftops. Succumb to the easy going way of life of the gaditanos – relax, eat well and be inspired by this ancient city.
1. Torre Tavira
Climb this eighteenth-century watchtower, learn about the watchtowers of Cadiz (some pictured above) and see Cadiz through its camera obscura at the top.
C. Marqués del Real Tesoro, 10, 11001 Cádiz. Torretavira.com
2. Playa La Caleta
A day on the beach or hit it at 6pm for cake – street food to beach food. Sellers usually roam the beaches from about 5pm to 6pm. Then grab a drink and watch the sunset over the bay.
3. Cathedral
Taking over 100 years to complete and with its unique golden dome and silver collection it’s worth a visit.
Pl. de la Catedral, s/n, 11005 Cádiz. Catedraldecadiz.com
4. Iglesia de Santa Cruz
The original cathedral of Cadiz it was build in its form today in 1602.
Pl. Fray Félix, 6, 11005 Cádiz
5. Mercado Central
Fresh food and casual eateries make the market the heart of the city. Hit the gastromarket side of the market for tapas.
Pl. de la Libertad, S/N, 11005 Cádiz
6. Pause in a Plaza
Meander and stop for coffees or something strong in one of the pretty squares. Plaza de las Flores and Plaza de la Candelaria are two favourites.
7. Yacimiento Arqueológico Gadir
This archaeological museum with a focus on Phoenician culture helps you travel under the city to ancient Cadiz.
Address: C. San Miguel, 15, 11001 Cádiz. Open: Tues - Sat 11.00 - 15.00hrs and 17.00 - 21.00hrs. Sun 11.00 - 15.00hrs. Entrance free.
8. Park Genoves
Beside the sea this city park has a playground, fountains and it’s a great place to run off little legs or meander after a long lunch.
Parque Genovés, Av. Dr. Gómez Ulla, s/n, 11003 Cádiz
9. Museum of Cadiz
From archaeological artifacts to art and puppets, the museum of Cadiz is an interesting way to spend a couple of hours if not only to find out the importance of puppeteering in the city.
Address: Pl. de Mina, s/n, 11004 Cádiz. Museosdeandalucia.es
10. Castillo de Santa Catalina
A curious shape castle, originally built in 1598 gives great views and an insight into its military past.
C. Campo de las Balas, s/n, 11002 Cádiz. Open during summer, Mon - Sun 11.00 - 20.30hrs.
11. Plaza de San Juan de Dios
The old main square of the city is a great place to start discovering Cadiz.
12. Teatro Romano
This 1st century B.C. Roman theatre in the centre of the old town is the oldest and second largest on the Iberian Peninsula.
Address: C. Mesón, 11, 13, 11005 Cádiz. Summer opening times (1st April - 30th Sept) Mon - Sat 11.00 - 17.00hrs and Sun 10.00 - 17.00hrs. Winter opening times (1st oct - 31st Mar) Mon - Sat 10.00 - 16.30hrs and Sun 10.00 - 14.00hrs. Closed the first Monday of every month. Entrance is free.
13. Puppet Museum (Museo del Titere)
A good family option, it's somewhat interactive and home to puppets from all over the world.
Puertas de Tierra, Bóvedas de Santa Elena, s/n, 11006 Cádiz. Open Tues - Sun 10.00 - 21.00hrs. Entrance is free.
14. See the Sunset at San Sebastian Castle
This castle and lighthouse is on a small island with a walkway linking it (even at high tide) to the end of the pier at La Caleta beach.
It's said that the father of Zeus, Tronos, had his temple on the island. The lighthouse that you can see today has Moorish foundations and that is just the beginning of this little island's history.
P.º Fernando Quiñones, s/n, Cádiz
15. Oratory of San Felipe Neri Church
Home to one of Murillo’s finest works and one of the few Andalucian Baroque architectural examples of elliptical arches.
C. San José, 36, 11003 Cádiz
16. Gran Teatro Falla
For an evening surrounded by 18th century grandeur, check out this Neo-Mudejar theatre in the old town. (See its program here).
Pl. Fragela, s/n, 11003 Cádiz
17. CUEVA CATACUMBAS DEL BEATERIO
These catacombs are much less morbid than you’d imagine with an incredible story. Access is six metres under the city through a courtyard in a residential building.
C. Valverde, n3, 11004 Cádiz. Catacumbasdelbeaterio.com
18. Carnival
Celebrated just before the beginning of Lent this very lively week-long festival sees everyone take to the streets in fancy dress. There’s traditional music in the form of satire singing groups that you can hear around the streets and at the theatre. Usually during February, 40 days before Easter.
19. Walk Around the Old Town
Take in the feel of the city by wandering around two distinct areas: El Populo and La Viña, the latter of which is the old fisherman’s area. Don’t miss Plaza Tío de la Tiza and Restaurant El Faro.
20. Casa-Palacio Moreno de Mora
A fine example of an Elizabethan-style palace from the 1800s.
C. Ancha, 28, 30, 11001 Cádiz. Only open on Wednesdays at 10.00hrs via prior arrangement through this email [email protected]
21. Hospital de Mujeres
A quick visit of this old hospital and chapel offers a magnificent El Greco painting of St Francis and a rather special central courtyard.
C. Hospital de Mujeres, 26, 11001 Cádiz
22. Visit El Puerto DE Santa Maria by Boat
Cadiz is at the end of a peninsula so there are regular boats going across to the mainland. Take a day trip to El Puerto de Santa Maria – see the sights like the Castle of San Marcos and do some sherry tasting.
Port: Av. del Puerto, 2B, 11006 Cádiz
Castle of San Marcos, Pl. Alfonso X el Sabio, 3, 11500 El Puerto de Sta María, Cádiz
23. Casa de Iberoamerica
This Neoclassic building, once a former prison, is now an event and exhibition space.
C. Concepción Arenal, s/n, 11006 Cádiz
Useful Information
How to get to Cadiz by car
From Seville airport 129km 1hr 14min
From Malaga airport 225km 2hr 20min
From Jerez 34.9km 28min
From Gibraltar 118km 1hr 24min
From Marbella 177km 1hr 49min
Tempted you to discover Cadiz city? Have a look at our selection of villas on the Costa de la Luz.
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[post_content] => The Alhambra: crowning the city of Granada, this stunningly decorative fortress-palace complex is one of Spain's most instantly recognisable sights.
But it's also the country's most visited tourist attraction – and as such probably needs little in the way of introduction (and promotion).
So let’s concentrate instead on some of the lesser-known wonders that this fabulous city has to offer. Here then is our pick of the top things to see and do in Granada – that aren't the Alhambra...
1. The Albayzin
For centuries, Moorish and Christian traditions coexisted harmoniously in Granada, and the Albayzin neighbourhood is a beautiful and atmospheric relic of this enlightened past.
The Alhambra and the Albayzin look across at one another, with each view being just as magnificent as the other. Meander through the narrow cobbled streets, pause in squares to admire the view or stop for a tapas and a cool drink.
Why visit:
Revel in the Moorish and Andalucian style that can be discovered around every narrow corner or small square. Take in the view and drink champagne overlooking the Alhambra Palace – El Huerto de Juan Ranas has a great terrace. (Calle Atarazana Vieja, 6.)
Tapas stops:
Taberna El Beso. Moroccan food in the surroundings of a beautiful little palace. The owner also has a small collection of antiques and objets from Morocco for sale. (Cuesta de San Gregorio, s/n, 18010 Granada.)
Higher in the Albayzin is Casa de los Mascarones. It's a little rough and ready, but offers great tapas with a very local Albayzin feel. (Calle Pagés, 20, 18010 Granada.)
Bar Kiki and Cafe Gabriel are two other favourites – see our guide to restaurants in Granada if you're looking for further recommendations.
2. Palacio Dar al-Horra
Deep in the Albayzin, this mini palace often gets overlooked. Once the home of Aixa, mother of Boabdil, the last Moorish king of Granada, it has magnificent views of the Albayzin and only takes a short time to visit.
The best way to visit Palacio Dar al-Horra is to buy a ticket to the Andalucian Monuments: Tickets.alhambra-patronato.es. This includes Palacio Dar al-Horra, Corral del Carbón, Bañuelo and Casa Morisca (Calle Horno de Oro). You can also buy tickets at the entrance of Palacio Dar al-Horra – it closes between 14.30-17-00hrs. (Callejón de las Monjas Albayzin, s/n, 18008 Granada.)
3. Cathedral & Capilla Real
If you've got more than a passing interest in Spanish history a visit to the Capilla Real, where the Catholic Kings Isabel and Ferdinand are buried, is a must.
The first Renaissance church in Spain, the mighty Granada Cathedral also forms part of the sample complex and can be visited alongside the Royal Chapel. (Calle Mariana Pineda, 21, 18009 Granada.)
Tapas stop:
To the rear of the Cathedral is the fresh food market, San Agustín. Here La Picatería is a great bet for a spot of tapas. (Plaza de San Agustín, S/N, 18001 Granada.)
4. Plaza Bib Rambla
Granada doesn’t have a plaza mayor (a main square) per se, but Plaza Bib Rambla more than ably fills the role.
As the first square of Granada, Plaza Bib Rambla has survived a long and varied history… from markets, jousting, bull fighting, religious processions and even executions, this square has seen it all. Now there are flower stalls, restaurants and street entertainers. Much more civilised.
Tapas Stop:
La Telefonica, just off the square. (Calle Arco de las Orejas, 1, 18001 Granada.)
5. Go Shopping
A memento or two from your travels is always a must. But what should you buy in Granada?
- Spices & tea: Not to be missed are the Moroccan-style tea shops and souvenir shops along Caldereria Nueva, close to Calle Elvira. In the lower part of the Albayzin, it’s a great place to buy some tea, spices or North African cakes.
- Ceramics: Granada (and Andalucia) has a long history of decorative ceramics, dating all the way back to the 15th century. You’ll notice decorative tiles throughout the city. The blue and green pomegranate design ('granada' means 'pomegranate' in Spanish) on vases and plates are a traditional decoration and make for a lovely gift. Ceramics are still produced in the city today at Fajalauza. (Calle Fajalauza 2, Albayzin Alto.)
- Leather: 5V Valverde is a speciality shop from yesteryear dealing in handmade leather shoes, boots and bags. Exquisite quality, one of the best cordwainers in southern Spain. (Calle Reyes Católicos, 32, 18009 Granada.)
- Jewellery: A great option for giftables is Platonica (Platonicajoyeria.com). Locally designed and made jewellery, some influenced by Nasrid culture. (Carrera del Darro, 8, 18010 Granada.)
Tapas stop:
Taberna 22 is a sunny little spot with a great atmosphere at the end of Caldereria Nueva. The tapas is, well... basic. But it's on one of the main thoroughfares from the centre of Granada to the Albayzin. (Plaza San Gregorio, 29, 18010 Granada.) After choosing your winter boots at 5V Valverde, stop at Casa de Vinos La Brujidera. (Calle Monjas del Carmen, 2, 18009 Granada.) Near Platonica, for tapas try La Tabernilla del Darro. (Puente de Espinosa, 15, 18010 Granada.) For a drink (after 20.00hrs) go to Huerto del Loro. (Cuesta de la Churra, 4, 18009 Granada.)6. water & granada – a tour
Water is a constant in the architecture of Granada, from shallow channels that cool houses to elaborate, babbling fountains. A tour is the best way to travel deeper and understand the inventive and intellectual complexity of Moorish water traditions in southern Spain.
On this tour you’ll take in sights such as the Aljibe del Rey (a well) and the Bañuelo (Arabic bath house). Contact our concierge for bespoke tours.
7. Rodriguez Acosta Foundation
While you’re up on the Alhambra hill, if you love architecture this carmen (a house with garden in Granada) is definitely worth a visit.
Owned by artist Rodriquez Acosta and built between 1916 and 1930, the building itself is an eclectic mix of styles, but the gardens and tunnels are absolutely fascinating.
It's worth bearing in mind that some tickets for the Alhambra include entrance to this lesser-known museum. During summer 2022 the museum has been closed for works; a new open date is to be confirmed. (Callejón Niño del Royo, 8, 18009 Granada.)
8. Corral del Carbón
Back in the city centre, head to the Corral del Carbon. This building dates back to the 14th century, when it was used as an inn for merchants of the silk trade, but over the years it's had many uses. There would have been hundreds of these buildings in Spain but, sadly, very few still stand today. For this reason it has great historic significance and is an excellent example of a Moorish construction in superb condition. Entrance is free and it’s open from Monday to Sunday from 9:00 to 20:00. (Calle Mariana Pineda, 21, 18009 Granada.)Tapas Stop:
Asador Corrala del Carbon - a characterful bar and restaurant; stop for tapas, not a meal. (Calle Mariana Pineda, 8, 18009 Granada.)9. Botanical Gardens
The Jardin Botanico de la Universidad de Granada is a small botanical garden in the centre of the city under five minutes' walk from the Cathedral. As botanical gardens go it’s perfectly pleasant enough, but it’s in a lovely corner of town and you can stroll through the university building, too. The area has a student feel, with a great selection of vintage clothes shops and fun tapas stops. (Calle Escuelas, n, 18001 Granada.)Tapas (or cocktail) stop:
Humo El Origen (Calle Escuelas, 2, 18001 Granada) or Lemon Rock, for a buzzy live music vibe (Calle Montalbán, 6, 18002 Granada).10. The Science Park
A great stop for kids is Granada's Parque de las Ciencias. It easily keeps little minds busy for a day with indoor/outdoor attractions, interactive play for all ages, and a biodome with animals. Closed Mondays. (Avenida de la Ciencia, s/n, 18006 Granada.)11. Flamenco
Cut Granada and it bleeds flamenco. And at the heart of that flamenco heritage is Sacromonte, a neighbourhood of cave houses just on the outskirts of the Albayzin. Sacromonte is famed for the 'Zambra' style of flamenco. This raw form of dance is often performed barefoot and is thought to have its origins in Morisco dance.Where to see flamenco in Granada?
Although Granada has this deep flamenco heritage, catching some of the real deal first hand can be a little harder. Our three picks to see flamenco are: Jardinesdezoraya.com, Laplateria.org.es and Casadelarteflamenco.com.12. MAKE FOR A Mirador
With its skyline spectacularly crowned by the Alhambra Palace, Granada was always going to be a city that's about the views.
Mirador San Nicolas and Placeta Cristo Azucenas are two large squares in the Albayzin neighbourhood with uninterrupted views of the Alhambra. Hang around as the moon rises from behind the Alhambra and watch as it changes colour from ochra to terracotta.
13. San Juan de Dios Basilica
This church is one for Baroque fans. With its intricate frescoes, it’s one of the finest examples of the architectural style to be found anywhere in Andalucia. (Calle San Juan de Dios, 19, 17, 18001 Granada.)
14. Sacromonte Abbey
Outside of Granada: Granada Province
15. La Cartuja
Another outstanding example of Spanish Baroque architecture, the Cartuja monastery is just a short drive outside Granada city. (Paseo de Cartuja, s/n, 18011 Granada.)16. Rio Verde
About an hour's drive to the south of the city, Rio Verde is an exceptional canyoning spot. A guide is necessary as wetsuits, ropes and protective equipment are needed.
Recommended guide: Localexperiences.es.
17. Las Alpujarras
Hidden away along incredible winding roads, this collection of 25 white mountain villages was once pretty much cut off from the outside world. Trevelez, the highest municipality in Spain, is 1476m above sea level and located at the foot of Mulhacen, the highest mountain in mainland Spain. Other Albujarras villages of note are Soportújar, Lanajaron and Pampaneira.18. Skiing
At the height of a sultry Granada summer it can be hard to believe that the winter might bring snow. But you can ski in the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains from December to April. See our full guide here.
19. Lecrin Valley
While it may be less well-known than the nearby Alpujarras, in our opinion this collection of 17 villages is more beautiful. They may not have any obvious gimmicks or the fame and visitors that come with it, but they also go about their rural business relatively untouched by tourism.20. Montefrio
National Geographic named this pretty town as having one of the best views in the world – and who are we to argue? It's got an atmospherically ruined Moorish castle and an impressive church, while just outside the town is Las Peñas de los Gitanos, which is home to some excellent examples of Megalithic constructions.21. Alhama de Granada
This strikingly handsome old town is perched precariously on the edge of a gorge. It’s famed for its natural spa baths just outside the town (rather more medical than luxury) and has a great walking route through the gorge if you like to stretch your legs.22. Vereda de la Estrella
And while we’re talking about walking... there are an awful lot of great hiking routes in and around Granada. One of particular note, La Vereda de la Estrella, is from the village of Güejar Sierra: a 10km linear hike, with a gentle slope, which climbs over the Genil River to the Sierra Nevada. For more information about where to eat in Granada, see our guide here. For villas in Granada province, see our collection. [post_title] => Top Things to See & Do in Granada (Besides the Alhambra) [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => things-see-do-granada [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2022-08-04 15:23:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2022-08-04 15:23:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theluxuryvillacollection.com/?p=242167 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) ) 1You might also like
Top Things to See & Do in Granada (Besides the Alhambra)
The Alhambra: crowning the city of Granada, this stunningly decorative fortress-palace complex is one of Spain's most instantly recognisable sights. But it's also the country's most visited…