Spain Archives - Page 3 of 8

The Best Time to Visit Spain

August 9, 2021August 9, 2021chiracshah

When is the best time to visit Spain?

Summer is certainly one of the best times to visit Spain, thanks to its high temperatures, and beautiful flora and fauna busting into life. Autumn is also a popular time of year to visit, as the intense heat of the summer starts to slowly fade and popular beach resorts are less crowded, but still warm. Winter temperatures in Spain rarely fall below 10°C, so if you like to be out and about, it can still remain pleasant for sightseeing, especially in the south of the country.

Summer (June – August)

The summer season is peak tourist time in the country, as many flock to beaches and attractions for their summer holidays. Many visitors come from other countries in Europe, the UK and the United States. Beach-side restaurants will be buzzing, and many local businesses will be open for longer hours. Temperatures in June have lows of 13°C and highs of 28°C. By the time August is in full swing, daily temperatures are 25°C, with mild evenings and highs of 31°C during the hottest days. San Fermin, also known as the running of the bulls, is a festival that takes place in Pamplona from the 6^th– 14^th July. Feria de Malaga is also a festival worth checking out, and is one of Andalusia’s biggest summer festivals, with concerts, dancing and delicious food.

Winter (December – March)

If you’re wondering when is it cheapest to fly to Spain, booking flights in winter will get you there during the low season. You’ll find that places are mostly empty of tourists, while beaches are ideal for long walks in the crisp weather and sunshine. The north of Spain can get a bit chilly, with temperatures reaching between 5-10°C, but thankfully further south, things are much warmer, with the Andalusia region reaching around 15°C during the day. And don’t forget the Canary Islands , each offering year-round sunshine, excellent sandy beaches and a variety of activities to keep the whole family entertained. You’ll need to pack a coat and layers if you plan on exploring attractions and national parks during this time of year, but thankfully you won’t need to queue for entry. There are many notable festivities taking place in winter, including the Three Kings Day celebrations on 6^th January, while carnival month starts in February to mark the start of Lent. Expect plenty of colour, street food and flamenco dancing in major towns and cities around the country. In March, take a trip to Valencia for Las Fallas – a week-long celebration that is famous for large crafted figures that are set on fire.

Spring (April – May)

Around this time, temperatures in Spain are heating up nicely. In southern regions of the country, you should be able to start sunbathing and enjoying the heated pool in your Villa Marta Sol! Spring is an ideal time to explore parks and city gardens while everything is in bloom. Attractions such as museums and cathedrals are also less crowded, with fewer tourists and locals because schools in the area are still in term time. If you are staying in Andalusia and can travel to Seville by car, visit the city two weeks after Easter for the Feria de Abril festival, which celebrates the city’s traditions and people. Temperatures in the southern regions during April can reach highs of up to 24°C.

Autumn (September-November)

Temperatures in Spain in September are still very warm, with the mercury climbing up to around 28°C. As the month progresses and October begins, daily temperatures tend to hit around 23°C, making it an ideal time to enjoy the beach, without the crowds. As November creeps in, evenings become a tad chilly and you may need a jacket as temperatures dip to 15°C. It may be a bit too cold for swimming in the sea or hitting the beach, but many attractions are still open all year round. Autumn is famous for La Rioja hosting its grape harvest celebration, as well as the Festa de la Mercé in Barcelona.

Explore our collection of luxury villa properties in Spain for a real home-from-home during your travels.

Food Guide: Spain

August 9, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

Paella

This dish is most common in the Valencia region, but is also served up on Spain’s southern coast. If you’re looking for traditional Spanish food while enjoying your villa holiday, it really doesn’t get much better than this. Tuck into sticky, smoky Calasparra or bomba rice with chorizo sausage, chicken, seafood, butter beans and green beans. Saffron is included in the paella sauce to give the dish an overall fragrant richness, making it one of the best foods to try in Spain.

Gazpacho

A staple in Spanish cuisine – this is much more than just a tomato-style soup. Only the sweetest vine-ripened tomatoes are used, along with peppers, cucumber, garlic and seasoning, which are blended together before being chilled. Drizzle over some olive oil and get ready to plunge some home-made bread into this bowl of refreshing healthy goodness. In the Andalucía region of southern Spain, gazpacho is a common dish in summer and there is often a jug or menu offering it in tapas bars up and down the coast. A thicker version of gazpacho is called salmorejo, and is served topped with chunks of Ibérico ham as a garnish.

Gambas al ajillo

Tapas dishes and getting the whole family (or a large group of friends) around the table sharing multiple small plates is an integral part of Spanish social culture. Gambas al ajillo translates to ‘garlic shrimp’, and is a common staple in tapas bars. Savour large juicy prawns with a garlic-based olive oil sauce. It’s delicious served with fresh crusty bread. This is a common tapas dish, served in a small earthenware pot in restaurants. To make it back at your Villa Mi Sueno before dining on your outdoor terrace, fry up some local prawns in sliced garlic and olive oil before tossing in some sliced green chillis. Serve with bread from your local bakery.

Tortilla Española

Despite the name ‘tortilla’, this is actually an egg-based famous Spanish food that divides many in how it is made. Potatoes and onions are slowly fried in olive oil, before being mixed with beaten eggs. You can add anything you like as the omelette begins to take shape, although there are some purists who claim that adding onion is a culinary crime! Popular toppings are mushrooms, ham, chorizo, and courgettes. If you’re looking for a quick and easy brunch to make in the kitchen of your Villa Cortijo Viejo before spending the day relaxing in your private pool, this is an ideal choice.

Patatas bravas

Perhaps the most common dish on the tapas menu (and the most popular), patatas bravas is a must-try when it comes to Spanish cuisine. Essentially, the dish involves frying potato and then adding a sweet and smoky tomato sauce and herbs. In Spain’s capital of Madrid, the sauce is created using Spanish paprika (pimentón), flour, olive oil and chicken stock – but no tomatoes. Recipes vary, and some Spaniards insist on adding red wine or fino sherry to round out the flavour. While there doesn’t seem to be one exact way of making patatas bravas, many locals keep their methods and ingredients strictly to themselves.

Pisto

This is essentially a Spanish version of the French dish, ratatouille. You’ll find that it is most common in the La Mancha region of Spain, and in countryside towns and villages in central Spain. You’ll need plenty of time if you’re going to make this dish the Spanish way. Peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes and courgettes are slowly fried in olive oil on a low heat. Although traditionally served as a starter or side dish, you can serve it as a main meal with the addition of chorizo sausage or eggs – a perfect pairing with red wine and crusty bread.

Discover some of the best traditional Spanish food on a memorable villa holiday to Andalucia, the Costa Blanca or Costa Del Sol. Browse our selection of premium properties in Spain.

Best Places to Visit in Spain

August 3, 2021August 3, 2021chiracshah

From sun-drenched palm fringed beaches and bustling resorts to quiet mountain villages and a laid-back siesta culture, Spain has plenty to offer visitors looking to enjoy a relaxing holiday soaking up the sun. Here are some of the best places to go in Spain, and things to do.

Nerja, Andalucia

A former fishing village, Nerja has kept all its old-world traditional history and charm, with whitewashed houses and winding cobbled streets greeting visitors. It has a relaxed and charming feel that is typical of inland Spain, while expressing all the character and vibe of a coastal resort. Visit the Nerja caves – a must-see attraction that is home to the world’s oldest cave paintings created by Neanderthals, as well as Moorish currency and Roman pottery that evoke the colourful history of this region.

Take a day out from your private Villa Cantera and drive to the white-washed village of Frigiliana – considered one of the best places to visit in Spain and one of the most stunning villages in all of Andalucia, with accolades such as ‘The Prettiest Village in Spain’ to its name. Here you’ll find quiet streets bursting with colourful flowers, fragrant herbs and plenty of local shops in which to pick up souvenirs like local lace, olive oil and pottery.

Those who want a day on the beach will love Maro beach, which was voted the best in Andalucia in 2013, and the second best beach in the entire country. Expect gorgeous views, crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkelling and easy access for families. If you’re looking for a beach that is quieter and more secluded, head to neighbouring Caleta de Maro.

Jávea, Costa Blanca

Situated between Valencia and Alicante, Jávea is one of the best places to holiday in Spain and boasts over 20km of coastline and plenty of beaches where you can top up your tan. Head to Arenal beach, which you’ll certainly want to visit more than once thanks to its Blue Flag status and abundance of sports facilities, children’s playgrounds and nearby shops and restaurants, where you can pick up local tapas, paella or international dishes. It is very easy to while away a few hours while the azure waters caress the shoreline.

Also worth visiting is Jávea Old Town, which was once surrounded by protective walls and still contains remains of old former fortifications. The town itself has a unique and rather unusual layout, which has remained since the Middle Ages. Spend a few hours wandering around the stunning whitewashed houses, local churches and walls featuring local ‘tosca’ sandstone.

If you feel like a hike, head to Montgó Natural Park which rises 753 metres above the town. Bring some comfortable walking shoes and climb the slope to the top of the summit for some incredible views of the surrounding bay and beyond.

Marbella, Costa Del Sol

Arguably one of the best places to go on holiday in Spain, it is easy to see why so many holidaymakers visit Marbella every year. If you’re a beach lover – you’ll want to book Villa Pedrosol , where you are just a few steps away from Real Zaragoza Beach, with the private gate to your property located right on the sand! When you can tear yourself away from your beautiful property and the surrounding beach, Marbella is a resort that boasts plenty of things to do. Hire a private catamaran or yacht from the harbour for a day of sailing, head to one of the resort’s luxurious high-end beach clubs for an evening of dancing and gourmet food, book a day trip to discover the breathtaking city architecture of Seville, or indulge in a tapas foodie tour around Marbella Old Town.

Discover some of the best places to visit in Spain on a family villa holiday. Browse our collection of premium Spanish holiday villas.

Best Beaches in Spain

July 26, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

Whether you like to swim, snorkel or sunbathe, spending some quality down time on the beach is what holidays in Spain are all about. After all, the Costa Blanca itself stretches for 200km, with 170 beaches to choose from. From quiet cobbled coves on tranquil islands to buzzing mainland shores just steps away from clubs, bars and resorts, there’s a beach to suit any kind of traveller. Here’s our guide to some of the best beach holidays in Spain.

Playa la Granadella, Javea (Costa Blanca)

Ideal for couples and families looking for a more laid-back pace, this Blue Flag beach offers stunning views for the most memorable holiday snaps, giving visitors one of the best beach holidays in Spain. Situated between two rocky outcrops with a lush pine forest as its backdrop, this beach has been previously used to shoot Hollywood films, such as My life in Ruins and The Cold Light of Day, starring Bruce Willis. When you look at its beautiful white powdery sand and crystal-clear waters, it isn’t hard to see why. The calm waters here are alive with tropical fish and other aquamarine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling and other water sports like banana boating. After a day of relaxation on the beach, head home to your nearby Villa Trufa for some relaxation and dinner on your private terrace overlooking the pool.

Playa de La Malagueta, Malaga (Costa Del Sol)

Commonly given the accolade of one of the best beaches in Southern Spain, Playa de La Malagueta is difficult to miss thanks to the famous Malagueta sculpture that welcomes you on approach. Ideal for those who want to be just a stone’s throw from the facilities of the city and its shops, bars and restaurants, Playa de La Malagueta is very popular with locals and tourists alike, with a vibrant buzz that stretches its entire length of 1,200 metres. If you need to take time out from the heat, the palm trees offer plenty of shade, and parasols and sunbeds can be rented for relaxation. Make a day of it and grab some lunch in the middle of the day at one of the many nearby places to eat offering espeto (grilled fish on skewers). If you don’t have a car, you can reach the beach via one of the buses that make a stop at Paseo de Parque.

Playa de Corralejo (Fuerteventura)

Spain boasts some of the most beautiful islands in the world, including Fuerteventura. If you feel like venturing further from your luxury Villa Lugano, the resort of Corralejo boasts no less than five beautiful sand dune beaches, offering calm seas for swimming and snorkelling, and plenty of water sports to keep everyone entertained. Because the beaches are vast and cover an expansive stretch across several kilometres, this is the ideal place to come for some down time and to escape crowds. That said, there are plenty of services and amenities close by, including restaurants, bars and shops.

Playa las Teresitas (Tenerife)

Known as one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Tenerife, Playa las Teresitas is situated on the island’s northeast coast. Featuring soft, golden sand and swaying palm trees, it is an oasis of calm and offers stunning views of the surrounding bay. A breakwater structure has been constructed to keep the waters calm, making it an ideal beach for families with small children. Stronger swimmers also have barrier-free access. The beach features volleyball courts, aerobics and yoga classes, sun loungers, showers, toilets and a host of bars and restaurants offering local and international fare.

Enjoy one of the best beach holidays in Spain and browse our selection of premium holiday villas in mainland Spain, the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands.

3 reasons to book a holiday villa in the Canary Islands this year

March 12, 2021March 12, 2021chiracshah

The Canary Islands lie in the Atlantic Ocean off North Africa’s west coast. Basking in warm sunny weather all year round, millions flock to this popular Spanish archipelago annually – and it’s not hard to see why. Here are three reasons to book a villa holiday to Lanzarote, Fuerteventura or Tenerife in 2021:

Incredible volcanic landscapes

The Canary Islands are volcanic in origin, which means they’re full of spectacular and intriguing landscapes to explore.

Lanzarote is home to the lunar-like Timanfaya National Park, formed by huge 18^th century eruptions. Here you’ll find jaw-dropping geological phenomena like craters, tunnels and geysers. And you can even ride around on a camel!

Fuerteventura boasts a string of 50,000-year-old volcanoes to the south west of Corralejo. One of the best preserved is Calderon Hondo with its impressive 70-metre deep crater. It’s an easy walk along well-marked paths to the top, where you’ll be treated with great views of other volcanoes and the island’s north.

Last but not least, in Tenerife you’ll discover magnificent Mount Teide – the highest peak in the Canaries and one of the world’s largest volcanoes. The rewarding hike to the summit takes around 5 hours, but the less energetic or patient can hop in a cable car and enjoy the stunning vistas within 8 minutes.

Stunning sandy beaches

One of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Lanzarote is Papagayo Beach, on the island’s southern tip. Here you can feel fine white sand between your toes and marvel at the underwater world by snorkelling in the turquoise seas.

To the north of Fuerteventura is the Grandes Playas de Corralejo (Corralejo’s Big Beaches), a 9 kilometre stretch of heavenly golden sands flanked by the largest dunes in the Canary Islands. What’s more, you can view the islands of Lanzarote and Los Lobos from the shoreline.

Finally, Tenerife offers Playa del Duque in the popular resort of Costa Adeje on the south west coast. This top-notch Blue Flag beach is situated in a small bay, with white sands, crystal clear water and a lovely seafront promenade.

Fun outdoor adventures

If sunbathing all day long isn’t your thing, there’s no shortage of fantastic activities to keep you active and entertained in the Canary Islands.

In Lanzarote, you can saddle up and enjoy a horse ride through the island’s interior and coastal areas. Lanzarote A Caballo offers excursions catering for the whole family, from total novices to seasoned pros.

For those who want to practise their swing, Fuerteventura is the perfect place to do so. Fuerteventura Golf Club, the island’s first 18-hole golf course, boasts beautiful ocean views, lakes, palm trees, streams and exceptionally well-kept lawns.

Want to get up close and personal with marine life? Tenerife has a network of dive centres where you can do just that. The calm warm waters are great for first timers, and there are even sunken ships to explore!

Don’t miss out on your dream holiday. Check out our great range of villas in the Canary Islands now.

6 reasons your next villa holiday should be in Lanzarote

August 2, 2019July 23, 2019chiracshah

6 reasons your next villa holiday should be in Lanzarote

Still not sorted this year’s summer getaway? Why not consider the fourth largest of the Canary Islands? With over 3 million tourists flocking to its shores each year, Lanzarote has something for adventure hunters, relaxation seekers and everyone in between. Here are 6 great reasons you should book a villa holiday to this fantastic Spanish destination right now.

Endless sunshine

It really doesn’t matter when you visit Lanzarote. The island has more than 300 days of sunshine every year thanks to its proximity to Africa and few tall mountains. If you book your villa holiday for August, you’ll bask in average daily temperatures of around 30°C (86°F). And there’ll be very little rainfall to dampen your holiday spirits, either.

Wonderful beaches

Lanzarote boasts mile upon mile of brilliant beaches. One of the most beautiful and popular is Papagayo Beach on the south coast, which offers glorious white sands and snorkel-friendly turquoise waters. But if you’re the more adventurous sort, wild and windy Famara Beach in the northwest is a surfer’s paradise with 5 kilometres of perfect waves to catch and ride.

Amazing landscapes

Known as the “Island of Volcanoes”, no trip to Lanzarote would be complete without exploring the spectacular Timanfaya National Park. Created by enormous eruptions in the 18^th century, this otherworldly interior region is full of awe-inspiring geological phenomena like craters, tunnels and geysers. You can even take a camel ride through the lunar-like landscape or enjoy a restaurant meal cooked by geothermal heat!

Delicious cuisine

The Canary Islands have plenty of local delicacies to tickle your taste buds, and Lanzarote is no exception. One of its most famous dishes is Papas Arrugadas, or “wrinkled potatoes”. These small potatoes are boiled skin-on in salty water, before being served with green (garlicky) or red (spicy) Mojo sauce. Other popular and mouth-watering offerings are Lapas (limpets), Pulpo a la Plancha (grilled octopus) and Estofado (meat stew).

Fabulous festivals

With a year-round calendar of exciting fiestas and festivals, there’s always a reason to celebrate on Lanzarote. If you visit in August, you’ll get to experience Fiesta de San Ginés – the annual major festival in honour of the island’s patron saint. You’ll find all sorts of fun in the capital of Arrecife, such as parades, processions and traditional island sports like Canarian sailing and wrestling. Not to mention an amazing firework display on the beach for the grand finale!

Great holiday villas

There’s no shortage of fantastic places to stay on Lanzarote. And with more than 160 holiday villas across six resorts, you’ll be spoilt for choice with our super selection here at Villas Plus. From cosy retreats for couples, to impressive properties big enough for the extended family, you’re bound to find exactly what you’re looking for. Even better, we still have some villas available for summer 2019.

So what are you waiting for? Browse our holiday villas in Lanzarote and book your summer escape now.

Puerto del Carmen or Playa Blanca?

July 10, 2019July 10, 2019chiracshah

Being a returning visitor to Lanzarote I should admit I had some expectations. I’m happy to confirm that I was not disappointed.

Playa Blanca with its picturesque coastal walks, sea front location and variety of coffee shop, restaurants and bars make it ideal for those looking for a quiet getaway. We didn’t spend too much time here as my previous visit was spent relaxing and walking along the seafront all the way to the lighthouse.

Puerto Del Carmen being the main resort and is 15 minutes’ drive from the airport makes it ideal for those not looking to drive or hire a car. Not only do you have everything you need within walking distance, you also have great access to the transport system ,which gives you great access to the rest of Lanzarote.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple ,with friends or family your grandparents or children this resort can offer something for everyone. Please refer to our handy resort guide for things to do.

For a day away from the main strip you can visit Puerto Calero – an upmarket area and harbour with a selection of bars, cafes and restaurants with a selection of high end shops to distract you from the calming harbour views.

If I had a sporty bone in my body I could see myself running along the beach or cycling, but let’s be honest that’s not me. I like to relax and enjoy the sun while watching those more dedicated work up a sweat.

At night Puerto del Carmen comes to life, the bars compete and the touts are out ,but not to bother you, of course they are there to tempt you into the bars and restaurants, but once they know you’re not interested or that you have already eaten most will just say hello and check your enjoying your time in resort.

Despite the liveliness at night the noise isn’t too loud and it’s unlikely you will hear any wherever you’re staying, as I was one street behind the main strip and couldn’t hear a peep.

After reading this back, I guess I am still undecided and to be honest I’m rather torn as both have a great feel to them and I would return to both.

For those of you who have read this in the hope of having the ultimate question answered I’m sorry to disappoint ,but let’s put it out there … which is better Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen?

5 things to do when in Lanzarote

1. Relax – there’s no excuse…. you’ve worked hard for this time away and you deserve to be able to do nothing but relax.

2. Coastal walks- If you’re like me and exercise is a chore, a slow walk taking in the views is something even your Nana will enjoy.

3. Beaches: Playa Grande Beach which is 1km long a sandy beach with the Avenida de Las Playas promenade can take you past some more quieter coves. Playa Flamingo is pretty with a protective rock barrier making it ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

Tip: Don’t be fooled by the weather if cloudy. Always protect yourself and cream up I learnt the hard way.

4. Timanfaya national park aka ‘Fire Mountains’ with its ‘Martian’ landscape which when at the top of Timanfaya. Only then do you get the full sense of how much of the island was affected by the last eruption. Ideal for a day out and fun for all the family. The coach tour around the craters is only €10.00 pp and gives you a chance to see the best views on the island of the impact area.

5. Day trip to Fuerteventura- Hop on a ferry from Playa Blanca port for a 25-minute ferry crossing which usually depart every 2 hours for about €14.00 each way. Explore the island of Fuerteventura and experience what this isle has to offer and get away for the day to maybe do some shopping.

Tip: For those who suffer from sea sickness the larger ferries are impacted less by natures forces but this is dependent on the weather.

Top Tip: When excited about your villa and Facetime is in use, ALWAYS look where you are walking and not into the phone screen. This avoids unnecessary accidents as I discovered for myself.

Written by Jamie from our Travel Team.

We LOVE ISLAND Life in Majorca

July 8, 2019July 8, 2019chiracshah

Are you glued to your TV watching the Love Island celebs get up to their cheeky antics in the Majorcan sun? If the show’s got you dreaming of a villa holiday to this amazing Balearic island, here are four ways to enjoy life out there.

Stay in the charming yet stylish resort of Cala d’Or

Once a traditional Spanish fishing village, this family-friendly resort on the island’s south east coast fuses relaxed charm with upmarket style. As well as picturesque cobbled streets, golden sandy beaches and fun activities for the kids, you’ll find endless chic bars, eateries and shops in the stunning yacht-filled marina.

If you’re looking for the perfect villa holiday in Cala d’Or, check out Villa Marino with its private pool, serene gardens and beautiful countryside views. Or take a look at the spacious Villa Ses Arcades which boasts a great central location and wonderful sun terrace for dining al fresco.

Discover a slice of Caribbean paradise at Es Trenc

A short drive away from Cala d’Or is Es Trenc, the most famous beach in Majorca. This trendy part of the south east coastline is often likened to the Caribbean thanks to its two kilometres of powdery white sand and bright turquoise water.

Es Trenc is quite remote and not part of a resort, which gives it an unspoilt and natural ambience. It’s a little more peaceful than the more commercial beaches thanks to fewer noisy watersports and restaurants. And it’s popular with nudists, so head to the marked sections if you fancy shedding your swimwear!

Visit the laidback ancient town of Pollensa

For relaxing holiday in northern Majorca, Pollensa is a great choice. This historical rural town is full of narrow streets, old buildings, interesting museums and quaint shops. It’s also home to one of Majorca’s best markets, where you can buy everything from beautiful local crafts to delicious fresh produce every Sunday.

If you want to stay near Pollensa, Villa Bennassar is a top pick with its spectacular mountain backdrop, private pool and traditional style. Or Villa Bon Reco is well worth a look if you’re after lovely hilly views and a secluded lawn for a spot of sunbathing.

Tickle your taste buds at Ponderosa Beach

The popular Ponderosa Beach is considered one of the top chiringuitos (beach clubs) in Spain. Situated on Playa de Muro on the north coast, this fashionable restaurant has a cool vibe with colourful shutters and white furniture.

Sink your feet into the sand as you savour mouth-watering Mediterranean dishes like seafood paella or linguine pasta. And then wash it all down with a tasty cocktail while admiring the ocean vista.

Want to follow in the footsteps of the Love Islanders for your next villa holiday? Check out our fantastic range of villas to rent in Majorca.

On the Gourmet Trail. Spain: Paella

July 3, 2019chiracshah

This delicious dish is from Spain and is the ideal meal for a night in with your friends and family.

Ingredients

4 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 red pepper, chopped

125g (4¼ oz) fresh chorizo sausage, casing removed and diced

2 skinless, boneless chicken breast fillets, diced

350g (12 oz) uncooked Arborio rice

1.25 litres (2 pints) chicken stock

100ml (4 fl oz) white wine

1 sprig fresh thyme, leaves only

1 pinch saffron

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 squid, cleaned and diced

2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped

75g (3 oz) frozen garden peas

12 large prawns, peeled and deveined

500g (1 1/4 lb) mussels, cleaned and debearded

Generous handful chopped parsley

8 wedges lemon to garnish

Method

1. Heat olive oil in paella pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic and pepper; cook and stir for a few minutes. Add chorizo, chicken and rice; cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in 1/2 of the stock, wine, thyme leaves and saffron. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to the boil and simmer for 15 minutes; stir occasionally.

2. Taste the rice and check to see if it is cooked. If the rice is uncooked, stir in 1/3 of the remaining stock. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally. Stir in additional stock as necessary. Cook until rice is done.

3. Stir in squid, tomatoes and peas. Cook for 2 minutes. Arrange prawns and mussels on top. Cover with aluminium foil and leave for 3 to 5 minutes.

4. Remove the foil and sprinkle parsley over the top. Serve in paella pan garnished with lemon wedges.

Cala Galdana: Menorca

June 24, 2019June 24, 2019chiracshah

I have called Menorca my home for over 15 years, and Cala Galdana is without a doubt one of my favourite spots. A combination of many factors makes it, in my opinion, a little piece of paradise. Think golden sand and the crystal-clear turquoise waters, towering pine trees and dramatic limestone cliffs. This beautiful resort really does have something for everyone.

Cala Galdana is the perfect family resort and is always one of my first stops with visiting family and friends. It has a horseshoe shaped bay of gentle waters ideal for even the youngest members of the family to enjoy a paddle. There is plenty to keep the little ones busy, including the Tobogan restaurant on the main strip, which is a firm favourite with my kids. It has two water slides, allowing the kids to tire themselves out whilst you enjoy a cool drink and a few snacks. There is also a crazy golf course and a play park if the kids ever manage to grow weary of the slides!

I often head to Cala Galdana to enjoy an afternoon picnic with friends, whilst the children paddle until the sun goes down. There are large picnic benches on the beach, nestling under the shade of the pine trees. However, if you prefer to treat yourselves, there is a popular restaurant perched on the edge of a rocky outcrop, where you can enjoy unbeatable views of the bay whilst sampling freshly caught sea food with cool, crisp white wine or try some local tapas accompanied by fruity, refreshing sangria.

After a day relaxing on the beach, if you fancy doing something different, the twice weekly equestrian show at Son Martorellet is situated less than 5km from Cala Galdana. I have taken my family numerous times, and it never fails to be both spectacular and enchanting. It is not just for horse lovers, and it is described as “A complete experience that touches the hearts and souls of all audiences”. The show is called “Somni” meaning “dream” in the local Menorca language. Magnificent stallions and their talented riders act out the story of a girl´s dreams and her longing to own a horse which soon becomes her best friend, embarking on many adventures. For true equestrian enthusiasts like myself, Son Martorellet also offers exclusive behind the scenes visits.

For the more adventurous holiday maker, Cami de Cavalls is the natural bridle path which skirts the whole island. From Cala Galdana, you can head in two directions, East to Cala Mitjana or West to Cala Macarella. Both walks saunter through a contrast of shady wooded areas as well as dramatic costal stretches. They are suitable for even the younger members of the family, with my younger son, aged 6, easily managing the longer route to Cala Macarella which is approximately 3km. The route to Cala Macarella should definitely be done in the early morning or late afternoon, when the heat of the Mediterranean sun is not so intense. The route to Cala Mitjana is shorter, and the majority of the route is along a well paved and shaded path, which winds down to the beach. Don’t forget that the way back is uphill though! The beach itself is spectacular, with the limestone cliffs overhanging the turquoise waters. Both Cala Macarella and Cala Mitjana are unspoilt “virgin” beaches, which is the reason for their appeal, however remember that this also means there are very limited facilities, with one beach bar at Cala Macarella and nothing at all at Cala Mitjana, so take plenty of food and water on your walk.

If you prefer the open waters to dry land, there is a wide selection of water activities for all the family. I love hiring a kayak to explore a multitude of hidden caves and outlets around the bay. Or if you wish to head further afield, a round trip from Cala Galdana to Cala Mitjana and back should take approximately 2 hours. If its family fun you are looking for, my kids adore hiring out one of the floating pedalos, complete with its own slide!

After all the exertion, let the rest of the family head back to the villa for an afternoon swim, and book yourself into the Audax hotel’s Blue Spa for a bit of pampering. It boasts a full thermal spa circuit, as well as an array of treatments. The perfect way to unwind!

But it’s not all about the kids, as there is plenty to keep the grown-ups busy too! Cala Galdana has a good choice of restaurants and souvenir shops, as well as bars that are open until late, such as the popular Mississippi bar. Or head to the trendy chill-out lounge, Francesca, for an early evening cocktail.

Cala Galdana is home to 18 spectacular Villa Plus villas, including 7 which are new to the Villa Plus 2019 programme. Myself and my colleagues are delighted that they have been named after some of our children: Alexia, Erik, Ethan, Lidia, Nicolas, Olivia and Poppy.

Have a browse on our website to find the perfect villa to suit your needs, but I can guarantee that the resort of Cala Galdana will be an all-round winner!

So, in a nutshell, I just can’t wait for family and friends to visit us again in Menorca this year so that I can proudly show off this perfect piece of paradise on the island that I am proud to call home.

Post written by Caroline, part of our Villa Representative team in Menorca.