Category: Spain

Activity holidays in Canary Islands for villa lovers

Activity holidays in Canary Islands for villa lovers

The Canary Islands are simply filled with excitement and adventure. Located off Africa’s north-western coast, this Spanish archipelago packs in diverse landscapes perfect for thrill seekers.

Alongside top-tier weather, the island comprises picturesque beaches ideal for water sports, like surfing and jet skiing. When you stay in a property near the coastline you’re able to really make the most of the scenery on offer, so without further ado, here’s why activity holidays in Canary Islands are so well suited to villa lovers. Let’s start with the largest island of the archipelago, Tenerife…

Tenerife

There are some otherworldly landscapes just waiting to be explored in Tenerife, so why not hire a car to help uncover the island’s more distant hotspots? Staying in a villa means you can pack bigger pack lunches – that way you’ll have all the more energy for when you’re exploring.

Activity lovers can delve into the Anaga rainforest and up into the Anaga mountains. Alternatively, venture to Mount Teide, the highest mountain in Spain, and the surrounding Teide National Park. Take the cable car to the upper station and marvel over the panoramic views of Tenerife, or wander through the park at your own pace. Once you’re there, enjoy a few pre-made sandwiches and replenish for the trip back down.

Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is packed with inspiring cycling routes. Get ready to brave big climbs – your efforts will be rewarded with stunning backdrops at their summit. This is where holiday rentals come into their own, allowing you to keep your beloved bicycle inside each night and get it ready for the coming day’s ride.

Head to the northern tip of the island and cycle amongst pretty towns like Corralejo and La Oliva. As well as dreamy strips of sand, you’ll encounter desert roads worthy of a Wild West film. For off-road delights, cycle to the rugged Jandia Natural Park. Otherwise, Lobos Island, a small islet north of Fuerteventura, is worth visiting if you fancy a spot of snorkelling or scuba diving.

Lanzarote

Similar to the other Canary Islands, Lanzarote is full of plenty of activities for many different preferences. Beat the crowds at the restaurants and prepare a delicious packed lunch beforehand so you can stay at places for longer.

First up, get your snorkels at the ready and dive beneath the ocean to see the Museo Atlántico. Situated 12 metres underwater, it’s made up of a collection of submerged sculptures which you can swim around at your leisure.

When you’re back above sea level, take a walk around the renowned Timanfaya National Park. You’ll come across geyser displays and a restaurant that uses geothermal heat from a volcano to cook your food! You can explore the park by foot, but if you’re in search of a truly memorable day out, hire a camel to take you around. Not only will this save you the effort of walking, it’ll make for a few unbeatable photo opportunities!

Activity holidays in the Canary Island guarantee many things – scenery, thrills and unrivalled experiences being but three of them. With that all in mind, take a look at some holiday rentals across the archipelago.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

Best Mediterranean places to visit for cycling holidays

Best Mediterranean places to visit for cycling holidays

There’s something idyllic about cycling along a clifftop track while the sea gently crashes beneath you. Apart from that and the whizz of your hubs, the world seems mysteriously quiet. It’s moments like this that make cycling holidays in the Mediterranean region so appealing.

Between Spain’s Costa del Sol and Cyprus’ eastern shores you’ll find some of the best Mediterranean places to visit for cycling holidays. Here are a few that any cyclist should tick off.

Spain – Costa del Sol

Like the name suggests, Spain’s Sun Coast largely makes for brightly-lit rides which, depending on when you visit, can get a little hot, so bring a hydration pack! One such Costa del Sol cycle starts from the small hillside town of Mijas.

Study a few maps then make for La Cala Golf Course, a popular spot for golfers that’s south of Mijas. The route entails a mixture of arid single-track and two-lane roads, suited to either hybrid bikes or cross-country models. Like all great bike rides, it’s a mixture of ups, for a challenge, and downs, which leave you with a little more time to enjoy the stunning Andalusian views. Once you get to the river near the golf course, stop for a picnic, made up from the kitchen of your self-catering holiday rental, then prepare to do it all again on your way back to Mijas.


Image by Antonio, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Spain – Costa Blanca

Many professional cycling teams use the Costa Blanca as a training hub in the winter. The smooth surfaces here appeal to road cyclists who thrive on gradual climbs, speedy descents and flat stretches.

One of the most renowned climbs in the region is known as the Coll de Rates. You can easily access it from nearby towns, like Javea and Calpe. From Coll de Rates, make your way to the village of Parcent, where the route starts off with a light incline until you reach the summit. Soak up the verdant views of the surrounding region then replenish with a refreshing drink and get ready for a leisurely cruise back down.


Image by Phillip Capper, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Greek islands – Crete

If you’re ever struggling to tackle a Greek hill, promise yourself a big platter of mezes when you finish your ride to spur you on. Other than the end-of-ride meal, however, Greek island cycling makes for unbeatable holiday memories on routes you’ll always remember, many of which are found on Crete. A lot of Cretan roads are large and quiet, too, resulting in a wholly tranquil experience when you’re speeding across the island.

While it’s perfectly easy to trundle along these roads at your own pace, a real test of endurance is to brave the near-90km journey from Chania through the inland hills to the stunning village of Kallikratis. From here you’ll be able to see much of the island’s enticing coastline. Make sure you bring a camera, then capture the moment with a panoramic shot which’ll always remind you of your Crete cycling holiday. If you don’t fancy doing it over again, though, get a holiday companion to drive over and take you back to your villa rental.


Image by Andy Montgomery, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Cyprus – Paphos

Cyprus serves cyclists a selection of island routes for many different preferences. The city of Paphos and the surrounding resorts of Coral Bay are home to road and off-road paths suited to everyone from the everyday commuter to the endurance junkie who craves another fix of kilometre-rich coastal roads.

For a real challenge, cycle into the Troodos mountain range from Paphos. The journey itself is roughly 65 kilometres and is mostly downhill, making for a highly enjoyable and breezy trip. It’s suited to both road and off-road cyclists – just make sure your trusty steed is fitted with a good set of brakes for when you need to stop!

Take the time to soak up gorgeous Cypriot views, like that of the Diarizos river, which you’ll encounter along the way. It’s the fourth largest river on the island, although every twist and turn makes for a serene spot for a sandwich and a bottle of water. Failing that, you can always dip your feet in the river to help cool off before hitting the road again!


Image by Tomasz Huczek, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Mediterranean destinations have all the right ingredients for a cycling holiday – sun, scenery and a fair whack of sandy strips where you can put your feet up after a long day of pedalling!

Thinking about bringing your beloved bicycle on your next getaway? Here’s how to go about taking it onto an aeroplane.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

Good snorkelling holidays for villa-loving travellers

Good snorkelling holidays for villa-loving travellers

Holiday rentals provide the perfect basecamp for snorkelling getaways. Hiring a villa gives you the freedom to prepare your own packed lunches and dinners, and you’ll have plenty of room to store your snorkels, flippers and wetsuits.


Image by Lance, used under CC License (CC by 2.0) 

Good snorkelling holidays unlock a country’s most enthralling secrets. Pack your underwater camera and get ready to delve deep in some of these top destinations…

Costa del Sol, Spain

Costa del Sol is blessed with tepid waters bustling with marine life. On top of that, there’s plenty of sun-kissed beaches where you can set up camp before a few hours of snorkelling. Visit Maro beach, near the town of Nerja, and try to find its fascinating underwater cave if you’re feeling daring.

The shores surrounding Las Yucas and La Viborilla beaches, near Benalmadena, house a wide range of fish such as tuna, bonitos, and dolphinfish.

Costa Blanca, Spain

Like Costa del Sol, the Costa Blanca is a snorkelers’ paradise. Explore the region’s shorelines and you’ll quickly find that it’s simply brimming with underwater life. Granadella Cove, near Javea, has notoriously clear waters. Not only that, it’s quite sheltered so younger snorkellers can see the bay’s treasures, too.

The Algarve, Portugal

Portugal’s Algarve coast comprises playful Atlantic waters and warming sands. It’s also home to the famed Ria Formosa lagoon, one of the country’s many natural wonders. Here you’ll find one of the largest populations of seahorses in the world – wipe down your face mask and prepare to dive amongst them.

Cyprus

If you visit Cyprus during summertime, you might encounter beautiful green and loggerhead turtles on the island’s western coast. The island’s Cape Greco National Park is well worth a visit, too, complete with some of the clearest waters in the region and picturesque in every sense of the word.

Corfu, Greece

The Greek island of Corfu has plenty of spots for a good snorkelling holiday. Its pebbly beaches tend to have clearer waters, but you might want to wear a wetsuit or flippers to protect your feet from the jaggier rocks! Keep your eyes peeled for a diverse range of silverside fish, alongside flathead mullet and painted combers.

Pula, Croatia


Image by Christoph Sammer, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Croatia’s idyllic Adriatic coastlines are the envy of the world. Pula houses some of its finest and along with these renowned views, it has a number of great snorkelling spots.

Take Brijuni National Park, a short boat journey from Pula. The waters of these 14 small, protected islands are alive with flora, fauna and old Roman artefacts. In Verige Bay, on the western coast of the park, you can get a guided tour to explore submerged archaeological sites. Take full advantage and get excited for a day of underwater education.

Whether you’re travelling as a family, with friends or with your partner or spouse, a snorkelling holiday provides an unrivalled way to get to know a country’s ins and outs. Uncover exotic species of fish or simply paddle around and let the waves wash over you – underwater getaways are always ones to remember.

Have a look at some of the Villa Plus offerings in these hotspots and let your snorkelling dreams come to life.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

Walking holidays in Lanzarote – spectacular routes for villa holidays

Walking holidays in Lanzarote – spectacular routes for villa holidays

Lanzarote’s rugged coasts and otherworldly national parks are made for walking. Whether you’re on a family getaway or an intrepid hiking adventure with your partner, this Canary island gem’s spectacular interiors stretch from the shores of Playa Blanca on to the Timanfaya National Park, then northwards to the Mirador del Rio and back again. To put it simply, walking holidays in Lanzarote open you up to the best of Spain’s allures beyond the mainland.

Timanfaya National Park


Image by Son of Groucho, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

When most people think of Lanzarote, the arid Mars-like hills and volcanos of Timanfaya National Park are the first images that spring to mind. It’s a far cry from the idyllic beaches which line popular towns like Playa Blanca and Matagorda, but still equally tranquil in its own, perhaps more wild, way.

Unescorted walking isn’t permitted here, but there are a number of tours which you can easily book onto. Buses run frequently from El Diablo, an unusual restaurant that grills food using volcanic heat, to the Ruta de los Volcanoes. This will take you through the vast craters of Montanas del Fuego (aka the “Fire Mountains”) – a spectacle in their own right.

The Ruta de Tremesana tour runs a few times a week, taking participants across lava fields with commentary from a supervisory ranger. It’s geared towards walkers with moderate fitness levels, and it’s recommended that you bring sturdy boots which you feel comfortable in, along with a good supply of water. Luckily, Timanfaya National Park is just a short drive from Playa Blanca and easily accessible from the island’s other hotspots.

Mirador del Rio

For something a little tougher, hike to the clifftop structure named Mirador del Rio. Start by driving to the village of Ye, situated just north of Corona Forestal Nature Reserve. It takes around an hour and a half to get to Ye from the island’s southern tip, so drives here and back are easily achievable within a day.

From Ye, you can park and walk to all the way to the Mirador del Rio viewpoint. The walk itself is littered with panoramic vistas looking over the Atlantic Ocean, but keep your eyes on the path ahead and save yourself for the far-stretching scenery yet to come.

Mirador del Rio’s tip is like something out of a James Bond movie, complete with a café and bar which overlook La Graciosa, a volcanic island located around two kilometres from Lanzarote. In true Bond fashion, order a martini (shaken, not stirred) and soak up the Canarian vistas before heading back.

Playa Blanca

You don’t need to go to rural regions to enjoy walking holidays in Lanzarote. Start from the Playa Dorada beach in Playa Blanca, then follow the promenade towards the harbour and along the nearby coast. Continue along until you reach the lighthouse, then make your way back to the bustling bars and restaurants that make up this coastal town.

If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you can always continue towards Punta del Papagayo, the southernmost tip of Lanzarote. It’s a 10-kilometre walk, though, so you might want to arrange for a taxi to take you back into town. The area surrounding Playa Blanca is both beautiful and simplistic. You can step out the front door of your villa and wander aimlessly along the shoreline, simply letting the cool Atlantic breeze wash over you as you take in this rich, varied setting.

Take the next steps in planning your Lanzarote walking holiday and look at some of the properties Villa Plus offers on the island.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

5 of the best beach holidays for families in Europe

5 of the best beach holidays for families in Europe

Europe is blessed with many of the world’s most stunning coastal destinations. Take advantage of shorter flights and jet off to explore the best of them with your loved ones. Here’s the continent’s five best beach holidays, made for families who want something extra special for their next getaway…

Spain

Viva Espagna! Spain is a great holiday destination for families. Take the time to unwind on beautiful strips of sand – the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca and the Balearic Islands pack them in abundance. On the Costa del Sol, you can explore Marbella’s lush harbours before parking up on nearby beaches, or head to Estepona for buoyant waves and dreamy Mediterranean sunsets. With over 200km of Mediterranean coastline, the Costa Blanca is a beach lover’s gem. Enjoy the beaches, popular with both locals and tourists, at Javea, Moraira and Calpe.

The island of Majorca, one of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is known for its glistening waters and pure sands. Head to Alcudia for relaxed beaches – usually within the backdrop of Alcudia Bay – well suited for young families set on making unforgettable holiday memories.

Portugal

Portugal’s Algarve has all the right ingredients for a great beach holiday – wide coastlines, entertainment facilities and tranquil views. Located in the southeast, one of the region’s vibrant hotspots Lagos is flanked by turquoise coves and sun-kissed strips, particularly the Blue Flag Meia Praia Beach.

Head here and take your pick from over 5km of prime lounging spots. The waves are top-tier, so why not embark on some bodyboarding or a few hours of splashing about with the little ones?

Greece

Some of Greece’s beaches arguably rival that of the Caribbean. Factor in the rich history, cuisine and culture, and you’ve got everything you need for the ultimate family getaway. The country’s rich selection of islands give it an edge over many other countries, many thanks to the luscious coastlines of Corfu and Rhodes…

Both islands boast unreal views over the Aegean Sea, which sits at a temperature ideal for a spot of swimming. Agios Gordios beach and the bays of Sidari and Paleokastritsa beach are some of Corfu’s best family hangouts. In Rhodes, you can’t go wrong by visiting either Ladiko, Lindos or Stegna.

Croatia

Croatia has some of the greatest landscapes, beaches and architecture in Eastern Europe. The waters are crystal clear and the history is ripe with Roman amphitheatres and medieval castles.

Try heading to Pula, the largest city in the district of Istria, with your family. It’s a fantastic location to stay during your holiday and it has stunning coastlines for whenever you want to take a dip. For a secluded couple of hours away from the city, head south to Kamenjak Cape, a sheltered pebbled beach complete with unbeatable views of the Adriatic Sea.

Cyprus

As the third biggest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus is a treasure trove of fine beaches. On top of that, there’s three breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The best beach for a family holiday in Cyprus is without a doubt Coral Bay. It’s got all the amenities you could ask for – think snorkelling, boat trips, and quad biking tours. Not only that, it’s also safe for swimming, after which you can dry off on any number of prime Mediterranean sand spots. If you get a chance, then both Makronissos and Nissi beach are also worth a visit.

Ready to put the wheels in motion for your own family beach retreat? Take a look at some Villa Plus properties near beaches.

By Lara Scott. A former executive at a major hotel chain, Lara Scott is a freelance travel writer and journalist. She says her previous career gives her extra insight into both sides of the tourism industry.

Why beach holidays in Menorca are perfect for young families

Why beach holidays in Menorca are perfect for young families

On Menorca, young families can enjoy thrills and sunshine at a leisurely pace. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve island is home to luscious wetlands, dunes and an untold number of islets just waiting to be explored. Just try to walk along its inviting shorelines and not be tempted by a spot of sailing, swimming or just paddling around at a gentle pace.

Such a diverse mixture of things to do means that beach holidays in Menorca truly define fun for all the family. Thanks to the wonders of self-catered accommodation, everyone can come together and play in your own pool whenever you’re not lounging about by the sea. Now all that’s left to do is get an itinerary together…

Hit the beach

family-beach-holidays

Menorca isn’t short of adorable beaches. Son Bou is one such strip, comprising golden sand spots lined with vegetation and stone jetties. For something a bit livelier, the Cala Blanca beaches have plenty of facilities to keep you occupied at all times. Otherwise, go to the village of Fornells, located in northern Menorca, where the coastlines are a known hotspot for windsurfers. Why not set up camp with the little ones and watch these water sports aficionados tackling the waves?

Explore the island from another perspective

Organised boat trips are a great way of uncovering the island’s various coves and natural harbours, and getting to see Menorca’s unique marine life while you’re at it! If you’re lucky, you might get to see dolphins swimming past and jumping out amid the waves. Otherwise, the surrounding waters are known for housing small numbers of starfish and even the occasional octopus!

For all you landlubbers, jeep safaris are a great opportunity for young families to go off the beaten track and discover the island’s inland allures.

Head to the attractions!

Pack a lunch, sun cream and towels, then spend a day at one of Menorca’s top-tier attractions. Los Delfines AquaPark is situated on the west of the island, and is packed with rides which’ll see most adults turn into little kids themselves. Take your pick from chutes suited to all ages – just don’t forget to bring a spare pair of clothes! Back on dry land, children will love exploring Fort Marlborough, a fascinating war museum near Mahon Island.

Get back to nature

nature-in-menorcaImage by Sonke Biehl, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

S’Albufera Natural Park is a verdant paradise, home to fine views and a fascinating array of nature. It’s also an idyllic setting for family adventure, with a visitor centre and numerous different trails to keep you busy. Keep your eyes peeled for vultures and buzzards, both of whom visit these wetlands to feed. It’s a short drive from Mahon, so it’s easy enough for families to get here and back to most places within the island in a few hours.

Villa holidays in Menorca offer a lovely blend of nature, attractions and sun-kissed memories that everyone in the family will always treasure. If you’re considering visiting this Balearic gem, why not consider treating to your family to something that little bit extra special with luxury accommodation?

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

Fuerteventura: things to see on a self-catering holiday

Fuerteventura: things to see on a self-catering holiday

Though often overshadowed by Tenerife and Lanzarote, the Canarian island of Fuerteventura is in many ways the epitome of this region’s way of life – windswept, sun-baked and all laced together with Spanish, African and Latin American influences. In other words, it’s got all the right ingredients for a truly unforgettable holiday.

On Fuerteventura, things to see include the historic, the modern, the natural and the manmade. Here’s where you’ll find them…

Corralejo Natural Park

Image by 16:9clue, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

When you think of a natural park, you’ll most likely be thinking of dense trees, streams, mountains and a thick canopy of greenery – Fuerteventura’s Corralejo Natural Park couldn’t be any more different.

Situated on the northeastern coast of the island, this area is known for its pearlescent sands. Sat near the quaint town of Corralejo, one particular part of the park and comprises stunning white dunes bordered by turquoise seas. Further south, the landscape becomes volcanic and rugged, with the higher altitudes gifting visitors fantastic views of the surrounding beaches and Atlantic waves.

The food markets

Canarian cuisine is like none other, and when you’re staying in a self-catering villa, you can explore it at your own leisure. Pick up some dietary staples such as potatoes, mojos (spicy or herbal sauces) and gofio (a special kind of flour) at your local shop. If you’re a foodie, then the island markets are a must-visit for regional ingredients…

Fuerteventura’s capital, Puerto del Rosario, has a produce market running every Saturday between 9am and 2pm. Here you can buy locally sourced fish, fruit and dairy products. The charming town of La Oliva, a short drive inland from Corralejo, is also home to an excellent market. It operates on Tuesdays and Fridays, selling local food as well as authentic homemade gifts.

If you want to make the most of these markets, visit early to get your hands on the best vegetables and cuts of meat, then spend the rest of the day back at your holiday villa cooking up a Canarian feast.

Lobos Island

Lobos Island is a 15-minute boat journey from Corralejo. It’s only populated by a few whitewashed cottages and one waterside restaurant, so take advantage of the secluded atmosphere here. The untouched, arid landscapes have an allure of all of their own, and can make for treasured hours spent hiking and marvelling at the surrounding Atlantic views.

To save money, put together a tasty Canarian packed lunch at your rental accommodation. Try a combination of goat’s cheese, gofio bread, and fresh fruit (including locally grown bananas) for a more traditional Fuerteventuran meal.

The museums

There are plenty of cultural hotspots dotted across Fuerteventura. In La Oliva, you’ll find the Casa de los Coroneles, an old building which houses modern art exhibitions. The Canarian Art Centre, displaying a number of works by important Canarian artists like César Manrique, is a must for culture vultures, or anyone with an appreciation for the arts. Puerto del Rosario, meanwhile, has a free museum dedicated to the philosopher Miguel de Unamuno, who was exiled from Spain in 1924.

When staying in Villa Plus rentals, you can save money by hiring a car for one or two days, and using this time to visit all the island’s captivating allures. The drive from La Oliva to Puerto del Rosario takes less than 30 minutes, so getting from one attraction to the next is easy!

El Cotillo

Image by W & J, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Head to the northwest coast of Fuerteventura and you can visit El Cotillo. Once a humble fishing village, El Cotillo is now a thriving tourist spot – although as it’s managed to avoid being overly developed, it still maintains many of its old charms. One of the things that makes El Cotillo particularly popular is its fast winds, which make it well suited to water sports lovers.

The relaxed mood and wide selection of restaurants, shops and bars mean that El Cotillo is the ideal daytrip, and easily accessible from most accommodation on the island.

The beaches

Budget holidays don’t have to feel restrictive when you’re on an island like Fuerteventura. With so many gorgeous beaches to visit, you can keep busy and inspired without putting too much strain on your bank account.

Corralejo has some beautiful stretches of white sand. If you’re after sheer tranquillity, away from the hustle and bustle of the more populated areas, head for Cofete beach. It’s situated at the southern tip of Fuerteventura, in the heart of the Jandía Natural Park. As a warning – you’ll need a 4×4 vehicle to access the beach, and you should be cautious about swimming due to the strong currents.

Fuerteventura holidays pack in scenery, culture, and cuisine in a manner you’ll never forget. Why not add a little extra luxury with Villa Plus offerings?

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

Hidden gems of the Costa del Sol

Hidden gems of the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol remains one of Spain’s most popular destination for holiday makers. The glitz of Marbella and the wealth of tourist developments in Torremolinos and Benalmadena attract travellers in their millions. But there is more to this region than high-rise hotels and resorts.

Much of the hidden beauty is located off the beaten track and away from the coast. Those that travel a little further inland are sure to be rewarded with beautiful countryside and beguiling Spanish towns and villages. To help inspire you on your own holiday to this magical Mediterranean region, here are some of the Costa del Sol’s hidden gems.

Ronda

Visit beautiful Ronda on your Costa del Sol holiday
Image by the very honest man, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY 2.0)

Few towns can boast the amazing scenery of Ronda. Located atop the 100-metre deep El Tajo gorge, Ronda is an unforgettable place to visit. The views across the surrounding landscape are stunning, but walking across the Puente Nuevo bridge offers the most amazing views of the hills in the distance and the canyon below.  Beyond the incredible views and striking geography, the town is a quintessential Andalusian town with white washed buildings, narrow streets, and evidence of its long architectural history from the Romans and Moors to the present day.

Comares

Enjoy the view from Comares
Image by Bryan Ledgard, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY 2.0)

Most people make the trip to the Costa del Sol to see just that, the sunshine coast. But by taking a trip deeper inland there are some remarkable hidden gems to uncover. One such jewel is the beautiful hilltop town of Comares. Perched more than 703 metres above sea level, the town’s white washed buildings glitter in the sun and can be seen from miles away. But it’s the views from the town that make the trip worth it. The vistas across the Andalusian hills from the town’s many viewpoints are truly stunning.

El Torcal

Marvel at the otherworldly landscape of El Torcal
Image by Goya Fotografia, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY SA 2.0)

Nature lovers should take a trip to El Torcal Nature Reserve and take in the remarkable geology of the park. El Torcal has some of the most dramatic karst formations in the world and an intriguing history which stretches back seven thousand years to the time of the area’s original inhabitants. The fascinating flora and fauna of the park is sure to enrapture children and fascinate adults. Only 30 miles from Malaga, El Torcal should be on the list for any holiday to Andalucía.

Antequera

Often referred to as the “Florence of Andalucía”, Antequera is another gem in the region. Its moniker refers to the spires of the 30 different churches in the town. The town is rich in local heritage with historical sites dating back thousands of years. See this history for yourself with a trip to the megalithic burial mound at Dolmen de Menga.

Take a look at the different types of property offered by Villa Plus and take your first step to discovering Spain’s Sunshine Coast.

By Ciaran Brooks. A former history graduate, Ciaran Brooks’ love for old stories has led him around the world. A self-confessed adventurer, he fell into travel writing after his blog chronicling his year in Thailand was picked up by a national paper.

3 holiday breakfast ideas for a Tenerife self-catering getaway

3 holiday breakfast ideas for a Tenerife self-catering getaway

The Canary island of Tenerife is synonymous with tremendous views made for feasting upon. Next time you’re visiting this beguiling part of the world, why not pair such scenery with a mouth-watering breakfast that would make the locals proud? On a self-catering getaway, you can bulk buy local ingredients, develop new cooking skills and then immerse yourself in the island’s cuisine.

Experiencing regional delicacies is a sure-fire way to soak up a destination’s culture. Not only that, you’ll save yourself some euros to spend on Tenerife’s wealth of attractions. Go on, give those taste buds a tickle and make yourself one of these three tasty holiday breakfast ideas.

Churros

churros-holiday-breakfastImage by subherwal, used under CC License (CC by 2.0) 

Imagine you’re enjoying a villa holiday in Tenerife with the rolling hills on one side and tranquil beaches on the other. As you turn your head, the sun gently rises over the colossal Teide National Park. Now’s the perfect time to ditch the typical British toast and whip up some churros – a traditional Spanish delicacy similar to a doughnut.

These aren’t your run-of-the-mill fairground snacks, far from it. It’s not uncommon for natives here to have them for breakfast – now you can too. Making your own is both fun and easy to do. On top of that, you’ll be left with plenty of ingredients leftover to make them all over again.

All you need for this is some butter, plain flour, baking powder and sunflower oil. For dipping, make your own chocolate sauce with some dark chocolate and cream to kickstart your day in a succulent manner. Spice this breakfast up with a bit of nutmeg or vanilla extract. Kick back and get stuck into your churros with a barraquito – a famous regional coffee to make you feel truly Canarian.

Canarian fruit salad

Image by Stephen Luke, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Tenerife is a tropical island so the supermarket shelves here are often lined with fresh fruits. For the ultimate Canarian fruit salad, grab some pineapples, watermelon, bananas, mangoes, kiwis and custard apples. You’ll also need some locally produced yogurt and honey. Whip it all together, then voila – you’ve got a healthy breakfast that is almost as exotic as the island itself.

Honey production on Tenerife is actually a speciality. The island even has its own honey museum, La Casa de La Miel, or The House of Honey, that will show you exactly why Tenerife’s honey so highly regarded, making it the perfect accompaniment to your fruit salad.

Gofio with hot milk and sugar

Image by Marius Brede, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Gofio is one of Tenerife’s much-loved specialities. It dates back hundreds and hundreds of years to the island’s original inhabitants, the Guanches. Made from finely milled, ground and toasted cereal grains, this local delicacy is also a highly nutritious flour. Mix it with a few teaspoons of it with yoghurt to give you for a few extra vitamins and energy for the day.

Add two teaspoons of gofio to a glass of hot milk with a spoonful of sugar or honey. It is a quick, simple and filling breakfast to make, helping you to live like a local and teeing you off for a day of discovery.

Hungry? Turn your food fantasies into a reality and look at some Villa Plus offerings on the island.

By Imogen Bishop, a part time travel writer, part time restaurant critic, and full-time mum. She has an affinity for Mediterranean cuisine and can usually be found in the kitchen with a bottle of olive oil in hand. 

Top things to do in the Costa Blanca

Top things to do in the Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca is without a doubt one of Spain’s most prized regions. Beautiful shores, dazzling sunshine, fascinating history and delicious cuisine are but four of the many reasons people visit here. Fortunately, affordable holiday options to the Costa Blanca are easy enough to come by. Here’s how to plan an unforgettable trip without it costing the earth.

Enjoy the Beauty of Benidorm
Image by rub3nmv, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY SA 2.0)

Beaches of Benidorm

There’s no shortage of things to do in Benidorm. When most people picture the city, one image springs to mind – an arc of pristine sands, with turquoise waters lapsing gently over the skyscraper-lined waterfront. Levante Beach is that very arc, and a must for anyone staying near or within the city. Not only that, it’s also a prime spot for holidaymakers looking to soak up that famous Costa Blanca weather!

Take in the sights of the Costa Blanca
Image by felipe_gabaldon, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY 2.0)

Palms of Elche

Elche provides tourists with a taste into a more traditional side to Spanish life, and is a short drive inland from Alicante. Once you’re here, be sure to visit the Palmeral of Elche, a historic line of palm trees which shows the crossover between North African and European culture. There are plenty of holiday villas in Alicante, all of which make the perfect base camp for exploring the region.

The Algar Waterfalls

Costa Blanca’s beauty isn’t resigned to the coastline. Further inland, the Algar Waterfalls are both beautiful and calming. Dive off the wooden platforms and into one of the surrounding pools. Temperatures here can get pretty toasty, and this makes for the perfect way to cool off.

Flyboarding in Calpe

Bit of a daredevil? Calpe is a hotspot for flyboarding, a jetpack orientated sport which sees participants fly several metres above the waves using state of the art technology. Jetpacking might seem a bit far-fetched for most people, but if you’re renting a villa in the Costa Blanca then this slice of adrenalin-fueled fun is only a short trip away.

Scuba Diving off Moraira

For some, skirting the tips of the waves isn’t enough. They want to submerge themselves beneath them scouring the depths for exotic fish and plant life. Moraraira has some of the best diving spots in Spain, and many local groups and instructors to help you get set up. Keep your eyes peeled for the sea bream and barracuda!

The Historic Centre of Jávea

It’s easy to get lost in the vast swathes of Costa Blanca’s tourism industry, but traditional town centres have stood the test of time. Take a siesta, and visit one of Jávea’s town squares. You might have a self-catering villa, but sometimes it’s worth getting out and sampling some of the local delicacies. Few things are more Spanish than a few tapas dishes whilst reveling in the charming atmosphere. Got a sweeter tooth? Opt for some delicious churros and don’t go easy on the chocolate sauce!

Whether you’re on holiday with family or friends in the Costa Blanca, you’ll leave lusting after its unique allures. Ready to start planning your getaway? Have a look at Villa Plus villas here.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family-focus, and she is in the midst of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.