Spain: Vibrant Colors and Vitality

The colors of Barrio Santa Cruz, Sevilla

Spain is a techni-color dream coat of cultures old and new.  Many different peoples have occupied the Iberian peninsula over the millenia.  The Celts, Iberian tribes, Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Jews, Muslims, Visigoths and, now, modern civilization makes this vibrant country continue to be a destination for explorers. Of the seventeen different autonomous regions of Spain, we will highlight four of the them: Catalunya, Andalusia, less well-known Galicia and the Basque Country.  I will point out particular locations from each that are historically significant on a global scale. 

Catalunya is on the northeastern coast, surrounded by high mountain ranges and the sea. Europeans flock to Catalunya in the summer. Americans are frequent visitors to Barcelona, but how far away from the city do any of these people ever go? North of Barcelona, the town of Gerona has old grey city walls that you can climp to the top and walk along for excellent views of the stony old town area and beyond to lush green forests.  The old section of the town of Tossa del Mar is completely surrounded by fortress walls. There, you can roam medieval streets dotted with restaurants and b&b rentals, in the shadows of the antique watchtowers. In these towns you will see the red and yellow-striped Catalan flag displayed on balconies and storefronts, a symbol of resilience and perseverance to all Catalan people.

The southern-most coast of Spain is the land of Andalusia, home of white-washed villages, Osborne Bulls, and bright, sunny beaches.  Heavily influenced by centuries of cultural exchange from every point on the compass, the colors of the world shine here on the Azulejo tiles that decorate every town. Here, you will find Flamenco dance shows and learn how to step to the gypsy rhythms. If you're feeling a bit peckish, you can visit tapas bars in Sevilla followed by wine and brandy tasting in Cadiz. Granada has the Alhambra, and in Cordoba- the Mosque-Cathedral, the Alcazar and Roman remains.  

Many people are unaware of the cultural riches and weather in Galicia. For someone looking for a challenge with religious significance, try having a wander on the Way of Saint James (El Camino de Santiago.) This is a network of pilgrimage routes that lead to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, in Galicia. These routes start outside of Spain, in Portugal, France and even Malta, and wind their way through the beautiful towns and countryside of southern Europe. The Way is well-marked with the traditional scallop shell associated with St. James. There are hostels and other options for overnight stays along the way, and of course, a wide array of restaurants, bistros and cafes to relax and sip a glass of wine and prepare for the next few KM. Stay hydrated, my friends! The route is open to all who wish to take it, secular and non-. The weather is typically a bit cooler than the south and there are rainy days in Galicia, but when the sun is out, the greenery is unmatched.

Anyone who has ever visited the Basque Country will probably speak about seeing Bilbao and the Guggenheim Museum, Guernika and Vizcaya Bridge. However, there is a lot more to see, do and eat in the Basque Country. In San Sebastian, known as Donostia, you can dine at any of the 11 different Michelin-star restaurants in town that serve some of the world's most famous fresh seafood and delicious pintxos. If you are looking to spend time golfing in a gorgeous environment, look no further than the Basque Country, including courses designed by Seve Ballesteros and Jose Maria Olazabal. 

As you can see, Spain is alive with cultural activities and never-ending historical heritage. Destinations throughout the country will appeal to a broad range of travelers. Whether you want to hike one of the thousands of trails across hills and plains, or you just want to vegetate in a chaise lounge on a long strip of sand, as the waves of the Med softly crash up and back on the shore, Spain has a place for you. If you want to explore red-brown dinosaur pits in the north, or white marble Roman theaters by the coast, we can get you there. From the green hills of the north, to the aqua-blue Mediterranean, the colors of all of the regions shine brightly.