spain
Famed explorers, adventurers and artists hail from Spain, a land of beauty and romance. Spain inspired the talents of Picasso and Cortes to accomplish great things. Travelers to this European treasure will no doubt feel inspired by its history, scenery and the warm welcome of the Spanish people.Planning where to go and what to see can be tricky, but even
if you plan to stick mainly to big cities, such as Madrid and Barcelona, consider adding a side trip. For instance, if you are staying in Madrid, you might spend one day in Segovia. This special place includes Roman-era aqueducts that date back to the first century A.D., as well as a spectacular 14th-century castle.
Travel expert Karen Brown has created several interesting Spain itineraries and listed them on her popular website. The itineraries include a variety of interesting attractions, as well as maps. Her website and guidebooks are full of exceptional lodging choices, and her readers have voted and chosen the following inns and hotels as the best in Spain:
Sticking to a budget can be difficult, but at Posada de San Jose, not only will travelers find an exceptional value, but a truly unique location. The inn is located on a cobblestone street within the walled city of Cuenca, not far from Madrid. Stunning views of the Huecar Gorge are seen from many of the simple guest rooms, which boast original features such as exposed beams and restored tile floors. Breakfasts, light suppers and Spain's famous tapas are available at the inn's restaurant. Karen Brown readers chose Posada de San Jose as the "Greatest Value" in Spain.
Surrounded by countryside teaming with groves of almond and olive trees, Molino del Santo is a charming vacation spot. The beautiful grounds boast gardens and a swimming pool. Rooms are individually decorated and many have terraces. There is a terrace restaurant on the premises where you can enjoy a breakfast buffet, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner or just relax, enjoy the view and sip a glass of wine. Guests can spend the day exploring Andalusia, take a trip to Gibraltar or just relax and soak up some sun by the pool. Molino del Santo is the winner of the Karen Brown Readers' Choice Award for the "Warmest Welcome" in Spain.
Romantics will find plenty to enjoy in Spain, and this is especially true at Cal Teixdo, a cozy inn and restaurant located in the heart of the Pyrenees near the Andorra border. The inn once served as part of a farm, and the restaurant is located in the old hayloft. The reception area and bar are found in the restored barn and many of the guestrooms, all named after herbs and decorated in country style, are found in the old farmhouse. The restaurant has a wine list that includes more than 200 local vintages. There is an activity center stocked with equipment, and the hosts are happy to help you plan excursions such as cycling, golf or even a scenic balloon ride. Cal Teixdo was chosen as the recipient of the Karen Brown Readers' Choice Award for the "Most Romantic" hotel in Spain.
With more than 1,000 acres of peaceful countryside surrounding it, the posh Barcel la Bobadilla is ideal for those who desire a total vacation of pampering and relaxing. The boutique hotel has a full-service spa, with a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, Turkish sauna, beauty salon and much more. Guests can book a variety of different massages and treatments. Horseback riding is just one of many activities. Concerts are scheduled throughout the year, as well. There are two restaurants: La Finca, which has gained national praise, and El Cortijo, where guests can try out some excellent regional cuisine. The rooms are simple and elegant with rustic touches that add a warm, Spanish ambiance. Quite appropriately, this exceptional hotel earned the Karen Brown Readers' Choice Award for best "Splendid Splurge" in Spain.
About the Author: Tess Kirkpatrick is fond of writing about boutique hotels in Spain and other travel spots. For more information on travel in Spain or for comprehensive Spain itinerary details, visit the Karen Brown website today. |
