A Road Trip to Spain..

Travel-and-Leisure

The World Health Organization ranks Spain’s climate among the world’s healthiest. The second largest and sunniest among European countries, Spain boasts of unrivalled sights due to the assortment of countries that it combines. Green Spain on the northern coast comprises the regions of Cantabria, Asturias and the Basque country. The mix of scenery and widely varied riding is exceptional.

Nothing is greener in Spain than Asturian; right down to the edge of the ocean and high up in the clouds where the towering summit of the European peaks rise majestically. Lying between Cantabria and Galician, the principality of Asturias is made up of little fishing villages and thick forests, presenting a landscape of wide variations. Known as the Costa Verde or Green Coast, its coastline is at the forefront of northern Spain’s most memorable attractions, apart from being a paradise for fishing. Encompassing 145km, driving along the coast takes not less than six to seven hours.

Characteristic of Asturian cuisine are the fine and simple ingredients. La Fabada is highly sought after, comprising stew of large beans. The Bay of Biscay offers splendid seafood, not to mention local-made cheese and the local cider to wash it down.

Breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean are on offer in the Basque Region lying along the northern coast of Spain. The exciting mix of rocky cliffs, half-moon beaches and an array of bright fishing ports are incomparable. Further inland, one cuts through Rolling Meadows rich in charming landscapes in lush greenery dotted by picturesque old towns.

Cantabria’s green intensity translates into perfect grazing ground for cattle, churning out a tradition in prime milk products mainly butter and cheese. Coastal cuisine predictably is about seafood bliss with the superb sardines and anchovies meriting mention. Meat holds sway in the interiors, the most exceptional being the meaty chickpea stew and cheese desserts.

Within 40 kms of the coast is the Picos de Europe flushed with grand mountains, permanent snow, lakes and passes. Towards the valleys inland, expanses of green forests are abundant. The more dramatic coastal scenery is an endless stretch of beaches and cliffs.

The Costa del Sol nestles along the southern coastline, noted for non-stop sandy beaches and more than 320 sunny days in a year. Marbella stands out from coastal resorts. Venturing further down the coast leads to sleepy towns and villages, a prime example being Estepona with its scenic sea front. Crisp, sun-kissed courses beckon golf enthusiasts for making their dreams come true.

The delights of Spain are countless, going back thousands of years in history when the cultural centers of the continent were located here. The nation’s capital Madrid teems with the magnificence of museum among the plethora of sights. Not to be outdone is the city of Barcelona with thrills aplenty and best known for the 1992 Summer Olympics.

The ever-increasing numbers of visitors holidaying in Spain has spawned numerous holiday apartments and Spanish villa rentals. Seekers of cheap holidays therefore need look no further than Spain.

Shusmul - www.spaingolfproperty.co.uk/