Our excursion to Granada begins with a visit to the stunning
Alhambra palace and the various keeps, villas and gardens that lie
within.
Built in the 14th century, the Alhambra, literally 'the red
castle', is a fortress, palace and small town all rolled into one.
It is also one of the most recognisable sights in all Spain. Set on
a plateau against a heavily forested series of hills, the Alhambra
gazes across the city below, acting as both a fortress and as its
own distinct district. The Alhambra is made up of various parts,
with the oldest section being the citadel at its heart.
A particularly charming area is the Court of the Lions, a small
courtyard featuring several small lion statues, each acting as a
fountain in the centre.
We also pay a visit to the Generalife Gardens. The summer palace
of the Nasrid rulers of Granada built in the 14th century, these
gardens are a welcome retreat, offering a variety of beautiful
flora in all shapes and sizes. Be sure to check out the view from
the villa here, granting a panorama which takes in the Sacromonte
caves and parts of the Albayzín.
After a guided tour of the Alhambra, you have free time to
discover more of Granada. This charming Andalucian city is famous
for various reasons. Of particular interest is the old Albayzín
area of the city. Originally the Muslim district of Granada, the
Albayzín is a winding maze of whitewashed buildings, many of which
have existed for hundreds of years. Superb views of both the city,
the Generalife park area and the Alhambra can be seen from the top
of the district, from any of the viewpoints which are set aside for
visitors to make use of. For its historical importance in the
history of Granada, the Albayzín, along with the Alhambra and
Generalife, has earned UNESCO World Heritage status. We return to
Antequera following our visit and sit down to a final farewell meal
together.
Includes