Monday 30 June 2014

Donna Hill's (Carrick Coventry) visit to Granada, Toledo, Madrid and Javea

I have just returned from a driving holiday around Granada, Toledo, Madrid and Javea. I have detailed some points about my stay.  If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me on 02476 502650 or email donnahill@carricktravel.com and I will be more than happy to help.




Granada
Granada is a great low key city to visit.  Full of cobbled streets, beautiful architecture and lovely food all within easy reach.  The Cathedral is compacted into the city and is stunning. One place to make sure you visit is Alhambra Palace (must be pre booked in peak times as it gets very busy) I did a guided tour which was very good and helpful as there is a lot of history around the Alhambra and it is great to understand it's past.  Granada is easy enough to walk round as everything is quite close to each other.  I stayed on the Gran Via road which is very central in Granada and a great location to explore.  The Suite Gran Via 44 is an excellent hotel to stay in.  You only need 2 or 3 nights to experience everything Granada has to offer.




Toledo
Wow, what more can I say.  Out of the whole trip, Toledo took my breath away from the moment we drove into Toledo.  You only need 2 nights in Toledo as it is a small place, all within the city walls.  Again, cobbled streets, beautiful scenery and a must see. I recommend getting on the Red Train excursion that takes you round the main sights and stops off for you to take panoramic photo's of Toledo.




Madrid
Madrid is a large city very spread out.  I would suggest 3 or 4 nights to see the city comfortably.  I stayed on the Atocha Road which is in a great location.  The Bernabeu Stadium and the Bull Ring are the furthest places out to visit but is a definite trip to do.  There is two open top bus tours you can get that link with one another which go round the whole city which is good way to get around Madrid.  The Plaza Mayor is nice place to eat with some lovely restaurants.  Madrid has a massive park area, a bit like Central Park in New York, but on a smaller scale which has a lake in the centre where you can hire a boat and paddle around. The Palacio Real de Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family in Madrid, is only used for state ceremonies but another great excursion to do.


Javea/Xabia
Javea is a lovely beach resort with all the water sports you can think of, loads of restaurants on the promenade with plenty of shops.  The promenade is busy in the day time and electric at night. Is has many places nearby like Denia which has a lovely drive to get to, all through the winding roads around the mountains.  It is great for families and couples and it is very affordable to eat out.  There is a hotel next to the Arenal Promenade called Parador which is a very nice hotel and fab location.


My whole holiday experience is one I will never forget, it was wonderful and saw so many beautiful sights.  Look out for pictures on our Facebook page Carrick Travel Coventry.

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