DK Travel : Andalucía and Costa del Sol

The diverse and politically semi-autonomous region of Andalucía has a population of some 7 million and embodies what is thought of as typically Spanish – an accurate portrait of the place and its people must include the bullfight, flamenco, gypsies, remote white villages, high sierras and mass tourism on endless stretches of beach. The memories you take with you after a visit here will be colourful, joyous, intense and deeply stirring.

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Casa Aire de Lecrin

This little B&B is an absolute gem. Tucked away in the heart of Pinos del Valle, in the beautiful hills of the Lecrin Valley, the Casa is the epitomy of Andalusian style. The house was meticulously restored by the owner and your host, Anne-Muriel, whose flair for design and authenticity shines through in every corner. The bedrooms (all ensuite) are all individually decorated; we stayed in Shanghai, which is flavoured with oriental furniture and fabrics - we loved it. And the bed is one of the comfiest you will ever sleep in! There is a cosy sitting area with an extraordinary wooden fire place; and a little patio with dipping pool. There's also a dining room for breakfast in the winter, but as we were there in June, we ate on the beautiful roof terrace - from which you enjoy almost 360 degree views of the village and surrounding hills. Breakfast itself is fresh and healthy - juice squeezed from Anne-Muriel's own oranges; crusty bread bought fresh from the village bakery; fruits, yoghurts and preserves. Anne-Muriel herself is the perfect host - accommodating, helpful, friendly. Pinos is not for everyone - it's quiet (there's just one bar and a couple of shops); but if you are looking for a taste of the 'real' Spain and what to stay somewhere special, I can heartily recommend Casa Aire de Lecrin.
Do's and Don'ts

DO Get in tune with the local clock- lunchtime is from 2pm, and restaurants serve dinner after 9pm.

DO Use plenty of high protection-factor sun lotion. The combination of the sun and the Atlantic winds can be very powerful.

DO Try to visit the Spanish Riding School in Jerez on a Tuesday, Thursday or Friday, when there are spectacular performances of traditional horsemanship.

DON'T be put off by the full-time windsurfing cognoscenti at Tarifa- have a go at it yourself.
El Amparo

This is a small country house hotel, situated within easy reach of Granada, the coast, Antequera and Cordoba. It has beautiful distant views, and is about 10 minutes from the small town of Alhama de Granada. The owners, Sally and Jeff, are warm and welcoming and have a huge amount of local knowledge. If you're energetic, you can swim in their immaculate pool, borrow their mountain bikes (free) or simply walk. Follow up your exercise with a long soak under the stars in the large jacuzzi. The hotel is beautifully designed, and is spotlessly clean. It's one of the friendliest places I've ever stayed at, and my view was clearly shared by the other guests.
El Cordoba

This is a very nice friendly restuarant that offers a la carte as well as a set price 3 course option (changed daily). My friends and I have eaten in here numerous times over the last 11 years and have never had a bad experence.The price for the set meal was 11 euros this summer and this includes a half bottle of red or white wine or a beer or soft drink with the meal
Gibraltar

Lovely little piece of Britain in the Mediterranean worth a visit.

Website for help and advice

http://www.gibraltarnewsonline.com/forums/
guadalest

a Lovely village to get to it you walk through a tunnel in a cliff, lovely small shops and museums and a castle.
Hotel Amadeus

An 18th century manor house with 14 uniquely designed rooms, located in the centre of Seville.
Hotel Casa Grande

Hotel Casa Grande is a charming place to stay in the historical centre of Jerez; family rooms from £95.
Hotel Porfirio

Hotel Porfirio is a short walk from Zahara beach, with an excellent traditional restaurant; family rooms from £115
Hotel Room Mate Lola

A wonderful boutique hotel in central Malaga close to the Bus and Train Stations and the main shopping areas.

The reception lobby and breakfast room are very tastefully decorated in a contemporary and trendy style, there is also a relaxation area with couches for reading and free internet access.

The rooms are well appointed with avant-garde design, and there can be no confusion regarding your room number, as the hotel room doors are fitted with large metallic numbers which cover the entire door surface!

Each stay is a truly unique experience!