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Andalucia: Scenic and Splendid from the Mountains to the Sea!

Andalucia, the area that covers southern Spain, is as richly diverse as any area in Europe. Quaint mountain towns mingle with the upper echelon of coastal communities. This is the home of flamenco dancing and the birthplace of the guitar. Andalucians seem to care more about festivals, fun, and frivolity than other Spaniards. Cities like Sevilla, Granada, Malaga, Cordoba, and Cordiz present a fascinating historical heritage as well as a great opportunity to dance until dawn! A vacation in Andalucia can be as active or as passive as you want it to be. A day's itinerary can include swimming, beach combing, hiking, parasailing, wind surfing, sight-seeing, or just lounging in the sun.

The jewel of Andalucia's Costa del Sol (Sun Coast) is the seaside town of Marbella. This area represents one of the most exclusive resort towns of the many such destinations on the Spanish coast. It is visited by rock stars, business tycoons, and occasionally members of various European Royal Families. The attraction is obvious: sun, fun, and a monstrous nightlife. 29 beaches such as Babaloo, Victor's, Don Carlos', Cabopino, and Las Dunas line the coast close to the city center. They all offer great swimming, jet skiing, and are generally great places to see and be seen. If you want a bit more privacy in your beach excursion, nearby Estepona and Playa de Calahonda have beaches that are just as beautiful, but far less traveled than Marbella.

In addition to wonderful beaches, Marbella has plenty to offer those interested in the culture and history of the area. The heart of the city resides in the Plaza de los Naranjos, a central gathering place lined with shops, restaurants and historical sites. The Museo del Grabado Espanol Contemporaneo houses some early works by Picasso, Dali, and Miro. Down to the east of the old town area sits the Museo Bonsai, a charming homage to Japanese miniature tree art.

Malaga, to the northeast of Marbella, is less trendy than its southern neighbor, but no less fascinating. The remains of Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress erected in the 9th or 10th century, sits perched atop the most prominent hill in Malaga. King Fernando and Queen Isabel stayed here when they re-conquered the city. The Alcazaba now houses an archaeological museum that exhibits displays from Greek, Phoenician, and Carthaginian cultures. Malaga's Catedral is a combination of Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic architectural styles. The church has the nickname "One-Armed one" due to its incomplete southern tower. The Museo de Bellas Artes has paintings by Ribera, Murillo, Zurbaran, and some childhood sketches by Milaga's most famous native son, Pablo Picasso.

El Puerto de Santa Maria, in Cadiz, is steeped in history as it was here that Christopher Columbus met Juan de la Cosa, the owner of his flagship Santa Maria, who became his pilot on his famous voyage of 1492. El Puerto is also well known for its sherry bodegas (wineries) that produce the region's famous fortified wine. A short walk from the town's center brings visitors to the pine surrounded Playa de la Puntilla, a wide beach that isn't as crowded as some of the other beaches in Andalucia.

Aracena, in the northern portion of the province of Huelva, is a great place to visit to see the interior of Andalucia. The area is well known for the Gruta de las Maravillas (Cave of Marvels) that stretch under the mountains nearby. Aracena also has a beautiful church and a ruined castle, both built around 1300, that sit atop the Cerro del Castillo hill.

Andalucia has acquired the nickname, "Costa del Golf," for over 45 courses that line the hills, valleys, and coastline of this golf-crazy region. The absolute pearl of the area is Valderrama, the Robert Trent Jones course that hosted the 1997 Ryder Cup. This is perhaps the most famous course on the European continent. Located just east of Gibralter, the course is an exquisite test of golf for all skill levels. From the back tees, this is a daunting loop that will challenge lower handicaps to bring out their best shots. The forward tees are slightly more forgiving, but still require good shot making and heads-up course management. For another premier course, head to Montecastillo, located in the city of Jerez de la Frontera in the province of Cadiz. Montecastillo is one of Europe's finest championship golf courses, and between 1997 and 2001 was home to the Volvo Masters. The only course in Andalucia designed by Jack Nicklaus, the course takes full advantage of the hilly terrain of the province. Modest in length, the course has par 5s that are reachable in two by most golfers. The course is designed with shot makers in mind and will challenge all whose tee ball goes awry.

A vacation in Andalucia is a trip both back in time, and a foray into the future. The Cosa del Sol is a frenetic jumble of jet setters and sun worshipers. The white hill towns are more reminiscent of old Spain with their laid back pace and extremely polite demeanor. Have a drink in one of the many "Chiringuitos" (beach bars) that line the coastline. Sample the varied tapas choices. Take a tour of the National Forest. Drink sherry at a small bodega. Andalucia has many charms. Hopefully, your vacation will give you a chance to sample all of them!