We spent the first two months of our 2008 European trip learning Spanish and exploring Andalusia, the southernmost region of Spain. Melissa’s sprained ankle slowed our pace, giving us time to savor the mingling of Christian and Islamic influences that make that area special. We returned in 2017 to view some of Andalusia’s most famous Easter processions and to visit the beautiful Spanish island of Mallorca. In 2021, we took advantage of the Covid-era decrease in tourism to visit the usually packed northeastern city of Barcelona. And in 2024, we explored the green coastal region of northwestern Spain.
When We Visited
February to April 2008, March to April 2017, November to December 2021, September to November 2024
Major Stops
Malaga, Granada, Cordoba, Seville, Ronda, Orgiva, Aracena, Grazalema, El Rocio, Vejer de la Frontera, Antequera, Mallorca (Palma, Valldemossa, Pollenca), Barcelona, Pontevedra, Santiago de Compostela, Muros, Muxia, Cedeira, Oviedo, Llanes, Las Arenas de Cabrales, Potes, Santillana del Mar, Castro Urdiales, Madrid
Memorable Moment
Touring the magnificent Alhambra palace at night by torchlight
Did You Know?
Spain produces about 44 percent of the world’s olive oil—more than Italy, Greece, or North Africa. Spanish olive oil is our favorite kind, and we spent many bus rides traveling through the large olive groves of Andalusia.
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