Casa Feliz

Malaga is the Capital of the Costa del Sol within the region of Andalucia. It also is one of the oldest cities in the World with close to three thousand years of history. The city has been known by numerous names over the years from Malaca in early 7bc by the Phoenicians to Flavia Malacita around AD81 by the Romans. The Moors renamed the city again around AD700 to Malaqah until 1487 when the Christians finally recaptured the city we now know as Malaga. The city therefore offers an array of different architecture from it's colourful past. Malaga also has many great shopping and dining experiences not only in it's stunning centre but at the newly expanded and purpose built Plaza Major located close to the airport.

As with all cities in Andalucia Seville offers a feast of architectural pleasure. Over the years Seville has been a colony of the Greeks, Phoenicians, Romans, Moors and finally the Christians. This has influenced the city greatly which gives it the beauty and charm we know today. The 1992 Expo lead to the construction of the Isla de la Cartuja. The site on which the Expo was held. Today it houses both the Isla Mágica theme park and the centro Andaluz de Arte Contemporáneo. Seville also offers year round Fiestas, Shopping and fine dining for it's guests.

During the Roman times, Cordoba was the Capital of the province of Baetica. It is now famously known for it's Mezquita although this is not the only treasure this city has to offer. The Moors ran the city from the mid 7th century and established it as a city of learning and tolerance with Moors, Jews and Christians living peacefully together. Eventually in the 12th century the Christians captured the city and the Moorish reign finally came to an end. Why not take a walk along the Guadalquivir River and soak up this vibrant, historic city or visit the baths and experience total relaxation.

The town of Iznajar sits proudly overlooking the lake that shares it's name. Steeped in history the narrow streets wind there way up to the castle perched on top. The castle which was built by the Moors around 7AD offers fantastic views across the surrounding area and is located on the edge of the Subettica National Park. Nearby the lake offers water sports at some times of the year along with fishing and bird watching. Ramblers also find the area of interest as do cyclists with it's challenging hills and undulations.

The Sierra Nevada mountain range lie just outside the historic city of Granada. Famed for it's winter sports and activities the main resort of Sol y Nieve is well worth a visit at any time of year. The road from Granada up to the resort are wide and easily navigable allowing most the opportunity to experience this breathtaking place and it's views.

Located just outside Granada the Moorish palace stands proudly overlooking the city. A visit to this historic monument is a must when in the area and well worth the entrance fee if you are a lover of architecture and history. However when visiting don't skimp on the expenses and rent an audio guide which is invaluable in allowing visitors to understand this wonderful building and appreciate it's charms and history.

Antequera offers the visitor a variety of things to see and do. Why visit The Dolmens which is the megalithic complex of Antequera, and is one of the most important prehistoric sites in Europe. The 3 tombs to date are the Viera, Menga, and El Romeral which date from between 4,000 to 3,000 BC, which make them older than the pyramids of Egypt. The castle known as the Alcazaba was built by the moors and offers fantastic views over the town including 'Lovers Rock' which is known as La Pena. We have always thought it looks like an Indian Chief sleeping in his full head dress. The tourist bus will also take you to the major historical sights and is well recommended. Antequera has more to see and do than we could possibly list however the Plaza de Torros - bullring, Municipal Museum and a drive out to the Torcal Park Nature reserve are a must.

Typical of the area Priego de Cordoba offers the visitor a wealth of things to see. Here are a few of our personal favourites'! Neptune's Fountain, the ultra helpful Tourist Office, Royal Butcheries and Priego de Cordoba Castle.

If a trip to the beach is in order then Benalmadena should be the one place you visit. The harbour area offers visitors the chance to browse its numerous shops located overlooking the moored yachts'. The 'Sealife Centre' is also located at the harbour area whilst the theme park 'Tivoli World' is back in the town itself. You can also take a ride in the cable car which delights guests to panoramic views of the area.

The famous town of Ronda is breathtaking and very typically Spanish. It's architecture has encouraged people from all over the world to visit especially the bridge which spans the narrow but high gorge with fantastic views.

The white washed pueblo of Mijas is not only pretty but located inland atop a high mountain gives visitors spectacular view of the Costa del Sol. It restaurants and shops give you a chance to sample the local produce or buy a few mementos to take home.

Not far from Cuevas de San Marcos is the Spanish town of Rute with its beautiful tree lined Plaza. Whilst there take time to visit the numerous museums which celebrate everything Spanish. The Garrido Chocolate Museum, The Sugar Museum with it's sculptures, The Anis and Jamon museums may sound strange but are addictive and we find ourselves visiting these places regularly on our visits to Casa Feliz.

If you find the colourful Spanish Pottery is something you want as a memento of your trip then visit the town of La Rambla. It is famed for it's production of the pottery which is typical of Spain at prices a lot less than at home.

A drive to the Lake District is compulsory on our visits to Casa Feliz. The drive from Cuevas de San Marcos is nothing less than beautiful with varied landscapes from mountains to rolling hills to the plains where at certain times of the year you can see the flamingos. The lakes are usually crystal blue green so why not take a seat at one of the restaurants and experience the delights of Tapas.

The area has so much to offer so why not try white water rafting, wolf watching, go karting, bird watching, cycling, walking in the Subettica National Park. Explore the Ruta de Irvine Washington, Priego de Cordoba, visit the winery's in Montilla or the thermal spa at Alhama de Granada.