ANDALUCÍA For the other extreme, head south to the Andalucía region. You’ll see why the Spanish developed the custom of the siesta or afternoon rest. Temperatures average 97°F in summer afternoons, and late evenings will see 95°F on the thermometer. Follow the local customs and retreat to a cool spot to wait for temperatures to drop. Pop back out into the city in the evening and follow the crowds to a late dinner. Some restaurants take reservations as late as 11 p.m. Tap into the tapas culture or reserve time for lunch or dinner at a Michelin- starred restaurant. You can explore on your own or book high-end itineraries featuring luxury accommodations (such as Hotel Alfonso XIII in Seville and Alhambra Palace Hotel in Granada), private car transfers, Michelin-starred meals, and exclusive tours of landmarks like the Alhambra, Ronda, and Córdoba’s Mosque-Cathedral. You can sign up for curated experiences such as horse carriage rides, sherry tastings, and authentic flamenco shows, all vetted by local experts for a seamless luxury expedition. For offbeat luxury in Andalucía, stay at boutique fincas (estates) like Finca Buenvino in Huelva’s chestnut forests, castle hotels in Jaén, and Moorish-inspired boutique hotels in Cádiz. The focus is on understated elegance, artisanal experiences, and immersion in local culture, from olive oil tastings to private wine cellar tours in Jerez. In Costa Brava and Andalucía, Spanish traditions and identity run deep through the language, cuisine, and palpable confidence of the people. Whatever you’re looking for in a vacation, Spain can help you find it.
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