Here’s our Deborah’s first hand review of last year’s festival -

“We parked the car down at the port and meandered along the harbour front before joining the tourist trip on the glass bottom boat around the harbour.  After a leisurely hour on the water, we arrived back and walked along to the famous Xoriguer gin factory; finding it closed, a bit perturbed we then ambled along to the church and that too was closed, as were all the shops.  It was only when we reached the centre of town and found the paved streets covered with sand, that I realised this was the day of one of the island’s biggest festivals.

We joined the throngs of people of all ages in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, which was decorated with flags fluttering in the breeze.  Film cameras were set up from the local buildings, to broadcast the occasion to the rest of the Balearic Islands.  The atmosphere was electric.  Squeezing ourselves in to a well-positioned corner of the Plaza, with no idea of what was actually going on, we soon saw a throng of men, all dressed in traditional uniform, emerge from the church.  They then lined the square making a barrier in front of the crowd.  Following on came four men wearing white gloves carrying the statue of the Lady of Grace. They climbed into a beautiful black open carriage pulled by the famous black Menorcan horses and preceded through the square and then around the streets with the Lady hoisted high above their shoulders, what a magnificent sight.  Riders followed the carriage on their horses, which were ornately decorated. The crowd was applauding and cheering (so was I) as they proceeded by.

Festival of Mare de Deu de Gràcia in Mahon

It is a tradition to touch the horses and riders as they pass by for good luck, which was what everyone was doing (yes me included); these fabulous animals accepted this in good manner (as did the riders).  We followed the carriage, horses and crowd around the shady streets, where further horses could be found standing quietly and what a brilliant chance for a photo shoot, the stable hands couldn’t have been more obliging and helpful in this opportunity.

Though the shops were all shut, the cafes and restaurants were open with makeshift bars in the streets selling the fabulous – but oh so potent – Pomada (Xoriguer gin and fresh lemon) at €1 for a small cup or €2 for grande size (I opted for the small size).

After all this excitement we made our way to the restaurant Tropicana, where they were doing a special menu to celebrate the day, and enjoyed a variety of fabulous tapas.

What a perfect day. We did make the mistake of going home far too early and missed some of the horse displays, the evening celebrations of fireworks and dancing in the square.  Putting all this into words just seems flat, the experience, atmosphere and enjoyment will stay with me and just thinking about it all brings a smile to my face and a happy feeling in my heart. Next time I’ll stay to the very end.“

If you fancy experiencing the Mare de Deu de Gràcia festival first hand check out our private villas in Menorca or call one of the team to discuss your requirements in more detail.

Inland Andalucía is so beautiful that I never tire of the scenery, even though I have lived here for 20 years! I particularly love Ronda and the nearby area, where the landscape varies so much. There are mountains, lakes, little villages where time seems to have stood still, vast areas of protected woodland where you can drive for miles without seeing another vehicle, and, everywhere, stunning views. It’s a real paradise for photographers, and for walkers, cyclists and bird watchers too. What is also lovely is the feeling of space and closeness to nature, but wonderful cities like Sevilla, Córdoba, Granada and Cádiz are an easy drive away so although we are ‘away from it all’, we’re not isolated. Andalucía is lovely at all times of year; I love the Spring, when the air is fragrant with blossom and wild flowers, and it’s hard to beat sitting by the pool or on the terrace on a summer’s evening, drink in hand, enjoying the herb-scented breeze and watching the sun go down.

Map of Andalucia

I am often asked which is my favourite Vintage Travel property in my area, and I honestly can’t answer that because I would end up naming them all! We have houses to suit all tastes and requirements and they all come highly recommended by clients who have stayed there. Check out our current range of properties for rent in Andalucia.

Living here is fantastic and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else; I love seeing clients enjoying their holidays or reading their comments afterwards, but I must admit that I sometimes feel quite envious…. after all, I never get to stay in any of these lovely houses!

 Local Secrets in Andalucia

Why do people go to the manufactured stony beaches of the Costa del Sol when on the Costa de la Luz they could have a stretch of beach to themselves nearly as big as Wales? Even in July and August there is room for everyone, but from April to June you can have a wide, clean golden beach virtually to yourself. Idyllic. From Conil in the north to Tarifa overlooking Morroco in the South nearly 80km of virtually unspoilt beach, with the lighthouse of Cape Trafalgar in the middle, is waiting for you to discover!

View from Tafira to Morocco

Steve Eccles, MD of Vintage Travel (closest)

Cycling or running?

Cycling – both on and off road

Beach or pool?

Pool –I don’t like the sand between my toes!

Backpacking adventure or all inclusive hotel?

Backpacking Adventure

The Times or The Guardian?

The Times – unless I am on an aeroplane when, for some reason, I always buy the Guardian.

Favourite pastime?

Playing touch rugby, with a group of over 40’s & climbing hills (The latter is a very recent addition, but I love it)!

Favourite country and why?

Spain, -superb food & wine, climate, locals & their way of life

Most exciting element of the travel industry?

The appealing nature of the product, that all can enthuse about, even with competitors.

Most memorable experience working at Vintage Travel?

Starting a new programme to the Greek Islands, -a total departure from everything done up until that time.

Any advice you can give to anyone wanting to start a career in the travel industry?

DO IT!
Whatever aspect of travel you become involved in, you won’t ever be able to escape.