Extreme variables of landscapes and climate, flamenco music being played in underground venues with Vino del Pais being gulped abundantly, the symbol of the bull remaining a poignant landmark poised in sporadic locations around the region epitomises this traditional region.

But what really makes this region of Andalucia remain one of the most culturally unique Provence’s in Spain, are the tasty snacks you receive when you order a drink – universally known as the ‘tapas’.

Whilst most other regions of Spain expect payment in return for a plate of tapas, in the Granada Provence it remains a free token of gratitude.

Take a look at four of the best ‘tapas bars’ in the region of Baza, an agricultural market town in inland Andalucia that has retained traditionalism that many other areas of Spain have unfortunately lost.

El Kiosko

Shaded under the tree-lined village square at the top of the hill in the village of Caniles on the outskirts of Baza, the quant and quirky Bar El Kiosko can be found.

Sipping a cerveza under the shade of the trees watching the world go slowly by in this traditional Spanish village is a pleasant experience and one that is made even more pleasurable when the waiter brings out a plate of paella to accompany your drink, which is, of course, ‘on the house’.

Bar El Sevillano

Submerging yourself in the pretty stone building of Bar El Sevillano in a back street of Baza, enjoying the warmth and tenderness of the family who own it, is a great way to muse away an idle afternoon on a holiday in Spain.

This welcoming family always provide delicious tapas with every drink you order and are so generous with their portions that there is no need to order any lunch!

Dublin Bar

At the other end of this interesting Andalucian town, Bar Dublin can be found, which, being located opposite a college and sports centre, is a lively bar that never fails to attract a young crowd.  You always receive great tapas in Bar Dublin and are rarely given the same one twice!

Antonio’s Bar

Although perhaps the best tapas bar in this tapas-orientated region of Andalucia, is Antonio’s Bar in the village of Zujar, approximately seven kilometres to the west of Baza.

With its welcoming hospitality, pints for less than 2 Euros, and tapas that seem to grow in generosity with each consecutive drink, this unpretentious bar is one of the best bars to soak up a few drinks with some delicious home-made local cuisine that is completely ‘gratis’.

Why not now have a look at Vintage Travel’s Andalucia luxury villas?

Andalucia is a province of Spain steeped in tradition and what may seem to be a completely bizarre and crazy custom to visitors has been practised for centuries in this deeply ritualistic region of Spain and consequently the locals don’t bat an eye.

One such antiquated annual custom, which has remained unbroken for the last 400 years, is a pilgrimage made to the top of a mountain known as Mount Jabalcon near to the unpretentious yet characterful working town of Zujar in the Granada Province of Andalucia.

The ‘Romeria de Jabalcon” – Pilgrimage of Jabalcon – takes place on the last Sunday of April every year. This religious event attracts around 15,000 ‘pilgrims’ who slowly make their way up 15 kilometres of steep, rough and often treacherous terrain to the top of the mountain.

Heading the convoy of pilgrims is a figure of the Virgin Mary, who is righteously raised above the heads of six young strong ‘Zujarenos’ from the village below, in an ornate carriage decorated with flowers, crosses and euro notes – a tradition which is often used in Spain to represent prosperity.

The dutiful pilgrims are respectfully returning the Virgin Mary to her home, a hermitage on the top of Mount Jabalcon, where she will spend another year looking down and protecting the village of Zujar below.

From young and sprightly chaps in their 20s almost jogging to the summit, to old ladies in their 80s slowly edging up the mountain, often without shoes as a means of repenting their sins, the ‘Romeria de Jabalcon’, is a serious affair yet lacks the solemnity that often accompanies such a serious religious celebration.

Instead, Mount Jabalcon, on the last Sunday in April, is a hive of enthusiasm, happiness and excitement, particularly when you reach the top.

On the summit, Andalucian flags wave cheerily in the breeze with chorizo sausage and Cruzcampo beer dominating the tang in the air, as families and friends spread out their blankets and sit down to picnics fit for royalty!

With the blue skies this southern Spanish province is often blessed with in April, with the friendly hospitable locals serving you a tasty plate of tapas every time you order a drink, and with ancient religious traditions this heady and fun, there are plenty of reasons to visit Andalucia in April, and the ‘Romeria de Jabalcon’ is just one of them!

From ‘chorros’ to ‘chocolate caliente’, ‘carbon dulce’ to ‘turron’, Spain certainly seems to have an insatiable appetite for sweet delicacies, and with the country’s seemingly collective sweet tooth, chocolate is big business in Spain.

Spain’s enthusiasm for chocolate reached record-breaking new heights recently in the Andalucian province of Cordoba, when the world’s biggest chocolate bar was created for charity.

The gigantic bar of chocolate, which measured 250 metres in length and 25 centimetres wide, was made using 2,600 bars of milk chocolate, 400 bars of dark chocolate and 100 bars of white chocolate.

The legendary world’s biggest chocolate bar was created by 100 people in Montilla, a quant and interesting town, located 32 miles to the south of Cordoba. Those involved in making the record-breaking slab of chocolate are all members of the local charity – El Dulce Nombre, and all proceedings made from the bar will go the local Alzheimer’s care home as well as a local nursing home.

The world’s biggest bar of chocolate currently lies along the whole length of Montilla’s Avenida de Boucau, and, being decoratively covered by various types of sweets, including Easter eggs and chocolate statues, El Dulce Nombre’s chocolate bar really is a sight for sore eyes.

It does seem ‘apt’ that the world’s biggest chocolate bar has been created in the province of Cordoba, a region world-renowned for its culinary delights. The village of Montilla itself is famous for its production of top-quality wine, with row upon row of grape vines interspersing the gently rolling landscapes that dominate this exceptionally picturesque region of southern Spain.

As well as taking in the stunning views, visitors to Montilla can muse by the impressive architectural and historical sites the town has impressively preserved, including palaces, churches and convents, many of which date back to Roman times.

In between visiting sites of historical importance, walking in such splendid countryside, and witnessing some of the best wine on Spain being produced, be sure to take a trip to Avenida de Boucau in Montilla, to witness first-hand the world’s biggest chocolate bar.

With a Costa de la Luz holiday, you can explore the intricate streets of mediaeval villages, enjoy freshly-caught fish in seaside restaurants, marvel at the wildlife in the protected natural parks, visit the beautiful and historic cities of Cádiz, Jerez and Seville, which are all within easy reach. And, of course, relax in your holiday villa with its own private pool.

Those in the know return to this Coast of Light year after year, but you don’t have to take our word for it. Our clients’ comments explain why you’ll fall in love with a Costa de la Luz holiday in this delightful area of Andalucía.

“Tim loved the day trip to Tangiers; Kerrie loved the flamingos on the boat trip to the Doñana nature reserve; Flo loved having a beach 5 minutes away; Uncle Richard loved the fish and wine; Stephy loved going on a horse and cart in Jerez; George loved going on the train at the Tio Pepe bodega in Jerez. And we all loved swimming in the pool every day!”

The Grant Family (and Uncle Richard) stayed in Casa Almendro, El Colorado, Conil (pictured).

“We had a magical time and I can’t begin to describe how perfect everything was. The swimming pool and surroundings were stunning and protected by the most amazing climbing plants and fruit trees. At night we could hear owls hooting. I actually cried when I had to leave.”

Ms. S. Roberts stayed in Casa de la Fuente, Vejer de la Frontera

“We had a wonderful week. Fuente del Gallo is a great location – a single, palm tree lined road that leads to a quiet beach. The garden is a great size, the boys kicking a ball around – and safe.1 minute from the house is a neighbourhood restaurant that has good food. Cadiz is only a 30 minute drive away, the Torre Tavira and its Camera Obscura was loved by the boys.

The Woodard family stayed in El Chozo, Conil de la Frontera

“Great house and great pool! Fab barbecue and amazing chameleons on the poolside fence. We loved El Palmar and Caños de Meca beaches. Don’t really want to go home…..”

The Jacobs and Woods families stayed at Finca Cigüeña, Hozalejos, Chiclana

“The cove at Roche was our favourite with rocks for shade and great swimming. Bolonia was a great day out, the beach and Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia were impressive and lunch at the bar on the beach was friendly and tasty.”

The Sharman family stayed at Casa Olivo, El Colorado, Conil de la Frontera

“A beautiful place to stay in quality accommodation. We loved the house, the grounds and the luxury of a decent-sized pool. Thank you for your generosity, Jean Pierre.”

Lyn and Jo stayed at La Olivilla, Vejer de la Frontera.

“Our highlights were Gibraltar – take the cable car to the top of the Rock for amazing views (including the mountains of Morocco) and of course the apes – Vejer, which is a lovely town (we thoroughly recommend the Jardín de Califa restaurant) and Jerez, where we visited the Tio Pepe sherry bodega which was very interesting.”

Fiona, Julian, Katherine and Lexie stayed at Casa Abeto, El Colorado, Conil de la Frontera

“We had a lovely stay and managed to relax as well as see some of the lovely places nearby: Cádiz, Jerez, El Puerto de Santa María. We also had a lovely drive along the coast to Cape Trafalgar and on to Vejer. Everyone has been very friendly and helpful. We hope to be back soon, perhaps for a wedding anniversary as we got engaged at Casa Manue on this trip!”

Charlie and Andy stayed at Casa Manue, El Colorado, Conil de la Frontera.

For those who have been to Andalucia in the months of February and March, the region is usally blessed with some fantastic weather. Unlike in the summer months when the temperatures are usually in the 30s and often 40s, late winter and early spring can be the perfect time to get active in Andalucia’s great outdoors.

It is at this time of year that the Andalucia Bike Race is held; enabling riders and spectators alike to enjoy the great weather amidst some of the most stunning scenery Spain has to offer.

From February 26 – March 2, the Andalucia Bike Race 2012 will take place in the provinces of Jaen and Cordoba. This six-day race is split into different stages and categories. There is an elite men’s race, an elite women’s race, and a mixed and masters race, in which each competitor has to be aged thirty or over.

The race consist of a short urban prologue that will be held on the streets of the magnificent and historical city of Cordoba, a mountain bike stage, which will take place in the Mediterranean forests of the Sierra Morena, a mountain stage that will take riders up into the Sierra Nevada, inland Spain’s highest mountain range that is capped by snow for most parts of the year, and the final stage where riders will find themselves riding through the beautiful and diverse province of Jaen, notorious for its endless meadows of olive trees.

The first edition of the Andalucia Bike Race saw riders from 15 different countries participate, including the former cross country world champion, Jose Antonio Hermida. Although the second edition, the organisers promise, will be better than ever, saying that “we are discovering a new Andalucia, which we didn’t expect.”

If you’d like to discover Andalucia like you’ve never discovered it before, make sure you are in the city of Cordoba next February 26 for the Andalucia Bike Race 2012.

You should also take a look at Vintage Travel’s collection of luxury villas in Andalucia.

The report investigated and compared the cost of 16 common purchases from supermarkets, such as milk, eggs, bread, water and vegetables, in 13 different popular European holiday destinations. The research found that Mallorca was the most cost-effective destination where 16 supermarket items cost £44.23.

The Algarve proved to be the second cheapest country for food and drink, with the 16 items costing a marginally more £44.36. Whilst third place went back to Spain with the Costa Blanca’s supermarket forage totalling £47.28.

Vintage Travel’s outstanding portfolio of self-catering accommodation includes many villas, ranging from the magnificent and modern to the traditional and rustic and includes many properties in Mallorca, the Costa Blanca and Portugal. For example, in the Algarve, a beautiful region in southern Portugal, we have plenty of villas offering sensational views, first-rate accommodation, all with their own private pools.

One such property is 2 bedroom Algarve Villa Gazeio, a beautifully maintained large detached house less than five kilometres from the interesting and historical maritime town of Lagos. Gazeio has been decorated and furnished to an extremely high spec and this welcoming and unpretentious villa is the perfect place to enjoy a ‘budget conscious’ self-catering holiday.

Whilst over in Mallorca, the most economical destination for a self-catering holiday according to the report, Vintage Travel’s portfolio of villas covers many of the stunning island’s diverse towns and villages.

For example, the two bedroom Mallorca villa of Serelleta (pictured) tucked away in the wooden and tranquil slopes of the Ca’n Bosc valley, provides the perfect accommodation for a peaceful, rural getaway in the least expensive European holiday self-catering destination. Serelleta is blessed with sensational panoramic views of some of the most varied and picturesque landscapes on Mallorca.

This two bedroom, two bathroom villa is located several kilometres from the town of Pollenca which is plentiful of bars, restaurants, shops and supermarkets, enabling guests to take advantage of buying the most inexpensive produce in European holiday destinations.

Despite the fact that Spain has an average altitude of 660 metres, with 24% being above 1000 metres and 76% between 500 and 100 metres, the knowledge that Spain is the second most mountainous country in Europe, comes as a surprise to many, who tend to presume that after Switzerland, it must be France.

With this knowledge onboard, it should come as less of a surprise that Andalucia, so vividly abundant in mountains and ranges, ranging from the serrated to the smooth, the gentle to the severe, could be described as being a “mountaineer’s paradise”.

And none more so rapturous and ‘crying out’ to be explored than the variegated mountains circling a vast stretch of plain lands known as the Hoya de Baza, where although the soil is poor from long and harsh summers, olive and almond trees proudly obtrude the vista, existing only by the patient nurture of the local farmers.

When 71-year-old Bill Douglas decided to escape the miserable British winter and embark on a trip to a rural inland area in the eastern corner of Andalucia, he did not know what to expect.

This sentiment of anticipation was reciprocated by the owners of the accommodation Mr Douglas had booked to stay in, whom, although their guest had told them he was a fit and ‘young’ 71-year-old, keen on mountaineering and cycling, had not prepared themselves for the sprightly chap who walked in, with a gusto and nimbleness normally lost in one of such years.

In compliance with his affirmations of physical fitness and spirited activity, Bill Douglas, with the help of his more than accommodating host, Chris Whitehead, spent much of the duration of his stay, climbing many of the “lesser known peaks of Andalucia”, making the most of, not only the sensational weather Andalucia was blessed with this winter, but also the scenery, so magnificent, that even a tourist of Chamonix in France or Wengen in Switzerland would be satisfied with.

Santa Barbara

At 2,268 metres high, Santa Barbara is the highest peak in the Sierra de Baza, and being surrounded by a panoramic maze of fragrant pine trees, veiling a host of flora and fauna, surrendering to some easy-angled slopes, Santa Barbara tenderly beckons one to her summit. Talking of his experience on Santa Barbara’s summit, Bill Douglas commented:

“From the summit the panorama of the surrounding sierras was stunning. To the south the Sierra Nevada lay under a thick duvet of snow glistening in the sun, while to the north La Sagra, reared up in isolation out of the surrounding terrain.”

La Sagra

Inspired by its lonely posture, three days later Bill and Chris reached the summit of Mount La Sagra, whose severed situation and slightly portentous name, allows climbers of La Sagra to justifiably conclude that accomplishing this peak may be more than a little challenging. Although its veneer is worse than its bite, and climbing Mount La Sangra, although a little rocky and steep in places, is neither difficult nor intimidating.

“An easy path through shallow snow led to the summit of la Sagra, from where there were once again spectacular views in all directions. If I thought our day on Santa Barbara could not be bettered our ascent of Santa Barbara proved me wrong. At the age of seventy-one you relish such days with a fervour which might appear exaggerated or pretentious at thirty.”

Rapa and San Sebastian

What could be a better activity to do to mark the feast day of San Sebastian than climb the peak of San Sebastian?

Another significant peak of the Sierra de Baza at 2227.5 metres tall, the steep and rocky summit of Rapa is reached through an open forest of pine trees.

“Under our feet low-growing myrtle-like bushes gave up to a sweet aromatic scent as we crushed them. It was not long before we were at the cylindrical stone pillar which marked the summit,” Bill commented.

Criss-crossing their way across a snowfield, Bill and Chris made their way to the summit of San Sebastian. Although, despite the atmosphere of solitude being in these Spanish sierras invokes, the ramblers were not alone on their quest to conquer the peak of San Sebastian, as the tracks of deer in the snow were detected.

The Picon de Gor

The Picon de Gor is even less visited and discovered than the summit of Santa Barbara, which is of advantage to any walker in the area, whose venture is often accompanied only by a flock of alpine choughs seen flying overhead. Accessed via the village of Gor, the Picon de Gor, also in the Sierra de Baza, affords a truly memorable climb.

“The view from the summit seemed even more extensive and spectacular than from any of the other seven thousand foot tops we had already visited. To the east-north-east snow-capped Santa Barbara glistened in the sun. The summits of San Sebastian and Rapa to the south-east reminded us of the great day we had climbing them,” Bill fondly mused.

Bill Douglas and Chris Whitehead are justifiably proud of their achievements this winter, in conquering the lesser known peaks of Andalucia, and in doing so, defying the snow, the sometimes treacherous terrain and not to mention age.

The Sunday Times also made the point that there are too many bogus holiday firms that are ready to take your money for non existent overseas properties.

ABTA / ATOL bonded tour operator Vintage Travel were named as a preferred solution by The Sunday Times in ensuring a safe holiday booking.

Here’s those 3 villa’s from the cool 50:

Cortijo Alcornucosa, Andalucia – Set in the Alcornocales National Park, this villa has the most amazing views.

Casa do Lagar,  Minho (Northern Portugal) – This former olive press has charm, impressive interior design and privacy.

Markandoni,  Kefalonia – One of the most impressive villas in Kefalonia, not least for the stunning views from the infinity pool.

Vintage Travel have more than just 3 cool villa’s! Have a look at the complete luxury villa portfolio, you will not be disappointed.

Easter will soon be upon us and with it some incredible religious celebrations, which will be taking place across Europe. None could be more incredible than the enactment of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, in the otherwise sleepy Andalucian town of Cuevas del Campo.

Having been described as being one of the “most unique religious spectacles in the world”, this annual event sees a crowd of 15,000 plus congregate around a small church, all scuffling for a view. Little noise from the crowd interrupts the dramatic gladiator music, loudly filling the air, intensifying the anticipation and build-up.

Like the calm before the storm, silence briefly reigns, sharply followed by the galloping of horse hooves. Roman warriors’ then penetrate the scene, their spears and helmets glistening in the sun, their devilish red uniforms contrast with the serene blue sky above. Following the judgement of Jesus, the procession makes its way to the highest point of the town, overlooking the mountainous natural beauty, unique to Andalucia.

With Jesus hurled onto a cross, the Roman guards then hammer nails into his hands, convincingly looking like they are relishing every moment. The final act of the heart-rending display is the resurrection and Jesus Christ standing high on the hillside, beneath the cross, his arms out-stretched, embracing the thousands of onlookers.

Since 2001 more than 600 professional actors and villagers have been acted out ‘Passions of Christ’, showing an extraordinary expression of faith. What makes this religious event particularly vivid and memorable, is the seriousness of both the actors and the crowd. Adults and children of different nationalities watch with such intense sincerity that nobody can afford to take their eyes off the action for a minute. This is partly due to the emotional and realistic performances of the actors, the dramatic music against periods of solemnity and silence, and natural scenes of incredible beauty.

The town of Cuevas del Campo is located in the north-east of the province of Granada in Andalucia. If you are planning a trip to Andalucia this Easter be sure to take a detour to this usually sleepy, rural village, to witness one of the most striking representations of an event normally kept in the imagination.

Are you looking for villas in Andalucia?

Taking a break to the Costa Brava in early spring to participate or watch an exciting Catalonia event can be easily and economically achieved, with many of the budget airlines’ Spanish routes remerging from their winter time break. Vintage Travel has uncovered two particularly ‘pulsating’ events on the Costa Brava this March.

40-kilometre walk, Playa de l’Estany – First fortnight of March

What could be a more idyllic location for a walk than the verdurous and varied Costa Brava? Since 1963 the Centre Excursionista de Banyoles has organised a 40 kilometre walk. For the first two years, the walk was 80 kilometres, but in 1965 was quickly changed to a more realistic 40 kilometres after it proved to be a little on the excessive side for most of the participants. With more than 2,000 people of all ages, abilities and both genders participating each year, the walk is a popular, relaxed and enjoyable event.

Unlike most sporting fixtures in Spain, there is no competitiveness involved with this leisurely but rather lengthy walk. In fact, so ‘unhurried’ is the atmosphere that participants often take breaks to take in the stunning scenery that surrounds them.

Rally Catalonia, March – Girona, Selva, Alt Emporda, Baix Emporada

Rally racing in Spain can be traced back to the spring of 1904 with a race from Paris to Madrid. For more than a century the sport has grown in popularity and prestige. The Rally Catalonia is held in March each year in the towns of Girona, selva, Alt Emporada and Baix Emporada. The race has grown in significance and status and is now one of the most important rallies in Spain, which now includes a World Championship circuit. The event attracts large crowds, many of whom, jostling to secure the best spot, walk for hundreds of yards and even camp out the night before in improvised campsites.

Looking for a luxury villa holiday in Costa Brava?