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Planet In1 Destination Europe - Spain

We manage the Irish eCommerce strategy for Alanda Club Marbella, part of the leisure division of McInerney Properties PLC. Visit the website at www.alandaclubmarbella.ie

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Spain, historical land of conquest and empire, is the preferred destination of millions of tourists every year. Visitors often come for the sunny weather and sandy beaches but come back for the warmth of the people and the wealth of interesting things to see and do. From the artistic legacy of Goya, Velázquez, Picasso and Dalí to the romance of Miguel de Cervantes's novel Don Quixote del la Mancha, Spain is rich in culture.

The main historical influence came from the Muslim occupation of the country, which lasted for 800 years and the Christian reconquest. Spain built a large empire in the New World, which lasted until the end of the 19 th century. In the 50's the country started its economic recovery after the effects of a devastating civil war. Spain is mainly Catholic with a population of over 40 million. Part of the EU since 1986, tourism plays a major part of the economy.

From the north of Spain to the Southern regions, there are major differences in climate, cuisine, natural environment and customs and traditions, so travelling through the country is an adventure. There are 13 National Parks deeply committed to the conservation and enjoyment of rich, diverse ecosystems found nowhere else in Europe. There are over 4,000 km of coastline to be enjoyed by sun, sea and sand worshippers. Golf is a popular activity and attracts visitors from the colder climes especially outside of the peak summer months.

Madrid, the capital, with a population of 3 million, is a beautiful city situated in the middle of the peninsula. It is cosmopolitan and modern with a rich historical legacy and wonderful buildings and museums and within a short drive of cities such as Ávila, Segovia and Toledo. Other main cities are Bilbao in the northern Basque region, Barcelona on the northeast coast, Valencia in the east and Granada, Seville and Cordoba in the south. Malaga and the coastal regions around it have long been popular with sun-loving visitors and many of Europe's rich and famous have homes here. Golf has become a major attraction in the region as well as water sports of all kinds.

The Spanish Canary Islands are located near the northern coast of Africa surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. Comprised of 7 islands, these havens for the vacationer have coasts with vast sandy beaches full of outstanding reefs, capes and bays.

The Balearic Islands of Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza, off the east coast are synonymous with sun holidays. With a long list of beaches and golf courses, they are perfect for enjoying the balmy outdoors. Museums on Ibiza and Mallorca house important archaeological remains.

From water sports to hill walking and from bull fighting to art galleries, Spain has something for everyone.