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Spain

Our circular road trip of Andalusia and southern Spain Read more
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  • Trip start
    September 23, 2025
    BoomerangTravellersSpainBoomerangTravellers
    Statue art Barcelona
    Greeted with musket fire signalling the start of the Merce festival 2025Escaping the musket fire noise and smoke along a typical street with balconiesLining up of the giant puppetsPuppets rest on the shoulders of people under the skirts, face holes in costumeImpressively tallDancing in pairs along the parade routeThousands of spectatorsAnother part of the parade routeGridlockedEscaped to a quieter back streetInteresting installations everywhereGruelling climb up to the Parc GuellMosaic at entranceView from top of Parc over BarcelonaWavy mosaic seatMosaic buildingDetailsIntricateTree likeIntriguingPopularViews for milesLove the balconiesAnd the sangria

    Barcelona

    September 24, 2025 in Spain ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C

    A Spanish road trip was to be our next vacation
    Arriving in Barcelona for the Merce25 celebration.
    Which began with musket fire, like a bomb exploding
    Loud bangs every 30 seconds for muskets reloading.

    Escaped the noise to discover giants on show
    Performers went under skirts and off they’d go.
    Via jam packed streets the parade did unfurl
    The giant puppets in pairs did dance and twirl.

    Conquered the wall of spectators for a bite to eat
    Tried to navigate out again to a quieter backstreet.
    Walked endless steps with a whiff of sewer smell
    To finally arrive at the Gaudi oasis that’s Parc Guell.

    Vibrant mosaic tiles adorn wavy walls & benches
    Amongst carvings that felt like tree root trenches.
    Appreciated the ambiance whilst we strolled around
    Sipped on refreshing Sangria before sun went down.    Read more

  • BoomerangTravellersSpainBoomerangTravellers
    Coffee, a cortado and an espresso
    The Barceloneta StrandFirst sight of the Basilica Familia SagradaImpressive and still to be completedSo many details to absorbAmazing stoneworkBeautiful stained glassIntriguing ceilingBlue/green windows on the eastern sideRed/orange glass on the western sideFrom east to westStunning crucifix above the organ pipesAbstract bronze statue of St George, aka The Dark KnightThe setting sun's rays flood through the western windowsCreating such magicSundown on the exteriorChris awaits our morning coffee's, whilst I admire the balconiesSuch an array of empanadas to choose fromPalau de la Musica, art deco concert hall facadeLovely mosaic designsDetails wherever you look around the gothic areaThe undulating facade of Casa Mila by GaudiGaudi's Casa Vicens intricately tiled facadeIt's imposing corner towerThe beautiful wavy facade of Casa Batllo, reminds me of fish eyes.Great to see for real

    Gaudi’s Barcelona

    September 26, 2025 in Spain ⋅ ⛅ 22 °C

    Headed beachside on the direct lined metro
    At markets enjoyed a fresh brewed cortado
    Plus a tostado then different stalls explored.
    Seafood paella lunch & ‘The Strand’ walked.

    4pm arrived for our Sagrada Familia audio tour
    Over 90 minutes being amazed and in total awe.
    With it’s history, purpose and sculptures meaningful
    Sunlight streaming through stained glass so magical.

    It’s exterior magnificence absorbed whilst walking around
    Then slowly headed back through this famous Gaudi town.
    Wind induced the sniffles, a cold I’ll fight back
    Chemist visited to hopefully keep me on track.

    A cuppa at ‘The Coffee’ was the day’s good start
    Many more things to see before we have to depart.
    Empanadas sampled and the Gothic area roamed
    Ticked off seeing all of the various Gaudi homes.    Read more

  • BoomerangTravellersSpainBoomerangTravellers
    Bull silhouettes are seen regularly along major roads
    Montserrat, reaching the monastery there was not to beLocal snails were a must try, though not for me as not gluten freeThe impressive cathedral in ZaragozaTiled roof on cathedralZaragoza was busy with a night marathonStormtroopers as part of the marathon paradeOrnate buildings in Salamanca, MadridLas Ventas, Madrid's bullringMatador statueNot recommended to watchTasty gluten free croquettes 🤢Central MadridMore intriguing balconiesEntrance to Plaza MayorTypical cantinaInvisible wall, actually a muralAnother mural in La Latina area.Prado museum was openAmazing stone workBudding artistsGovernment buildingVertical gardenEl Retiro Park lakeAutumnal paths

    Madrid via Zaragoza

    September 28, 2025 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 19 °C

    An early night had as I felt really rather rough
    Door to airport car made moving easy enough.
    A couple more hours we were with a rental car
    First stop was Monserrat which wasn’t too far.

    It’s a jagged mountain with a monastery view
    Found ourselves halted in a three mile queue.
    U-turn made for our journey we did continue
    Lunch stop in Lleida with snails on the menu.

    Surroundings appeared quarry like, rocky & bare
    With occasional fruit trees producing apple or pear.
    Farms spread out with hanger like digs
    Which by the aroma belonged to pigs.

    Overnighted in Zaragoza for a cathedral to admire
    With a colourful tiled roof and distinct domed spires.
    Met by an army of Stormtroopers, an unusual sight
    Kicking off the town’s annual marathon race by night.

    Through the Aragon region we continued to cruise
    Every few miles spied black bull silhouette statues.
    The E-90 highway to Madrid made our travel fine
    Edged occasionally by slow rotating wind turbines.

    Our centrally located apartment was neat and compact
    Luckily secured a street park despite being jam packed.
    Travelled via the metro which is easy to navigate
    Alighting at Salamanca viewing buildings ornate.

    Made our way to the imposing Las Ventas bullring
    Our tickets for the bullfight we were soon regretting.
    Lack of the Matador’s entertainment quite a surprise
    Along with the unfairness of the majestic bull’s demise.

    I’d earmarked a bistro for gluten free croquettes
    Which half an hour later I did sincerely regret.
    A coeliac episode in a rail station definitely wasn’t fun
    Firmly hugging a toilet bowl until it was over and done.

    Awoke the next day feeling very sorry and sore
    Sent Chris out to experience a local food tour.
    As soon as I felt better and not quite so dizzy
    Met in Plaza Mayor which was extremely busy.

    Wandered San Miguel markets where tourists eat
    Continued along La Latina’s vibrant lively streets.
    Vermouth & tapas tried at a lovely Cantina
    People watching across the Plaza arena.

    Greeted with ‘Temporarily Closed’ a lot the next day
    So a fee to the Prado Museum we did happily pay.
    Vertical gardens, lake and autumnal paths we found
    Whilst through El Retiro Park we meandered around.    Read more

  • BoomerangTravellersSpainBoomerangTravellers
    The old gated entrance to Toledo
    Escalators make the steep ascent easierBirds Eye view from the topIncredible doors line the narrow cobblestone streetsJewish quarter marked discreetlyWhat's a few more stairsArea known for ceramicsEvery alleyway entices you to exploreHandmade souvenirsThe beautiful serene gardens of the AlcazarPeaceful first thing in the morningIn San Basilio you're encouraged to nose around people's patiosWhich are quite uniqueAnd beautifulBlue pots on white walls are very instagrammable.Entrance to the mosque courtyardOuter wallsInner wallsSpent quite some hours wandering aroundFeels so infiniteLots of detailsCan easily get lostThe bridge lit up at nightCool wine on a balmy eveningClip clop from horse and carriage rides often heard

    Toledo and Cordoba

    October 1, 2025 in Spain ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C

    Drove south to visit a home of painter El Greco
    In the medieval UNESCO walled city of Toledo.
    Where synagogue, mosque & palace sit side by side
    And a very steep walk leading up or escalators to ride.

    Architecture admired and multiple alleyways explored
    Potato omelette lunch alongside another tapas board.
    Our time here was unfortunately of short duration
    Continue driving to Cordoba our next destination.

    On the banks of Guadalquvir, Cordoba does nestle
    An alluring small town we found was rather special.
    Just strolling the streets it’s hard to describe
    As bistros spill onto pavements creating a vibe.

    The Alcazar gardens emit such a serene effect
    As plants, trees and flowers in the ponds reflect.
    Maze like San Basilio is known for it’s patios
    A small donation allows for a chat and a nose.

    Around the corner found an array of blue flowerpots
    Attracting many instagrammers for the perfect shots.
    Dined on a local dishes of tasty oxtail
    Sipping on cool wine so crisp and pale.

    Inside the expansive mosque hours we did spend
    It’s intricate details and size hard to comprehend.
    Sculptures & mosaics make you drop your jaw
    It’s infinity of striped arches leaving you in awe.

    Wandered by the riverside as day turned to night
    The Roman bridge meta-morphed coming alight.
    Spent the balmy evening at a local bar
    For tomorrow we’re not travelling far.    Read more

  • BoomerangTravellersSpainBoomerangTravellers
    Tiled details in Osuna
    Ornate building on San Pedro streetLunch including a flaming chorizoEnthralling entrance to Andalusien PetraLandscape at times is quite barrenSetas de Seville is imposingAnd very interestingMore enticing narrow alleywaysWith balconiesSeville cathedralUnbelievable doorwayNeck aching to see everythingCurved Plaza del CabildoCrossed the river to the marketsLots of Iberico ham for salePalestinian protesters caused diversionTower in Seville central plazaHuge plazaWith FrancescaDetails of tile workSun and shadeCool seatingIncredible sky as day endsBathing cathedral in a golden lightAcross the roof topsFlamenco dancer

    Seville

    October 4, 2025 in Spain ⋅ ⛅ 31 °C

    A quick stop in Osuna to walk it’s San Pedro street
    Admired architecture then a flaming chorizo did eat.
    On the outskirts the ‘Andalusian Petra’ did enthral
    With it’s grand entrance and inspiring carved walls.

    Onwards to Seville, with only olive groves to see
    Until our slick city apartment with space for three.
    As Francesca joined us for the next ten days
    To tour and sightsee plus some time to laze.

    Setas de Seville grabs attention made out of wood
    With undulating curves shrouding visitors like a hood.
    It’s honeycombed look makes an interesting structure
    Producing much needed shade that’s a welcome feature.

    Narrow alleys with balconies edged in iron wrought
    Conjures up visions of eras past and much thought
    Of the multitude of folk that on these pavements trod
    As modern carriages clip past pulled by horses shod.

    The magnificent cathedral we stopped to observe
    Discovering a courtyard with an expansive curve.
    Strolled many alleyways in Santa Cruz
    Crossing the river for markets to peruse.

    For a Palestinian protest we were diverted by police
    But arrived at Plaza de Espana the city’s centrepiece.
    The intricate colourful ceramic work is so incredible
    A female flamenco dancer made it a true spectacle.

    Refreshed with wine and an in-house beer brewed
    Filled up on fresh Iberico ham and other local food.
    Afternoon spent perfectly enjoying a siesta
    Evening at a taverna for a flamenco fiesta.    Read more

  • BoomerangTravellersSpainBoomerangTravellers
    Our gorgeous Andalusien villa nestled amongst olive trees
    Distinctive constructionCool interiorPathway to poolBlissfulAscending to the church in OlveraHalfway, still have to get to the top of the hill for the castleRock layer sculptureLong way downTaking a breatherView from turretYeah we made itOlive trees for milesDrone shot OlveraWay downCool patioCentral square main road!Sentinel de las BodegasMore stairsHomes built into rocksUnique placeRock ceilingForming a tunnelVery steep in placesRestaurant choicesYum

    Olvera & Sentinel de las Bodegas

    October 7, 2025 in Spain ⋅ ☀️ 29 °C

    Our Andalusien villa I booked via Air BnB
    Centrally positioned it was a real joy to see.
    With expansive gardens and a pool facing west
    Made a fabulous setting though the flies a pest!

    Olvera has a church and castle high on its hill
    Apprehensive but made it, ‘twas such a thrill.
    Surrounding land stretched out of our view
    Sat in central square as cars drove through.

    Sentinel de las Bodegas conjures up many feelings
    Walking the streets under overhanging rock ceilings.
    Positioned discreetly produces many steep inclines
    With establishments perched on pavements to dine.    Read more

  • BoomerangTravellersSpainBoomerangTravellers
    Quirky bull statue
    Beautiful villa patio to start our dayRonda Church, struck noon as we arrivedRonda also known for it's original bullringImpressive from aboveOld entranceway to the town across the bridgeThe deep gorge and terraced gardensPuente Nuevo's impressive archwaysRock formation in gorgePaella, yumA cold cerveza much appreciatedQuirky olive oil manufacturerOlive groves, LA Almazara el ToroOlives ripeningEmbaise del GuadaltebaStart of the Caminito de ReyBeginning with a loooong tunnelArmed with hard hats, audio gear and waterWalking along the narrow walkway hundreds of metres above the gorgeAttached to sheer rock wallsCan't be afraid of heightsCrossing bridgesNautilus fossil in the cliff faceBoth sides of the gorgeRail bridge denotes near the end of the 6km walk

    Ronda & Caminito del Rey

    October 9, 2025 in Spain ⋅ ⛅ 23 °C

    Absorbing morning sun on the patio
    To decide which of many places to go.
    Arrived in Ronda as the church rang midday
    Across Puente Nuevo bridge it’s main gateway.

    Jardines de Cuenca descends gently in tiers
    Where the depth of this gorge truly appears.
    Partook in a paella lunch under corner shade
    Onto a quirky estate where Olive Oil is made.

    Our next adventure was the Caminito del Rey
    A 7km trek along a most notorious cliff way.
    On a gorge boardwalk attached 100m high
    Monitored by a guide to ensure we comply.

    Following the Embaise de Gaitanejo cliff ridge
    Spectacularly crossing via a suspension bridge.
    Proved not so arduous yet still a proud feat
    Extremely happy when over and complete.    Read more

  • BoomerangTravellersSpainBoomerangTravellers
    Torrox Costa on the Costa del Sol, early morning
    View from Europa Balcony, NerjaViaduct in NerjaColomares Castle, MalagaBuilt as a memorial to ColumbusMany details telling stories from marine explorers😍Definitely worth visitingNerja CavesStalagmitesStalactitesYears oldNarrow streets in FrigilianaAmazing restaurantBirthday mealExploringGreat appealMore blue flower potsMalaga centre always busyPicasso exhibitionEarly ceramic workMy favouriteSimply but effectiveTypical Picasso

    Costa del Sol

    October 11, 2025 in Spain ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    With birthday approaching wanted to stop awhile
    Booked into a Torrox Costa resort to chill in style.
    Overlooking the Mediterranean and endless beach
    Much of the Costa del Sol sights within easy reach.

    Checked out Colomares Castle incredibly ornate
    It’s uniqueness and detail did certainly captivate.
    Then Nerja Caves having stood for many generations
    Housing their impressive stalagmite & tite formations.

    Venturing inland ended up in the wrong place
    U-turn thwarted by a professional cycle race.
    Arrived in Frigiliana with its delightful appeal
    For birthday celebrations & a memorable meal.

    Wandered up and down many tiled stairs
    In and out of shops admiring their wares.
    Weaving between folks framing their shots
    In alleyways decorated with blue flower pots.

    In Malaga finding a park proved to be slow
    Obtained tickets for the museum of Picasso.
    Fantastic exhibition but our time was to be short
    Ensuring Francesca made it safely to the airport.    Read more

  • BoomerangTravellersSpainBoomerangTravellers
    Our Granada AurBnB with own courtyard
    Extremely steep streetsDifferent religionsChurch guardsmenLocal statue with donkeyCentral plaza with fountainThe Alhambra visible from almost everywhere in townFrom a high viewpointBut inaccessible without a ticketStrong moorish architectureGreat viewsLoved the doorsAnother lovely entranceCourtyard with orangesObsessedMust love catsPlain door, fancy stoneworkModern Granada spreads farA little Spanish guitar playingMoorish ceramicsHammann entranceWaiting areaBlissful insideAlhambra by nightAll lit up

    Granada

    October 14, 2025 in Spain ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C

    Our next AirBnB was found in the centre of Granada
    A steep city laying in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada.
    Populated by many religions makes for diversity
    Living safely together with a sense of community.

    Famed for its gardens and the Palace Alhambra
    Limited tickets sold out, so to see it was a nada!
    So explored Albacin’s narrow streets like a maze
    Absorbing such views left our heads in a daze.

    The intricate architecture is decidedly Moor
    Got totally obsessed with the amazing doors.
    Took a chance to unwind with a Hammann visit
    A peaceful, relaxing calm it’s facilities did elicit.    Read more

  • BoomerangTravellersSpainBoomerangTravellers
    The intriguing town of Guadix
    White chimneys denote underground homesAn ancient way of living to avoid invasionsUnderground dwellings are still used today but with modernisationView across the modern town centreMosaic stone stairwayGuadix cathedral with Roman and Baroque architecturePink salt flats on Murcia coastUndrinkable water due to recent floodingTraditional windmillNot so pink flamingoOur hotel spa, water safe but head coverings compulsoryAcres covered with plastic greenhouses for higher production, but rather an eyesoreMangoes and bananas grown in every available gullyLower part of AlteaAnother steep climb upStill smilingPicture perfect viewCentral AlteaQuirky art on showFabulous restaurant with a €25 set menuWhich was also gluten free 😍

    Murcia Coast

    October 17, 2025 in Spain ⋅ ⛅ 24 °C

    Stopped by Guadix as it’s rather unique
    For at its cave houses we wanted to peek.
    On the undulating clay hills are chimneys white
    The only sign of life underground, out of sight.

    Interesting to explore and wander around
    Ventured downhill into the centre of town.
    Found a welcome seat in the Cathedral’s shadow
    Time for a quick snack plus of course a cortado.

    Onto Murcia’s coast known for bathing in mud
    Recovering from recent storms and a major flood.
    Still visible were the salt flats tinged with pink
    But the local water was declared unfit to drink.

    Bottled water with a meal next to a windmill
    Spying not so pink flamingoes having their fill.
    After having spent numerous hours sat in our car
    Sank blissfully into thermal waters of the hotel spa.

    Drove the Costa Blanca bypassing Alicante and Benidorm
    To avoid the traffic & high-rises where many expats swarm.
    Meandered past dry, dusty acres of produce fields
    Mangoes, bananas & avocados with amazing yields.

    Lunch stopped at the charming hillside town of Altea
    The view from the top of the stairs was incredibly clear.
    Nabbed a picture perfect table with a menu that’s set
    Being also gluten free was one of the best meals yet.    Read more

  • BoomerangTravellersSpainBoomerangTravellers
    The local orange aperitif
    Valencia's church towerValencia orangesGovernment buildingSunset over ValenciaLa Pepica is an institution.With an array of paella pansScallopsPaella for 2!Always makes me chuckleArts and Science centre futuristic buildingsSkeletal likeIntriguingSurrounded by waterBuilt @ the start of millenniumQuirky Parc SamaBuilt around a lake housing many plants and wildlifeBlack swans reminding us of AustraliaFarewell Spain, but may your door remain open for our return 🇪🇸

    Valencia

    October 20, 2025 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 27 °C

    More miles covered before in Valencia we did arrive
    Known for paella and where orange orchards thrive.
    A modern apartment to be our home for two nights
    Watched sunset darken to a city of twinkling lights.

    La Pepica’s restaurant Hemingway used to frequent
    A reservation made and there a leisurely lunch spent.
    Devouring scallops & seafood paella with crisp wines
    Waiters weaved paella pans through long patron lines.

    The Art & Science complex buildings are very striking
    Their curves reflecting in the water much to my liking.
    Skeletal like sections impossibly intertwine
    Overall they’re of a very impressive design.

    Parc Sama’s theme is whimsical and romantic
    Hosting a vast collection of unusual botanics.
    Plant displays by a lake and around rocks
    Attractive to wildlife plus a few peacocks.

    Our circular road trip brings us back to the start
    Returning the car and from Barcelona we depart.
    Reviewing our month, much knowledge we’ve gained
    Enjoyed our travels here and know we’ll return to Spain.    Read more

    Trip end
    October 22, 2025
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