Andalusia apartments – discover Spain's Arabic influence

Andalusia, or Andalucia, is the southernmost region of Spain, very close to Tangier in Morocco. It is one of the country’s most captivating areas, as it blends the magnificent Costa del Sol with some of the country’s most bewitching provinces – Cordoba, Granada, Seville, and Cadiz, to name a few. These old, white-walled cities with their ornate splendour reflect centuries of historic Moorish rule. Even the original name, Al-Andalus, has its origins in Arabic, with many of the place names and many Spanish words here having a clear Arabic influence.

Visit the amazing Alhambra during your stay in a luxury holiday villa in Andalusia

Start your holiday in self catering apartments in Andalusia with Granada, whose breathtaking Alhambra palace was the last stronghold of Moorish rule before the Catholics took control in 1492. Wander through the many chambers of the Alhambra, whose ornate stonework, carvings, fountains and labyrinthine hallways open into humongous marble-lined reflecting pools, making it a one-of-a-kind structure and absolutely unique among historical attractions in many European, Mediterranean and African destinations. After checking out all the chambers, stroll around the gardens and discover the ingenious finesse with which the Moors worked. The view from the Alhambra is stunning – you can see Spain’s towering Sierra Nevada mountain range sparkle in brilliant white throughout the winter, and legend has it that a Moorish King once had the mountainside seeded with white flowers to replicate such beauty throughout the sunny summer months, at the request of his beloved Queen. Take in the view each morning from your private Andalusia holiday rental property, whether you're staying in a villa, apartment or house, and marvel in the overwhelmingly beautiful sunsets from the swimming pool your accommodation provides. Indeed, the mystery, intrigue and romance of Spain runs strong in Andalusia.

Get a taste of Southern Spain with Andalusia apartments

Visit Las Alpujarras, a 70-km long series of ancient Moorish villages which crop up along the southern side of the Sierra Nevada; it is easy to hike between these villages and stay in local apartments in Andalusia along the way. Start out at the largest town, Orgiva, and make your way through this magical place revealing breathtaking vistas of Spanish landscapes. Nightlife in Andalusia is also spectacular, but if you’re serious about revelry, then do note that Granada is renowned throughout Spain for its festive atmosphere. Nights generally last until 5 or 6 in the morning, at the earliest, and as you’re starting out your evening, be sure to take advantage of tapas, scrumptious snack-sized dishes that are offered alongside beer or wine.

Once you’ve seen Granada, travel to Córdoba, where you can't miss the influence of the region's shifting history as you walk through the ancient Jewish quarter to reach the synagogue, which was once a cathedral and prior to that a mosque. Indeed, this rich confluence of culture makes for a remarkable historical attraction, although the whole city itself is somewhat of a museum. If you're looking for a more lively nightlife experience, it might be better to move on to Seville, which is simply enchanting; it offers port-city charm and intrigue, and its medieval architecture resonates with magical beauty. If you're in search of a combination of the beach and a vibrant nightlife, then holiday villas in Marbella or Malaga may be best for you. Or if you really want to party hard with your friends for a week, why not rent a holiday home in one of Spain's stunning islands such Palma in Mallorca or Santa Cruz, Tenerife? Andalusia is rich in culture and tradition, but don't let us tell you; the best way to experience this is to book holiday apartments in Andalusia and stay a while to find out for yourself.