A sporting nation

Spain is one of the most rewarding countries in which to walk, ramble or hike in Europe. In the south you will find a great climate, dramatic scenery and semi wild areas where you can walk for hours without coming across another person. For nature watchers there is also some of the most interesting flora and fauna to be found and the national parks are well worth a visit. Horse riding and water sports are also in abundance.

Golfers from all over the world travel to Spain for golfing breaks, Valdarama and Villa Martin being famous venues. There are at least another 48 championship level golf courses on the Costa Blanca – so if you join a club there your membership will also give you 320 days of free sunshine! There are also plenty of ‘pay as you play’ deals too. Residents and holidaymakers have many options that allow them to appreciate the fantastic courses and climate in their own way.

Football is not a game that is just for the British – La Liga (Spain's premiership) is rated as one of the most technically advanced football league in existence. Barcelona and Real Madrid are two of the most supported rival teams in the world.

Flying the flag

The Spanish are proud of their beaches, and rightly so. Blue Flag beaches are particularly well maintained. Their clear waters and clean sands are the finest examples in Europe. At least 25 beaches have special access ramps for the benefit of disabled bathers and some of the larger beaches have facilities for introducing wheelchairs into the water. Lifeguards are on duty during the peak season. Once the sun goes down you can join in the favourite pastime of the Spanish – the evening stroll along the promenade, stopping for refreshments at one of the many bars or restaurants. What a perfect way to finish the day!