The hot spots

The last few days have been horribly hot with temps soaring into the high 40s. Needless to say this greatly curtails sightseeing ambitions but we have very happily fallen into the Spanish way of lunching about two and then coming back in the heat of the day to siesta.  Not a bad idea really. Here in Córdoba it has been especially rewarding as our hotel has a refreshing pool in a cool park like setting. 

Toledo, about an hour south of Madrid, is a beautiful city with its sky reaching cathedral and its other major churches and fortresses and one which we enjoyed wandering in. At first we were very excited about the quality souvenir shops and John was keen to get a rapier for himself and Paddy but he couldn't find what he wanted and so miracle of miracles we left Toledo with our bank account in the black. Toledo stands on the banks of the Tagus River and our accommodation had wonderful views of this and one of the two Roman bridges that cross the river gorge into the old city. 

We did a great drive around the city at sunset.  Toledo is beautiful at this time with its interesting silhouette.

From Toledo we drove to Córdoba in soaring heat.  We got to the hotel and went straight for the pool. It was 47 in the shade so the cool pool was a welcome relief. The highlight of our trip thus far was a visit to the Mezquita. This was a Moslem mosque which has been turned into a cathedral. The mosque is so beautiful it is believed that the architects who built the cathedral into it fell under its charm and did so very sympathetically.  An English girls choir was participating in the morning Mass there and we happily stayed to listen to this angelic sound. 

Another highlight of Córdoba is its patios and we enjoyed wandering around the old city and popping into casas with open doors to cool off in their beautiful gardens. 

An old Roman bridge, badly restored, is just down from the Mezquita, and apparently, so my good husband tells me, this scenario was recently used in Game of Thrones. 

Yesterday, we hit the road again and drove three hours down to Granada in Andalucia. The countryside thus far, has been pretty dry and forgettable, but almost immediately we entered Andalucia, the hills, olive groves, sunflowers, wheat and rivers kicked in and driving to Granada was a real treat. We stopped in this little hill town for a coffee on the way here. 

Today we have spent a fascinating day at the Alhambre. This site is hard to explain but the absolute highlight is the Moorish palace.  It is without doubt one of the most beautiful buildings I have seen. Simple, beautifully carved, lovely light streaming in screened windows, expansive views of Granada. 

We thoroughly enjoyed our time here which ended with a walk through the "picture around every corner" gardens.  

Had lunch in the Albayzin quarter.  We LOVE the Spanish lunches, fantastic value and quality food and drinks. 

Off to the beach at Nerja in the morning. Looking forward to some cooling sea breezes.