Getaway Granada

It had been many years since my last visit to Granada. I had very fond memories and was excited to return. It's a small, beautiful city, steeped in history and brimming with life. On this last visit, I fell even more in love with it.

I arrived on a Friday afternoon and my first stop was the Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula. Located in the historic center of Granada, near the Catedral and the Albaicín, this old convent, now a hotel, stands out for its historical significance. Having a drink or dinner in the cloister is a truly unique experience.

Once you've experienced this, there's nothing like strolling through the historic center: the Catedral, the Capilla Real, plaza de Bib Rambla, and Calle Príncipe. The walk is short, but the satisfaction it provides is big.

Dining in the garden at Villa Oniria was a great choice. The Onírico Restaurante stands out for its magical atmosphere, friendly staff, and excellent dishes such as the salmon tiradito with foie gras and pig's trotters with langoustines.

On Saturday, the route begins at "Oliver," the oldest nut shop in Granada. You can find everything from exotic nuts to gourmet wines and delicatessen preserves. It's quite interesting to see. It's located in the peaceful Plaza de la Trinidad, which I really enjoyed.

We arrived at the Alcaicería after passing through the Plaza de las Pasiegas and the Catedral, which I enjoyed both during the day and at night for their contrasting styles. The Alcaicería is a bazaar of various goods in narrow alleyways, and it surprised me. Next to it is the Corral del Carbón, a special place, well-maintained but somewhat dilapidated, with a unique charm.

The Zacatín Street leads to Plaza de Bib Rambla, where the famous tapas bar "Los Diamantes" is located. The terrace is a pleasant place to soak up the atmosphere. I recommend the desserts from "Ysla", right across the street; everything was delicious.

With a full stomach and the satisfaction of a delightful morning in the city, I continued my walk. Plaza Nueva offered me tranquility; then I arrived at Plaza de Santa Ana, where its impressive church stands out. Just opposite, in a 16th-century Renaissance palace, the Patio de los Perfumes invites you to a truly olfactory experience surrounded by architectural beauty.

One of Granada's most iconic walks is the Carrera del Darro, which runs alongside the river and offers excellent views of the Alhambra. I'm not sure if it ends at the Paseo de los Tristes or if it simply changes its name, but it's a very pleasant walk, although it's best avoided during peak season because it's always crowded with people heading to the Alhambra from the city center. The distances are short, and you soon reach the Cuesta del Rey Chico, also known as the Cuesta de los Chinos, the path leading up to the Alhambra.

Nothing I say about the Alhambra y Generalife will do it justice. I also didn't have enough time to enjoy it as I should have.

The Alhambra is a monumental complex that includes a palatine city of Andalusian origin. The site comprises historic gardens, palaces, and fortresses, originally designed to house the emir and court of the Nasrid kingdom, and later used as a residence for the monarchs of Castile. The interiors of the Nasrid palaces are distinguished by their exceptional artistic value. The architectural ensemble blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. It also houses a museum of Andalusian art, the city's main art gallery, and a former convent converted into a national tourist destination.

Although everything is spectacular, my favorites are the Palacios Nazaríes and the Palacio de Carlos V. I arrived in Granada at the end of June and enjoyed some concerts at night in the Palacio de Carlos V, an unforgettable experience.

On Sunday, I visited the Albaicín neighborhood, recognized as the oldest and one of the most emblematic in the city, considered the origin of modern-day Granada. I'm going to dedicate the necessary time to appreciate its historical and cultural significance.

Albaicín was originally a Muslim quarter, with numerous mosques, including the Mezquita Mayor. After the Catholic Monarchs' conquest, churches replaced the mosques and the Muslims left. Today, the neighborhood is known for its architecture, which blends Islamic and Christian influences.

During the Muslim rule, luxurious houses called "cármenes" were built, with gardens and orchards; today many are museums or restaurants.

I strolled along the Carril de San Agustín and went to the terrace of the Carmen El Agua restaurant, where I enjoyed excellent views of the Alhambra. I also appreciated both the panoramic views and the style of the Mirador de San Nicolás, the Plaza Larga, the Arco de las Pesas, the Callejón San Cecilio with its chapel, and the Puerta de Elvira. Finally, the day ended with tea at the Dar Ziryab Tea Room.

Albaicín is truly a special place. Located on colina de San Cristóbal and adjacent to the Sacromonte neighborhood, it stands out as a popular tourist area well worth exploring. In 1994, Unesco declared it a Patrimonio de la Humanidad as an extension of the Alhambra complex.

The Sacromonte caves are essential for experiencing authentic flamenco, especially the "zambras," Gypsy celebrations with dancing and singing until dawn. The most famous cave is that of "Maria La Canastera", visited by celebrities such as Ingrid Bergman and Anthony Quinn. The neighborhood is located between the city walls and the abbey.

During a visit to this city, I was able to stay at the Hospes Palacio de los Patos hotel, a boutique hotel located in a palace.

Granada is and always will be a fantastic raconet.

Thanks, Cris, for being the best guide!

If you need and/or want help organizing your getaway, don't hesitate to send me an mail!

A weekend, if well spent, is enough.

No problem.

No problem.