Sorelle Amore, THIRDHOME‘s Best Job On The Planet winner, shows off must-do activities while exploring Ronda and Cadiz, Spain. During her trip she stayed at THIRDHOME property El Nido.
Members, want to visit Spain? Click here to browse THIRDHOME properties in Spain, and get ready to plan your next trip or set watch alerts for the homes you love.
Click here to learn more about joining our luxury travel club.
On your next (or first) trip to Spain, you have to put El Nido, a THIRDHOME property, at the top of your list for accommodations. It is a 5 bedroom home with a pool, spacious kitchen and dining entertainment area. There is also a rooftop terrace with direct views of the Rock of Gibraltar in the distance. The sunsets here are absolutely unforgettable!
Who would I recommend Spain to?
Anyone seeking sun, great food, adventure, history and outdoor activities such as hiking.
San Roque, Spain is just minutes from El Nido. It is a high-class area and the boat harbor nearby is a place where you will find evidence of that.
Colorfully designed apartment blocks surround hundreds of stunning, large boats in the harbor.
The cafe scene within this area will also impress, where the patrons are often luxury connoisseurs themselves.
How would I summarize my time in Spain? It’s a place that is exotic enough to satisfy your curiosity and adventure bug, but familiar enough to make you feel comfortable and at home.
It’s a place where you will get acquainted with the sun, incredible food – particularly the Spanish tapas, and you will be greeted by the smiling faces of the locals.
One of my favorite experiences when in Spain was visiting the town of Ronda.
It is a cultural, bustling city, where the streets are lined with shops and cafes. While there, you can see the famous arch bridge, the oldest bullring in Spain and the oldest underground Turkish baths.
Intercept your exploration with stops at cafes to recharge your batteries with some Sangria, where you’ll often find live music to accompany your drink.
Caminito del Rey is also a must-visit. It’s a long walkway up high in the air attached to the side of a canyon. Once a path for workers to get to the water stations nearby, it has now been upgraded and renovated, ready to be enjoyed by those who want to feel a rush.
Dare to cross a narrow bridge with a see through bottom between two canyons high up in the sky? This is the place to do it.
Another recommendation from my visit to Spain is to explore the local villages. A very popular stop for tourists is Setenil de las Bodegas, where the popularity of this area was gained thanks to the town homes all being uniformly painted white with terracotta orange roofs.
From the top lookout, you will be mesmerized by this sight. There is also the overhang cliff where you can sit under the overhang and enjoy some wine and tapas.
Another absolutely must-visit city is Cadiz. The Moroccan influence is very strong in this part of Spain as you can hop on a ferry between the two countries from there. The shoreline is one of the most incredible I have seen. Pastel coloured buildings line the shore and the feature is the grand cathedral, with its large white and gold domes captivating your attention.
This is a great town to enjoy for the day and don’t forget to enjoy delicious local ice cream as you wonder through the city discovering shops and historic spots around every corner.
And finally, do make a day trip out to Gibraltar. Cross the border control and be greeted by a mini replica of Great Britain with a strong Spanish influence.
The homes are all resembling that of Spain, however the food, the currency, the accents, the TV and radio stations are all British.
My favourite stops here included of course the famous rock of Gibraltar and the monkeys at the top and the beautifully lit up St. Michael’s cave within the rock.
I would also recommend a drive to the end of Gibraltar to see the most stunning lighthouse you’ve ever seen. A typically white and red lighthouse like you would expect in a fairytale movie.
I do hope that by sharing in these adventures with me, it’s inspiring you to plan your next holiday with THIRDHOME. The world is a beautiful playground ready to be explored.
-Sorelle Amore
During her trip to Spain, Sorelle stayed at El Nido. Click here to view all THIRDHOME properties in Spain.
Sorelle Amore won THIRDHOME‘s “Best Job On The Planet,” which garnered more than 17,000 applications from around the world. In her position as a Luxury Travel Connoisseur for THIRDHOME, she is traveling the world, staying in 12 luxury homes.
THIRDHOME is the exclusive luxury property and travel club that enables second home owners to exchange time in their home for stays in spectacular destinations around the world. Click here for more information on how to become a member.
“What giants?” Asked Sancho Panza.
“The ones you can see over there,” answered his master, “with the huge arms, some of which are very nearly two leagues long.”
“Now look, your grace,” said Sancho, “what you see over there aren’t giants, but windmills, and what seems to be arms are just their sails, that go around in the wind and turn the millstone.”
“Obviously,” replied Don Quijote, “you don’t know much about adventures.” – Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra
Do you know much about adventure? If you do, then you know the Andalusian region of Spain is loaded with it. Filled with architectural marvels, multiculturalism, arts, delicious food and gorgeous coastlines, Southern Spain is an obvious choice for your next European adventure. Journey to the far reaches of the Iberian Peninsula to discover your inner Quijote while staying at some of THIRDHOME‘s beautiful Spanish properties.
LUXURY STAYS IN Southern Spain ARE AVAILABLE NOW! PLAN YOUR TRIP TODAY!
Cordoba
What to do: This city has changed hand many times throughout history. It started as a Roman settlement, was colonized by Moorish armies, and then was the capital of the Caliphate of Cordoba. In the early 13th century, the city returned to Christian rule during the Reconquista, but still retains elements of its Moorish past. This melding of Muslim and Christian architecture and culture is something that will be seen all over Southern Spain, but one of the best examples is the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba. A model of Moorish architectural excellence, this Cathedral started as an early Christian Visigoth temple, was build out into a Great Mosque in 784 A.D., and was later converted into a cathedral after the Spanish Reconquista. Decorated with columns of onyx, marble and granite this place of worship is a remarkably well-preserved glimpse into Spain’s cultural past. If you’re a fan of history, architecture, and cultural expression Cordoba is a must-visit destination.
Where to stay: Click here to see all nearby Malaga properties (1-hour drive to Cordoba)
Estepona
What to do: If you want your Southern Spain adventure to include a bit more family-friendly beachside lounging, than Estepona is the destination for you. As the bird flies, this pueblo-style coastal city is only 23 miles Northeast of Gibraltar, near the start of Costa del Sol. The area is surrounded by beaches (be sure to research the dress code) some of which have a clear view of the African coast. These beautiful views can also be enjoyed from one of the region’s many high-end golf courses. Tennis and cycling are also very popular local pastimes. There’s much to do in this coastal town, and it can be a wonderful jumping off point for other Southern Spain excursions.
Where to stay: Click here to see all Estepona properties or stay at this Estepona beachfront villa.
Gibraltar
What to do: Technically not a Southern Spain destination (while still in the Southern region of the Iberian) Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory. The small sliver of land even has its own currency, the Gibraltar Pound. It’s been under British control since 1713 and was a strategic location for British naval operations during World War II. One of the destination’s most recognized features is the Rock of Gibraltar, a nearly 1,400-foot tall limestone headland into the Strait of Gibraltar. The Rock has been used as a military outpost since the early Moorish invasions of the early 700’s but is now primarily known for its history and fauna. Visitors are sure to encounter the playful and mischievous Barbary Macaques Monkeys that dwell on the rock-a long held staple of Gibraltar tourism. It’s rumored that Winston Churchill ordered the repopulation of the monkeys citing the belief that as long as monkeys live on Gibraltar, it will live under British control. They now roam freely and protected on the Rock of Gibraltar, following snack-toting tourists as they climb to view the distant African coast.
Where to stay: Click here to see this nearby Torreguadiaro sea view property.
Granada
What to do: It’s a little overwhelming standing in a room that has had such a major impact on the history of the world. In Granada, you can visit the Castle of the Alhambra and the throne room of King Ferdinand and Isabela, where Columbus requested royal sponsorship for his fast route to India. It was also one of the last strongholds of the Moors during their reign over the Iberian Peninsula. The castle is in remarkable shape and is still available for tours. Aside from the world-turning historical events that took place in Granada, the city is also well equipped with flamenco dancing, street art and delicious tapas. Granada is an essential stop on any Costa del Sol trip.
Where to stay: Click here to stay at this luxury golf villa in nearby Mijas.
Jerez de la Frontera
What to do: If you’re anything of an oenophile, especially with an interest in fortified wines, Jerez is the city for you. Considered the world capital of sherry, Jerez has been making wine since 1100 B.C. Since then Jerez Sherry has gone worldwide. In Jerez, you can visit Sherry bodegas such as Gonzales Byass, and vineyard for some hands on viticulture research. In the same visit, you’ll also discover the origin city of flamenco singing. Although many southern cities claim flamenco heritage, Jerez’s flamenco tradition dates back to the 18th century, and even includes a special form of horse flamenco. Grand Prix motorcycle racing also takes place in early May on El Circuito de Jerez. There’s no shortage of cultural exploration to be had in this city of early innovation.
Where to stay: Click here to see a nearby property in Ronda (1.5 hours to Jerez).
Malaga
What to do: Lovers of art history will quickly recognize this city’s name. Malaga was the hometown of famed artist, Pablo Picasso, and is still home to a museum named for him. Dating much further back than the works of Picasso is the Alcazaba de Malaga, a giant seafront fortification. This fortress was constructed by Moorish invaders, but some of its materials, including remnants of an amphitheater, date back to the Romans. The city of Malaga was founded as far back as 770 B.C by Phoenician traders from Tyre (southern Lebanon) making it one of the oldest cities in the world. Since its early beginnings, Malaga has grown into a thriving cosmopolitan coastal city with plenty of modern amenities to complement its historic appeal. Visit Playa de Burriana for some beachside fun and dine on some of Malaga’s most delicious paella at Restaurante Maria. Dive into the past and relax in the present in the city of Malaga.
Where to stay: Click here to see all Malaga properties.
Marbella
What to do: A part of the Province of Malaga, Marbella covers 45 square miles of coast and Sierra Blanca foothills. Post World War II, the small city became a tourist destination for the ultra wealthy as many aristocrats and nobility descended on real estate in the area. Marbella’s Golden Mile, a stretch of luxury housing, is the embodiment of this pattern of postwar spending. Besides the luxurious properties, Marbella hosts 24 separate beaches across 17 miles of coastline. These elements of foreign investment, beachside property and beautiful views has created a vibrant cultural scene in Marbella. Each year the city hosts the Marbella International Opera Festival, the Marbella Reggae Festival, and the Marvella International Film Festival. Attracting residents such as Sean Connery, George Clooney, and Antonio Banderas Marbella has become a kind of Beverly Hills to Spain.
Where to stay: Click here to see all Marbella properties or stay at Bahia de Banus Villa.
Ronda
What to do: German poet Rainer Rilke once remarked, “Nothing is more startling in Spain than this wild and mountainous city.” Other famed artists certainly must have agreed. Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles summered often in Ronda, the former basing a scene in For Whom the Bell Tolls on an event that took place there during the Spanish Civil War. Welles had such affection for the destination that he requested that his ashes be buried at the nearby property of a retired bullfighter. But what was it about Ronda that these prolific writers loved? For one, the bullfighting-Ronda is the home of the oldest bullring in Spain, having been built in 1784. The city also has remarkable geography. Perched atop a mountain overlooking El Tajo Canyon, Ronda is a naturally divided city, with sections only accessible by steep stone bridges. Walk in the footsteps of Hemingway and discover the historic treasures of Ronda while staying with THIRDHOME. You can also read more about THIRDHOME CEO, Wade Shealy’s motorcycle journey to Ronda and through Southern Spain here.
Where to stay: Click here to view this chic Andalusian property in Ronda.
Seville
What to do: What trip to Southern Spain, or the entirety of Spain for that matter, would be complete without a trip to Seville? Baking under the hot Andalusian sun is a city of romance and bullfighting machoism. The romance of the city is almost palpable, immortalized flamenco tales such as Carmen. Castañetas can be heard clapping around the densely packed corridors as guitarists strum, dancers tap and tourists evade the ever looming sun. Many find shade in the enormous Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic Church in the world, and also where Christopher Columbus is rumored to be buried. The nearby Alcázar of Seville is a monument to Mudéjar architecture and has been featured in productions such as Game of Thrones, Lawrence of Arabia, and Kingdom of Heaven. Discover Spain’s artistry at Sevilla’s Museum of Fine Art, which features work by Velázquez, El Greco, and Francisco de Herrera. Seville’s abundance of cultural and historic exploration could take up an entire trip, and the city serves as a microcosm of the greater Andalusian region. But don’t limit yourself to just one or two cities during your Southern Spain trip. Utilize the efficient network of trains that connect each city to the next. Discover all that Southern Spain has to offer with THIRDHOME today!
Where to stay: Click here to see these Malaga properties (less than 2-hours to Sevilla by train).
Before your first visit to Andalusia, you may think that it’s just like the rest of Spain. But you’ll soon discover that Southern Spain keeps treasures all its own, from its colorful traditions to its astounding architecture. Discover what Southern Spain has to offer with THIRDHOME.
Click here to see all available properties in Spain!