WHAT IS SO FASCINATING ABOUT ANDALUCIA? ITS HISTORY, ITS CULTURE? ITS MONUMENTS, ITS FLAMENCO MUSIC, SONGS, DANCES, ITS BULLFIGHTS & FERIAS, ITS PEOPLE, ITS FIESTA WAY OF LIFE?
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A YACHT CHARTER IN ANDALUCIA OFFERS A UNIQUE WAY TO EXPERIENCE ITS VIBRANT CULTURE, DELICIOUS CUISINE AND WINES.
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THE MOORISH LEGACY
The legacy of the Moorish rule (8th to 15th century) is considerable.
We still admire today spectacular monuments such as the Alhambra in Granada, the Mezquita of Cordoba, the Alcazar in Sevilla, splendid gardens and patios with fountains and pools.
The moors’ skills in agriculture and irrigation systems shaped Andalucia’s landscape.
They introduced oranges, lemons, artichokes, aubergines, hard wheat, rice, sugar cane, pomegranates …
The influence of Al-Andalus reached out far beyond its frontiers.
It was recognized as a centre of great learning, home of eminent scientists, physicians, philosophers and artists.
Under Calife Al-Hakam the Second, Cordoba became a beacon of enlightenment with a library gathering over 400.000 books of various disciplines originating from parts of the world, a translation and research centre with Muslim, Jewish and Christian scholars creating a bridge between civilizations.
The moors also brought several instruments that had an influence on Spanish music: the rebab (a kind of violin), wooden flutes, percussions and most importantly the 4-strings lute that became the modern guitar with 6-strings.
Andalucia is the cradle and heartland of Flamenco art.
Flamenco music, songs and dances originate from Moorish Andalucia, Northern African, Sephardic influences, local folklore and gypsy culture.
Thinking of a yacht charter on the Andalusian Riviera, please contact Blue-Trend, your yachting specialist ▪▪▪
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CRUISING ALONG THE COSTA DEL SOL
Depending on the length of your charter and of available yachts, you may start your cruise in Ibiza, Valencia or Malaga.
Malaga is a beach city with a long seafront promenade.
You cannot but fall in love with its’ charming old town – one of the oldest cities in Europe. Enjoy a coffee and local pastries, or a wine and tapas tour before visiting the Cathedral, the Alcazaba, the Roman Theatre, the Castillo of Gibralfaro, the Picasso , Flamenco and wine Museum.
From Malaga you may visit Granada (+/- 126km) and Cordoba (+/- 158km).
A 30nm cruise along the Costa del Sol will take you to Marbella and Puerto Banus – the luxury hotspot with upscale boutiques, fine dining and exclusive nightlife.
112km from Marbella, perched at 700m altitude built on top of a cliff, lies another Andalucian gem: the medieval village of Ronda with its city walls, Arab baths and Almocabar gate,C outstanding palaces, hanging gardens, the 18th century Puente Nuevo and bullring.
Weather and type of yacht permitting, a bolder itinerary could consist in crossing the strait of Gibraltar and head off to Cadiz (approximately 105 nm from Marbella).
Founded in 1104 BC, Cadiz is another Andalucian fascinating city with pristine beaches and dunes, a rich history and historical monuments: a Roman theatre, the Puerta de Tierra fortification with bastions and watch towers, the San Sebastian Castle, the Gran Teatro Falla, the Tavira watch tower, the Cathedral, the historic centre…
Cadiz was raided by Sir Francis Drake in 1587 and chosen as the shooting location for some of the scenes of the James Bond movie “Die Another Day” .
From Cadiz you could continue your journey along the river Guadalquivir to Seville and enjoy a unique insight into the incredible history of this Andalucian gem.
Seville’s highlights: the Real Alcazar, the Cathedral and the Giralda tower, Plaza de España, Plaza América, the Torre del Oro Tower (naval museum); Casa de Pilatos, the Real Maestranza de Caballeria, the historic centre and barrio de Triana…
Needless to say, such a yacht charter needs to be prepared in advance.
Thinking of a yacht charter on the Andalusian Riviera, please contact Blue-Trend, your yachting specialist ▪▪▪
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Flavors and Tastes of Andalucia
Jamon Jabugo or Serrano, Andalucian goat cheese, tortilla tapas with a glass of ‘fino’ de Xeres.
Salmorejo (Andalucian gazpacho)
All sorts of salads, eggplants with cane honey
Fried and Grilled fish, Espeto (skewered sardines)
Pan de Cadiz (a bread dough confection with marzipan filling)
Raisins from Malaga, local fresh fruit
Andalusian wines:
Among the most famous wines the Sherry (from Jerez / Xeres) is made of Palomino, Pedro Ximenez and Moscatel grapes ; it is aged in a unique system of barrels blending older wine with younger one.
DO Sierras de Malaga Ronda wines (whites, reds and rosés).
Malaga dessert wine Moscatel Dorado Quitapenas