Granada , you've got me under your spell

I was amazed to hear the church bells in the city centre  ring out the first 2 lines of the song 'Granada'  before they chime the hour!

To make my Spanish style birthday even more special we decided to spend a couple of days in Granada,  which was always top of our must-see list while we were here. We made the trip by bus, leather seats, free snacks & water.... and on time, very impressed.  It meant we could both relax & enjoy the view.  Our hotel was in the historic old town so we could happily wander.

You really visit this city to experience the unique Alhambra, which did not disappoint. With a back drop of clear blue skies & snowy Sierra Nevada mountains the ornate splendour of the palaces, forts & gardens are overwhelmingly beautiful. The intricacy of the Moorish carvings is stunning with Muslim & Christian histories intertwining, layer upon layer.  Plus great views across the city.

It was also fun exploring the quieter streets of classy 'carmenes' villas in the Realejo (old Jewish quarter) and the mini maze of Moroccan style souk streets in Albayzin (the old Muslim quarter).

We had heard that Granada is not best known for its gastronomy and despite the novelty of being offered free tapas it left a lot to be desired. However, we found good company in some of the tapas bars on notorious Calle Elvira and ended up making friends with an Italian chef on holiday & a Dutch couple who live half their time in Marbella. We even got the barmen on first name terms and it turned into a very good night!

                        This was a strange little bar packed full of religious memorabilia

             We counted over 100 Serrano hams hanging over this bar & the waiter
                          reckoned they would get through them all in one year

I haven't spent my birthday in Spain before so it was memorable,  We are already thinking where to go next year!