Kodak Moments

Sledding down the side of an active volcano, or swimming amongst a legion of great white sharks, doesn’t really make for the most relaxing of breaks. Chilling in the countryside of Andalusia, however, does.

Spain’s most southerly region is probably its finest. The weather is gorgeous, the terrain is epic, the locals are charming and the cuisine… well, let’s just say that foodies visiting Andalusia are in for a gastronomic treat. It’s one of those places that give serious rise to thoughts of selling up and relocating, and while it’s an understandably popular tourist location in Europe it remains free from the trappings of mass commercialism.

But don’t be mistaken in thinking that Andalusia is all sleepy villages and rolling hills. We recommend staying in Seville if you want to mix hardcore indulgence while having on-the-doorstep access to the blissful countryside around it – it’s the fourth largest city in Spain, and saying the residents know how to party is like saying Andalusians are just a little bit fond of flamenco. They don’t tend to go out until around midnight, and from then until the sun comes up it’s round after round of Agua de Sevilla, a local drink comprising of pineapple, whiskey and sparkling wine. It sounds like an odd mix, but we can assure you that it’s as delicious as it is potent!

If viciously punishing your brain cells doesn’t suit, nobody would fault you for wanting to spend the majority of your time roaming the rural areas on either foot or horseback. We can’t express enough how varied and beautiful the countryside of Andalusia is, and a break here is also a great opportunity to pick up a new skill – taking your photography beyond ‘point and click’ is a boon for any holiday-goer, and we know just the chaps to teach you.

Sue and Alberto, owners of Andalucia School of Photography, are a team based in Jimena de la frontera, a Roman town just south of Seville. With 50+ years of experience between them, they’ll teach a range of course itineraries to accommodate all skill sets. You can opt from anywhere between a one-day session to a full week course, the latter of which includes accommodation in a stunning 18^th century former courthouse and professionally cooked meals.

Happy snapping.