Wednesday 16 August 2017

Exploring Cordoba


On Monday, we left by train from Madrid Atocha station to go to Córdoba, or from point A to point B on the above map. You can click to enlarge it. Madrid Atocha station is a major train and metro hub so we got there early to navigate to our gate. There was security scan of our luggage, just like at an airport but less formal.

Our two-hour train ride was comfortable. No free wifi available though. The scenery along the way showed olive trees, fruit orchards, some cattle, and the occasional castle ruins in the distance.

Upon arrival in Córdoba, I picked up a map at the local tourist office in the train station. We walked to our hotel. Despite the intense mid-day heat, I liked Córdoba right away. The tree-lined avenues provided much needed shade and greenery. The town has a calm and historic feel.

We spent the next two days exploring and enjoying:
1) The amazing Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, an UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a huge complex with deep history, and beautiful interior.
2) The historic Córdoba town centre, another UNESCO World Heritage site, with plants hanging from pretty clay pots on the walls, tranquil courtyards, tiered fountains, and a maze of small streets and alleys which seemed to bring new and pleasant surprises at every turn.
3) The Alcazar Fortress of the Christian Monarchs and its beautiful gardens.
4) The local food, including the most elaborate buffet breakfasts in our hotel. I don't remember having had so many good choices at a hotel from my travel. In addition, they have a very nice private courtyard where one can sit outside, read the morning newspaper, savour a coffee, or just look at the orange trees full of fruit.

Córdoba is a charming town. I would not hesitate to return for a longer stay and more wandering. We have a family event scheduled in Gibraltar so today it's time to pack our bags, and take another train ride further south (point C on the above map). Travel days are always interesting. I'll post an update soon. Hope your week is amazing!

8 comments:

  1. It sounds wonderful. Two friends of mine are travelling over to Spain and Portugal next year and it is also on my wish list. #TeamLovinLife

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    1. Both Spain and Portugal are wonderful travel destinations, Kathy. I hope you'll make your wish come true. Have a great weekend!

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  2. It sounds like a lovely place - I've only been to Barcelona (and I loved our couple of days there) but I imagine most Spanish towns would be colourful and have plenty to entertain their visitors.

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    1. You're right, Leanne. Most Spanish towns have something nice to see. Cordoba is a gem with lots of history and the monuments and courtyards are beautiful.

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  3. It is my ulitmate dream to travel to to Spain. How I would love that as myfather as born in the North of Spain. #openslather

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    1. You have a strong connection with Spain, Alicia. I hope you make your dream come true. Thanks for hosting the link up.

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  4. Thanks. Great info. This is one of our stops for 3 nights in May for the Patio Flower festivale.
    Cheers!

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    1. I love Cordoba. I hope you enjoy this city, too. The Patio Flower festival sounds amazing.

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