Granada is certainly old. Occupied for some 3000 years, the history of its inhabitants incorporate everyone from the Phoenecians and Greeks, through the Roman times to Visigoths, Byzantine and Moors. As might be expected from such a diverse history of occupation the architecture of Granada is a testament to its important and colorful past. The city was also the last Spanish outpost of Moor rule and it is the Moors who have left the most distinct impression on the city. This is most evident with the world famous Alhambra palace, a Moorish citadel of great legend.
The Alhambra palace is one of the most popular visitor attractions in Spain and plays a major role in world Moor history. The great skill of the Muslim craftsmen are evident throughout, particularly in the arabesques and calligraphy which adorns the interior walls. Having survived lightning, an earthquake, and repeated attempts at its defacement and destruction, including Napoleon's failed attempt to blow it up, the Alhambra stands today as a continuing inspiration and definition of great art and architecture.
There is superb architecture throughout Granada and much of it incorporates Moorish styles with later additions. The summer palace, Generalife, adjacent to the Alhambra, contains one of the oldest Moorish gardens in existence and with the Alhambra forms a World Heritage Site. A remarkable building which is not of Moorish origin is the city's Cathedral, a magnificent structure built at the height of the Spanish Renaissance in the 16th century. Other notable architectural attractions include the Charterhouse, an ornate baroque monastery, and Almorabitin, the mosque of the Almoravids, which is over 1000 years old.
While the ancient buildings and artefacts of Granada certainly form the main appeal for many, this is no old and stuffy city. Widely regarded as one of the best student cities in Spain, the prestigious University of Granada ensures a steady stream of youth and vitality with a nightlife to match. In addition to a great many bars and clubs, the city also has some excellent restaurants and a social café scene which is typically Spanish and certainly lively. The Bib-Rambla district of the city is the focal point for dining in the city and the open terraces of the restaurants form a very appealing dining experience. An Arab bazaar, formed from picturesque narrow streets, starts within Bib-Rambla and continues to the Cathedral.
Many of the luxury hotels Granada does so well are located within easy reach of the city's most popular entertainment areas and nightspots and of course also within close proximity to Granada's most famous architectural and cultural attractions. And yet there is more to Granada than both ancient and modern culture, and this is the stunning natural environment of the Sierra Nevada mountains which form the backdrop to the city. As well as being the highest point in Spain and the southernmost ski resort in Europe, the Sierra Mountains have an additional benefit and that is producing the fertile slopes down to the Mediterranean coast of Costa Tropical.
Costa Tropical is no typical Spanish coastal resort but a rugged and beautiful coastline, often used in cinema for its dramatic effect. Located just an hours drive from Granada city, Costa Tropical is favourite destination for both the Spanish and others who appreciate an authentic Spanish coastal resort. Within its luxury hotels, Granada tourist information is freely available and staff and concierge services will be on hand to help with any advice and services to allow guests to experience as much or as little of Granada and the surrounding area as they wish.
The beauty of the luxury hotels Granada possesses is the effortless style and consummate luxury in which to enjoy the most memorable Spanish experience. Rooms and suites will be furnished in the highest quality materials and the very latest technologies in internet connectivity and digital televisions and audio systems will ensure guests comfort and satisfaction. Air conditioning and room service will of course come as standard as will spacious and well equipped luxury bathrooms. Many luxury hotels Granada has will also have balconies or terraces on which to enjoy the endlessly remarkable views.
Luxury hotel facilities and services will be comprehensive. Guests should expect wonderful environments throughout and spaces for calm reflection or peaceful solitude. They should also expect a selection of bar and lounge environments and at least one first class dining facility. Gastronomy is a national pastime in Spain and the very best of Spanish cuisine will be available in addition to European and world flavors.
The luxury hotels of Granada come in all shapes and sizes. Many are formed from some of the great architecture in the city, others in more contemporary buildings often styled and equipped with business travelers in mind. Some offer every facility from a pool to a gym and yet more rely on simply the unmatched splendor of the surrounds. Whatever luxury hotels Granada promises you, it promises to be special.
