CASTILLA Y LEON came together in 1983 to form the largest region of Spain, and also the largest region of all the European Union. Both have been central areas of Spanish medieval history as evidenced by the plethora of cathedrals, monasteries, castles and fortified towns, many of which are preserved in perfect state. The region also offers natural parks with woods of oaks and cork-oaks. The region, an elevated plain is defined by mountain ranges to the east, plains to the south and north and by the Duero River towards Portugal. Airport: Villanubla, Madrid/Barajas

Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine (www.ledomaine.es)

CASTILLA-LA MANCHA, located at the very center of the Iberian Peninsula, boasts the historical cities of Toledo, Cuenca and Albacete, as well as the Route of the Black Villages (named for the use of slate on the roofs), the Route of the Saffron Fields, Route of the Castles, and the Route of Don Quixote, which is dotted with windmills. Traditional cuisine consists of simple but tasteful stews, game, sausages and the famous Manchego cheese accompanied by the region's excellent wines. Airport: Madrid Barajas International

Valdepalacios (www.valdepalacios.es)
Molino de Alcuneza Hotel & Spa (www.molinodealcuneza.com)

EXTREMADURA’S capital Merida was an important Roman Empire city and boasts extensive Roman ruins. Later, the region became the border between Moorish and Christian Spain. Caceres, the capital of Upper Extremadura, features a beautiful old quarter, enclosed by Moorish town walls and watch-towers, and some exceptional Renaissance palaces. The region’s arts & crafts include the famous metal works of Guadalupe; its cuisine features trout, game, sausages, cheeses, as well as excellent wines. Airport: Madrid Barajas International

Atrio Restaurante Hotel (www.restauranteatrio.com)

The capital of Spain since 1562, Madrid is located at the geographic center of the Iberian Peninsula. Because of its central location and high altitude, the climate of Madrid is characterized by warm dry summers and cool winters. Among the city’s major attractions are its medieval centre and the Prado Museum. In addition to its cultural highlights, Madrid also offers many bars, cafes and nightclubs, which stay open late into the night. Airport: Madrid Barajas International

Hotel Orfila (www.hotelorfila.com)
Restaurante Santceloni (www.relais.com/santceloni)
Ramon Freixa Madrid (www.ramonfreixamadrid.com)

GALICIA, with its verdant landscapes, quaint seaside villages and exceptional beaches, boasts one of Spain’s most beautiful cities – Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia and final destination of the famous El Camino pilgrimage and the Way of Saint James, with its many cathedrals and monasteries of historical and architectural significance. The city of Lugo, with its beautiful Romanesque cathedral, is surrounded by perfectly preserved Roman walls. Airport: Santiago de Compostela International

Quinta da Auga (www.aquintadaauga.com)

ASTURIAS, known as the “Spanish Switzerland” with its high mountains and lush countryside, features a bounty of national parks and preserves and excellent skiing in winter. The region’s Cantabric coast offers expansive beaches and colorful fishing villages. Asturias is an important tourist destination partly due to its historical and artistic heritage, but also for its excellent gastronomy – specialty seafood dishes along the coast and traditional dishes in the mountains. Airport: Asturias (Oviedo) Airport

Hotel Palacio de Luces (www.palaciodeluces.com)

BASQUE COUNTRY is known for its indigenous culture, including its own language and folklore. Its coast features the seaside jewel San Sebastian, a revered destination for food enthusiasts – boasting 15 Michelin stars! The region’s largest city Bilbao features Frank Gehry’s avant-garde Guggenheim Museum. Pristine natural parks and verdant landscapes offer hiking, golf and mountain sports. Airports: Biarritz International, San Sebastian

Castillo de Arteaga (www.castillodearteaga.com)
Restaurante Akelare (www.akelarre.net)
Restaurant Martin Berasategui (www.martinberasategui.com)
Restaurante Arzak (www.arzak.info)

ARAGON, an ancient, historic Spanish kingdom is today one of Spain´s most beautiful and undiscovered regions. Bordering on France with the Pyrenees, it is known for its beautiful mountain landscapes and Mudejar architecture, an inheritance from the Arab occupation up to the end of the 16th century. The southern region, dominated by fertile orchards and vineyards, is famous for the quality of its wines, olive oil, lamb and beef. Airports: Zaragoza, Barcelona, Valencia

La Torre del Visco (www.torredelvisco.com)

CATALONIA is perhaps best known for Barcelona and the Costa Brava with its fine Mediterranean beaches. Not far from Barcelona is the famous mountain-top monastery of Montserrat and the Black Madonna. One of the most visited parks in the area is the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, which boasts some 40 inactive volcanoes. The region’s cuisine is characterized by seafood, rice dishes, wines of great international reputation and traditional desserts like the famous "Catalonian Cream." Airport: Barcelona International

El Castell de Ciutat (www.hotelelcastell.com)
Torre del Remei (www.torredelremei.com)
Neri Hotel & Restaurant (www.hotelneri.com)
Mas de Torrent Hotel & Spa (www.mastorrent.com)

THE BALEARIC ISLANDS in the Mediterranean include Mallorca, the largest of the four main islands, and Ibiza. An ideal climate with some 300 days of sun per year, wonderful beaches, a rich culture and warm hospitality make these islands one of the preferred holiday destinations in Spain. Mallorca offers varied landscapes, lovely old towns, beautiful coves and the Balearics’ one real city, Palma. Ibiza, formerly a hippie hangout, today is firmly established among Europe’s trendiest resorts – famous for its clubs and bars. Airports: Ibiza International, Palma International

Mirador de Dalt Vila (www.hotelmiradoribiza.com)
Son Brull Hotel & Spa (www.sonbrull.com)
Valldemossa (www.valldemossahotel.com)