Creative Commons licensePhoto by flickr user Basilievich

The new must-go destination in Andalucia is its west coast, known as the Costa de la Luz, where there are mountainous white sand dunes, stunningly clear waters and views across to Africa. Explore the charming small towns of Vejer and Tarifa, or experience the faded grandeur of old town Cadiz, so reminiscent of Havana. On the Costa del Sol, you can wander the backstreets of Marbella, enjoying the prosaic charm that has attracted so many people over the years. Or, visit the picturesque village of Benahavis, a joy for food lovers with its wealth of good restaurants. The order by which the hotels are listed bears no reflection on our preference.

Written by Tristam Templer