Casares
La Duquesa is located at the base of the mountain range of the Costa del Sol. Behind the spectacular mountains the elegant old cities of Granada, Seville and Rhonda are situated, the most beautiful areas to visit. Casares, closer by, (above and right) is one of the most delightful white mountain villages in Andalucia, only a short drive away from the apartment.
It is a picturesque village and the view from the approach is definitely worth a photo. The village is built down the sides of a mountain and because of this it is called a 'hanging village'. It is truly a place of outstanding natural beauty and has a rich diversity of wildlife. There is plenty of parking on the outskirts of the village, but be ready to climb, the narrow streets weave and climb surrounding the central plaza with its small bars and central fountain. Keep climbing and eventually you will reach the top of the town, some 1,400 feet above sea level. There are the ruins of an 8th century Moorish castle, as well as a marvellous view. A number of taverns are located in the village plaza, one of which has a rooftop terrace. Look out for the Statue of 'Blas Infante', the founder of Andalucia who was born in the village.
Rhonda
Steeped in history, the town of Rhonda is a very pleasant two hour mountain drive with fantastic scenery and views on route and in the town itself.
Rhonda has retained much of its traditional charm. Situated atop a towering plateau in the mountains of Malaga, it is renowned throughout Spain for 'El Tajo', the spectacular river gorge which is spanned by a stone bridge and separates the medieval and 18th century parts of the town. Rhonda is also famed for its bullring, the oldest in Spain, and a short stroll from here is Calle Espinel, Rhonda's lovely pedestrianised shopping district. Cafes and restaurants are in abundance offering an array of enticing cuisine and a chance to sit down and soak up the decidedly relaxed atmosphere.
Gibralta
Dominated by a huge mass of Jurassic limestone rock thought to be at least 135 million years old, Gibraltar has a fantastically varied history. A crown colony since 1834 and one of the last survivors of the British Empire, the ceremonies of the Changing of the Guard and the Ceremony of the Keys are still performed at the Governors Residence.
Gibraltar is 20 minute drive from the apartment, the Spanish do not recognise Gibraltar, which is why you will not see any road signs for Gibraltar until you are almost on the Rock itself. From Duquesa follow the signs for the Spanish town La Linea. To avoid traffic congestion, park your car in La Linea and cross the border to Gibraltar on foot. Take a guided tour of the Rock (taxi vans charge approx. Stg12 per person, which includes all tourist admission charges). Alternatively enjoy a long walk up the Rock. Visit the Caves, the Military Barracks and the Barbary Apes. Return to the town itself and explore the shops, which are all duty free. Great value for cigarettes and alcohol, however prices are all in sterling and customs officials are very strict. Gibraltar is well worth a visit, allow a half-day and don't forget your passport. Gibraltar is a good spot from which you can take a dolphin safari. For more information on Gibraltar visit http://www.gibraltar.gi