Seville

Stunning place – something beautiful to see everywhere you look.

It’s been a lovely warm day, we can’t believe the sudden change in temperature. Drove straight here this morning and parked about 40 minutes walk from the centre. Scruffy, but secure parking which is the most important thing to us in a city.

Guy put his shorts on displaying not often seen hairy legs – they’re normally smoother than mine for cycling of course 🙄🙄🙄

We set off for the Maria Luisa park and the Plaza de España. The park is so beautiful but the plaza, with its monuments, fountains and intricate tile work is unbelievable. There’s a little canal around it with rowing boats for hire too. The highlight of the day though, was the impromptu flamenco dance and music taking place on the steps up to the main building. It seemed to be the real deal – made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up!

Guy was overheating in the sunshine so we moved on to the cathedral – certainly cooler in there! It was worth the entrance fee to go up the Giralda tower. Thirty five ramps up to the top followed by a few steps. Great views of the rooftops and a jolt to the nerves when the huge bells suddenly ring whilst you’re up there. The tower, from the outside, is reputedly one of the most beautiful buildings in Seville – I’d agree.

Wandering the streets in the afternoon heat, you can’t help but notice the scent of orange blossom everywhere. We somehow landed at the Plaza de la Encarnación – a very modern parasol structure otherwise know as the wooden mushrooms. Quite unexpected given it’s surroundings but still impressive.

Decided to eat out as we were flagging a bit. Tapas and top notch paella did the trick but then the sun went down and we immediately realised it’s only just spring and definitely not the middle of summer. Ah, so that’s why the Spanish all have their coats on!