Hotel Spa Villa de Alarcón

If you go back a couple of weeks, you’ll find my post about the fortifications of the town of Alarcón in Spain. Well, today we’re going to take a brief look at the place where I stayed while visiting this handsome town. Hotel Spa Villa de Alarcón is located literally on the edge of town. As you’ll soon see in the following photos, the building clings to the side of the hill on which the town sits. Driving up to the building, however, you’ll be greeted by this facade:

There are a few parking spaces in front of the building and plenty more in a lot just a few yards from where this photo was taken. Before going inside for a look at the room, check out the swimming pool.

It was chilly during my visit in April, so I did not take the waters. That is a nice pool, though, and I look forward to getting back here some day when it’s nice and hot. Moving inside, here’s a typical room.

The double doors open onto a common balcony that runs the length of the building. You can look out over the valley and the swimming pool, too. The bathrooms are fitted with plenty of marble as you see here.

Don’t forget, this facility is also a spa. Various treatments can be scheduled for your stay. I arrived late in the afternoon and departed the following morning, so I was unable to utilize this feature. You’ll also find a nice bar, a restaurant, and a staff that will take care of you. The town of Alarcón offers a few other dining spots as well as a couple of churches worth a look. Enjoy your stay!

Published in: on June 1, 2010 at 9:44 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Moore’s Pub, Madrid

Moore’s is one of several Irish pubs near the Plaza Mayor in Madrid. Morre’s is actually part of the plaza complex, located in one of the passageways leading to the interior. The place is well known for having soccer games on television. It can get very loud as people cheer on their teams. You’ll also find bangers and mash, a personal favorite. I stood by with a can of the beloved Coca-Cola for this photo:

I’m surprised by the number of Spanish people who frequent Irish pubs. Then again, good hospitality and fine beverages have universal appeal. Hence, the Coca-Cola that I’ve found around the world, including here in Madrid, Spain. Still, it can be a bit of culture shock stepping off a Spanish street into an Irish bar. Tons of fun, too.

Published in: on May 31, 2010 at 12:33 am  Leave a Comment  
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Peñafiel Castle, Spain

If you like your medieval castles intact, then Peñafiel has much to offer. Only guided tours are permitted, but no worries as you’ll see plenty. There’s also a wine museum built into the southern portion of the castle. It’s worth your time. The gift shop has a fine selection of hand blown glassware that is the epitome of class and style. So, let’s have a look at this fortress. Here’s the video:

Impressive, no? I’ll say. It’s hard to imagine someone taking a chance attacking castles like this. There are so may angles for the defenders to launch everything from stones to arrows to boiling oil. Nasty. Climbing those stairs was good exercise, too. There are a few more castle videos and photos essays to come. Stay tuned.

Published in: on May 30, 2010 at 12:44 am  Leave a Comment  
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La Mallorquina, Madrid

Near the western edge of Madrid’s Plaza del Sol, you’ll find a fantastic pastry shop known as La Mallorquina. I first sampled the delicious pastries here in 2003. Every time I’m in Madrid, I stop in for a few to fortify me for those long walks through the city. Here’s a photo of the shop.

A typical shop you might find in Madrid. Let’s take a look at the pastries, that’s the important part. Here’s a start.

Now there’s a few treats. And here are a few more.

To think, these are just a sampling of the many, many treats to be found inside. Like the old days, the staff wears white smocks and hats, a touch I find quaint and nostalgic and classy all at once. Most important, there’s a pastry for everyone, and all of them are very good. Never pass up dessert!

Published in: on May 28, 2010 at 11:42 pm  Leave a Comment  
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