The Southeast

Spain's southeastern corner is a holiday-brochure cliché of contrasts, best known for its sand, sunshine—and planes full of tourists. The region's varied terrain ranges from the coastal plains of the far north to the peaceful soft sands and still waters of La Manga del Mar Menor. Literary buffs can contemplate the inland province of Albacete, historically part of Murcia, and the scene of Don Quijote's exploits in the Castilian expanse of La Mancha. The windmills (Los Molinos) in the foothills of the Montgó Massif National Park in Jàvea are from the 14th century and remind one of those Quixotic giants. Fertile river valleys wiggle their way between the mountains here like a silk cord, while the villages are simple and traditional; you'll probably need Spanish to order a beer or ask for directions, though in the coastal towns you'll find English-language bookstores thanks to a lively British population. More »