The province of Granada, Andalucia, Spain

If there is one province in Spain that could be said to have everything then that province must be Granada. The province has the highest mountain in Spain, Mulhacen, in the Sierra Nevada range. Here, for about five months of the year, the winter sport enthusiast can feel at home in Pradollano. Yet, just 2 hours away, is the Mediterranean coast, the Costa Tropical.

Between the two extremes you will find remote villages, and excellent walkin in the Alpujarra region, and towns with wonderful architecture in the Altiplano. You can sample home-cured hams at Trevelez and olive oils from Los Montes, both products recognised with the official Designation of Quality. Not yet recognised but sure to be in the future is the Beluga caviar from Riofrio.

Historically Granada Province provides as much stimulation as any province. Gorafe, in the centre of Geoparc Granada, has the highest concentration of megalithic dolmens in Europe. Christopher Columbus planned his first voyage in Santa Fe. Granada was the last city to be re-conquered by Christians in 1492 having been occupied by the Moors since 711 AD. Gastronomy wise the province is heavily influenced by its Moorish heritage. Oranges, honey and almonds combined with pastries, meats and poultry produce mouth watering dishes.

I suppose I should also mention the capital, Granada, with its world famous Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a monument and attraction that attracts 2.5 million visitors (2012 survey) each year. Granada Province truly is a province of contrasts.