We woke up to rain today so decided rather than wander the streets of Arcos, we’d drive through the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park to the white town of Grazelema. The hair-pin turns of the trip up and back down the Sierra de Grazalema mountains (at times in the clouds) was only slightly more thrilling than the narrow and hair-pin turns it took to get out of Arcos!
We returned in time to be reminded of Spanish time. It was 3:30 and the rain had stopped. We thought it was a good time to see Arcos but were immediately reminded that all of Spain shuts down mid-day even in winter. There was no one on the streets, all the shops and restaurants were shuttered and we had the town to ourselves.
When we later set out for supper (7:30) the streets were full, cars were everywhere and people were shopping or strolling n the cold night air.
 |
| Beautiful little town we passed through as we started the climb up the Sierra de Grazelema Mountains |
 |
| Holm Oak - white lichen on trunk. It was finally raining in the forest - had been closed all summer because of fire hazard |
 |
| Grazelema centre. This area is known for starting the tradition of bullfighting and they still carry on in September. |
 |
| Most stores completely shuttered but this one tells why. Do you think everyone is asleep? |
 |
| Quiet street of Arcos (orange trees line the street) |
 |
| We didn't have to navigate this one but the ones we did go down made me want to bail more than once.... |
 |
| 13th Century Cathedral at top of hill in Arcos. Showing its age. This is one of the few places to park in town. |
 |
| Finally time for dinner! |
 |
| Acorns on Holm Oak. There are many ancient Holm Oaks growing in England - acorns brought back from Spain centuries ago. |
No comments:
Post a Comment