Ultimate Seville Day Trip: Equestrian Shows, Sherry Tasting, and the Feria de Abril
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Jerez Spain Andalusian Horses Dance
**A Day in Andalusia: From Jerez's Dancing Horses to Seville's Vibrant Feria de Abril
Morning in Seville: A Perfect Start**
Our day began at the NH Plaza De Armas Hotel in Seville, where breakfast was nothing short of spectacular. The impressive spread of hot and cold foods catered to every palate, while the large coffee bar allowed several guests to simultaneously craft their perfect cup of morning fuel. With the sun rising over Seville, we eagerly set out on our first adventure, driving an hour south to the historic city of Jerez de la Frontera.
Jerez Spain Andalusian Horses Dance
The Equestrian Majesty of Jerez: How the Andalusian Horses Dance
Arriving in Jerez, we were greeted by the sight of palm-lined streets and the scent of orange blossoms, the perfect backdrop for our visit to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. Known for its legendary show, "How the Andalusian Horses Dance," this institution showcases the pinnacle of equestrian skill and tradition.
The performance was nothing short of magical. The graceful Andalusian horses, their gleaming white or black coats shining under the lights, moved in perfect harmony with their riders. I managed to capture a breathtaking moment on camera—a horse rearing up on its hind legs, suspended in mid-air, a testament to the years of training and deep connection between horse and rider. The synchronized movements of the horses, buggies, and wagons displayed an artistry that elevated dressage to new heights.
Pedro Nolasco Restaurante in Jerez, an amazing view of the San Salvador Cathedral
A Taste of Tradition: Indulge in Fresh Flavors: Pedro Nolasco Restaurante in Jerez
At Pedro Nolasco Restaurante, lunch was an unforgettable feast that celebrated the best of local flavors with a creative twist. We started with perfectly grilled sardines, their smoky flavor balanced by the freshness of the sea. Next came the arancini, crispy on the outside and topped with a decadent slice of bacon, adding a savory richness to the dish.
The presentation of the clams was a work of art—each delicate shell cradling a tender morsel of clam, light yet bursting with flavor. The main course was a beautifully cooked fish, paired with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables. The combination of roasted carrot, cauliflower, tomato, snap pea, and braised baby corn on the cob created a vibrant and flavorful backdrop for the dish. The potato was tender and rich, providing a comforting balance to the freshness of the vegetables. Each bite at Pedro Nolasco felt like a true exploration of taste and texture, making the meal as memorable as the journey itself.
Bodegas Tio Pepe
Bodegas Tio Pepe
We made our way to the famous Bodegas Tio Pepe, diving into the world of sherry making. The story of Tío Pepe begins with a young man named Manuel María González, a dreamer with a passion for sherry. In the early 19th century, Manuel saw an opportunity to turn his love for the drink into a business. However, as with many dreamers, he needed help to get started.
Enter his uncle, José Ángel, affectionately known as "Tío Pepe." Not only was Tío Pepe a connoisseur of fine sherry, but he also had the financial means to back his nephew's bold idea. With his uncle’s support, Manuel set out to create what would become one of Spain’s most iconic sherry brands. In honor of his uncle’s generosity and belief in his vision, Manuel named the company after him.
And so, Tío Pepe became not only a family name but a symbol of quality sherry enjoyed by generations. What began as a family project now stands as a testament to how a little financial backing - and a lot of good sherry - can make a dream a reality.
As we toured the vast cellars, we learned about the intricate blending process that makes Tío Pepe sherry so unique. The method they use involves what’s known as the solera system, where barrels are stacked in rows, and a portion of the sherry from the oldest barrel is blended with younger wines in barrels above. This creates a rich, balanced flavor that deepens with time.
The attention to detail within their blending process was fascinating. From the cool, dim cellars to the warm hospitality of the guides, every part of the experience gave us a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bottle of Tío Pepe. It's more than just a tour—it's a step into the history and tradition of one of Spain's most famous sherry houses. And it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs to take home, just watch your alcohol limits to take through customs in your suitcase.
We strolled through the beautiful Andalusian courtyards, meandered along trellis-covered streets, and marveled at the ancient wine cellars where the finest sherries and brandies slowly mature to perfection. Outside, we came across rows of barrels, each labeled with the names of countries they export to—it was fun spotting such a wide range of destinations from around the globe.
Before leaving Jerez, we indulged in a bit of shopping, hunting for flamenco dresses at a local mall- a fitting way to prepare for the next part of our Andalusian adventure.
Seville Fair Horses and Dresses
Back to Seville: The Spectacle of Feria de Abril
Returning to Seville, we had just enough time to change into our evening attire before heading to the Plaza de España, a stunning example of Renaissance Revival architecture. The plaza’s grandeur set the stage for what was to come—the Feria de Abril, Spain's most vibrant and colorful festival.
At 5 p.m., we arrived at the fairgrounds, a kaleidoscope of color and tradition. The Feria de Abril is a celebration unlike any other, where the essence of Andalusia is on full display. The festival is famous for its elaborate costumes, with women donning the traje de gitana—flamenco dresses with ruffles and bright patterns, and men in traditional short jackets, tight trousers, and wide-brimmed hats. This is the only time of year when the streets of Seville are filled with such traditional dress, making it a rare and beautiful sight.
We strolled through the fairgrounds, taking in the spectacle of horse-drawn carriages, vibrant casetas (temporary tents), and the intoxicating sounds of flamenco music spilling into the night air. The festival is a feast for the senses, with every corner offering something new to see, hear, or taste. The energy was contagious, and it was impossible not to be swept up in the excitement.
Evening Under the Andalusian Sky
As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the festivities, we found ourselves lost in the rhythm of Seville's most cherished celebration. The Feria de Abril is more than just a festival; it’s a living testament to the culture and traditions that define Andalusia. By the time we returned to our hotel, our hearts were full, and our cameras were brimming with memories of a day that perfectly captured the spirit of this remarkable region.
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#community 293456 - 2024-09-08 13:48:42