In Andalucia, the hotel star-rating system is overseen by the Consejeria de Turismo y Deporte of the Junta de Andalucia (regional government's Ministry of Tourism and Sport) and has remained largely unchanged since 1984.

The list on this pages includes all 16 five-star GL hotels in Andalucia and 42 five-star hotels.

Gran Lujo means Grand Luxury and represents a level of service and facilities in excess of the five-star rating. Some hotels around the world use the term "six-star" to denote an establishment which is another level above a five-star.

As you drive into Velez Malaga you may noticed tram line that connects the town with its coastal sister town in Torre del Mar. No need to slow down and look both ways before crossing. Construction began in 2003 of the 6km and 12 stations the southern phase between the two towns opened on 11 October 2006 at a cost of 46 million € and closed in 4th June 2012.

You may have noticed tram line in Jaen city, don't stand around waiting for a tram as you may have a long wait. The Tranvia de Jaen was a modern light railway constructed between 2009 and 2011 at a cost of 75m €. Five low-floor Alstom Citadis trams, model 302, were purchased.

Canyoning is an increasingly popular outdoor activity, or extreme sport, which involves descending gorges using a combination of walking, climbing, jumping, sliding, abseiling (rappelling), and swimming (or wading) in rivers and waterfalls. It is also a great way of exploring remote, spectacular scenery which may not be accessible on foot.

Polo originates from ancient Persia from the sixth century BC to the first century AD. During the fifteenth and sixteenth century, the game was eventually passed from Persia to other parts of Asia, particularly India, Pakistan and China.

The ´Villas Turisticas´ hotels were built over thirty years ago and have gone through various changes in management ever since, from government ownership to private and mixed management. They are worth a special mention and their own category, as they are a different type of hotel altogether.

This page contains information on the main endurance running and cycling events held each year in Andalucia, including the Malaga and Seville Marathons, important triathlons, Iron Man challenges and other established events.

Restaurants in Seville by District. Eating out is a way of life in Seville, whether in a smart contemporary restaurant serving innovative modern dishes, or a more traditional tiled establishment offering carillada and fried fish. Restaurants are more formal, with smarter decor, and full-size portions, although even the smartest places will still offer tapas.

The Atlantic and Mediterranean shorelines are ideal for fishing and many of the local marinas provide everything required for a day of open sea fishing. A maritime recreational fishing licence (1st and 2rd Class) is required for fishing from the shore or from a boat near the coast. It is obtainable from the offices of the Delegación Provincial de la Conserjeria de Agricultura y Pesca.

Andalucia is an excellent destination for a golfing break or holiday, with over 100 golf courses in Andalucia. The Hotels are of a very high standard, with all the facilities you'd expect, considering their prime location. There is a clubhouse close at hand, with a shop selling the latest high-tech equipment, fashions and accessories

As the capital of Andalucia, Seville has a wealth of history, culture and gastronomy to offer. From Roman and Moorish delights to contemporary architecture and interactive museums, you'll have plenty to keep you busy on your visit to La Hispalense.

Although some hotels and resorts by their nature require many resources to operate, this selection of eco hotels means that these hotels acknowledge the strain they place on the environment and as a result actively try to minimise their waste and also water and energy consumption.

One of the most pleasant ways to enjoy the most authentic side of life in Andalucia is to stay at a Bed and Breakfast. Throughout southern Spain you can find charming, small hotels that operate as bed and breakfasts. These are located in the heart of emblematic towns and cities as well as out in the countryside and even along the coast often in quaint seaside villages.

Andalucia is one of Europe’s foremost golfing destinations, with over 100 courses. The climate, with warm temperatures all year round, and endless hours of sunshine, coupled with spectacularly located courses, often with mountain or sea views, makes this region a hugely popular choice for golfers, mainly from northern Europe.

The landscapes of rural Andalucía are breathtaking and one of the best ways to appreciate their diversity and beauty is on foot. However it is sometimes hard to determine exactly where a path is located and if there is a public right of way. There are designated footpaths, as well as those inside the national and natural parks.

Andalucía’s Costa del Sol is not only the Costa del Golf but also provides the ideal combination of climate, coast and countryside forvirtually any other major sport you can think of, ranging from para-gliding to polo. Among these, tennis remains consistently popular and attracts players of all ages.