Holiday in Madrid

Happy May Day.  The suitcases are unpacked, the washing machine is on and I've just taken a delicious Victoria sponge cake out of the oven ready for afternoon tea.  Now I can settle down and tell you all about my wonderful holiday in Spain. 

The holiday was a special treat as part of my 50th birthday celebrations.  I've been looking forward to it ever since we booked it last year. 

My DH and I flew from Liverpool airport (very convenient) last Sunday and arrived in Madrid and we were immediately driven to Salamanca where we stayed two nights. 

What a lovely city - we had a guided tour and then just wandered through the streets seeing the beautiful buildings and visiting the Plaza Mayor.  We had a great view of the cathedral from our hotel window.  Here are some of the photos we took in Salamanca. 

After Salamanca we visited Avila and Segovia on the way back to Madrid.  Again we were impressed at how picturesque they were.  The only downside was the weather - it was freezing and I hadn't packed enough winter woollies for the trip - I got plenty of wear out of the two (only two!!) cardigans that I did take. 

Here are the pics. 

We then spent four nights in Madrid.  We explored Madrid and its wonderful art galleries.  The Prado is so impressive - it would have been possible to spend more time there but we wanted to see as much of Madrid as possible.  We loved the many plazas - each had its own character and atmosphere.  From Madrid we also visited Aranjuaz, Chinchon and Toledo.  Fortunately, when we got to Madrid the temperature improved and I was able to shed the scarf and jacket.  However, by Friday and Toledo the rain set in and it went cold again!

Here are the pics. 

It was an amazing experience - a great birthday treat - one I'll always remember.  Now after all that excitement I need a rest!!