Holá Córdoba

I fell in love with Córdoba as soon as we arrived. The architecture, the mix of Roman and Moorish cultures, cobbled alleyways, abundance of orange trees and warm sun. There was nothing I didn't like.

As we only had one night in Córdoba, we stayed in the beautiful Pension Trinidad, literally just around the corner from the Great Mosque. Staying so close to the main, historic sites meant that we could take explore everything in the evening and following morning, without having to think about wandering across the city to sleep. 

Pension Trinidad is quite possibly my favourite place I have ever stayed in the whole world. I know that's big claim, and my love of the city helps, but everything about it is just charming. 

In a side alley just a stones throw from the stunning Puente Romano, Pension Trinidad is a family run affair, owned by Antonia and his wife. 

As a heads up, no one speaks English in the Pension. But I can't help but feel that adds to the charm. 

A few small bedrooms are dotted off the cool, tiled landing, and a shared bathroom serves all of them. A very traditional courtyard area sits at the centre of the house, and on the other side is where the owners live. 

Antonio is an old-school Andalusian. Charming, respectful and with a gravelly voice that would make Bonnie Tyler jealous, he was a great host, explaining everything (in Spanish) from where the cash point was to how to turn the key in the front door. 

A quick freshen up and change, we went out to explore and find some good, cheap food for the evening. 

If like us you just have a short time in this city, stay near the river. You'll find Roman ruins galore, the Great Mosque, beautiful views and lots of activity from street performers to bars and restaurants. 

Stroll along the bridge as the sun begins to set and think of the hundred of thousands of people who have taken footsteps across there before you. 

What I love about Córdoba, and Spain in general, is you really can explore. There is nothing stopping you from walking down to the bottom of the bridge and standing by the water, taking in the grandeur of this engineering feat. There are no fences, grates or signs preventing you from clambering over the old ruins or strolling along the banks. 

After wandering across the bridge and back, we headed away from the mosque and central bars in hope of finding something a bit more casual and cheaper. 

A small side bar, which seemed extremely popular with students, called our name. And with a free, cold cerveza (think Oktoberfest size rather than a traditional copa) with every order of food, it was perfect. We opted for a local speciality, 'Flamenquin', along with a few little tapas to help soak up the beer and inevitable wine that was to follow. 

You may never heard of flamenquin or seen it on a Spanish menu, and this is because it is a true local dish to Cordoba. 

Jamon wrapped in thin pork fillet and fried in a bread crumb coating, flamenquin is no half arsed tapas dish. Instead these indulgent, fried meaty perfections are normally about a foot long and often served with a side of chips and mayo to top it off. If I wasn't guaranteed to gain a kilo every time I ate one, I could live on this dish for the rest of my life. 

We were enjoying the beer and food so much, I forgot to take a photo. So you'll have to do with another shot of the city instead. 

After shots with the owner (I have no idea what it contained but it tasted of anise - a flavour I cannot stand), we stumbled out the door and headed off to find a large glass of wine (or two), and our bed.