Standing out in Antequera.

As we stepped of the train in a dry basin, surrounded by fields of olive tress and hills, we realised we had made a mistake.

Antequera train station is a hub in Andalusia, so that you can catch trains to everywhere else. What we didn't realise is the town of Antequera, where we would be staying that night, isn't actually near the train station. 

Jumping off, we went to speak to the only person we could find in the station - conveniently the man who was also serving beer and tapas, to ask how we make our way to the town. 

He told us the next coach would be leaving in just under an hour, so we chucked down our bags and enjoyed the view with a beer and a bocadillo as we waited. 

Antequera itself is a beautiful town, that is the epitome of Andalusia. White washed houses, busy locals shopping for fresh vegetables, and old men smoking and discussing matters of the world fill the streets. It is not a tourist hot spot, and as such two blondes climbing up the steep hill with their rucksacks strapped on soon became a main attraction. 

Opting to stay in the centre, we checked into the Hotel Plaza San Sebastian. In the middle of everything, the hotel is perfect for those here for a short time because it is close to some amazing tapas bars, convenience stores and has everything you need - all for a good price. 

By the time we had sorted ourselves out and enjoyed a cold shower, the sun had set and it was time for tapas. And the first place we stumbled upon turned out to be the best tapas of our lives. 

Just off the San Sebastian Plaza is Taberna El Rincon de Lola. 

I can't tell you how amazing the food was. No pre-cooked tourist rip offs here. Just proper, home cooked food that is made with fresh local produce and served with house vino or a cold cerveza. 

Fresh bocadillos on the most amazing bread, thinly sliced patatas with chorizo and fried eggs and tender pork will have you drooling as soon as you step through the door. 

I would drive all the way to Antequera just to experience the blood sausage with egg and romesco sauce just one more time.

We balanced out the meat with callos and chickpea stew (tripes in tomato sauce, which even as a true tripe hater I can say are amazing) and stuffed mushrooms - filled with more meat...

In true Spanish style, we opted to bar hop between places throughout the evening, sampling a little bit of everything. But quite honestly. after that first taste of Lola's which not only provides amazing food but a chilled out atmosphere filled with laughing locals and friendly waiters, nothing compared. And I don't think anything ever will.