Spain is not only one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe, but people from all over the world travel to experience it’s fantastic weather and historic culture. Located in south-western Europe, Spain borders the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, between Portugal and France. The country covers a total area of 505,957 sq km, and boasts 4,964 km of coastline.

Besides five other places of sovereignty on and off the coast of Morocco, Spain consists of 17 administrative regions, 15 of which are on mainland Spain. Spain occupies four-fifths of the Iberian Peninsula and is a land of immense geographical diversity. Spain has everything from lush, green forests and mountain ranges, through to endless arid plains and long, sandy beaches.

Spain’s rugged topography gives rise to a great diversity of climates. What is known as rainy Spain, lies mainly to the north of the Cantabrian Mountains. Here there are mild winters and cool summers with only a slight variation in temperature. This climate is typical of Western Europe. To the south lies dry Spain, which makes up two-thirds of the country. Here there is scarce rainfall with almost constant, hot sun. When it does rain it is often heavy with fierce thunderstorms.