Weather Lowdown
During August, Andalucia is usually very hot, sunny and dry--about as hot as during an average July. Over the region as a whole, daytime temperatures typically reach a maximum of 36°C, and the temperature typically falls to 20°C (68°F) overnight. Near the Mediterranean coastline, daytime temperatures are often a little lower thanks to cooling sea breezes, although the temperatures often stay above 20°C (68°F) overnight. Sea temperatures in August are a warm 24°C (74°F), so be sure to pack your swimming gear.
Skies over Andalucia are clear or mostly clear, with a 5-11% chance of rain. Most Augusts are completely free from rain, although heavy convective storms do occur on rare occasions, mainly away from the Mediterranean coastline, resulting in a regional average of about 5mm of rain per August. There are typically 11 hours of bright sunshine per day.
Humidity ranges from dry (22%) to very humid (90%), with wind speeds ranging from calm to moderate breeze, blowing in from the west.
Temperatures in August decrease slightly over the course of the month. In the beginning of the month, averages are around 25°C (77°F), with highs of 35°C (95°F) and 16C (60°F). By the end of August, averages jump down to 22°C (71°F), with highs of 32°C (89°F) and lows of 15°C (59°F).
Where to Stay
Casa Cinco
Casa Cinco is an traditional cortijo, or farmhouse, that offers eight stylish rooms among its unspoilt gardens of olive and orange trees. Rooms have an eclectic and rustic flavour with luxurious beds. Be sure to sample exquisite wines and country seafood dishes from the kitchen's daily menu.
Casa Montecote
Casa Montecote is an ecological resort in the small pueblo blanco of La Muela. The rustic atmosphere blends in neatly with the countryside setting. The hotel offers seven apartments, each with its own private terrace, outdoor kitchen, bedroom, living room and bathroom with showers. The apartments can accommodate 2-4 guests. In addition, the property also houses a swimming pool, sun loungers, organic garden, Finnish sauna, and laundry services.
Macia Plaza Hotel
The Macia Plaza Hotel is a small, modest hotel in Granada located at the foot of the Alhambra, in the Arab neighbourhood of Albaycin. Its decor is modern and sleek, with each room offering A/C, free wifi and flat screen TV. Be sure to request a balcony room with a view of the sights!
Hit the Beach
Playa la Herradura
Playa la Herradura is a great spot to head for windsurfing and scuba-diving. Divers can explore 16th century wrecks of Spanish galleons. The beach caters to families too, packed with restaurants, bars and beach facilities. The beaches near Tarifa, just across the Gibraltar Strait from Morocco, are also great for windsurfing.
Eating & Drinking Out
Casa Varo
Casa Varo is a popular restaurant-bar with succulent dishes like fried artichokes, retinto beef, monkfish brochettes and Andalucian wine.
Garimba Sur
Garimba Sur is a great place for tapas--here you'll find homemade risotto, black cuttlefish rice and tasty vermouth. Just next door is another tapas bar--Trafalgar (Plaza de Espana 31), where you can feast on pickled red tuna and roasted oxtail.
Milano Experience
Milano Experience in Fuengirola serves succulent fare in a fine dining atmosphere. Try the gnocchi with gorgonzola and nuts, stuffed pasta with asparagus and walnut sauce, rice with prawns in saffron and curry and ox carpaccio with rocket and parmesan.
Things to Do
Summer Festivals
Summer festivals are held in most towns and cities across Andalucia during the summer months. In particular, numerous festivals are held in the province of Cadiz on the Costa de la Luz. The Veleda Patronal En honour De La Oliva is held at Vejer de la Frontera and features various cultural activities, including one night with a flamenco festival. Races are held along the beach, and the Fiestas Mayores de Grazalema features games and races during the day and then live music overnight.
Cadiz City
Cadiz City is well worth paying a visit, and is considered to be the oldest city in Europe, and some walls still stand that date from the 18th century. As a coastal site, it contains beautiful beaches and spectacular views. The Cathedral is impressive and was built between 1720 and 1838, also housing the tomb of the Spanish composer Manuel de Falla. There are numerous museums and mansions including the Casa de las Cadenas, which is an impressive 16th century building.
