A peninsula of southwest Europe occupied by Spain and Portugal. It is separated from the rest of Europe map by the Pyrenees and from Africa by the Strait of Gibraltar. Spain also called Kingdom of Spain, is a sovereign country and member of the European Union. Spain covers most of the Iberian Peninsula, Spain´s capital is Madrid, in the souther part of Europe. Spain includes the archipelagos of the Balearic Islands (western Mediterranean sea) and the Canary Islands (NE Atlantic ocean) and in northern Africa places of sovereignty of the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla. It has a population of 46.745.807(2009) people. Mainland Spain shares borders with France and the principality of Andorra to the north, Portugal to the west and the British overseas territory of Gibraltar to the south
When in Europe, the Iberian country of Portugal is the place to be, especially in the winter months when the balmy breezes of the Mediterranean makes it a perfect spot for a holidays. Portugal boasts of its coastal beaches facing either the Atlantic or the Mediterranean waters as well as the rolling hills of its rustic provincial interiors that are home to medieval castles and cultural museums showcasing the country’s long history which begans in the XII century. The Algarve area and Albufeira are famous for having the world’s best beaches, the best climate in Portugal and a fantastic atmosphere. This is the wealthiest region of the country. Accommodations range from minimal to glamorous but one thing is for sure you’ll have a European vacation you’ll never forget. There are many quaint little towns and villages in this region as well. If you’re sick of the beach then just head inland and enjoy what the area has to offer.
Tucked away in the eastern Pyrenees, the tiny Principality of Andorra is a land of narrow valleys and mountainous landscapes. Andorra's pretty villages and hamlets - dotted along the main road that traverses the country - are filled with Romanesque churches and houses built in the local style. The few found away from the main road are even more unspoilt, and provide spectacular views across the rugged countryside. While Andorra la Vella - the country's capital - might not be to everybody's taste just a brief distance away lies some truly great outdoors. Liberal snowfalls and Andorra's undulating chunk of the Pyrenees make for great skiing conditions; those who love wintersports will find some of Europe's best.