Craigievar Castle looks like it was taken straight out of a fairy tale. Completed in 1626, it stands as a fine example of Scottish Baronial architecture, and both interior and exterior are jaw-dropping in their beauty, attention to detail and lavishness.

Zoo grounds come to life every year around the Christmas holiday season, with spectacular light displays and shows, as well as entertainment for the whole family.

Gabhla is one of the lesser-known islands. Long uninhabited, interest was revived recently, particularly among rock climbers and birdwatchers. An off the beaten track walk brings visitors to a lake with abundant bird life; cormorants, razorbills, guillemots as well as gannets and kittiwakes. Somewhere this peaceful, you may feel as though you've been transported to another world - but the island is in fact only 2km from Gweedore, with ferries departing from Magheragallan (Machaire Gathlan). Note: during low season, booking is required.

Explanada de España is one of the city’s emblems. It runs parallel to one of the port wharfs and is lined on both sides with rows of palm trees. The floor is decorated with 6,600,000 tricolour marble tiles forming a design with a characteristic wave effect mosaic. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy these areas at any time of the year, thanks to the pleasant climate. Throughout the year there are workshops, entertainment, children’s theatre, puppet shows, etc. predominantly aimed at children and families. Other parks and gardens worth visiting are: La Ereta park: located on the slopes of Mount Benacantil at the foot of the Santa Bárbara Castle, opposite El Postiguet beach. From here you can enjoy unbeatable views of the city and follow an interesting route from the summit down to the city’s old quarter. El Palmeral park: is one of the most spectacular parks in the city, formed by a wooded area containing palm trees, ponds, lakes and artificial streams. It contains sports facilities and a cross-country cycling track, as well as a pavilion where a regular programme of events is scheduled including activities, children's theatre, puppet shows, etc. Canalejas: It is one of the most traditional open spaces in Alicante. It has spectacular lush vegetation including several hundred-year old rubber plants measuring 20 metres high. Gabriel Miró Square: This square honours the Alicante writer of the same name. Just a few metres from the Explanada and the seafront promenade, it has a monument in the form of a fountain and centenary trees with luxuriant foliage, creating a relaxed, pleasant atmosphere.