Ancient city walls in Pamplona, Spain
Pamplona lies in the north of Spain’s Basque region and is the capital city of Navarre Province. Well known for its annual Bull Run, Pamplona is an extreme destination. But there’s a lot more to this ancient city then bull running hooliganism. Pamplona is a great destination for culturists and history buffs with several notable churches forming a part of the historic-artistic heritage of Pamplona.
Running of the Bulls 2011
The Running of the Bulls takes place in Pamplona, Spain every year between 6 and 14 July marking a very busy time to visit the city. The locals call it Encierro and the tradition continues in 2011 reminding me of a Rio Carnival like event.
If it’s peace and tranquility you’re after then avoid Pamplona in July. This long standing Spanish tradition is always on the radar of thrill seeking adventure travellers and it’s not for the faint hearted. The Running of the Bulls is not a safe event and every year people are injured and some have even died.
Tag your friends – Running of the Bulls in Pamplona
If running in the streets with a raging bull hot on your heels doesn’t sound like your idea of fun then you’ll be happy to hear that Spain has a lot more to offer tourists – How about the ‘Running of the Nudes’?
Running of the Nudes
PETA – (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) have responded to Pamplona’s annual San Fermín Festival by holding the ‘Running of the Nudes’. The Running of the Nudes takes place in Pamplona at the same time as the Bull Run and sees a naked bunch of animal rights activists running down the street all in the name of animal rights. This alternative event has done a lot to raise awareness around the Bull Run which has received widespread criticism for its cruelty to the bulls.
Cheap Flights to Spain
If Pamplona sounds like your ideal holiday destination then Travelstart can help you organise your whole trip – from flights to car rental and accommodation. Follow the link to start searching cheap flights to Spain with Travelstart or browse flights to Pamplona from South Africa.
Images: McMahon and petermhoward on Flickr