If you think you know skiing in Spain, think again

Think of it. Scything through the surf at the speed in the sunshine, feeling the warm waters of the Mediterranean washing over you.

Now think again. Imagine the wildest, most beautiful mountain scenery in Europe. Imagine magnificent natural slopes blanketed in thick snow for up to five months of the year. Imagine the perfect setting for a winter sports resort. Spain.

Excellent skiing abounds in the mountainous regions of Spain. In the North are the exhilarating runs of the majestic Pyrenees, and no less than seventeen splendid ski resorts.

By contrast, further West is the incredible rugged beauty if the Cantabrian range - often called the 'Spanish Alps'. Further inland, there's the gentler Guadarrama near Madirf.

And to the South, the unforgettable Sierra Nevada, where because of its nearest to the coast, you can ski and water-skin in the same day - well, if you put your skates on that is.

Spain has invested heavily in providing all the facilities essential for todays' skier.

Chair-lifts, ski-lifts and cable cars ensure effortless ascent, with time to admire the view. Ultra-modern snow-packing machines and, of course, skilled instructors make decents smoother and more fun. And when you reach the bottom, there is the aprés-ski to savour.

Comfortable accommodation, superb food, and fine wines at prices usually lower than all other European ski resorts.

For beginner or expert, Spain affords affordable skiing. And to think you thought you knew Spain.