We set out to explore the Mediterranean gem Valdemossa with our Chief Testing Officer, Alvin the Whippet.
PICTURESQUE BEAUTY
Situated in the midst of the majestic Tramuntana mountain range, Mallorcan city Valldemossa is a true gem that invites exploration. Winding cobbled streets lined with palm trees and flowering Mediterranean plants take us between plazas, hidden gardens and cute boutiques.
SLOW PACE AND COFFEE STOPS
With Alvin stopping to sniff every plant and staring down the town cats, our pace is slow and enjoyable, truly taking in the atmosphere of the city. The heat is, despite the mountain location, a change for us northerners and many stops is a must. We get some bocadillos and coffee at C’an Molinas café on Plaça Cartoixa where Alvin catches some rest while observing kids playing in the street. Needless to say he claims his lap dog space as he’s a Whippet and wouldn’t consider something outrageous like lying on the ground (!)
MAKING FRIENDS
The town cats may have preferred us going elsewhere but pretty much everyone else is charmed by Alvin who’s an expert in making friends, being called ‘guapo’ and getting cuddles on every corner. Many think he’s a puppy Galgo, the larger Sighthound breed more common in Spain, and he’s enjoying the puppy treatment!
TRAVELING WITH A DOG
Whether it’s exploring a close-by city or another country, being joined by your dog comes with many advantages and here’s our suggestions to make the most of it:
- Let your dog set the pace and see things from their eyes, it gives a different and often nicer understanding of the city than rushing from sight to sight.
- Enjoy the local treatment, it’s much easier to pretend not to be a tourist if you have a dog by your side!
- Practice to just chill on benches, cafés etc, it’s good training for your dog to be able to relax and enjoy taking in what’s going around you. And it’s very good training for humans learning to live in the moment as well.
Alvin is wearing the Arch Harness in Light Sage/Khaki, size S, with the colour-matched lead in the long version.
