Off the Beaten Path: Spain
Spain is consistently among the top-five most-visited countries in the world. Tourists from around the world flock to the country every year to visit its most popular tourist attractions. However, there’s so much to see throughout Spain! In this article, we’ll discuss some off-the-beaten-path ideas for a trip around Spain.
Questions This Article Answers
What are some hidden gems in Spain?
Best places to visit in Spain?
What are some non-touristy places in Spain?
Was Game of Thrones filmed in Spain?
While names like Segovia, Salamanca, Madrid, and Barcelonaare sure to sound familiar, Spain has so much more to offer! In this article, we’ll talk about a tiny selection of Spain’s many hidden gems.
The Top Ten Places to Visit and Things to Do in Spain
1. The Province of Soria:
Soria, located in the region of Castilla y León(Castile and Leon), is Spain’s least-populated province. And yet the region is full of natural beauty and history. Of special note are the towns El Burgo de Osmaand Calatañazor. You can stroll through El Burgo de Osma and visit the city’s original walls. It is worth checking when the town’s catedral(cathedral) is open. An elevator takes you to the top of the cathedral's tower from which spectacular views of the area can be enjoyed. Just up the highway from El Burgo de Osma is the village of Calatañazor, a town that time has hardly touched. Visitors can stroll through the village’s streets and admire the local architecture. Just outside of town, you’ll find the Fuentonapond and a nearby waterfall, both of which are accessible via a short hike.
2. Spain’s Mountains:
Hiking, rock climbing, and winter sports are all activities that can be enjoyed in Spain’s mountains. While there are a number of mountain ranges to choose from, the following are among the most impressive: the Picos de Europa, in Cantabria, Asturias, and León, or the Pirineos(Pyrenees) in Aragón(Aragon) and Cataluña(Catalonia).
3. La Guardia in the País Vasco:
La Guardia, in the País Vasco(Basque Country), has been officially recognized as one of the pueblos más bonitos de España(most beautiful towns in Spain). This winemaking town, located in the Rioja Alavesawine region, sits atop a hill overlooking the vineyards below. You can visit one of the town’s many bodegas(wineries)—some of them are located under the town!—or just stroll along the town’s streets, sampling pinchos(hors d'oeuvres) in the town’s many bars.
Fall in La Guardia
Fall, when the surrounding vineyards of La Guardia turn orange and red, is a particularly special time to visit!
4. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe in the País Vasco:
Located just under an hour from Bilbao, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, an incredible 10th-century hermitage, is one of the region's jewels. Nevertheless, visiting the hermitage requires quite the little hike. To reach it, you must climb over two hundred stairs! (And that’s not counting the hike in.)
In Game of Thrones
It's worth checking whether reservations are necessary; after appearing in Game of Thrones as the site of Dragonstone Castle, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe experienced an influx of tourists!
5. Playa de las Catedrales in Galicia:
The Playa de las Catedrales(Beach of the Cathedrals) in Galiciagets its name from the massive rock formations that mimic the architecture of the country’s cathedrals. At low tide, it is possible to stroll along the beach, admiring the rock formations.
6. Mérida in Extremadura:
Méridain Extremadurais a treasure trove of Roman architecture. It’s even a UNESCO World Heritage Site! The city was once one of the most important locations on the Iberian Peninsula, and now houses some of the most impressive architectural wonders in the country, as well as the Museo Nacional de Arte Romano (National Museum of Roman Art).
7. Ibi in Alicante:
Although nearby cities such as Valencia, Benidorm, and Alicanteare extremely popular with travelers looking for fun in the sun, Ibiis overlooked. Located in the mountains of Alicante, this city was once a major toy making hub! Are you a fan of video games? There’s a really neat vintage arcade museum located in one of the town’s old factories!
8. Participate in a fiesta del pueblo (small-town party):
Spain’s fiestas del puebloare a magical time in each town. They’re a great time to really integrate into local life, and meet new people. Lots of cultural activities are on offer, such as concerts or contests.
Learn more about Spanish fiestas in this article!
9. Sleep in a historical building:
It’s not uncommon to find that a very old castle, convent, university, or monastery has been converted into a modern hotel! Some hotels in historic buildings offer special tours around the property, allowing you to learn more about where you’re staying!
10. Relax in a balneario:
Spain’s many balnearios(spas) are special places. You’ll find everything from family-friendly spa hotels to luxurious resorts! The country has a long history of using water to heal maladies, and balnearios were very popular in the past. Nowadays, they’re a popular place for locals to unwind from the stress of modern-day life.
Bitten by the travel bug? Check out these articles to learn more!
