The Best Places in Spain Outside Of the Cities
Madrid, Barcelona, Seville… there’s certainly no shortage of amazing sights and experiences to be had in the gorgeous country of Spain! And when you talk to anyone that’s been there, these fantastic cities are sure to come up; but, what about the spots outside of the cities? You know, the roads less traveled?
The true gems of Spain aren’t always in plain sight. In fact, some of them are hidden so well tourists rarely ever find them without some help from the locals. But we definitely want to make sure you add them to your itinerary so you can experience the absolute best that Spain has to offer!
So, here you are! Five absolute must-see Spain destinations you can only find by going on an adventure outside of the cities:
1. Reus, the Birthplace of Gaudi
Gaudi was a brilliant architect, so if you can appreciate attractive architecture and sights to delight, be sure to travel an hour south of Barcelona to Reus, Catalonia! This beautiful area nestled in the Tarragona province offers some Modernista Art Neaveau architecture perfect for some photo shoots. In-between sessions you can relax at one of the many restaurants for some local cuisine to re-fuel before continuing your exploration.
2. History in Navarre
To the west of Aragón lies the medieval Basque kingdom of Navarre. This little area lies near Pamplona, which you may know for the running of the bulls, and is riddled with fascinating history that is sure to excite any historian! For example, you’ll love wandering through the grounds of the Castle of Xavier, birthplace and childhood home of Navarre’s Saint Francis Xavier, with history that dates back as far as 1223! For an experience of a lifetime, stop by in early March when there’s a massive pilgrimage in honor of the patron saint.
3. Spark Creativity in Soria
For the creative mind or free spirit it doesn’t get much better than this! About two hours from Madrid, Soria is so far off the beaten path that’s actually pretty hard to find one at all, but if you’re looking for someplace where you can let your imagination run free without the hustle and bustle of the city or tourism, this is it. Just one look at the rich, colorful landscape and you’ll understand why so many artisans have found their inspiration here!
4. Art, Culture and Suntans in Coruña
Family-friendly Coruña is hidden away in Galicia, where you can find some of Spain’s most glorious beaches like Playa de Riazor and Playa de Orzán. It’s the perfect destination for water sport lovers of all ages, with activities like diving, surfing and canoeing available year-round, rain or shine! Before you go, stop by the Tower of Hercules for some photos of the world’s oldest Roman lighthouse. Surprisingly, it’s still in service and opens for visits! And the little ones will marvel at the Tower’s myths and legends that have spanned generations!
5. Get Back to Nature in Somiedo National Park
For reasons unknown, the Somiedo National Park sees very few foreign visitors; but this beautiful land is a must-see for anyone visiting Spain! It is mountainous and densely wooded, offering some of the most mesmerizing walking around lakes and pastures that you can experience. If you’re looking for an escape where you can simply “be” one with the world around you, you’ve found it here! You can stay within relatively close proximity of the Park in a tiny village called Pola de Somiedo, where history from centuries past transcends through to modern age.
Prepare for Your Adventure!
Well, there you have it, some of the best places in Spain outside of the cities! Though these might be the roads less travelled, you’ll find that there are still plenty of cities around these areas that offer you the conveniences you need when travelling international, so you won’t ever have to go without! And if you’d still like to have the comfort of home even while you thirst for adventure, be sure to book a luxury villa. With a luxury villa, you’ll have a “home base” to return to when you’re done exploring to your heart’s content!