Siestas and Sangria - more to Spain than meets the eye

Also on the hotspots list, stylish Madrid, Seville which oozes flamenco and Moorish Granada. The beaches are always popular, especially the Costa del Sol and the Blue Flag shorelines of Galicia. And all over the country, especially in places like Andalucia and Extremadura, you will find delicious local food and drink.

Although a perfect choice for those who want to kick back and do nothing, nature lovers and adventurers will also be in heaven.  Surfing on the coast, skiing in the Pyrenees, hiking the Santiago de Compostela and cycling in Majorca.  Or for the culture vultures there are some truly spectacular historic sites, the Alhambra in Granada and the Roman aqueduct in Segovia for example. 

Spain is remarkably diverse with bustling cities and tiny rural villages, mountain ranges and endless coastline.  It promises sunshine and scenery almost all year round.  Even in the Costa del Sol, which people sometimes think is unauthentic and overcrowded, you’ll find quiet beaches and local bars and restaurants.  The large cities of the north, from Barcelona to Bilbao are excellent weekend cultural destinations.

It’s no wonder that people become addicted to this marvellous country.  First a beach holiday, then a city break, then a cycling holiday - perhaps you’ll stumble across a local fiesta, some extraordinary architecture or some amazing restaurants.  Hip restaurants in tiny villages, wild landscapes, trendy galleries - Spain is made up of so much, and so many.  Even the Spaniards themselves sometimes speak of Las Espanas (the Spains) due to its incredible diversity.

To view all our One Off Places in Spain, click here.