The Ultimate Guide to Spanish Holidays

Beach life in Barcelona

Stuck for where to go in Spain? You can’t beat a long weekend in this vibrant, sun-soaked city. And after you’ve mooched in and out of the shops and eyed up the gorgeous Gaudi architecture, it’s time to take respite on one of the Catalonian capital’s beaches. Leave the bustle of Barceloneta behind, and catch the train to Montgat, just 20 minutes from the city – think soft, quiet sands and lapping waves, seconds from hopping off the train.

Arty trips in Deia, Mallorca

If you thought this Spanish island was all about the coast, then think again. This tiny hilltop village is about as pretty as rural holidays in Spain get, scattered down the hillside of the Tramuntana Mountains in the island’s northwestern corner. Catch unforgettable sunsets at Son Marroig, pull up a pew at one of the village’s superb restaurants, and pop into the many artists’ studios – this boho chic hideaway is an intriguing centre of peace and pleasure.

Food escapes in San Sebastian

Feeling hungry? Good, because Spain’s tourist attractions include fabulous gastronomy, and this coastal city is a foodie haven: it’s chocablock with Michelin-star restaurants and tasty pintxo bars. From full-blown theatrical meals, with dry ice and test tubes, to casual plates of Spanish classics, this is one trip you’ll be guaranteed several meals of a lifetime.

Flamenco in Seville

For an alternative holiday in Spain, head to Seville and discover its great love: flamenco. Some might say it’s the capital of the infectious dance in Spain thanks to its insatiable demand for fancy footwork and live music. Flamenco clubs (tablaos) are everywhere and the best place to watch the pros and their nimble-footed moves, whilst you’re treated to a tapas feast and fruity sangria.

Family holidays in Ibiza

Ibiza may the ultimate party hotspot, but it’s also a fantastic option for a family holiday in Spain. There are dozens of pretty coves to explore, plenty of epic villas and miles of calm waters to paddle in. Little ones will relish hours on the beach, building sandcastles and tucking into ice creams. Teens, meanwhile, have diving, horse riding, paddle-boarding and cycling on the agenda, whilst grown-ups can explore Spanish island life. Nothing, however, quite beats a boat trip from Ibiza Town to the boho island of Formentera – this off-radar island looks more like the Caribbean than the Med. Pure magic.

Back to nature in La Gomera

We’ve all heard of the Canary Islands in Spain. But what do you know about La Gomera? Beyond the resorts of Tenerife, lies this lesser-known island – all dramatic coastlines, giant palms, sleepy villages and rocky beaches. Head out on road trips to the beautiful Garajonay National Park; hike through valleys; and potter around the black-sand beaches of Valle Gran Rey. It’s also a fabulous alternative for Christmas in Spain. For a visit to the Canary Islands in Spain with a difference – La Gomera is an enchanting escape.