If you’ve visited Spain before, chances are it was to Madrid or Barcelona – two magnificent cities that don’t tire of return visits for the paella and sunshine.
However, if you’re in the mood for a bit of an adventure, Spain has plenty to offer in its outer reaches. Its stunning coastline has attracted many an international traveller and its mountains are host to unique little pockets of culture and history, which is why everyone should seek out these top hidden gems:
Aranjuez
If you’re based in Madrid, this is a great little place to visit. The JardÃn de la Isla hosts stunning woodlands and marble fountains to walk around and the JardÃn del Parterre has a stunning display of flowers.
The Old Quarter is also a delightful display of Baroque architecture, which was designed in 1747 by Giacomo Bonavia. Aranjuez is the perfect place to take a cultural breather outside of the bustling cities.
Bassella
Bassella is hidden among the Catalonian mountains and is a perfect place to get away to if you’re looking for a quiet retreat.
As well as being able to roam the mountainous countryside, there are plenty of villas that are perfect for families looking for some peace and quiet.
Whether you spend the day lying in the pool or going for an outdoor hike, beautiful wildlife flourishes in this abundantly green part of Spain.
Cabo de Gata-NÃjar
Not only does Cabo de Gata’s natural park have some jaw-dropping mountainous landscape views to take in, but its shoreline is truly something to behold.
It’s a great place to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking, as it has an abundance of coves and beaches.
Balearic Island bars
Some people associate island bars with the teen club-life party world, but that isn’t necessarily the case. For example, the ornate paintings and bowls of over-spilling tropical fruit in Bar Abaco will leave you feeling as if you belong in a decadent Pre-Raphaelite painting.
If you’re looking for clubs that tailor themselves to something for the more liberal crowd, Formentera, Menorca and Mallorca are all hosts to some interesting and unique forms of nightlife, whether you decide to reside on the mainland or book a trip out to the islands.
Pamplona
Although this town is infamous for its bull-run in July, Pamplona is otherwise a very modest, historical town. Visiting this town outside of the summertime festival guarantees to provide an abundance of culture and beauty.
One of the most important places to visit is Santa Maria Cathedral, which is not only visually stunning but is also home to plenty of historical and artistic artifacts.
Driving a rental car is one of the best and more effective ways to navigate your way around the more rural parts of Spain. Whether you decide to base yourself in one of the larger cities and travel outside or book yourself a large villa with a pool, you certainly won’t be deprived of culture and beauty.
Thinking outside of the box also means thinking outside of the shoreline – the Balearic Islands are well worth investigating whether it’s just for a day or a full holiday.