travel
‘Tranquil, natural and barely a tourist in sight’: readers’ favourite hidden gems in Spain
Your top off-the-beaten track discoveries, from gorges in Galicia to vineyards in La Rioja Tell us about a trip to Italy – the best tip wins a £200 holiday voucher
TL;DR
- Briñas and Haro in La Rioja offer wine tasting and scenic walks along the Ebro River.
- Sierra Espuña provides a natural escape with hiking trails and historical ice wells, near the unique Barrancos de Gebas.
- Ribeira Sacra in Galicia features terraced vineyards along deep river canyons, offering stunning views and wine experiences.
- Gallipienzo, a medieval settlement in Navarre, provides a fairytale setting with river dips and charming accommodations.
- Portugalete, near Bilbao, boasts the historic Vizcaya Bridge and a pleasant coastal atmosphere.
- La Taha in the Alpujarras offers a medieval village experience with scenic walks, especially beautiful during almond blossom season.
- Ponferrada is known for its Knights Templar castle and proximity to the ancient church of Santo Tomás de las Ollas.
- Coastal villages like Llanes, San Vicente, and Viveiro along the northern Spanish coast offer fresh seafood and dramatic beaches.
- Peratallada, a medieval town in Empordà, provides a peaceful base with scenic views and local artisan shops.
- Cuenca, a UNESCO world heritage city, offers spectacular vistas, unique karst rock formations, and the iconic Casas Colgadas.