Tantalising tempranillo vineyards, flamingo-filled islands and city streets that swagger with Flamenco soul – here’s our guide to finding your next Spain escape.
Spain’s treasures stand almost beyond measure – and with sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches, Europe’s best red wines, one-of-a-kind architectural triumphs, mouth-watering tapas and art museums packed with Spanish masterpieces on offer, it can be difficult to decide where to begin.
It’s brimming with extraordinary cities to explore, from Ibiza’s raucous nightlife to Salamanca’s renowned wineries and the sapphire waters of Mallorca. No matter where you journey, you’ll be met by spectacular sights, glorious eats and some of the continent’s most acclaimed stays. Read on to discover our pick of the very best Spanish escapes.
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Go for island living in Ibiza
Flamingo-filled salt pans, seductive beaches, and spectacular raves – Ibiza stands triumphant as the Balearic Sea’s capital of good times. After evenings spent dancing to the world’s best DJs, each day on Spain’s grand ‘White Island’ offers countless possibilities. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dalt Vila, absolutely brimming with antique splendour – step into the shadow of the towering Portal de ses Taules gateway, and wander past ancient Roman statues as you explore. Seek out Café del Mar’s iconic white sails for laidback cocktails, chill tunes and majestic sunsets over the bay and Sa Conillera – or head to Six Senses Ibiza for a taste of oceanfront luxury, including a sommelier-led wine cellar and one of the island’s best wellness retreats.
Go for epic beaches in Mallorca
Mallorca’s coastline unfurls across the perimeter of the island like a treasure map – and each of the island’s 262 beaches is seemingly fashioned from gold, studded with coves and surrounded by brilliant cobalt waters. Soaring cliffs hide a wealth of picturesque, historic towns, each offering a separate glimpse into Mallorca’s history – from Sóller’s sprawling, fragrant orange groves to Banyulbafar’s millennia-old viticultural tradition. Pure Salt Port Adriano offers the perfect adults-only stay – complete with cascading pools, lavishly Spanish design, and its own stretch of exclusive beachfront.
Go for buzzing cities in Madrid
Madrid’s got it all: legendary museums rub shoulders with world-class restaurants, sprawling parklands hide an ancient Egyptian temple and locals prowl the twilight in search of tapas, tipples and flamenco. Be sure to visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, one of the largest palaces in the world, and wander through countless masterpiece-filled rooms. For a genuine taste of Madrid’s grand heritage, treat yourself to a five-star stay at Wellington Hotel & Spa. Positioned at the heart of Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art, the hotel even features an onsite bakery, so you can grab a churro to go before the day’s adventures.
Go for food, glorious food in Barcelona
Balmy beaches, bodacious architecture and Picasso’s boldness – Barcelona is Spain’s most visited city for a reason. But it’s the city’s culinary scene that truly sets it apart, with markets like La Boqueria offering everything from paella to the humble pa amb tomaquet. The afternoon sees hole-in-the-wall bodegas serving Iberico ham, vermouth and carijillo (coffee spiked with local brandy), and as night descends, Barcelona comes alive as some of the world’s most acclaimed restaurants begin service, including renowned Catalan eatery Informal at Serras Hotel Barcelona, once home to Pablo Picasso’s original studio. For after-dinner drinks, check out the rooftop bar at the top-rated Sir Victor.
Go for storied vineyards in Salamanca
Salamanca’s secrets are hidden in historic streets and revealed in sunshine-kissed soil and every drop of the region’s top-shelf wines. Head just two hours north and you’ll find yourself in Spain’s most prestigious slice of red wine country, the Ribera del Duero, revered for its robust tempranillos, though be sure to sip around – bright grenaches, floral mencias and plum-forward rufetes are all worth your time. For the perfect base to explore the region’s sumptuous flavours, head to the luxurious Hacienda Zorita Wine Hotel & Spa, housed in a former Dominican monastery encircled by rambling vineyards on the banks of the River Tormes.
Featured image: Pure Salt Port Adriano, Mallorca.
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After more inspiration? Discover Spain’s most beautiful city breaks.
