Contributed Collaborative Post
Spain has long been a favourite of UK holidaymakers, with many flocking there for a break regardless of the season. It’s even become the permanent home of more than a quarter of a million British-born people.
If you’ve never been and have wondered what specifically makes the Iberian nation such a draw, we’ve got the answers.
The weather
Perhaps the most obvious reason for Spain’s popularity is the weather. While its climate is mild most of the year, the summer is characterised by glorious sunshine and average daytime temperatures of around 30°C. It’s great for family fun by the pool, topping up your tan, or enjoying some local food and a cold drink.
In some inland areas and the south, the nighttime temperatures often remain above 20°C. This is perfect for al fresco dining in the local square, but it can make for some uncomfortable nights of sleep if you don’t have air conditioning available.
The beaches
It’s one thing to have great weather, but you need to have the facilities for tourists to be able to enjoy it to the fullest. Well, Spain has that too, with more than 600 of its beaches being awarded the Blue Flag for exemplary cleanliness, safety standards and environmental management.
Playa de Castilla in the south-west corner of the country is part of the magnificent Costa de la Luz. Access can be a bit tricky, but that also means you’re unlikely to encounter huge crowds.
The north has a milder climate and the weather can be a bit unpredictable, but you won’t be disappointed on a trip to Asturias. Gulpiyuri is a unique inland beach that’s supplied with seawater by underground tunnels. Then there’s the wild Playa de Barayo, which is well worth the 30-minute walk through a wooded valley from the car park. You might even get to see otters playing in the river!
Affordability
Understandably, holidays to Spain are more expensive during the summer months because the demand is so high. If you’re desperate to go in the peak season, your budget will be best served by heading to the Costa del Sol or Mallorca.
Countries like Turkey and Bulgaria becoming more accessible often means there are cheaper options, but the familiarity of Spain – and the fact it is a much shorter flight – has helped it remain extremely popular with travellers.
Natural beauty
Spain is a country of significant geographical diversity. From the lush rolling his of the Basque Country to the other-worldly landscape of Lanzarote, you could visit every year and still feel like you were going somewhere new.
The natural rock formations of the Bardenas Reales have to be seen to be believed, while Montserrat in Catalonia is unlike any other mountain – its face rises like giant fingers forcing their way through the earth.
Wildlife lovers will relish the chance to explore Donana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Huelva; you might spot an Iberian Lynx or Iberian Imperial Eagle if you’re lucky! Serra de Tramuntana in Mallorca is another protected area that offers some lovely hiking and panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Rich history
The Iberian Peninsula has an incredibly diverse heritage.
The Alhambra was built in the 13th century and was home to Granada’s Moorish monarchs. The astounding palace fuses Islamic and Renaissance architecture for a truly unique look. Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, meanwhile, is said to be the burial site of St James, making it an important pilgrimage site for Christians.
And then there’s the Gothic architecture and unique style of Antoni Gaudi in Barcelona, with a visit to the Sagrada Familia literally enabling you to see history in the making as the construction of the cathedral is yet to be finished.
Wide range of destinations
As we’ve alluded to already, Spain is a nation of variety, so you’re sure to find a summer break that fits the bill for you.
If food is your thing, San Sebastian’s bays are ideal for soaking up the sun during the day before sampling the iconic local cuisine at night. For those who like to stay active, Mundaka is just down the coast and offers some of the best waves for water sports.
Then there are the islands. Mallorca has a lot to offer whether it’s the food, drinks or the scenery, it has everything for couples, families and groups of friends. With the Palma airport transfers being relatively quick and easy, it allows you to get straight down to enjoying your holiday as most locations; wherever you are staying, are all within reasonable driving distance, with it only taking approximately an hour to get to the other side of the island!
And if you can withstand some serious heat, a trip to the Canary Islands in summer will suit you down to the ground. You can spend your time at the popular resorts of Tenerife or get off the beaten track and head for El Hierro.
What more needs to be said?
So, those are the highlights of Spain, but it’s by no means an exhaustive list. Whatever you’re looking for from your next summer holiday, it may well fit the bill.
This is a contributed collaborative post
