Readers' Hidden Gems in Spain: Tranquil Escapes from La Rioja to Galicia
Spain, renowned for its bustling cities and sun-drenched coasts, holds countless hidden treasures waiting to be discovered by intrepid travellers. Guardian Travel readers have shared their favourite off-the-beaten-track spots, offering a glimpse into serene, natural, and tourist-free escapes across the country. From the vineyards of La Rioja to the gorges of Galicia, these recommendations promise authentic experiences away from the crowds.
Chilling Out in La Rioja
Recently travelling from Madrid to San Sebastián, one reader spent three days in picturesque Briñas in La Rioja, staying at the beautiful Finca Torre de Briñas, with doubles from €189 including breakfast. The neighbouring town, Haro, is accessible via a 40-minute walk along the Ebro River and hosts several of the region's largest wine producers, such as CVNE and Muga, which are highly recommended for tastings. After sampling local wines, visitors can explore the town centre, which boasts several tapas spots perfect for refuelling before the walk back to the hotel. This experience is described as pure bliss, offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of Spain's wine country.
Forests and Badlands in Murcia
Less than an hour's drive from the bustling Murcia coast lies the brooding Sierra Espuña mountain range, a green respite from the summer heat and the site of a rewilding project started over a century ago. After a morning hike through shady Aleppo pine forests, visitors can drive up a switchback mountain road to explore the 16th-century Pozos de la Nieve, descending steps into a silent, cavernous interior where ice was once stored and hauled by horse and cart to wealthy city folk in summer. The return route passes the Barrancos de Gebas, a lunar "badlands" landscape formed from a seabed more than 10 million years ago. With few other visitors, this area feels like a well-kept secret, offering a unique blend of natural history and solitude.
Terraced Vineyards in Galicia's Gorges
Forest fires in the Picos mountains led another reader on a detour to the Ribeira Sacra, a wine region in inland Galicia characterised by deep canyons of the Sil and Miño rivers. The steep-sided banks are lined with terraced vineyards, where grapes benefit from the delicate ecosystem created by the gorges. Activities include swimming in waterfalls, drinking local wine, and walking among narrow terraces. A highlight is the walk at the top of the Miradoiro de Souto Chao, known as the Grape Pickers' Viewpoint, which offers stunning views described as tranquil, natural, and barely a tourist in sight.
A Fairytale Town in Navarre
Gallipienzo, a medieval settlement rising above the sparse landscape of Navarre province, is likened to a fairytale. Before ascending the winding road to the old town, visitors can take a dip in the Aragón River, a refreshing break after sightseeing in scorching Pamplona. Upon arrival at Hotel Heredad Beragu, with doubles from €109 including breakfast, guests receive a warm welcome from hosts Patxi and Ramón, who have transformed an old farmstead into a chic getaway. A sunset walk offers views of the surrounding countryside framed by ramshackle doorways, followed by a locally sourced dinner, making this a smug discovery of a gateway to the past.
Bridge to the Basque Country
While Bilbao is deservedly popular, a 25-minute train ride along the Nervión River to the coast brings travellers to Portugalete. Head straight to Crepería Miramar for great coffee and a perfect tortilla, situated on the estuary in the shadow of the Vizcaya Bridge. Built in 1893, this is the world's oldest transporter bridge, a Unesco world heritage site that combines beauty and function. For just €1, take a trip on the transporter to Getxo and walk around the bay to the lovely fishing village of Algorta, creating a perfect day trip.
Exploring the Alpujarras, Near Granada
Last month, a reader found almond blossom out while walking the Ruta Medieval in the Alpujarran municipality of La Taha. After recent storms in the south, hikes may involve hazards like landslides and fallen trees, making apps such as Wikiloc essential for finding detours. Without a car, a bus stops at Pitres, the start of a waymarked trail along ancient cobbled paths through whitewashed, flat-roofed Moorish villages clinging to the side of the gorge created by the River Trevélez. Options after Ferreirola include a strenuous climb through Atalbéitar to Pórtugos or a gentler one to Busquístar, both with bus connections back to Pitres or onwards to Órgiva or Granada.
Medieval Gems in Léon
Arriving in Ponferrada on foot as part of the Camino de Santiago walk, visitors can see the town looming ahead well in advance. Beyond an attractive centre with old buildings, restaurants, and bars serving famous Bierzo wine, Ponferrada is known for its huge Disney-like castle, thought to have been built by the Knights Templar. It hosts mock-medieval pageants and contains a stunning collection of manuscripts and maps. After a journey from the mountain village of El Acebo, extra energy can be spent visiting the tiny romanesque church of Santo Tomás de las Ollas, a highlight worth a dozen castles.
A Spectacular Slow Rail Trip from Santander
After getting off the ferry at Santander, take a train on the narrow-gauge railway heading west along the northern Spanish coast towards Oviedo and Ferrol. This slow and spectacular former Feve line, now operated by Renfe, offers stops at coastal villages like Llanes and San Vicente, where great value accommodations, good local wine, and excellent restaurants can be found. Viveiro is another excellent stop, with restaurants serving cloudy white wine in ceramic jugs alongside wonderful seafood. Lonely and dramatic beaches complete the idyllic experience, allowing ample time to absorb the coast before heading towards Vigo and Porto by train.
A Stunning Find Near Girona
The stunning medieval town of Peratallada provides a peaceful base for exploring the Empordà region. With cloudless, azure skies, its caramel-coloured walls and arches adorned with red campsis and bougainvillea, it's an excellent day trip from Girona, 20 miles away, or towns on the Costa Brava. Climb the Torre de las Horas bell tower for great views, and explore welcoming shops, cafes, and restaurants like Restaurant La Roca and DO Candelaria. Visitor numbers are restricted, ensuring a tranquil visit.
Winning Tip: Hanging in Cuenca
In the Castilla-La Mancha mountains east of Madrid, the Unesco world heritage city of Cuenca sits proudly upon its plateau, ensnared by the Júcar and Huécar rivers. It offers spectacular vistas and otherworldly karst rock giants. Hike the 4-mile circular route through pine forest, finishing with a sunset over the medieval city. Add a free abstract art museum vertiginously perched within the Casas Colgadas and beautifully-lit streets after dusk, and Cuenca is a perfect off-the-beaten-track town to visit.
Guardian Travel readers continue to share their tips for hidden gems across Spain, with a chance to win a £200 voucher for a Coolstays break. Every week, a selection of recommendations is featured online and may appear in print, encouraging travellers to explore beyond the usual tourist trails.
