Stunning natural beauty, mouthwatering gastronomy, and cosmopolitan cities. Here is our guide to the most interesting destinations in northern Spain. Read more …
What’s Interesting to Visit in Northern Spain?
Northern Spain is a land that offers pristine beaches, rugged mountain ranges, historic medieval villages, world-class cuisine, and cosmopolitan cities. Encompassing four regions – the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia – northern Spain is increasingly becoming the go-to destination for travellers who seek variety. Whether you want to get into nature to hike or surf, or enjoy fine dining in a modern metropolitan setting, northern Spain will deliver. Often overlooked as visitors head to Madrid or Spain’s sunniest climes in the south, northern Spain can feel like one of Europe’s best kept secrets. But once you visit, and experience the beauty of this region firsthand, you’ll want to keep returning. Join us today as we list some of the most interesting locations across northern Spain.
San Sebastian (https://pixabay.com/photos/port-san-sebastian-106908/)
San Sebastian
Located in the Basque Country not far from the French border, San Sebastian is one of the country’s most stylish destinations. Here visitors can enjoy a beautiful blend of historic architecture, sandy beaches, and vibrant cultural events. The majority of the city’s historic buildings date from the 19th century and the Old Town streets evoke Belle Epoque Europe. San Sebastian is famed for its food and we recommend you explore the city’s pintxo bars which offer delicious Basque-style tapas. Playa de la Concha is likely to be one of the most attractive urban beachfronts you’ll ever visit; relax on the sands and enjoy scenic views of the blue Cantabrian Sea. Further spectacular views can be enjoyed from Monte Igueldo, and you can ascend the mountain range via a charming antique funicular railway. For culture vultures, the Museo de San Telmo is the Basque Country’s oldest museum, its enormous permanent collections do a remarkable job of bringing the region’s history to life.
Playa de Torimbia
Playa de Torimbia
Sheltered by a splendid backdrop of green hills and steep cliffs, the secluded beach at Torimbia is one of the most beautiful sites in Eastern Asturias. Upon walking out onto the beach, you will immediately be struck by the whiteness of the sands and the bright blues glowing from the sea before you. This is the perfect spot for some restorative relaxation. The idyllic fishing town of Llanes is located nearby and will provide a fine variety of restaurants for indulging in local specialities.
Cudillero (https://pixabay.com/photos/town-coast-sea-seaside-village-5694391/)
Cudillero
Cudillero’s colourful homes and dramatic location often lead to comparisons with Italy’s Cinque Terre. But in the fairy-tale fishing town of Cudillero, you won’t be fighting your way through the crowds. Still largely overlooked by outsiders, this enchanting Asturias town is an excellent, picturesque basecamp from which to go exploring. Local sandy beaches like La Cueva, Oleiros, and San Pedro are a short hop from the town centre. For those looking for relaxation, the pebble beach at El Silencio is an oasis of calm. Walk up to the Cimadevilla viewpoint for gorgeous views over the colourful town below. They say that each house matches a fisherman’s boat, the multi-coloured style of Cudillero stemming from an over-abundance of boat paint. Finally, don’t leave the town without sampling the first class seafood, always prepared with the freshest locally-sourced ingredients.
Santiago de Compostela
We couldn’t compile a list like this one without including the world-famous city of Santiago de Compostela, capital of the Galicia region. Even if you haven’t been persuaded to pull on your hiking boots and trek the pilgrimage route of the Camino de Santiago, it’s always inspiring to watch the pilgrims milling around the city, having just made it to the end of their long, arduous walk. Visit the unforgettable cathedral dedicated to St James and explore the city’s medieval streets, which possess UNESCO World Heritage status.
Picos de Europa (https://pixabay.com/photos/picos-de-europa-mountains-fuente-de-3902103/)
Picos de Europa
Established in 1918, the Picos de Europa is Spain’s first national park (though it was formerly known as Montana de Covadonga National Park). Forming part of the Cantabrian Mountains, the Picos de Europa range stretches out for 20 km and provides a wealth of stunning scenery. Home to magnificent flora and fauna, brown bears and wolves can be found in the remotest parts. The tallest peak in the range is the Torre de Cerredo, at an elevation of 2650 m, and experienced hikers and climbers will find exciting routes and climbs across the region. Visitors won’t want to miss the Fuente Dé cable car, Europe’s longest aerial lift, which provides breathtaking mountain views.
Bilbao (https://pixabay.com/photos/bilbao-pupi-guggemheim-tourism-2111993/)
Bilbao
One of the trendiest, creative capitals of Europe, Bilbao has an atmosphere quite unlike anywhere else. The capital city of the Basque Country, Bilbao is famous for its far-out architecture and influential art galleries. The Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, should be considered a highlight by all art enthusiasts, it’s 20 gallery spaces containing modern masterpieces and endlessly fascinating temporary exhibitions. Gourmands will have much to visit while in Bilbao, the city being home to no less than 7 Michelin starred chefs. The city’s cuisine, like its overall character, is swaggering and bold, combining the proud, age-old traditions of this glorious region with fearless experimentation.
Basque Coast Geopark
Our final choice for interesting places to visit in northern Spain is the Basque Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, 89 square kilometres of countryside and a 23 km expanse of coastline bordering the Bay of Biscay. Enveloping the areas of Mutriku, Deba, and Zumaia, the extraordinary geological landscapes of the Basque Coast Geopark are the result of processes lasting 60 million years. Walking in this territory feels like travelling back into deep prehistory. A strange and beautiful natural landscape you’re unlikely to ever forget.
This brings a close to what is inevitably only a cursory glance at the interesting sites that northern Spain offers. This is a region of limitless allure, boasting natural wonders and cultural treasures in equal measure. We hope we have inspired you to begin planning your visit! If you have any questions about this blog or our services, please do not hesitate to contact us.