The Instituto de Estudios Turisticos reports that each year, we Britons make over 12 million visits to the sunny climes of Spain. For many of these people, travelling to Spain will see them visit one of the many popular tourist resorts situated across the length and breadth of the country. Budget air travel has made cheap Spain holidays popular once again and many resorts are thriving, as sun-starved Brits find value for money and great weather all around the Iberian Peninsula.
Yet despite the popularity of the major resort areas, there remains a great deal of Spain that is unseen by many tourists. This really is an oversight as the country has so much more to offer than simply what attractions are located in close proximity to the main resorts. So make 2012 a time to discover a side of Spain you may not have seen by taking one of the available easyJet holidays to Spain that offers something a little different; a trip that is off the well-trodden tourist track.
1. Costa Tropical
Forget the big resorts of the Costa Del Sol and head eastwards from Malaga to the quieter Costa Tropical. The beautiful town of Salobreňa is a quiet, typically Spanish, unspoilt seaside town. The Moorish fort that presides over the town is well worth a trip and Salobreňa is perfectly situated for those seeking to explore the majestic hikes (or ski trips in winter) around the Sierra Nevada mountain region or the hills of Los Alpujarras. Fishing is very popular from the numerous rocky coves in the region and locals will often cast their lines long into the evening in the hope of a fine catch.
2. Majorca
Beautiful beaches and great nightlife typify Majorca holidays, yet there is an often-unseen side to this beautiful island. The old architecture of the capital Palma is breathtaking with the Arab Baths, La Seau and Bellver Castle all well worth a look. The beautiful limestone caves of Drach provide a spectacular setting, while nature lovers will enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the unspoilt S’Albufera National Park.
3. Tenerife
A popular destination all year round for its sunshine and eye-catching volcanic black-sand beaches, holidays to Tenerife provide the chance to see some incredible ancient artefacts such as the Pyramids at Guimar, a series of step pyramids that are truly one of Spain’s best kept secrets. Equally, you can learn more about the island from its museums, the Natural and Human History Museums in Santa Cruz are both well worth a visit for the many treasures contained within.
4. Barcelona
If Barcelona means two things to you; Gaudi and football, then be prepared to learn a great deal more about this famous city. A popular destination for a city break, as well as a longer holiday, Barcelona has many unusual attractions to offer the visitor. The Gothic quarter is amongst the best preserved in the world and the city boasts a thriving fashion industry with superb shops and boutiques. The Museu Picassa features some of the best works of Picasso from both early and later periods in his life. For a special way to end the day, take a trip up the funicular railway to the summit of Tibidabo for a bite to eat while watching a beautiful sunset over the city.
5. Cantabria
Spain is not about scorched countryside and crisp beaches. Cantabria in the north of the country provides a verdant contrast, with lush green meadows and pleasant hills, rivers and valleys bringing to mind a northern European feel. As such, it is an outstanding destination to hike, walk, climb or mountain bike and close by are the incredible Altamira Caves, with paintings on the walls and ceiling that date back to 15,000 B.C.
Spain may have a reputation for sun, sand and sangria, but in reality it offers so much more. From pristine mountain villages and their thriving markets, to historical gems, sites of cultural importance and lush green countryside. If you think you have seen what Spain has to offer the tourist, then it is time to think again.
