Spain is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, with thousands of Brits heading for sunnier shores each year for a summer getaway, and many more deciding to make their time in the country permanent. With warm temperatures and pleasant weather year round, it’s easy to see why it has become such a popular choice with UK Visitors – especially when you consider the fact that it’s just a short hop by plane.
But whilst the idea of a Spanish holiday may well conjour up images of sunburnt Brits crammed into Irish bars, football on the TV – making it a less than tempting prospect for your own luxury getaway – if you head to the right areas, this preconception couldn’t be further from the truth. Blessed with some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters, not to mention a wealth of history, opulent hotels and incredible cuisine, Spain is a melting pot of culture, natural beauty, and all out luxury.
Unsure which Spanish destination is the best place for you? We’ve scoured the country to pick out the very best for travellers looking for a high-end holiday full of sizzling sun and Spanish fun.
Malaga
Despite its location on the Costa del Sol – an area notorious for attracting Brits in search of a summer home from home, the historic and culturally rich city of Malaga is awash with history and brimming with youthful vigour. Having undergone a significant revamp in recent years, it is now one of the first ports of call for luxury seeking travellers, with a range of opulent five-star hotels and private villas offering stunning sea views making it a huge draw.
With a vast number of art galleries, a lively nightlife scene and a foodie culture that encompasses everything from authentic tapas and freshly-caught seafood to Michelin-starred dining and rooftop bars, Malaga has fast become one of Spain’s trendiest cities. Chic boutiques and cool cafes make it the perfect place to wander the pretty streets when you’re not at the beach – but above all, it’s the perfect place to kick back, relax, and enjoy the Mediterranean vibe. It’s a great destination in October and November, too – making it the perfect place for a later autumn or winter break.
Costa Blanca
The long stripe of the Costa Blanca is one of Spain’s premier holiday coasts, busy and bustling with life come the summer months due to being blessed with some of the best beaches in Spain. Although it is perhaps best known for the lively resorts of Benidorm and Alicante, the Costa Blanca is about so much for – look closely, and you can still find one or two charming and original fishing villages, such as those at Xàbia and Altea. Dénia is a great choice for those wanting the best of both worlds, a blend of beach resort and traditional fishing town, as well as being a foodie’s paradise.
The real beauty of Costa Blanca is that there’s never a chance to get bored – and, with a range of lavish accommodation choices, from high-end hotels to luxury villas, you’ll be truly spoilt for choice. Try the Interhome website, where you can get your hands on an entire villa – it’s the ultimate option for privacy seekers who like nothing better than to relax and unwind in peace.
Spend your days soaking up some rays on the coast’s beautiful beaches, explore one of the many old towns in the area, or try a private tour of the Santa Barbara castle in Alicante.
Basque Country
Much like Costa Blanca, Basque Country is a region boasting a range of beautiful holiday destinations. Located in northern Spain, it’s awash with some of the most opulent accommodation choices of all – such as the stunning Hotel Marques de Riscal, in Elciego – a literal work of art.
Nestled within the picturesque town of Elciego, it’s a peaceful and pretty place to spend a quieter and more relaxing holiday. Here, you can enjoy fine wine, luxury dining, and the hotel’s huge on-site spa to your heart’s content.
Exploring a little more of Basque Country is easy, too – head to the main city of Bilbao – the largest in the region – for a cultural day out, and and enjoy its many lavish boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Here, you can admire some of the most incredible contemporary art and architecture in the world, as well as discovering the gorgeous Gaztelugatxe. After that, why not taste some delicious local wines or gorge onsome mouth-watering pinxtos over in San Sebastian?
Mallorca
Often seen as one of the party capitals of the Mediterranean – second only to the neighbouring island of Ibiza – Mallorca is often overlooked by the luxury traveller. But, when you take the time to peel back the layers, you’ll find endless treasures lying beneath its golden, sandy surface. One of the most iconic islands in the world, and one that’s almost been manufactured to become the tourist destination it is today, there’s an abundance of things to keep you occupied and suitably entertained for the dration of your stay – regardless of the type of holiday you’re after.
Party animals can head for one of the many luxury resorts located near the main nightlife areas, but those looking for a more restful getaway will also be well-catered for, with a range of more secluded villas available on the quieter parts of the island.
From grand castles to exquisite restaurants, and some of the best views you’re every likely to see, Mallorca is a little island paradise just waiting for you to visit. Plus, the beauty of it being an island means you can always hop on a boat – so why not head off on a mini cruise to one of the other nearby islands and discover a few more hidden gems?
Summer may be over, but these Spanish destinations can still make for a great holiday, whatever the time of year – and, thanks to their warm weather and picturesque scenery, there’s no better place to be this autumn. For those looking to experience the height of Mediterranean luxury travel, Spain is the place – offering everything you could possibly want from a short or long trip, and more.
