Spain holidays are the perfect escape in the summer, as there is a city or resort to interest all types of travellers. Whether your trip is a city break, culture tour or relaxing beach retreat, Spain has it all. Here is a guide to Chérie City’s favourite Spain holidays…
Barcelona
Barcelona is one of Spain’s most vibrant major cities with the added benefit of a beach, making it a perfect summer destination. Upper Ravel is known as the arty neighbourhood with the renowned museums MACBA and CCCB, El Born is the place for high end boutiques and fine dining while Gracia has a laid-back boho vibe.
Don’t miss the Antoni Tàpies Foundation, lunch at Santa Caterina Market and the twinkling outdoor terrace at the Fashion and Textiles Museum Cafe in the evening.
Valencia
Valencia is a city of huge contrasts – the picturesque old town with churches, fountains and historical monuments aplenty and the futuristic City of Arts and Science. Look for street art by graffiti artists such as Julieta in the rebellious Barrio El Carmen and stroll around the parks on the old river beds where you can pluck Valencian oranges straight from the trees.
The city is famous for its paella and of course, the freshly squeezed orange juice. Don’t forget to try horchata, the region’s traditional drink at Horchateria de Santa Catalina.
Alicante
It may not be an obvious choice for a beach holiday, but Alicante is full of hidden gems. Stay at the stunning Hospes Amerigo and let them guide you through the ‘art of sleep’, after a day of sunbathing on the private rooftop terrace and pool. Adjoining tapas bar Monastrell is an absolute must, especially for the insanely good chorizo in honey and crystal bread.
For the best beach experience, walk straight past the over-crowded beaches in the main town and take the air-conditioned tram just 20 minutes up the coastline. There you’ll find secluded pale sand beaches with crystal clear waters and tiki bars. Why not make use of Spain’s excellent railway and combine with a city break in Valencia.
Alhambra, Granada
Alhambra in Granada, Andalucia, is one of the most spectacular sights in Spain. An emblem of Moorish culture in Spain, Alhambra dates back to the ninth century and is made up of exquisite palaces, towers, patios and idyllic gardens. You could spend a whole day exploring the different areas and marvelling at the craftsmanship and Arabic patterns.
A visit to Alhambra can be coupled with a relaxing stay in nearby Malaga or summer hiking in the mountains of Sierra Nevada (also a sunny, enjoyable ski resort in the winter).
Benicassim
If you can’t bear the thought of your tent washing away on a tide of mud, go for the beach and sun festival experience at Benicàssim. The festival starts late in the evening, so the day is free for relaxing on the beach or enjoying a cold beer at a terrace bar in town.
Brave the heat and pitch up your tent or rent a room/apartment on the beach front or nearby town, Castellón. If you really want to be close to the bands, splurge on one of the cool beach hotels with a pool.
This year’s line-up includes The Stone Roses, Florence and the Machine, New Order, Bob Dylan and many more…
For my next Spanish adventures, I’m tempted by Madrid, Seville and the foodie delights of San Sebastian and Bilbao. Which is your favourite Spanish destination?
All photos by Cherie City
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