Discover the most beautiful villages in Spain
When people think of travelling in Spain, the first thing that comes to mind is usually the beach or, at best, partying. Sleeping on the Mediterranean coast until you're completely burnt in the face, swimming in its waters, or drinking until you explode in a nightclub in Ibiza. However, this is far from the only thing this country has to offer. Cultural and, especially, rural destinations often go completely unnoticed, and have a lot to offer visitors.
That's why today we're going to talk about the most beautiful villages in Spain. I will try to mention in this list all kinds of villages; from coastal to mountain villages, including those with history in their streets. It should be stressed that this list is totally subjective and from my point of view, as I have not visited all the villages in the country, and probably don't know them all. Any suggestions will be welcome in the comments at the end! Also, although it is possible that I may miss some, I will try not to include small towns that, although they may look like villages, are not. This is the case, for example, of Astorga in León, Úbeda and Baeza in Jaén, Calatayud in Zaragoza or Aranjuez in Madrid. Don't hate me for not including them!
Without further ado, let's start with the list of the most beautiful villages. Don't pay too much attention to the order, as it's very complicated to put them in order and I'd probably change some of the positions another time.
30. Mojácar, Almería
29. Pedraza, Segovia
28. Buitrago de Lozoya, Madrid
27. Ainsa, Huesca
26. Lanjarón, Granada
25. Ezcaray, La Rioja
24. Trujillo, Cáceres
23. Elizondo, Navarra
22. Bohí, Lleida
21. Pals, Girona
20. Llanes, Asturias
From this top 20 we start to give more details about the towns on the list. Llanes, in Asturias, is known for its stunning natural scenery, historical and cultural heritage and beautiful white sandy beaches.
The town boasts impressive historic architecture, such as the Basilica of Santa María del Conceyu, the Palace of the Dukes of Estrada and the Medieval Tower, which date back to the Middle Ages. It also has a labyrinth of cobbled streets that give it an authentic and unique atmosphere.
19. Santillana del Mar, Cantabria
Santillana del Mar is a charming medieval village located on the northern coast of Spain, in Cantabria. It is known for its historical and cultural heritage, as well as for its peaceful and relaxed atmosphere.
The village is famous for its Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, an impressive Romanesque building built in the 12th century. It also boasts numerous old palaces and mansions, such as the Torre de Don Borja and the Casa de los Villa, which are a sample of its rich history and cultural heritage.
Santillana del Mar is also an ideal place to explore the natural beauty of Cantabria. Just a few kilometres from the village is the Cave of Altamira, one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world, and with an incredible beauty, and declared a World Heritage Site. Furthermore, the village is located in a rural area surrounded by meadows and mountains, where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and horse riding.
18. Tejeda, Gran Canaria
This small island village in Gran Canaria always surprises. Located in the middle of the mountains, Tejeda blends traditional architecture with its environment and a lively yet peaceful atmosphere. It is also surrounded by lush Canary Island pine forests, which makes it an ideal place for hiking and enjoying nature.
Its main street is its main attraction, with stunning views on one side, and a multitude of cafes and local shops in traditional houses on the other.
17. Castellfollit de la Roca, Girona
Castellfollit de la Roca is an impressive medieval village located in the province of Girona, in Catalonia. Its main attraction is the imposing rock formation on which it sits, which gives it a unique and distinctive character.
The village sits atop a basalt cliff that rises to a height of over 50 metres, giving it a breathtaking view over the Fluvià river valley. Its narrow cobbled streets, stone houses and charming medieval squares are a reflection of its history and cultural heritage.
Castellfollit de la Roca is an ideal place for nature and adventure lovers. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, climbing and canyoning in the area around the village. In addition, the area is known for its local gastronomy, especially its cheeses, sausages and wines.
16. Bagergue, Lleida
Bagergue is a small village located in the Aran Valley, in the province of Lleida. This village is considered one of the most beautiful in the region thanks to its traditional architecture, its floral decoration and its breathtaking panoramic views of the Pyrenees.
Despite being a small village, Bagergue has a rich history and cultural heritage. The church of Sant Feliu is an outstanding example of Romanesque architecture and is considered one of the oldest churches in the region. Bagergue is also a popular destination for lovers of nature and outdoor sports. Numerous hiking and cycling trails can be found in the area surrounding the village, as well as ski resorts in winter. In addition, the village's location in the Aran Valley makes it an ideal place to explore the beautiful natural landscapes of the region.
15. Valldemosa, Mallorca
We continue with another of the island villages that are often forgotten in the face of beach tourism. This is Valldemosa, on the island of Mallorca, in the Balearic Islands. It is located in the Tramuntana mountain range, and its main charm lies in the way the village blends in with the surrounding nature. The houses in shades of brown and green make everything look like part of the environment, giving it a very special charm.
Valldemosa also has a lot of possible activities that can be carried out in the surrounding area. If you are passing through the island, don't forget to visit Valldemosa and the whole region of the sierra, it will definitely be worth it.
14. Olite, Navarra
Olite is a small town located in the autonomous community of Navarre, in northern Spain. Known for its beautiful medieval castle, which was once the home of the kings of Navarre, Olite is a place full of history and charm.
The castle of Olite, also known as the Royal Palace of Olite, is the town's main tourist attraction and is considered one of the most important examples of French Gothic architecture in Spain. Olite also has a rich wine-growing culture, with numerous wineries and vineyards in the surrounding area producing some of the best wines in the region.
In addition to its historical heritage and wine culture, Olite is a peaceful and welcoming place that offers visitors a wide variety of outdoor and rural tourism activities. From nature walks and bike rides to wine tasting and local gastronomy, Olite is a perfect destination for those looking for an authentic and relaxing experience in the north of the peninsula.
13. Potes, Cantabria
If you like mountain landscapes and sunrises among the peaks, this Cantabrian village will undoubtedly enchant you. Situated between the Picos de Europa massif and several mountain ranges, Potes has a truly dreamlike landscape.
Potes is a must-see if you visit the Picos de Europa region, and the combination of its historic charm and natural surroundings will make time seem to freeze in its streets.
12. Masca, Tenerife
Possibly one of the least known on the list. This tiny village on the island of Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, is in a truly stunning location and surrounded by nature.
When someone travels to Tenerife, it's almost always to a tourist resort on the coast, to soak up the sun... or, at best, to visit the Teide National Park. However, the island has much more to offer, and this little village is one of its jewels. Just be careful when you're on the access roads...Watch out, there are curves ahead.
11. Peñíscola, Castellón
Despite being one of the most touristy towns in Spain, it could not be missing from this list. Peñíscola is one of those charming towns that have already been discovered by mass tourism. I've cheated a bit by including it because it does have the title of town, but I couldn't exclude it from the list because of what it represents.
Located on the Mediterranean coast of Castellón, Peñíscola has the ideal setting for a holiday destination. Sunny beaches, an old town with curious architecture, gardens and a curious geographical shape. If you haven't visited it yet, don't hesitate to do so soon!
10. Modernism, culture and coasts: Comillas, Cantabria
Comillas is a coastal town located in the autonomous community of Cantabria, in northern Spain. It is known for its impressive modernist architecture, including Gaudí's famous Capricho and the Palacio de Sobrellano. Comillas also boasts numerous white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, making it a popular tourist destination during the summer months.
In addition to its beauty and architectural heritage, Comillas is also a cultural and academic centre. The Pontifical University of Comillas is located in the town and has a rich history and an important presence in the local community. Comillas also hosts numerous festivals and cultural events throughout the year.
9. A privileged environment: Cangas de Onis, Asturias
Located in the Principality of Asturias, Cangas de Onis is an incredible place to travel to completely unwind. The gastronomy in this region is exquisite, the town is beautiful and historic, and the surroundings are breathtaking.
The village is the starting point for exploring the Picos de Europa, one of Spain's most impressive natural parks. Here, visitors can enjoy numerous outdoor activities, such as hiking, climbing, mountain biking and rafting on the river Sella. In addition, Cangas de Onís is famous for its famous Roman Bridge, which dates back to the 13th century and is considered one of the oldest medieval bridges in Spain.
8. White beauty on the coast: Níjar, Almería
White houses and dreamy beaches next to the Cabo de Gata national park... This is Níjar, in the province of Almería. Many people ignore Almería because they have little to see in its capital, but they end up missing out on beautiful places like this village, and it's not the only one that has appeared in this top list.
Níjar, however, is both curious and authentic. It is the poorest town in Spain, that is to say; the one with the lowest average income. Having such an incredible location and such a special charm, tourism should help to improve the conditions of this place.
7. The Basque fishing holyland: Bermeo, Vizcaya / Bizkaia
Located on the Basque coast, Bermeo is one of the few fishing villages that has retained its charm. The port of Bermeo is the heart of the town and is one of the most important fishing ports in the region. Here, visitors can watch the local fishermen unload their daily catch, including some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in the area. In addition, the harbour is an ideal place to stroll around and enjoy the lively maritime activity, with numerous bars and restaurants offering stunning views of the harbour and sea.
In addition to its maritime life, Bermeo has a rich history and cultural heritage. The church of Santa María, located in the centre of the town, is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture and is considered one of the jewels of Basque cultural heritage. In addition, Bermeo is especially known for its impressive cliff of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a small island with a chapel at the top that has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and has inspired a multitude of series and films. If I were to consider this place too, and not just the village itself, it would undoubtedly be at the top of my list.
Bermeo is also a popular destination for nature and outdoor sports enthusiasts. Numerous hiking and cycling routes can be found around the town, as well as beaches and coves with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. In addition, Bermeo is an ideal place for water sports such as surfing, paddle surfing and kayaking.
6. The abandoned station and the village of Canfranc, Huesca
Canfranc is a place difficult to describe. A mixture of luxury and abandonment next to the French border.
Canfranc's fame is due precisely to that, to the border, as the Canfranc train station, which served as a border crossing, is located there. I will soon try to write an entry about its history, because it is quite interesting.
The small village of Canfranc, although overshadowed by its station, also has great charm. It is situated about 4km from the international station, and used to house mainly its workers. Today it is a charming place, and is situated in an incredible setting next to the Pyrenees.
5. Colour and history on the coast: Cudillero, Asturias
If you like colourful seaside towns with a calm and historic atmosphere, Cudillero is a jewel not to be missed. Located on the coast of Asturias, this small town is a real wonder that is not as well known as it should be.
Due to its history and incredible unique style it has been declared a Historic-Artistic Site, and photos don't do it justice. In addition, the village has a curious culture of its own, as it even has its own dialect, Pixueto; although unfortunately it is falling into disuse.
4. Art by the gorge: Ronda, Málaga
Ronda is a village that looks like something out of a fairy tale. Located in the province of Malaga, this village is situated some 700 metres above sea level and is famous for its spectacular panoramic views of the Sierra de Grazalema mountain range and for its impressive Puente Nuevo bridge, which connects the two parts of the town through a breathtaking gorge.
In addition to its spectacular architecture and views, Ronda has a rich history dating back to Roman times and has been inhabited by Phoenicians, Romans and Arabs. Over the centuries, Ronda has served as a home for poets, artists and bullfighters, which has left an indelible mark on the culture and character of the town.
3. The rock village: Setenil de las Bodegas, Cádiz
Setenil de las Bodegas is a village in the province of Cadiz known for its incredible architecture. This place is famous for its houses built under the rocks that make up the local landscape. The villagers have adapted their lifestyle and the structure of the village to these unique geological formations, resulting in an architecture and culture that is unique in the world.
Despite being a small place with few inhabitants, Setenil de las Bodegas offers its visitors a wide variety of activities and attractions of tourist interest. As well as walking through the picturesque streets of the village and discovering its rock-hewn houses, visitors can enjoy the local gastronomy and visit the numerous wine cellars, which are an integral part of the local economy. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and, above all, curious villages in the whole of Spain.
2. The magical bridge town: Besalú, Girona
If you think of a dream medieval village... Besalú is probably the closest thing to what you imagine. Located in the province of Girona, this incredible village has everything a fairytale village needs: an ancient bridge, towers, walls, an incredible pedestrian centre...
Walking through this village is like going back in time, as it has managed to perfectly conserve its essence despite the passing of the years. And if we add to this its incredible surroundings and scenic charm, we find ourselves with a place not to be missed if you visit the region.
1. The most beautiful village in Spain: Albarracín, Teruel
Ladies and gentlemen, Teruel exists. And I don't say that (only) because of the political party. Although this province is rarely visited, it has one of the most incredible and beautiful villages in Spain. It is Albarracín, and it has a most interesting history, as it has gone through many stages of Spanish history.
Albarracín is a very popular town and has many details that make it unique. Its wall in great condition, its labyrinthine streets, its fortress, its cathedral... The village is a monument in itself, and is full of incredible corners.
In addition to all this, the surroundings of Albarracín are very privileged. From a multitude of places for adventure sports and nature, to incredible landscapes and some of the most unique cave painting sites in the world, especially Levantine art. It is for this and much more that Albarracín deserved the first place of the most beautiful villages in Spain.
What do you think of this list of the most beautiful villages in Spain? I know I've left a lot of them out, but I don't know all of them and trying to list them is always complicated. I would love to hear from you in the comments which is your favourite from the list, if you live in any of them, which ones you have visited or would like to visit...and above all, which towns that are not on this list you recommend me to visit!
If you are like me and you like statistics... the provinces with the most beautiful villages on the list are Cantabria, Asturias and Girona, with 3 each! And if we talk about autonomous communities, we also have a tie, between Catalonia and Andalusia, with no less than 5 each.
Before I finish, I would like to make a brief comment. Most villages are slowly disappearing due to depopulation, and it is a real cultural loss for the country. That is why activities such as rural tourism, or moving to certain places for a while with remote work, help to give continuity. Let's hope that little by little, many of the amazing villages we have will regain some of the life they are losing...And now yes, see you in a future post:)
