Spain is a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and of course, its exquisite cuisine. Among the most celebrated aspects of Spanish culinary tradition is the concept of tapas – small, flavourful dishes that offer a delightful way to sample a variety of tastes and textures. Whether you’re enjoying a casual evening out with friends or simply looking to explore Spanish gastronomy, tapas provide a perfect introduction to the country's culinary diversity.

In this guide, we’ll embark on a tantalising journey through 20 popular and highly recommended tapas you must try when you visit Spain. Each dish is a testament to the country's vibrant food culture, reflecting regional ingredients and traditional preparation methods.

1. Tortilla Española

A cornerstone of Spanish cuisine, the Tortilla Española, or Spanish omelette, typically comprises eggs, potatoes, and olive oil. Often enjoyed as a "pincho" (a small portion), this dish is commonly enhanced with onions for additional flavour. The simplicity of its ingredients belies its deliciousness and versatility, making it a favourite across Spain.

2. Patatas Bravas and Patatas Alioli

These are fried potato cubes served with tantalising sauces. The brava sauce is known for its spiciness, while the alioli is a garlicky, olive oil-based concoction. Both versions offer distinct tastes, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of zing with their crispy potatoes.

3. Jamón

Particularly the Jamón Ibérico, is a staple in Spanish tapas. This cured ham is often served on small slices of bread or with "picos" – small, crunchy breadsticks native to Spain. The rich, savoury flavour of high-quality Iberian ham is adored by locals and visitors alike.

4. Queso

Spain boasts numerous cheese varieties, each with unique regional significance. Manchego from Castilla-La Mancha, Idiazabal from the Basque Country, Roncal from Navarra, Mahón from the Balearic Islands, and Majorero from the Canary Islands are just a few examples. Sampling local cheeses provides an excellent way to appreciate the country's diverse dairy offerings.

5. Olivas

Olives, or "olivas," often find their way into tapas menus, typically served pickled. They come in many varieties, including stuffed (commonly with anchovies or peppers) or marinated. Olives and other pickled veg create a refreshing and tangy addition to any tapas spread.

6. Calamares

Breaded and fried calamari rings are a beloved tapas in Spain. Often served hot, these crispy delights are particularly popular in coastal regions. The addition of a squeeze of lemon or a dip in a spicy sauce can elevate the experience even further.

7. Croquetas

Croquettes are another staple of Spanish tapas, with fillings that traditionally include jamón. However, modern variations see a plethora of ingredients like mushrooms, crab, calamari, shrimps, cod, or strong-tasting cheeses like Cabrales. Their crunchy exterior and creamy interior make them a crowd-pleaser.

8. Mejillones

Mussels, primarily steamed, are usually presented with lemon or alongside finely chopped tomatoes, onions, and peppers. They offer a burst of maritime flavour that pairs splendidly with bread for sopping up any remaining juice.

9. Pan Tumaca

Originating from Catalonia, Pan Tumaca consists of bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes, olive oil, an optional touch of garlic, and salt. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with additions like ham, various sausages, tortillas, or cheeses.

10. Morcillas and Chorizos

Blood sausage (morcilla) and chorizo are two of the most famous pork-derived products used in tapas. Morcilla is often rice-stuffed, while chorizos can be barbecued or cooked in cider, offering rich, spicy flavours that are unmistakably Spanish. Additionally, dishes like "picadillo" (seasoned ground meat), "chicharrones" (pork cracklings), and "torreznos" (fried pork belly) offer hearty accompaniments.

11. Gilda

A pincho consisting of anchovy, olive, and chili pepper popular in the Basque Country. The Gilda is a testament to the region’s love for bold, salty, and spicy flavours, served with a small skewer or toothpick.

12. Huevos Rotos

Also known as "huevos estrellados," this dish consists of fried eggs with runny yolks broken over a bed of ham and fried potatoes. Alternatively, eggs might be paired with baby eels, shrimps, or other pork-based products, with bread used to soak up the gooey yolk.

13. Sepia

Grilled and typically accompanied by a dipping sauce such as mayonnaise or alioli. Smaller varieties, known as "chopitos" or "puntillitas" in Andalusia, are often fried and serve as a fantastic seafood tapas option.

14. Paella

While traditionally more of a main course, paella can also be found in tapas-sized portions. This iconic dish from the Valencia region features rice cooked with vegetables, meats, or seafood. Its vibrant saffron-infused flavour is a quintessential representation of Spanish cuisine.

15. Pulpo a Feira

Hailing from Galicia, this "pulpo," or octopus, is cooked and cut into pieces, then dusted with salt and paprika, and drizzled with olive oil. Served on wooden plates, Pulpo a Feira is also known as Pulpo a la Gallega, embodying rustic yet refined flavours.

16. Papas Arrugadas

Particularly prominent in the Canary Islands, these "wrinkled potatoes" are prepared with local small potatoes cooked in heavily salted water. They are often served with “mojo” sauces – green (cilantro-based) and red (pepper-based), both intense in flavour.

17. Pescaito Frito

A speciality of Andalusia, this "fried fish" is typically coated in a light batter and fried to perfection in olive oil. It is usually served in paper cones with a sprinkle of seasoning, making it a delightful seaside snack.

18. Ensaladilla

This cold salad typically includes cooked potatoes, mayonnaise, tuna, eggs, and finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans. Ensaladilla is a refreshing and creamy tapas, often served as an appetiser.

19. Migas

Consists of crumbled, fried bread seasoned with ingredients such as chorizo, pancetta, peppers, garlic, and onions. Various regional versions exist, with some adding grapes and others substituting meat for fish like cod. This is a hearty, rustic dish that has its roots in shepherd’s fare.

20. Salmorejo and Gazpacho

These cold soups, particularly popular in the summer, are traditional to Andalusia. Both have tomatoes and olive oil as their primary ingredients. Gazpacho also includes cucumbers, peppers, and onions, offering a refreshing, chilled option that brightens up any tapas spread.

Beverages to Complement Tapas

No tapas experience is complete without the perfect drink. Cerveza (beer) and vino (wine) are the staples. Spain’s most famous wine, Rioja, is well-known, but regions all over Spain produce excellent wines with designation of origin labels, such as Ribera del Duero, Rías Baixas, Montilla-Moriles, and Penedès. Additionally, cider, vermouth, and sangría—though more touristy—can greatly complement the wide array of tapas dishes.

Granada, a city steeped in Moorish history and Spanish charm, offers a unique experience that will transport you back in time: the Arab Baths. Imagine stepping into an oasis of tranquillity, with soothing pools of different temperatures, massages, and an evocative atmosphere that whispers tales of ancient traditions.

These baths, known as hammams, were once a cornerstone of social life in Moorish Granada. Today, they offer a respite from the every day, a rejuvenating experience that combines history, relaxation and cultural immersion.

Why Arab Baths Are Perfect for Retirees

• Gentle Relaxation: The hammam's warm waters and calming atmosphere are ideal for those seeking a gentle and restorative experience. It's a perfect way to unwind and de-stress after a lifetime of work.

• Health Benefits: The varying temperatures of the pools can help improve circulation, soothe aching muscles and joints, and promote well-being. It's like a spa day explicitly designed for your needs!

• Cultural Immersion: Experience a unique part of Granada's Moorish heritage and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Al-Andalus. It's a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era.

• Social Connection: Many hammams offer a tranquil space for conversation and relaxation, providing an opportunity to connect with others and share travel stories.

But why should you visit an Arab bath in Granada?

• Escape the Ordinary: Retirement is the perfect time to embrace new experiences and discover hidden gems. The Arab baths offer a unique and unforgettable adventure.

• Indulge in Self-Care: You've worked hard all your life. Now is the time to prioritise your wellbeing and treat yourself.

• Embrace a Slower Pace: The hammam encourages a slower, more mindful approach to life, allowing you to truly relax and savour the moment.

• Create Lasting Memories: This experience you'll cherish forever, a unique travel memory to share with friends and family back home.

A Sensory Journey Awaits:

Prepare to be enchanted by the serene ambience of a traditional hammam. Soft lighting, the scent of jasmine and orange blossom, the gentle sounds of water and Andalusian music create an atmosphere of tranquillity. The journey through the different pools, each with varying temperatures, allows your body to acclimate and fully benefit from the therapeutic waters.

• Cold Room: Revitalise your senses and refresh your skin.

• Warm Room: Relax your muscles and prepare your body for the heat.

• Hot Room: Unwind as your pores open, releasing toxins and promoting deep relaxation.

In addition to the thermal circuit, many Arab baths offer a range of massages and treatments, such as exfoliation with a traditional Kessa glove, clay wraps, and aromatherapy massages.

Top-rated Arab Baths in Granada:

• Hammam Al Ándalus: Located at the foot of the Alhambra, this hammam faithfully recreates the atmosphere of a traditional Arab bath. It offers various thermal circuits, massages and beauty rituals.

• Baños Elvira: Situated in the historic centre, these baths are known for their beautiful Nasrid décor and intimate atmosphere.

• Al-Haram Hammam Baños Árabes Granada: With a prime location in the Albaicín, this hammam offers an authentic experience in a historic building.

Tips for your visit:

• Book in advance: To avoid disappointment, especially during peak season, it's advisable to book your hammam experience in advance.

• Bring your swimsuit: Although some baths offer rentals, bringing your own is best.

• Stay hydrated: Remember to drink water before, during and after your visit to stay hydrated.

• Enjoy the experience: Put your phone away and allow yourself to be fully present in the moment.

Visiting an Arab bath in Granada is an unforgettable experience connecting you with the city's rich history and culture while providing a deeply relaxing and rejuvenating escape. Don't miss the opportunity to add this unique experience to your next holiday in Spain.

It is one of the most visited monuments in the whole of Navarre and as soon as you enter Olite it is like walking directly into a fairy tale. With just a glance, the palace takes you back to the Middle Ages. Its turrets and passageways will delight anyone who loves art, architecture or history. After so many years I decided to revisit on my way to France. We stayed the night at the Parador in the village and then visited the palace the following morning before heading off on route again. It is an ideal stop-off if you are travelling up to France via Madrid.

The palace has spectacular lookout points which afford views of the Mediaeval town of Olite. Here are ten curious historical facts that will give you more than enough reasons for visiting this fine example of Spanish history.

1. It was a "real" royal whim.

The palace is the masterpiece of the reign of Carlos III “The Noble”. The project was of such magnitude that people used to say it had as many rooms as the days in a year. The work was an economic extravagance for the period. Charles III wanted his castle to be admired by his guests and he achieved this. It was a real royal whim.

 2. Among the most luxurious of the era

When it was built, it was considered one of the most luxurious medieval castles in Europe. It was so beautiful that, in the 15th century, a German traveller wrote in his diary (which is preserved in the British Museum, in London): “I am sure there is no king with a more beautiful palace or castle, and with so many golden rooms.”

3. It is two palaces in one

Actually, it is really two palaces, one built next to the other. The first, used today as the Parador Hotel where we stayed, dates back to the 12th-13th century and only its walls and towers remain. The second, from the 14th-15th century, is considered the ‘New Palace’ and was completely rebuilt during the 20th century.  The Parador is very reasonably priced and a lovely hotel right in the heart of the village. (seen below)

4. It had famous hanging gardens

One of the most admired features of the palace were its famous hanging gardens which, like the legendary gardens of Babylon, were suspended up to 20 metres above the ground, abounding in plants and flowers from all over the world. So that the courtyard would not buckle under the weight of the large plant pots, orders were given for an underground arcade to be built to act as a buttress. It is the Sala de Los Arcos (Room of Arches) or Sala de Los Murciélagos (Bats).

5. It was a royal zoo

It was traditional for European courts to keep game or exotic animals inside their castles. Carlos III's grandson, Prince of Viana, took this hobby even further and included all sorts of animals until he had created a small zoo, with giraffes, lions, camels and all types of birds. Today you can still see the remains of the aviary in the Patio de la Pajarera (aviary courtyard).

6.  La Torre del Homenaje has exceptional views

The royal chamber is one of the most impressive rooms in the whole architectural complex. It is in the keep, which is nearly 40 metres tall; to reach the top, you need to climb 133 steps. The keep affords exceptional views of Olite and the surrounding land.

7. It has a royal fridge

From the Ochavada Tower, you can see the ice well, or 'the egg', as the locals call it. It is the place where they stored the layers of snow that were used to preserve food. The egg-shaped lid covers a well that has a depth of about eight metres.

8. It came back from the ashes

In 1813, during the War of Independence, the palace was practically destroyed by a fire started by General Espoz y Mina to prevent the French troops from making forts inside the castle.  In 1913 it was bought by the Regional Government of Navarre and 25 years later, a meticulous restoration began, which made the palace look like it does today.
        

9. Bécquer was greatly impressed

Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer was one of the tourists who was greatly impressed by this palace.  It was at the end of the 19th century when the poet visited Olite; when he saw the castle's deplorable state, he dedicated an essay in which he evoked the glorious days of this architectural complex.

10. A mediaeval market takes you back in time

Every year, just for two days, Olite holds its mediaeval market; it lets everyone relive the palace's bygone days of splendour. During the festival, all kinds of traditional products are sold and activities are organised that take you back to the Middle Ages, with hawkers, peddlers and minstrels included. 

No doubt we are all familiar with the obligatory baby Jesus in the manger scene rolled out every Christmas, but the early 18th-century inhabitants of Catalonia, Italy, and certain areas of Southern France started a different tradition that lives on to this day.

Unlike the English-speaking version of the Nativity scene, Catalonians at Christmas time actually build a large model of the city of Bethlehem. The Caganer, whose origins have been lost in time, is a particular and highly popular feature of these modern interpretations.

Often tucked away into a small corner of the nativity scene, one can find a lone figure caught in the act of defecation. There are more than a handful of guesses as to how and why this tradition started ranging from the figure representing the equality of all people (everyone poops!) or that it symbolises the idea that God will manifest himself when he is ready, without regard whether humans are ready for him. Still, others believe it is a tradition grown from comic relief.

Nonetheless, it is said that not exhibiting him brings misfortune since his faeces fertilize the ground and also bring luck and happiness for the year ahead.

Traditionally, the Caganer wears a barretina (typical Catalan hat like a beret) and holds a pipe in his mouth, but over the years this tiny fellow has evolved to the extent that nowadays we find models of celebrities, politicians, actors, musicians and football players, as well as Caganers dedicated to towns, to distant traditions, to jobs, and to animals. 

Whatever your thoughts, if you find yourself travelling in the region around Christmas time it’s highly encouraged to take a second look at the scaled down Bethlehem and see if you can find their little “Caganer.”

Barcelona's oldest treasure is also one of the most hidden. Located in the city’s Gothic quarter, four 2,000-year-old columns from the Roman Empire’s Imperial Period are hidden by the building that houses the Centre Excursionista de Catalunya (Hiking Club of Catalonia).

The temple was originally built to honor Emperor Augustus and once towered over the ancient Roman city of Barcino. It was constructed of sandstone from nearby Montjuïc Hill and at least partially plastered over. The building was built in the first century and measured 12 feet in length. It was surrounded by numerous 30-foot-tall columns, but now only four exist and lay testament to this wonderful building.

Most of the stones from the temple were reused for other buildings. Three of the columns remained intact, forming part of the inside of a new structure. They were found in the 15th century, but no one could figure out their origin until the 19th Century, when it was discovered they were, in fact,  the remains of a Roman temple.

The fourth column was rebuilt from the remains of the other columns and erected in the Plaça del Rei (King’s Square) in 1879, where it stayed until 1956 when it was moved to the spot where it stands now, next to the original three columns, which have never been moved. Though they rest on bits of plinth from the original structure, the ancient building is otherwise gone.

I'll bet whatever you want that not many people know of a place where you can literally find a village inside a cave, and if that wasn't enough, with sea views. This really was a discovery, a surprising and incredible one at that and it is most definitely a place to visit if you are in the region. Add it to your list as you will not be disappointed.

You don't have to travel very far if you are already in the Canary Islands because this remarkable place can be found on the island of La Palma. Tucked into a large cave, on an impressive cliff, we can find a small village that seems to be taken from an adventure novel. The village is called Porís de Candelaria and it is located in the most western part of the island built upon the oldest rock formations of lava on La Palma which combined with a backdrop of almost vertical cliffs make for a spectacular sight.

The meaning of its name comes from the word 'porís' which means 'jetty or natural harbour'. In it, we find white-washed houses located under a giant stone semi-dome created by the constant volcanic eruptions that the island has had over the centuries. The majority of the houses are more than 80 years old and are used by their owners during the holiday season to escape the heat.

To get to the 'secret cave village' from the town of Tijarafe, you need to follow the road that goes towards the sea, the LP-1 heading North for about 4 kilometres.

Start Exploring!

Made in the same method as Champagne, Cava is Spain's sparkling wine treasure. Originating from the Penedès region of northeast Catalonia (just west of Barcelona), cava is made with three local varieties: Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada. Cava's claim to fame lies in its remarkable quality-to-price ratio. Top-quality cava is widely available for under €10 with many regional producers presenting their best bubbly in sophisticated bottles and leaning heavily on family-owned, tradition-inspired values. Here some to consider for the coming festive season! Take your pick, you can't go wrong with any of them...

Freixenet Sparkling Cordon Negro Brut Cava - €6,49
Freixenet

One of the best-selling Cavas on the market, Freixenet Sparkling Cordon Negro Brut Cava offers up exceptional citrus and toasted almond notes on the nose. Built on the region's three dominant cava grapes (Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada), this medium-bodied sparkling wine carries a fresh factor, lively acidity, and unmistakable balance on the palate.

Anna de Codorniu Cava Brut - €6,88
Codorniu Winery

        
Crafted from a 70/30 split of chardonnay and Parellada grapes, the Anna de Codorniu Cava Brut shows a lovely bouquet of ripe apple, plush tropical fruit, and the yeasty appeal of fresh-baked bread. The palate reveals a continuation of fresh-fruit themes, centred around green apple, pear, quince, and lemon-lime citrus. Crisp and clean.

Segura Viudas Brut Reserva Cava - €9,99
Segura Viudas

Bringing some serious value—not to mention bubbles—to the table, Spain's Segura Viudas Brut Reserva Cava showcases an engaging blend of nutty nuances and a dash of citrus on the nose.

The palate profile is fresh, with zippy acidity, bright lemon-lime fruit, and apple undertones. A remarkable sparkling wine for the price, this cava is made with a blend of regional grapes: Macabeo, Parellada, and Xarel-lo.

Perfect for parties, keep the Segura Viudas Brut Cava in mind for appetizers, shellfish themes, tapas, and a variety of poultry picks.

Juve y Camps Brut Rose - €13,25
Juve y Camps Winery

 
Vivid salmon colour (thanks to Pinot Noir) and bright berry fruit with engaging floral notes on the nose make up this cava's first impressions. The palate doesn't disappoint, carrying almond essence and strawberries with cream, bright acidity, and an underlying elegance from attack to a spicy finish. This Juve y Camps Rose Brut Cava is perfect for cured meat and smoked salmon crostini.

Segura Viudas Brut Reserva Heredad Cava - €22,90
Segura Viudas

                       
From the heart of Penedès, Spain's sparkling wine centre, this Reserve Cava is crafted from all estate-grown fruit (Macabeo and Parellada). Thirty months ageing on lees explains the toasted brioche and smoky aromatic apple on the nose and gives this cava a creamy elegance and fuller-body on the palate. The fruit is well integrated with apple, quince, and some citrus weighing in alongside a mineral-driven finish. Rich, expressive, and focused, the Segura Viudas Brut Reserva Heredad Cava is made for caviar, roasted poultry, or pork. 

Elyssia Pinot Noir Brut Cava - €9,95
Freixenet

               
A fantastic Cava pick, this lovely sparkling Rosado is brimming with the ripe aromas of raspberry and cherry fruit. On the palate, red fruit steals the limelight buffered by bubbles and balanced with optimized acidity. There is plenty of class in this glass and at only €9,95 a bottle, this Elyssia Pinot Noir Brut Cava is perfect for celebrations, picnics, appetizers, and tapas.

Spain, with its diverse climate regions and rich soil, boasts an extraordinary variety of fruits and vegetables throughout the year. Winter, despite its cooler temperatures, is no exception. During the winter months, the country transitions from the vibrant harvests of autumn to a robust selection of produce that thrives in the chilly temperatures. Here's a closer look at some of the seasonal fruits and vegetables that flourish in Spain during the winter season.

Winter Fruits

1. Oranges

One of Spain's most renowned winter fruits is the orange. The southeastern region of Valencia is particularly famous for its citrus groves. Oranges are at their peak from December to March, loaded with vitamin C and perfect for a refreshing juice or a sweet snack.

2. Mandarins

Closely related to oranges, mandarins are similarly prominent during the winter. They are smaller, easier to peel, and just as flavorful. Spanish mandarins, such as the Clementine variety, are juicy and sweet, making them a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

3. Persimmons

Also known as "kaki" in Spain, persimmons are bright orange fruits that reach their peak ripeness in the winter months. The flesh is sweet, soft, and jelly-like when fully ripe. They are commonly enjoyed fresh or in desserts.

4. Pomegranates

Pomegranates flourish in the Mediterranean climate and are typically harvested in late fall, with availability extending through the winter. These ruby-red fruits are filled with juicy, tangy seeds that are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants.

5. Grapes

Spanish grapes, particularly those from the Murcia region, continue to be harvested into the early winter months. Grapes are often enjoyed as a healthy snack, or they can be used in various culinary applications, from salads to desserts. They are also a central part of the Spanish New Year's Eve tradition, where it's customary to eat twelve grapes at the stroke of midnight, one for each chime of the clock, to bring good luck for the coming year.

Winter Vegetables

1. Artichokes

Winter is the prime season for artichokes in Spain, particularly in the Iberian Peninsula. Renowned for their delicate flavour, artichokes can be grilled, steamed, or baked, and they are a staple in many traditional Spanish dishes.

2. Cauliflower

Cauliflower thrives in cooler temperatures, making winter the ideal time for this nutritious vegetable. It is incredibly versatile, making its way into soups, roasts, stir-fries, and even as a low-carb substitute in various recipes.

3. Broccoli

Another member of the brassica family that enjoys the winter months is broccoli. Rich in vitamins and minerals, broccoli is a key ingredient in many healthy Spanish dishes and is often served steamed, sautéed, or roasted.

4. Cabbage

Cabbage is a hearty vegetable that can withstand the chill of winter. It comes in several varieties, including green, red, and Savoy cabbage. Cabbage is frequently used in Spanish stews, soups, and salads, providing a nutritious and tasty addition to winter meals.

5. Spinach

Fresh spinach is readily available during the winter season in Spain. This leafy green is packed with iron, vitamins, and minerals. It is commonly used in salads, omelettes, and various cooked dishes, adding both flavour and nutrients to the Spanish winter diet.

6. Chard

Swiss chard, commonly known as "acelga" in Spanish, is another winter green that is widely consumed. It is a versatile vegetable that can be sautéed with garlic, added to stews, or used in savoury pies and tarts.

7. Leeks

Leeks are at their best during the winter months. With their mild onion-like flavour, they are a key ingredient in many Spanish dishes, from hearty soups and stews to the famous "vichyssoise" (a creamy leek and potato soup).

Winter in Spain is a time of abundance when it comes to fresh produce. The country's favourable climate and rich agricultural traditions ensure a steady supply of delicious and nutritious fruits and vegetables, even during the colder months. From the sweet tanginess of oranges and pomegranates to the robust flavours of artichokes and cabbage, winter offers a wonderful array of seasonal delights to enjoy. Incorporating these winter fruits and vegetables into your diet not only supports local farmers but also ensures you're enjoying produce at its peak freshness and nutritional value. So, whether you're in Spain or simply want to bring a taste of Spanish winter to your table, savour the bounty of these seasonal treasures.

Since May 20, 1194, when Alfonso II of Aragon donated an old Moorish castle to a handful of monks in order to found the Monasterio de Piedra, this spot in Spain’s mostly barren reaches has been home to a divine paradise here on Earth.

Though officially secularized in 1835, during the reign of Isabella II, visitors to the monastery today will still find the remaining Gothic and Baroque buildings as heavily fortified as they were in the days of the monastery’s founding. Its cloisters remain intact, surrounded by immaculately landscaped gardens, though the main church was irreparably damaged in the aforementioned secularization and subsequent period of abandonment.

These ruins have an eerie, beautiful air about them, as they remain half-triumphant in their unwillingness to fall after so many years. Heavily fortified since its conception, visitors to the monastery will find the compound’s original cloisters intact, albeit reincarnated as a hotel and guesthouse.

Just slightly farther afield from civilization, ancient and contemporary, is the Piedra River, which is responsible for the conjoining nature park’s legendary, remarkable waterfalls. Created through the dissolution of limestone in a phenomenon geologists refer to as “karstification,” these standout cataracts include the 50-meter-tall Cola del Caballo (named such for its resemblance to a horse’s tail), and a handful of others which seem to bell into a million tiny rivulets running over the shoulder of huge boulders.

Clearly marked trails wend visitors on a five-kilometre path through the park’s most famed sights, including a natural reflecting pool trapped in a canyon called Mirror Lake. The natural park also has several caves, into which shepherds have built shelters for their flocks, as well as a raptor centre that’s open to the public.

As of February 16, 1983, Monasterio de Piedra — natural park and all — was declared a national monument, which should ensure the protection of this little slice of the divine for another 800 years to come. 

There are destinations that offer many leisure options, but when we stay in certain establishments the pleasure of the trip can be enhanced, either due to their spectacular facilities, their luxury, their services or the special characteristics they have.

So, if you want to live a completely unique experience in one of your getaways, some of the most surprising hotels in Spain will help you live an unforgettable one. Here are some of the most unusual hotels in Spain:

Hotel Aire de Bardenas

https://airebardenas.com/

In the surroundings of the Bardenas Reales Natural Park, a 4-star establishment awaits you that will make you feel like you are in the middle of the desert under the stars, well you actually are! I am referring to the Hotel Aire de Bardenas (Ctra. De Ejea, km 1, 31500 Tudela, Navarra), whose architecture and design have been recognised with awards more than twenty times around the world.

Some of their rooms are in square cubicles, so you can choose between one of these unique cubist buildings to spend a few days of rest and adventure. Some of its rooms have a spectacular outdoor circular bathtub, others are characterised by their private patio and the suites also include a double indoor bathtub.

If you are still looking for something more special, at the Hotel Aire de Bardenas you can stay in inflatable bubbles in the open air, where you can sleep under a starry sky, away from stress, noise and worries. These bubbles also have all the comforts, as they include a shower, a hairdryer, a bathrobe, slippers, an eye mask and a full minibar.

The hotel offers a series of activities for guests, such as a visit to the Bardenas Reales Natural Park by Segway, guided tours through the desert, explanation and tastings on the process of making extra virgin olive oil and massage services. You will find it about 7 kilometres by car from the city of Tudela, following the NA-125 road.

Cave Houses

https://www.casascuevacazorla.com/home

There are many cave hotels where you can stay in Europe, but in Spain, there are also some of these amazing places to stay without having to travel abroad.

One example is the Cueva de Cazorla Houses (Calle Cuevas Nuevas, 37, 23486 Hinojares, Jaén, Andalusia). Located in the Cazorla National Park, each of its houses and caves is completely different, since they are decorated by themes. With regard to its 4 caves, perfect for couples, all of them have a living room with a fireplace and a private Jacuzzi and share a saltwater pool outside.

Vivoo Landscape Hotel

https://www.vivood.com/en/

Among the adults-only hotels that exist throughout the country, there is one that surprises both for its architecture and location and for the beauty of the whole complex. It is the Vivoo Landscape Hotel (Carretera, Ctra. D’Alcoi, 10, 03516 Benimantell, Alicante), a 4-star accommodation, near the Guadalest reservoir and half an hour by car from Benidorm.

The hotel is located on an 84,000 square meter plot, in the middle of the valley, fully integrated with the natural landscape, so that both its common facilities and its suites and villas were designed as if they were incredible viewpoints. You can choose between the Pool Suite, with a private heated outdoor Jacuzzi, suites with a panoramic rain shower and mountain views, and several luxury villas, with two infinity pools open all year round. And if all this was not enough to relax, the hotel has a complete spa with a therapeutic circuit based on Ayurvedic culture.

Marques de Riscal Hotel

https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/biolc-hotel-marques-de-riscal-a-luxury-collection-hotel-elciego/

If you want to spend a night in a surprising building with an avant-garde design, as if it were the Guggenheim Museum itself, and even above you are passionate about wine tourism, you will be very pleasantly surprised by the Hotel Marqués de Riscal (Calle Torrea Kalea, 1, 01340 Eltziego, Álava ).

Designed by the Canadian architect Fran Gehry, this 5-star hotel with a titanium roof is located in the medieval town of Elciego (Eltziego). Its 43 rooms, spread over three floors, are unique, as they match the exterior structure of the building, with sloping walls, high ceilings and zigzag windows. In them, you will find all the comforts you can imagine, such as goose feather pillows, cloud lamps, green and black marble bathrooms, coffee and tea service, courtesy toiletries, minibar, cable TV and internet access and room service 24 hours.

In its facilities, you will also find two restaurants, a bar, a gym and a spa with an indoor pool, water jets, a Turkish bath, a Finnish sauna and a rain shower, which also offers wine therapy treatments. And while you enjoy the hotel, you can pay a visit to the historic Marqués de Riscal wineries.

O Semaforo de Fisterra

http://www.hotelsemaforodefisterra.com/en/

Sleeping at the famous End of the World is possible. You just have to stay in Galicia, in an old lighthouse that is also a 2-star hotel. This would be O Semáforo de Fisterra (Carretera del Faro, s / n, 15155 Finisterre, A Coruña), an incredible place where you can listen to the wind and the sea and that is perfect for travellers looking for rural escapes that are as surprising as they are special. The lighthouse, which rises 138 meters above sea level, was built in 1853, and decades later, in 1888, the annexe building was erected. In 1999 it was converted into a boutique hotel, with five rooms, a restaurant and a cafeteria, where you can forget the world and discover the Galician Costa da Morte.

Toy Hotel

https://www.hoteldeljuguete.com/

Among all the surprising hotels in Spain, one cannot forget the Toy Hotel (Carrer l’Escoleta, 4, 03440 Ibi, Alicante). This 4-star establishment focuses its theme on toys and cartoons, so among its 21 rooms, you can select those decorated around the Lego, the Nancy doll, the Nenuco, the Pin and Pon or the Playmobil. You will find toys in all of them.

At the Hotel del Juguete, one of the most emblematic dates is Christmas, since activities and special events are organised for this time of year, with the special importance of the Three Kings festival.