Spain has always been a destination that ranks high on the list of travelers looking for enjoyable experiences. Its rich history, paired with a sensational food scene, beautiful architecture, and welcoming locals makes it an irresistible European destination. For those who think they already know Spain, think again. We’ve unearthed one-of-a-kind experiences perfect for intrepid travelers who want to fall in love with the country all over again.
1.Horsing around
Horses are more than just magnificent creatures that will bring your from point A to point B. In Spain, particularly in the heart of Castile-Léon, horses play an important role in showcasing the Ribera del Duero vineyards. A number of horse-riding centers are located here, which organize horseback and buggy excursions through the countryside, as well as vineyards that produce some of Spain’s best wines.
Another way to appreciate horses is by watching them perform at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art in Jerez de la Frontera. Witness the elegant animals execute complicated dance steps to the rhythm of music – a unique tradition with more than 3,000 years of history.
2.Taking in sights from new heights
There’s nothing more dramatic than soaring to new heights to fully take in the magnificent views of Mallorca. Opt to board a Montgolfière (which is a replica of the first balloon to fly in France in 1783) where you can enjoy cava and canapés while enjoying a bird’s-eye view of the ocean and craggy landscape. If flying a helicopter is more your style, you can do that too and enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful north coast.
3.Photography through the eyes of an expert
To preserve your memories of Spain in the best way possible, book a personal tour that enlists the services of a professional photographer. Not only will they be able to guide you, they will also capture the true beauty of Madrid and Barcelona, as well as the winter lights in the Bardenas Reales in Navarre or the lava fields in the Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote.
4.Wine tasting with a side of architecture
Make your way to the Marqués de Riscal wine cellars in La Rioja because aside from a private tasting session of the exquisite Gran Reserva wines, you can also ogle at the mind-bending architecture of the modern winery, which was designed by star architect Frank O. Gehry.
5.Visit a sculpture museum underwater
There is a first time for everything and a visit to the Lanzarote Undersea Museum on the coast opposite Playa Blanca is guaranteed to be the first time you’ll gaze at sculptures underwater. The unique destination features hundreds of works by British sculptor Jason DeCaires and the best way to enjoy them is by diving down and swimming amongst the masterpieces made from materials that respect the marine environment.
6.Privacy, please
Exploring some of Spain’s most iconic monuments and buildings is great, but experiencing them through a private tour, with a host of personalized services, is even better. Notable locations to consider include The Alhambra in Granada, Picasso Museum in Malaga, the Prado Museum in Madrid, Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, the Gran Teatro del Liceo, and The Alcázar in Segovia.
7.Golf getaway
Spain’s mild climate allows you to enjoy a game of golf throughout the year. Luckily, the country is also home to some of the best golf courses around, which include the Real Club de Valderrama in Cadiz, which has the distinction of being the best golf course in Spain according to national and international rankings. Other options include the PGA Catalunya Resort in Girona, while staying at the Montecastillo Golf & Sports Resort at Jerez de la Frontera brings together the best of both worlds – a five-star hotel and fantastic sports facilities.
8.Wellness comes first
Make sure to allot time for luxurious wellness treatments on your Spanish holiday. For aesthetic treatments, centers like Massi Massumeh (Madrid and Barcelona), Carmen Navarro (Madrid and Seville), Estrella Pujol (Barcelona), and Tacha (Madrid) are some of the best options around. For relaxing spas that can help recover your balance and vital energy, make a beeline for the Gran Hotel Bahía del Duque in Tenerife, The Organic Spa in Madrid, the Royal Hideaway Sancti Petri in Cadiz, and the Sha Wellness Clinic in Alicante.
9.Train travel deluxe
Relive the romance of train travel as you climb on board these luxury trains that will take you through the beautiful countryside, all while boasting the amenities and convenience of a five-star hotel. Book the deluxe suite on the Transcantabrian Grande Luxe and enjoy the pastoral views from San Sebastián to Santiago de Compostela. There is also the Al-Andalus, which boasts old world glamor with its original elements from the 1930s, as well as advanced technology to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
For more information on these experiences, visit www.spain.info