7 Hidden Gems in Spain: Your Perfect 1-Week Itinerary
Spain is a country that needs no introduction. With its vibrant cities, sun-drenched beaches, and world-renowned cuisine, it's a top destination for travelers worldwide. But beyond the well-trodden paths of Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville lies a Spain that's equally enchanting, yet far less crowded. This is the Spain of hidden gems, where the rhythm of life is slower, the flavors are richer, and the stories are more personal.
I've spent over a decade exploring Spain's lesser-known corners, and I'm excited to share with you a one-week itinerary that will take you off the beaten path and into the heart of this beautiful country. So, pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and let's dive into Spain's best-kept secrets.
Day 1: Ronda, Andalusia
Address: Ronda, Málaga, Andalusia
Hours: Open 24 hours (specific attractions have varying hours)
Our journey begins in Ronda, a town that seems to defy gravity as it clings to the edge of a sheer cliff. The drive from Málaga is a scenic one, winding through the rolling hills of Andalusia. As you approach Ronda, the first sight of the Puente Nuevo bridge spanning the El Tajo gorge will take your breath away.
Exploring Ronda
Start your day at the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, one of the oldest bullrings in Spain. Even if you're not a fan of bullfighting, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into this controversial tradition. From there, make your way to the Alcázar del Rey Moro, a former palace that now offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
For lunch, head to Tragata, a cozy restaurant tucked away in the heart of the old town. Their menu is a love letter to Andalusian cuisine, with dishes like berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant with honey) and rabo de toro (oxtail stew) that will leave you craving more.
The Magic of Ronda
As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely stroll along the Paseo de Blas Infante, a pathway that offers panoramic views of the gorge and the Puente Nuevo. The golden light of the setting sun casts a magical glow over the town, making it the perfect time for photography.
End your day with a glass of local wine at Bodega San Francisco, a charming wine bar that offers a selection of wines from the nearby Serranía de Ronda region. The owner, a passionate oenophile, will be more than happy to guide you through the different varieties.
Day 2: Grazalema, Andalusia
Address: Grazalema, Cádiz, Andalusia
Hours: Open 24 hours (specific attractions have varying hours)
From Ronda, it's a short drive to Grazalema, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. Known for its whitewashed houses and narrow, winding streets, Grazalema is a haven of tranquility.
Discovering Grazalema
Start your day with a visit to the Iglesia de la Aurora, a beautiful church that dates back to the 18th century. From there, make your way to the Plaza de España, the main square of the village, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the outdoor cafes.
For lunch, head to El Torico, a family-run restaurant that serves up traditional Andalusian dishes with a modern twist. Their carrillada ibérica (Iberian pork cheek) is a must-try.
The Natural Beauty of Grazalema
In the afternoon, lace up your hiking boots and head out to explore the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. The Pinsapar Trail is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the chance to see the rare Spanish fir tree.
As the day draws to a close, return to the village and enjoy a relaxing evening at Hotel El Mirador, a charming hotel with a rooftop terrace that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Day 3: Vejer de la Frontera, Andalusia
Address: Vejer de la Frontera, Cádiz, Andalusia
Hours: Open 24 hours (specific attractions have varying hours)
From Grazalema, it's a scenic drive to Vejer de la Frontera, a hilltop town that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its whitewashed houses and narrow, winding streets, Vejer is a charming blend of Andalusian and Moorish influences.
Exploring Vejer
Start your day with a visit to the Castillo de Vejer, a former castle that now houses a small museum. From there, make your way to the Plaza de España, the main square of the town, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the outdoor cafes.
For lunch, head to El Jardín del Califa, a restaurant that serves up a fusion of Andalusian and Moroccan cuisine. Their couscous con verduras (couscous with vegetables) is a must-try.
The Magic of Vejer
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the town's narrow streets, admiring the whitewashed houses and the colorful flowers that adorn the balconies. As the sun begins to set, head to the Mirador de la Corbata, a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Atlantic Ocean.
End your day with a glass of local wine at Bodega La Tapería, a charming wine bar that offers a selection of wines from the nearby Jerez region. The owner, a passionate oenophile, will be more than happy to guide you through the different varieties.
Day 4: Albarracín, Aragon
Address: Albarracín, Teruel, Aragon
Hours: Open 24 hours (specific attractions have varying hours)
From Vejer, it's a long drive to Albarracín, but the journey is well worth it. Known as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Albarracín is a medieval town that seems to have been frozen in time.
Discovering Albarracín
Start your day with a visit to the Castillo de Albarracín, a former castle that now offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. From there, make your way to the Plaza Mayor, the main square of the town, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the outdoor cafes.
For lunch, head to Restaurante El Portalón, a restaurant that serves up traditional Aragonese cuisine. Their ternasco asado (roast lamb) is a must-try.
The Magic of Albarracín
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the town's narrow streets, admiring the medieval architecture and the colorful flowers that adorn the balconies. As the sun begins to set, head to the Mirador de Albarracín, a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
End your day with a glass of local wine at Bodega El Rincón del Vino, a charming wine bar that offers a selection of wines from the nearby Calatayud region. The owner, a passionate oenophile, will be more than happy to guide you through the different varieties.
Day 5: Besalú, Catalonia
Address: Besalú, Girona, Catalonia
Hours: Open 24 hours (specific attractions have varying hours)
From Albarracín, it's a long drive to Besalú, but the journey is well worth it. Known for its medieval bridge and well-preserved Jewish quarter, Besalú is a charming blend of Catalan and Jewish influences.
Exploring Besalú
Start your day with a visit to the Pont de Besalú, a medieval bridge that spans the Fluvià River. From there, make your way to the Plaza Mayor, the main square of the town, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the outdoor cafes.
For lunch, head to Restaurante Pont Vell, a restaurant that serves up traditional Catalan cuisine. Their fideuà (a paella-like dish made with noodles) is a must-try.
The Magic of Besalú
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the town's narrow streets, admiring the medieval architecture and the colorful flowers that adorn the balconies. As the sun begins to set, head to the Mirador de Besalú, a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
End your day with a glass of local wine at Bodega El Rincón del Vino, a charming wine bar that offers a selection of wines from the nearby Empordà region. The owner, a passionate oenophile, will be more than happy to guide you through the different varieties.
Day 6: Aínsa, Aragon
Address: Aínsa, Huesca, Aragon
Hours: Open 24 hours (specific attractions have varying hours)
From Besalú, it's a scenic drive to Aínsa, a medieval town that offers stunning views of the Pyrenees. Known for its well-preserved old town and the nearby Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Aínsa is a haven for nature lovers.
Discovering Aínsa
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza Mayor, the main square of the town, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the outdoor cafes. From there, make your way to the Iglesia de Santa María, a beautiful church that dates back to the 12th century.
For lunch, head to Restaurante El Rincón de Aínsa, a restaurant that serves up traditional Aragonese cuisine. Their chireta (a type of sausage made with rice and lamb) is a must-try.
The Natural Beauty of Aínsa
In the afternoon, lace up your hiking boots and head out to explore the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park. The Cola de Caballo Trail is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the chance to see the rare Pyrenean chamois.
As the day draws to a close, return to the town and enjoy a relaxing evening at Hotel El Mirador, a charming hotel with a rooftop terrace that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Day 7: Cuéllar, Castile and León
Address: Cuéllar, Segovia, Castile and León
Hours: Open 24 hours (specific attractions have varying hours)
From Aínsa, it's a long drive to Cuéllar, but the journey is well worth it. Known for its medieval castle and well-preserved old town, Cuéllar is a charming blend of Castilian and Moorish influences.
Exploring Cuéllar
Start your day with a visit to the Castillo de Cuéllar, a former castle that now houses a small museum. From there, make your way to the Plaza Mayor, the main square of the town, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the outdoor cafes.
For lunch, head to Restaurante El Rincón de Cuéllar, a restaurant that serves up traditional Castilian cuisine. Their cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) is a must-try.
The Magic of Cuéllar
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the town's narrow streets, admiring the medieval architecture and the colorful flowers that adorn the balconies. As the sun begins to set, head to the Mirador de Cuéllar, a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
End your day with a glass of local wine at Bodega El Rincón del Vino, a charming wine bar that offers a selection of wines from the nearby Ribera del Duero region. The owner, a passionate oenophile, will be more than happy to guide you through the different varieties.
Conclusion
And so, our journey through Spain's hidden gems comes to an end. From the cliffside town of Ronda to the medieval village of Cuéllar, we've explored some of the most enchanting and lesser-known corners of this beautiful country. Along the way, we've tasted the rich flavors of Andalusian, Aragonese, Catalan, and Castilian cuisine, and we've marveled at the stunning landscapes that make Spain such a unique and diverse destination.
But more than that, we've experienced the warmth and hospitality of the Spanish people, who have welcomed us into their homes, their restaurants, and their hearts. It's this human connection that makes travel so rewarding, and it's what will keep drawing us back to Spain, time and time again.
So, as you plan your own journey through Spain's hidden gems, remember to take the time to connect with the people you meet along the way. Ask for their recommendations, listen to their stories, and share a meal with them. It's these moments that will make your trip truly unforgettable.