Northern Spain’s Hidden Gems: 7 Must-Visit Spots in 2026
There’s something magical about stumbling upon a place that feels untouched by time, where the air smells of salt and pine, and the only sounds are the distant clatter of a fishing boat or the laughter of locals sharing a bottle of Albariño. Northern Spain, with its jagged coastline, misty mountains, and villages that cling to cliffs like barnacles, is a treasure trove of such spots. While everyone flocks to Barcelona or Madrid, the real soul of Spain lies in its lesser-known corners—places where tradition isn’t just preserved but lived, where the food is hearty and unpretentious, and where the landscapes take your breath away.
I’ve spent years wandering these parts, often getting lost (both literally and metaphorically), and I’ve discovered that the best experiences aren’t found in guidebooks but in the stories of fishermen, the recommendations of shopkeepers, and the quietude of a sunset over an empty beach. So, if you’re planning a trip in 2026 and want to skip the crowds, here are seven hidden gems in Northern Spain that deserve a spot on your itinerary.
1. Cudillero, Asturias: The Cliffside Village That Feels Like a Postcard
Address: Cudillero, 33150, Asturias
Hours: Best visited in the morning or late afternoon; many restaurants close between 4–8 PM.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a village that looks like it was painted by an artist with a fondness for pastels, Cudillero is it. This fishing village cascades down a steep hillside, its houses stacked like colorful dominoes leading to a tiny harbor. The first time I visited, I arrived at dawn, the mist still clinging to the hills, and watched as the fishermen unloaded their catch—glistening sardines, octopus, and the prized bonito del norte. The scent of salt and diesel hung in the air, and I knew I’d found somewhere special.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem
Cudillero is often overshadowed by nearby Oviedo or the Picos de Europa, but that’s exactly why it’s so charming. There are no tourist traps here, just authentic Asturian life. The village’s amphitheater-like layout means every angle is postcard-perfect, and the lack of mass tourism keeps it feeling intimate.
What to Do
- Walk the Harbor: Stroll along the docks and watch the fishermen at work. If you’re lucky, you might even get invited onto a boat for a quick tour.
- Hike to Cape Vidio: A short but steep walk leads to a lighthouse with panoramic views of the Cantabrian Sea. The wind here is fierce, but the solitude is worth it.
- Eat at El Pescador: This no-frills restaurant serves the freshest seafood I’ve ever tasted. Try the merluza a la sidra (hake in cider sauce)—it’s a revelation.
Sensory Details
The sound of seagulls squabbling over scraps, the briny tang of the ocean, the warm glow of streetlights reflecting off the wet cobblestones at dusk—Cudillero is a feast for the senses.
2. Hondarribia, Basque Country: Where France Meets Spain in a Burst of Color
Address: Hondarribia, 20280, Gipuzkoa
Hours: The old town is best explored in the late afternoon; many shops close for siesta.
Hondarribia is one of those places that makes you question why it isn’t more famous. Nestled at the mouth of the Bidasoa River, it’s a border town with a split personality—half Basque, half French, and entirely enchanting. The old town, La Marina, is a riot of colorful houses, their balconies overflowing with geraniums. I once spent an entire afternoon here, sipping Txakoli (a local white wine) and watching the world go by.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem
While San Sebastián gets all the attention, Hondarribia offers the same stunning beaches and incredible food without the crowds. It’s a place where locals still outnumber tourists, and the vibe is relaxed yet vibrant.
What to Do
- Explore La Marina: Wander the cobbled streets and admire the pastel-colored houses. Don’t miss the Plaza de Guadalupe, the heart of the old town.
- Visit the Castle of Charles V: This 16th-century fortress offers sweeping views of the river and the Pyrenees.
- Eat at Alameda: A Michelin-starred restaurant that’s surprisingly unpretentious. The tasting menu is a journey through Basque flavors.
Sensory Details
The scent of freshly baked pintxos (Basque tapas) wafting from the bars, the sound of children playing in the plaza, the sight of the sunset turning the river gold—Hondarribia is a place that lingers in your memory.
3. Las Médulas, León: A Roman Gold Mine That Looks Like Mars
Address: Las Médulas, 24442, León
Hours: Open daily, but best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to walk on another planet, Las Médulas is as close as you’ll get on Earth. This former Roman gold mine looks like a surrealist painting—red cliffs, jagged peaks, and valleys that glow in the sunset. The Romans used a technique called ruina montium (wrecking of the mountains) to extract gold, and the result is a landscape that’s both eerie and breathtaking.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem
Most travelers to León stick to the city’s stunning cathedral, but Las Médulas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s often overlooked. It’s a place where history and nature collide in the most dramatic way.
What to Do
- Hike the Perimeter: The Senda de las Valeras trail offers the best views of the mine. The terrain is rugged, so wear sturdy shoes.
- Visit the Visitor Center: A small but excellent museum explains the history of the mine and its environmental impact.
- Take a Boat Tour: In the summer, you can take a boat ride on the nearby lake, which offers a unique perspective of the cliffs.
Sensory Details
The crunch of red earth underfoot, the silence broken only by the wind, the way the light turns the cliffs to fire at dusk—Las Médulas is a place that feels otherworldly.
4. Comillas, Cantabria: A Gothic Fairytale by the Sea
Address: Comillas, 39520, Cantabria
Hours: Best visited in the morning; the beaches are quieter then.
Comillas is the kind of town that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. It’s home to El Capricho, a whimsical Gaudí-designed villa, and a stunning Gothic palace that looks like it belongs in a Disney movie. The first time I visited, I half-expected to see a knight on horseback riding down the street.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem
While nearby Santander is packed with tourists, Comillas remains a quiet retreat. It’s a place where you can wander from a Gothic palace to a golden beach in minutes, and the food is some of the best in Cantabria.
What to Do
- Visit El Capricho: Gaudí’s only work outside Catalonia, this villa is a masterpiece of color and curve.
- Explore the Palace of Sobrellano: A neo-Gothic gem with a fairytale vibe.
- Relax on Comillas Beach: A wide, sandy stretch perfect for a quiet afternoon.
Sensory Details
The scent of eucalyptus in the air, the sound of waves crashing on the shore, the sight of the palace’s spires against the sky—Comillas is pure magic.
5. Ribadavia, Galicia: A Medieval Wine Town Frozen in Time
Address: Ribadavia, 32400, Ourense
Hours: Best visited in the late afternoon; the wine bars come alive then.
Ribadavia is a town that time forgot, and I mean that in the best possible way. Located in the heart of Galicia’s wine country, it’s a labyrinth of medieval streets, stone houses, and hidden plazas. The first time I visited, I felt like I’d wandered onto a movie set—except the wine was real, and so were the locals’ stories.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem
Galicia is known for its coastal beauty, but Ribadavia offers something different: a glimpse into the region’s rich history and wine culture. It’s a place where you can sip Ribadavia’s famous Ribeiro wine in a 15th-century cellar.
What to Do
- Explore the Jewish Quarter: One of the best-preserved in Spain, with narrow streets and hidden courtyards.
- Visit the Castle of Ribadavia: A 15th-century fortress with panoramic views of the vineyards.
- Wine Tasting at Adega A Coroa: A family-run winery that’s been producing Ribeiro wine for generations.
Sensory Details
The smell of aged wine barrels, the sound of a lone guitarist in the plaza, the taste of pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus)—Ribadavia is a feast for the senses.
6. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Basque Country: The Dragonstone of Spain
Address: San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, 48130, Bermeo
Hours: Open daily, but arrive early to avoid crowds (yes, even here).
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you might recognize San Juan de Gaztelugatxe as Dragonstone. But long before it was a filming location, this tiny island connected to the mainland by a winding stone bridge was a place of pilgrimage and legend. The first time I visited, I climbed the 241 steps to the top, my legs burning, and was rewarded with a view that made me forget all about the effort.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem
While it’s gained some fame thanks to Game of Thrones, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is still relatively quiet compared to other Spanish landmarks. The hike is steep, but the solitude and the views are worth it.
What to Do
- Climb to the Hermitage: The small chapel at the top is said to grant wishes—ring the bell three times and make yours.
- Explore the Coastline: The surrounding cliffs are perfect for a rugged hike.
- Eat at Eneperi: A nearby restaurant with stunning views and delicious seafood.
Sensory Details
The sound of the wind whipping around the cliffs, the salty spray on your face, the sight of the island rising from the sea—it’s no wonder this place feels magical.
7. Potes, Cantabria: The Gateway to the Picos de Europa
Address: Potes, 39570, Cantabria
Hours: Best visited in the morning; the market is lively then.
Potes is the kind of town that grows on you. At first glance, it’s just another mountain village, but spend a day here, and you’ll fall in love with its charm. Nestled in the foothills of the Picos de Europa, it’s a place where the air is crisp, the food is hearty, and the people are as warm as the orujo (a local liquor) they serve.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem
Most travelers use Potes as a base for hiking the Picos de Europa, but the town itself is worth exploring. Its medieval tower houses, cobbled streets, and lively market make it a hidden gem.
What to Do
- Visit the Tower of the Infantado: A 14th-century fortress that’s now a museum.
- Explore the Market: Held every Monday, it’s a great place to try local cheeses and meats.
- Hike to the Picos de Europa: The trails start just outside town and offer some of the best views in Spain.
Sensory Details
The smell of woodsmoke from the chimneys, the sound of the river rushing through town, the taste of cocido lebaniego (a hearty stew)—Potes is a place that feels like home.
Final Thoughts: Why These Gems Matter
Northern Spain is a land of contrasts—rugged coastlines and lush valleys, medieval villages and modern cities, bustling markets and quiet beaches. But what ties these places together is their authenticity. They’re not just destinations; they’re living, breathing communities where tradition is still alive.
In 2026, as the world becomes increasingly crowded, these hidden gems offer something rare: a chance to slow down, to connect with a place and its people, and to experience Spain in a way that feels personal and profound. So pack your bags, leave the guidebook behind, and let Northern Spain surprise you.