Coastal travel remains irresistibly appealing. Hidden coves, sweeping beaches, boat excursions, and terraces that overlook the sea create a picturesque backdrop for a vacation that promises unforgettable moments during the summer holidays and Easter week alike.
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Europe’s most beautiful seaside towns
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The 5 most amazing medieval towns in the Community of Valencia
Five medieval towns in the Community of Valencia will disappear this Holy Week
In addition to the best known destinations, the Spanish coast hides about 8,000 kilometers of genuine gems worth exploring at any season. With a strong maritime influence, many towns preserve the region’s historic layout, architecture, and traditional flavors, including the old fishing villages that dot the shoreline.
Spain’s most beautiful medieval towns you can’t miss
Next, five lesser-known seaside towns offer surprises for any traveler, combining charm with authentic local character:
1. Lastres (Asturias)
When thinking of Asturian coastal towns, names like Lastres, Llanes, Cudillero, Luarca, and Ribadesella often come to mind, but the coastline of Asturias holds many more treasures. In the municipality of Villaviciosa lies Tazones, a tiny town of just over 250 residents boasting one of Asturias’s 18 fishing ports. Its history as a crucial whale port adds to its seafood reputation, and its coast bears Jurassic footprints that attract curious visitors.
2. Mundaka (Vizcaya)
This compact town is a true gem on the Biscayan coast. It sits opposite the expansive Laida beach and offers unrivaled vistas of Ízaro Island and the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. Mundaka is renowned for its famed left-hand wave, the Mundaka, which can stretch up to 400 meters in length, drawing surfers from around the world.
3. Tabarca (Alicante)
Tabarca, a marine reserve island located about 22 kilometers from Alicante, is celebrated for its biodiversity and protected waters. Comprising several islets, it makes for a perfect day trip to savor the catch-and-cauldrons typical of the region and to experience the Mediterranean archipelago’s unique coastal life.
4. Puerto de Las Nieves (Gran Canaria)
In Agaete, Gran Canaria, the Puerto de Las Nieves is framed by the Roque Partido, a rock formation that resembles a finger or a hand through erosion. The sheltered beach and its charming promenade invite visitors to enjoy fresh regional cuisine along a lively waterfront scene with cafes and restaurants.
Another memorable feature that accompanies a visit here is the calm, inviting water that makes it ideal for families seeking a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
The most beautiful cities to explore in a weekend in Spain
Exploring beyond the usual urban centers reveals more coastal and historical treasures. The region’s cities offer a blend of medieval architecture, seaside vistas, and accessible routes for short breaks that fit neatly into a busy travel schedule.
5. Catoira (Pontevedra)
Catoira is famous for the amazing Torres del Oeste, a set of battlements perched above the ría that evoke centuries of maritime history. Sundays in August bring a Viking-era pilgrimage that has attracted international interest and revived ancient legends, making this small town a compelling stop for cultural travelers.
Slow Travel: Discover the joy of traveling without haste
Embracing a slower pace allows visitors to savor the coastline’s textures—salt air, weathered stone, and the subtle rhythms of village life. It’s about lingering over a seafood plate, wandering old lanes, and letting each town reveal its own character without rushing to the next destination.
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Located in the Caldas region, Catoira is renowned for the impressive Torres del Oeste. The Viking Pilgrimage, held on a Sunday in August, is recognized as an international tourist attraction, and the area has been highlighted for its cultural heritage and historic significance.