While we might think of Spain as a summer destination, the nation has qualities that might be appreciated throughout the year. During spring, you might tour small festivals and do a little sightseeing. During the summer, you might lounge on a beach. Autumn is when you can relax in the open air and enjoy the food, while winter is best for inexpensive island breaks with minimal crowds.
Let’s take a look at each of these seasons in turn, and consider how we might be the best from them.
Spring: The Floral Courtyards of Andalusia
The south of Spain is famously scorching hot during the summer, which means that spring often offers a great compromise between heat and affordability. You’ll also be able to witness amazing events like the orange blossoms in Seville, or the Patois Festival in Córdoba, or the Semana Santa (that’s Holy Week).
Many visitors to the country don’t take the time to fully explore the local traditions on offer, but if you make a point of visiting during spring, you’ll make those traditions the centre of your holiday.
Summer: The Rugged Beauty of the Costa Brava
When summer hits, you might elect to avoid the traditional hotspots, and savour the breeze coming in from the Mediterranean at the Costa Brava. You’ll find a wealth of hidden coves and beaches which are perfect for swimming during late summer. Rent a villa in Spain, and you’ll also be able to retire to a private pool – without worrying about whether the one at the local hotel is going to be overcrowded.
Autumn: Wine Harvests in La Rioja
Rioja is a name that’s synonymous throughout the world with amazing red wine. Harvest takes place in September and October, which makes it an ideal time for a tapas-driven tour of the region. Logroño has an amazing gastronomic culture, and you’ll be able to visit some of the best vineyards at a pivotal time of year.
Winter: Subtropical Sunshine in the Canary Islands
If you’d like to soak up some sun during winter, then you’ll need to venture south. The Canary Islands tend to be reliably balmy throughout the year, with temperatures resting at around 20°C, even during winter. The best islands for visitors tend to be the famous names. You might head out to Tenerife, Lanzarote, or Gran Canaria, and explore the amazing volcano-strewn landscape. You might gaze up at the stars in the Teide National Park, or hike around the coastline.
Of course, there are also cruise ships that will take you on a tour of each and every island. In many cases, they depart directly from the south coast of the United Kingdom.
