Britain's enduring affection for Spain, which has fluctuated in recent years as more distant destinations became increasingly affordable, appears poised for a resurgence this summer. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to cast uncertainty over the travel industry, with approximately 13,000 flights set to be cancelled globally this month due to soaring jet fuel prices. This has left holidaymakers seeking short-haul safe havens as the May half-term approaches.
Staycations vs. Spanish Sunshine
While staycations are anticipated to enjoy their most significant year since the pandemic, families craving guaranteed sunshine are likely to turn to an old favourite. Spain's classic flop-and-drop destinations remain the obvious choice. British visitors currently account for roughly 20 per cent of Spain's overseas tourism, but approximately 80 per cent of that figure is concentrated in just five regions: the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, Andalusia, Catalonia, and Valencia.
According to data released this week by Lastminute.com, bookings to Ibiza have doubled for May, while Tenerife has seen a 48 per cent year-on-year increase, the Costa Blanca 36 per cent, and Majorca 28 per cent. Ibiza, in particular, is considered a safe bet amid the Middle East conflict.
Over-Tourism and the Shift to Lesser-Known Areas
In a country where a passionate battle against over-tourism is still unfolding, with locals in popular Costas, islands, and cities taking to the streets in protest last year, exploring Spain's less-travelled corners might offer a more enjoyable experience. Not only are tourists likely to receive a warmer welcome in less popular destinations, but they will also find accommodation and food more competitively priced.
Manuel Butler, Director of the Spanish Tourist Office, told the Daily Mail: "Spain's popular city and beach destinations, both on the mainland and within our islands, remain trusted favourites among British travellers. However, the growth in lesser-known areas, particularly in Northern Spain, shows a real appetite among Brits to explore the country outside the classic tourism hotspots."
Spain's greener northern regions are experiencing the largest spikes in interest, including Galicia (+47.4%) and Asturias (+18.7%), as travellers seek authentic experiences in smaller towns and cities, as well as cooler, more temperate climates.
Off-Piste Spanish Destinations for Summer 2024
Cantabria
Northern Spain is currently seeing significant investment in its tourism infrastructure. The region of Cantabria's visitor numbers remain low compared to Spain's bigger-hitting resorts, but there is much to delight on the "green" coast, particularly for those who prefer cooler temperatures. The breathtaking region of Mariña Lucense in Galicia is home to Spain's least visited beaches. Just 1,800 British tourists visited the destination in 2023, a mere 0.01 per cent of overall tourism figures. One of the region's most spectacular stretches of coast is As Catedrais, or "the cathedrals," a 1.5km-long beach named for its Gothic-looking rock towers and arches. Beyond the beaches, visitors can explore sleepy villages, old whaling ports, and a landscape that quickly transitions from sandy beaches to green countryside.
El Hierro
For the Canaries without the crowds, consider El Hierro, the westernmost and quietest island in the archipelago. It boasts beautiful beaches, spectacular volcanic scenery, and historic towns. Ferries run regularly from Tenerife and Gran Canaria to this tiny isle, which runs almost entirely on renewable energy. El Hierro, including its surrounding waters, is a UNESCO Global Geopark due to its formation 1.2 million years ago and subsequent evolution. Don't miss the bending trees of El Sabinar, juniper trees sculpted by constant trade winds.
La Rioja
According to Spain's National Institute of Statistics (INE), La Rioja was the country's least visited region in 2024, welcoming around 123,000 visitors. Despite being one of Spain's most famous wine producers, the region blends the Mediterranean scenery of the south with the greener appeal of the north. Explore towns that feel authentically Spanish with barely a tourist voice heard, pilgrim churches, and plenty of vineyards, particularly around the town of Haro.
The Alpujarras
A mountainous area southeast of Granada in Andalusia, the Alpujarras offer a peaceful, outdoorsy Spanish holiday and is home to Spain's highest peak, Mulhacén. Fly into Malaga, then make the three-hour journey to this cool, tranquil region. Discover Moorish villages with white-washed homes and the meandering River Trevélez, with hikes galore for keen walkers.
Cartagena
In southeastern Spain, this historic port city, founded by the Carthaginians around 220 BC, enjoys an average of 283 hours of sun per month. Its average year-round temperature is a balmy 19.1 degrees Celsius, with the mercury rising well above 30 degrees at the height of summer. The destination is on the low-cost flight map, with airlines including Ryanair, easyJet, and Jet2 flying into nearby airports, such as Murcia International (RMU), around 25 minutes away.
Murcia
City breakers might swap Barcelona or Madrid for Murcia, the least visited of Spain's top ten biggest urban destinations. Alongside coastal activities, great tapas, and plenty of shopping, this provincial capital has historical treasures to explore, including Roman and Moorish sites. Enjoy authentic Spanish food, tick off main sightseeing spots like Catedral de Murcia and Plaza Cardenal Belluga, and reach beaches within a 40-minute drive on the Costa Cálida.
