18.04.2025 
Life Beyond Tourist Zones: Unique Places for an Unforgettable Vacation in Spain
A vacation in Spain is often associated with bright sun, crowded beaches, and bustling tourist centers. However, many travelers feel disappointed when they find themselves surrounded by crowds of tourists and face inflated accommodation prices. Is there an alternative to a standard vacation in overcrowded places? Absolutely! In this article, you will discover hidden and unconventional accommodation options that will allow you to relax comfortably, enjoyably, and without unnecessary expenses.
Where to Stay to Avoid Tourist Crowds?
Spain offers a variety of accommodation options that will let you enjoy a unique experience and avoid crowded tourist areas. In addition to traditional hotels, there are many unusual places: yachts, ancient mills, treehouses, yurts, and even caves.
Examples of Unique Accommodation Options:
- Yate Gijón Yacht (Gijón) – a yacht converted into a living space with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen. Ideal for family or friend getaways. Located in the Gijón marina.
- Molino Tejada – a hotel inside an ancient mill in Cantabria. Known for its cozy atmosphere and mountain views, it also features a pool and barbecue area. Perfect for families and nature lovers.
- Hotel Aire Bardenas – an unusual hotel with transparent bubble and cube-shaped rooms, located near the Bardenas Reales Natural Park in Navarra. This place is particularly attractive to astronomy enthusiasts and romantics.
- Hotel del Juguete – a hotel for families with children, where rooms are decorated with themes from popular toys (Lego, Playmobil). Located in the city of Ibi, near Alicante.
- Delta del Ebro Yurt – an eco-friendly hotel where guests stay in a genuine Mongolian yurt with minimal impact on nature. Ideal for eco-tourists.
How to Choose the Right Accommodation and What to Look For?
When choosing accommodation, make sure to check:
- Location: If you want to actively explore the city and its nightlife, choose accommodation closer to the center. If you prefer peace and quiet, consider areas outside the historic center, where prices are usually lower, and transportation to the center is convenient.
- Traveler Reviews: Always read recent reviews on booking platforms. Pay attention to the type of travelers who left the reviews (couples, solo travelers, etc.). Responses from owners can be an additional plus.
- Included Services: Often, breakfast or half-board (breakfast and dinner) is included in the price. Check for air conditioning, internet, parking, and airport transfer availability.
Alternatives to Traditional Hotels: What’s Worth Trying?
If you want a truly unique experience, consider staying in the following accommodation formats:
- Yurts and Eco-Cabins (e.g., Eco Village Finca De Arrieta or Yurta Mongola Delta del Ebro): eco-friendly places offering comfortable stays with minimal impact on nature. Ideal for sustainable tourism enthusiasts.
- Cave Hotels (Bardenas Caves in Navarra): an excellent choice for those who want to stay in an unusual place. They offer all amenities and are suitable for large groups and families.
- Panoramic "Bubble Hotels" (e.g., Miluna Open Nature Rooms or Mil Estrelles): perfect for romantic getaways and stargazing.
- Treehouses and Historic Locations (MiCielo – Baumhäuser, Parador de Olite): combine a unique lodging experience with a high level of comfort. Parador de Olite is located in a 15th-century castle, ideal for history lovers.
Why Choose a Vacation Outside Tourist Zones?
Staying outside popular tourist areas offers several advantages:
- Fewer Tourists: You’ll avoid crowds and noise, enjoying a peaceful vacation.
- Lower Prices: Away from tourist centers, accommodation prices are more affordable.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Fewer tourists mean more local life. You’ll discover the real Spain.
Remember that for long stays, you may need a residence permit or even a Golden Visa.
Examples of Interesting Regions for a Quiet Winter Vacation:
- Rías Baixas: Stunning in winter with deserted beaches, excellent gastronomy, and wine routes.
- Alpujarra de Granada: Winter mountain landscapes, historic villages, and exquisite local cuisine.
- Cáceres and the Jerte Valley: Historic streets of Cáceres and captivating winter landscapes of the Jerte Valley.
- Albarracín: A fairytale town known for its medieval architecture and perfect for photography.
- Formentera: An island that becomes a tranquil paradise for walks and solitude in winter.
Unusual hotels are often small, so it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season or holidays.
