Spain is a wildly popular vacation destination, with everything from salsa dancing to the Royal Palace of Madrid for “las turistas” to enjoy. Have you tried salsa in a dancing class at home? Have you seen palaces too many times to count? No problem, we’ve got something new for you. One of the reasons Spain is so incredible is the diversity and uniqueness this beautiful country offers vacationers. Let’s take a look at some of the most unique and intriguing “must-dos” in Spain that you won’t find in the everyday vacation itinerary.
Tiptoe ‘El Camino Del Rey’
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, take a ‘caminito’ on the wild side with El Camino del Rey in Malaga, Spain.
This is not your standard nature walk. The King’s Little Pathway, as it’s translated, is a skinny walkway on the edge of El Chorro (a gorge near Alora). This path was once used to cross between the waterfalls and was first used in 1921 by King Alfonso XIII, hence the name. Now, using professional equipment, you can safely tiptoe the thrilling walkway, and even try a little rock climbing on for size.
Carnival Festivities
Tired of the same old city tours or historic walks, but still want to experience the culture and tradition of the region? In February, head over to the Canary Islands, and you will be graced by the presence of the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This melting pot of peoples and cultures is one of the most popular carnivals in the world, and it’s a great way to enhance your trip. Expect fancy dresses, wild dancing, local cuisine and music that will truly delight and inspire you. Immerse yourself in tradition and culture, and put on your dancing shoes – this is a party for the ages.
Tomato Your Family, Friends, and Anyone Else Nearby
If you enjoy a nice tomato, and I mean REALLY enjoy a nice tomato, then you may think you are dreaming reading about this annual August throw down. Since 1945, Tomatina has been a stress-relieving, tomato-tossing, wild, and very red Valencian occasion. There’s simply no better way to spend a few hours of your vacation than throwing squishy tomatoes at your loved ones and random Spanish citizens. Enough said.
Dining in the Dark
Mentioning a single Spanish restaurant may seem like a slap in the face to the cultural and culinary attractions Spain has to offer, but when you’re discussing extremely unique restaurants found in the culinary centers of the world, you will be in fine company. Dans Le Noir? is a restaurant in Barcelona where you may have trouble choosing something from the menu, because it is a surprise. Once you choose a menu style, and place all of your belongings into a downstairs locker, you are led into a room that has everything you need for a dining experience, except the light. This location is special because it is the smallest, and therefore most exclusive location. Buen provecho!
Bargain with the Best of ’em
Let’s be honest, everyone loves a bargain, especially for mementos on vacation. That’s why El Rastro de Madrid simply had to be mentioned. This open-air extravaganza in Madrid is held every Sunday, so no matter when you travel to Spain, you can get your shopping fix. Looking for that Halloween costume a bit early? Hit the Plaza de Cascorro: funky clothing and accessory extraordinaire.
There you have it, a more exclusive, intriguing, and unique list for your next Spanish vacation. Want to add an event you think should have made the list? Tell us about it in the comments. Adios!
Karolina Shenton works with The Cruise Web, a travel agency that focuses on cruise vacations. Whether you want to travel throughout Spain or you are specifically looking for cruises from Charleston, the consultants at The Cruise Web can help you find and book the perfect trip.