No matter what time of year it is: Spain’s coastal villages always exude charm. It wasn’t easy to choose just two hands full of the hundreds of villages on the peninsula’s extensive coastline, but we took a stab at it. Here are ten of the most gorgeous seaside towns in Spain.
1. Cadaqués, Catalonia
One of the most charming Spanish villages in general, Cadaqués is Catalonia’s most picturesque coastal villages. A jewel in the Alt Empordà, the region where the acclaimed Costa Brava ends, Cadaqués was a refuge for Dalí and many other artists. When you arrive, disconnect your mobile and let yourself be carried away by the tramontana…perhaps your inner genius will emerge?
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2. Cudillero, Asturias
Cudillero is the exemplification of northern charm encapsulated in a village. This fishing town on the Asturian coast is so particular that locals even speak their own dialect: pixuet. The colorful facades hanging from the mountain next to the blue and green of the landscape give Cudillero a postcard scenery, so make sure you have your camera handy!
3. Mutriku, Basque Country
On the shores of the Cantabrian Sea, Mutriku is a charming coastal village belonging to Guipúzcoa. Thanks in part to its fishing traditions, the town still conserves its medieval layout and its steep cobbled streets, where beautiful ancestral homes abound. Mutriku’s entire coastline is marvelous: you can see it during low tide from the town’s port to Saturraran beach.
4. Lastres, Asturias
From the viewpoint of the San Roque hermitage, the view over the Asturian village of Lastres is spectacular. This authentic haven of peace is perched in a perfect enclave between the sea and the mountains where locals once fished for whales. The years have passed, but each afternoon you can still witness the return of the boats and the fish auction in the market.
5. Walls, Galicia
The western end of the Spanish coastline hides a small municipality called Muros in La Coruña. Despite being a fishing village, it is 580 meters above sea level in an enclave surrounded by unsurpassed nature. Its old town was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest as its high architectural value gives Muros a special charm, enhanced especially by the sailor’s porches of the houses where they used to fix the nets and clean the fish.
6. Fornells, Balearic Islands
Menorca is home to dreamy coastal towns, one of which is Fornells. Its natural boat filled harbor exudes pure Mediterranean charm, complemented by typical whitewashed houses surrounded by a peaceful atmosphere. The bay of Fornells includes four unspoiled coves that are a must see. At the end of the day, there is nothing more gratifying than tasting the typical local dish: caldereta de langosta (lobster stew).
7. Peñíscola, Valencian Community
Located on the Mediterranean Peñíscola in the province of Castellón is characterized by the striking Templar castle, an old wall, and medieval alleys. The town is certainly one of the most stunning to explore.
8. Tossa de Mar, Catalonia
Located on the Catalan Costa Brava, Tossa de Mar boasts an important cultural legacy as well as being one of the country’s most charming coastal towns. Despite the many attractions offered by Tossa and its surroundings, such as the Mirador dels Cards, Es Codolar and Cala Giverola, we are left with the night view offered by the illuminated medieval castle, which can be contemplated by taking a romantic stroll along the beach.
9. Mojácar, Andalusia
The Almeria village of Mojácar, divided between Mojácar Pueblo and Mojácar Playa, offers the best of both worlds. Narrow streets with flower-studded white houses are the perfect place to stroll when in search of calm and tranquillity while buzzing beaches and leisure establishments let you make the most of your holidays. Where would you stay?
10. San Vicente de la Barquera, Cantabria
If Cantabria is a place to share, San Vicente de la Barquera embodies this slogan to the maximum. This fishing village boasts an exceptional environment, culminating in the estuary and beaches such as Merón, El Rosal, Gerra, El Tostadero… and with the snow-capped Picos de Europa as a backdrop. Don’t miss the attractive old town where you can contemplate the wall and the castle. The most gourmets will be delighted with the marmita barquereña, a typical dish made with tuna and potatoes.