Else Beekman
Spain is much more than its bustling cities and sun-drenched beaches. Across the country you can find villages that belong on a postcard. From ancient fortress towns to whitewashed houses standing out against a deep blue sky, this is Spain’s lesser-known yet breathtaking side. Each year National Geographic publishes a list of the 100 most beautiful Spanish villages.
According to National Geographic “this selection is a journey through Spain’s lesser-populated regions and its most remarkable villages, where you can discover UNESCO World Heritage sites and savour some of the country’s finest gastronomic delights”. Here is the top ten from the list of the 100 most beautiful Spanish villages chosen by their travel experts you simply must visit.
1. Altea (Alicante)
Altea sparkles like a jewel on the Costa Blanca. The iconic blue-domed church, Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, rises above the whitewashed houses. Wander through the narrow streets of El Fornet, where pots of bougainvillea and geraniums decorate the façades. From the many viewpoints, you can enjoy panoramic vistas over the Mediterranean Sea and the nearby mountains.
2. Taüll (Lérida)
Situated in the heart of Vall de Boí, Taüll is a small village with a grand history. It is home to the impressive Sant Climent de Taüll church, famous for its Romanesque frescoes. The village exudes medieval charm and is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Pyrenees.
3. Cudillero (Asturias)
Cudillero is one of the most picturesque villages on Spain’s northern coast. Its colourful houses are stacked like an amphitheatre on the hillsides, overlooking the Cantabrian Sea. Stroll through the harbour, try the local delicacy curadillo (dried shark), and discover hidden viewpoints for breathtaking coastal views.
4. Sigüenza (Guadalajara)
This medieval village is dominated by its imposing castle, now transformed into a Parador hotel. Sigüenza is an open-air museum, with its narrow cobbled streets, historic mansions, and a stunning Gothic cathedral that houses a masterpiece by El Greco.
5. Valderrobres (Teruel)
Set in the heart of the Matarraña region, Valderrobres looks like it came straight out of a storybook. The imposing Gothic church and castle offer spectacular views over the village and surrounding hills. Walk across the medieval stone bridge and lose yourself in the maze of charming streets.
6. Santillana del Mar (Cantabria)
Despite its name, Santillana del Mar is not by the sea, but the experts of National Geographic consider it one of Spain’s best-preserved medieval villages. It grew around the 12th-century Colegiata de Santa Juliana and showcases a unique blend of Gothic and Baroque architecture. Its cobbled streets and historic manor houses make it an essential stop for any traveller.
7. Ayllón (Segovia)
This charming village in the province of Segovia takes visitors on a journey back in time. A medieval bridge leads to a stone gateway, the only remaining part of the ancient walls. The Romanesque church of San Miguel Arcángel and the impressive Plaza Mayor breathe history. Ayllón’s Gothic and Baroque buildings add to its unique appeal, making it the perfect place for a historical stroll.
8. Buitrago de Lozoya (Madrid)
Surrounded by one of Spain’s best-preserved medieval walls, Buitrago de Lozoya is a hidden gem in the Comunidad de Madrid. In addition to its historic charm, the village boasts a surprising artistic treasure: the Picasso Museum, home to works by the world-famous painter.
9. Laguardia (Álava)
At the heart of Rioja Alavesa, Laguardia is a walled village famous for its exceptional wine. Stroll through its narrow streets, visit one of the many bodegas, and admire the stunning Gothic portico of the Santa María de los Reyes church. Beneath the village lie ancient wine cellars that are still in use today.
10. Castrillo de los Polvazares (León)
Castrillo de los Polvazares is a beautifully preserved traditional village in the Maragatería region. Its signature reddish-brown stone houses and narrow cobbled streets appear frozen in time. Travel experts praise the village for its culinary speciality, cocido maragato, a hearty stew that is a must-try. It is a popular stop for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago and a prime example of Castilian rural life.
Also read: This Spanish beach is the best in the world according to National Geographic