Embark on adventures to Spain's prettiest playas
Posted on Thursday 07 June 2012
in Spain, Madrid
By Rory MacTavish
Although Spain may be wedged between France, the Pyrenees and Portugal, its beaches are some of the most stunning stretches of coastline in the world. Coupled with nearly year-round sunshine, the nation has attracted millions of tourists to book flights to Madrid, Barcelona and other major cities to find their own plot of Spanish sand.
Just off the coast of Llanes lies the isle of Poo, an expanse of beaches that, with the name alone, is sure to put children in a giggly mood. More reminiscent of Britain or Ireland, the region is a lush verdant landscape with a rugged shoreline. Enhanced by caves, great waves and a shallow stretch of water perfect for paddling, the beach is an ideal spot for a day trip with the whole family. The region also provides a gorgeous clifftop scenic walk, called Paseo de San Pedro, which runs above the adjoining Sablon Beach and to the town of Poo.
It is not right to discuss the beaches of Spain without mentioning San Sebastian's Playa de la Concha. Voted by most locals and tourists as the top city beach in the nation, the treasured spot for beach dwellers sprawls over the outskirts of the bustling San Sebastian city, only 10 minutes from its centre. Adjacent to Playa de Ondarreta and Playa de la Zurriola, the plot of sand is perfect for those who like to hop from one beach to the next and meet locals and fellow tourists during their coastal adventures. Whether Kiwis are looking to surf, kayak, stand-up paddle or simply lay on the soft sand, this space is a must-visit during holidays to Spain.
Along the Atlantic Coast of Northern Spain lies the gorgeous and remote Islas Cies, sprinkled with quiet and natural, unspoiled beaches. Kiwis won't find any resorts that resemble Barcelona hotels here, as local authorities have forbidden the construction of vacation lodges. After vacationers in Spain rent Madrid car hires and venture to the town of Galicia, they can cruise along on a short boat ride to this immaculate crescent of white sand.
Most Kiwis who travel the distance to Spain want to make the most of their European vacation. Finding the best off-the-beaten-track locale is one way to make sure that their holiday is worth the trip. In Andalucia, a small fishing village named Zahara de los Atunes boasts stunning beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, dominated mostly by locals. With a wide, clean and seemingly endless beach, visitors may want to keep walking until they've reached the horizon.
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