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5 days ago
- General
I'd Never Go to Spain Without Packing These Essentials
I've covered a lot of ground in the three and a half years I've lived in Barcelona, Spain—crisscrossing the Balearics, road-tripping across Andalucía, making regular trips to Madrid to visit my in-laws, and cheering on pilgrims from the steps of the Santiago de Compostela cathedral. As I've toured around, I've also gotten more efficient at packing. Before I moved here, I (wrongly) assumed that there was no art to packing for Spain and that I could expect sunny days and mild temps no matter where I was. Not so. However, if you're planning a trip in the coming months, you will want the lightest, most breathable threads in your closet. Here are 13 summer-friendly items I'd recommend for visitors—and would always take with me as I tour the country—from breezy linen trousers and a chic swimsuit to the humble travel laundry line (because dryers are actually few and far between). A day in Spain can take you in many directions. Here in Barcelona, a typical Saturday might start with coffee and pastries at a neighborhood café, segue into a run along the beach, an afternoon gallery visit, and end with a sunset hike up Montjuïc—where friends gather to share a bottle of wine al aire libre with panoramic views of the city. With that kind of range, the key to packing for a Spanish holiday is versatility, and you should always throw a light windbreaker in your bag (whether you're sightseeing in Sevillle or heading down to the Costa del Sol at the height of summer). And even if your itinerary is all business in Madrid, don't forget a swimsuit—many of the city's best hotels boast rooftop pools or lavish spas with pools (I see you, Four Seasons Madrid). Locals rarely show up there in beach cover-ups so pack something smart for a night out. My recommendations focus on the tried-and-tested styles in my closet; meanwhile, male travelers will want to consider stocking up on dressy polos, tailored slacks, linen button-downs, and plenty of smart casual staples. Boarding the ferry to Ibiza. Credit: Everlane If you're planning on traveling to Spain in the summer months, you'll want to stock up lightweight apparel, ideally options made from natural moisture-wicking materials. In the summer months, when the heat and humidity soars in Barcelona, I live in my Everlane muscle top. I own it in multiple colors, and I'll find new ways to wear it each day—with a loose skirt, matching linen trousers, dressy beach sarong, you name it. What I like about it the most is that it's made from 100 percent sustainably grown European flax linen and has a super relaxed fit, so it never clings to your body, even in sticky August heat. Credit: Everlane I love a breezy dress as much as the next person, but I have found I get a lot more use out of dressy, high-waisted pants like this breathable option from Everlane. I've worn mine for a fancy dinner out at the Six Senses Ibiza, for a friend's post-wedding brunch in Seville, and for rooftop drinks with friends at El Palace Barcelona. Paired with a matching linen top, it manages to be both effortless and elegant at the same time. And as a bonus, these trousers can be easily popped in a cold wash, making them perfect for low-maintenance travel. Credit: Toco Most people know that Spainards tend to gravitate toward more barely-there swimsuit styles. This is especially true in the Balearic islands, like Ibiza and Formentera, where topless sunbathing is the norm. Personally, I like a little bit more coverage on the shores while still feeling sexy and prepared for water sports, like swimming or sailing. This one-piece option from Toco checks all the boxes and, in the bright-red Salsa color, it certainly turns heads. Just be aware of your tan lines—the Spanish sun is strong, and those crisscrossing straps will leave their mark. Credit: Monday Swimwear View on One of my favorite things about Spanish beach culture? The chiringuito . These relaxed, often family-run seaside restaurants are the heart and soul of summer on the coast, serving classics like seafood-topped paella and refreshing pitchers of tinto de verano . Dress codes are virtually nonexistent; it's perfectly acceptable to stroll in straight from the shore in your bikini, flip-flops, and a breezy cover-up. My go-to is a linen sarong in a chic miniskirt cut: it's breathable, wrinkle-proof, and folds down to nothing, making it ideal for tossing into a beach tote. Just tie it around your waist and you're instantly chiringuito-ready. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon View on Amazon View on If there's one product that I urge friends and family to pack when they're traveling to Spain, it's a windbreaker. I can't tell you the number of times I've been on holiday—even in sunny spots like Ibiza or Cádiz—and it's started to unexpectedly pour. And if you're headed anywhere in Spain's north, like Asturias, Galicia, or Cantabria, this is a non-negotiable. My go-to windbreaker is this fitted option from Orvis, which is made from recycled polyester and features a vented back to allow for air circulation. I also love that it has an interior sunglasses pocket, allowing me to keep up with Spain's sometimes-yoyo shifts in weather. Plus, the adjustable cinch waist is equally as flattering for hiking trails as navigating the style conscious streets of Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure In Spain, style is all about the details—truly. Women often gravitate toward bold, statement-making jewelry and accessories, while men (especially Andalucians) aren't afraid to sport a flamboyant pocket square or a wide-brimmed straw hat. Footwear, in particular, gets a lot of attention—perhaps not surprising given Spain's long and storied tradition of shoemaking. The same goes for handbags. On the fashion-forward streets of Madrid's Salamanca district, for instance, you'll see women carrying a kaleidoscope of impeccably crafted bolsos , from hands-free crossbody bags and phone purses to designer shoulder bags. Credit: Castañer View on Amazon View on Bloomingdales View on Neiman Marcus In Spain, the humble espadrille is an object of high fashion, with homegrown luxury brands like Loewe and Manolo Blahnik designing formal styles perfect for weddings and soirées. Personally, living in Barcelona, I'm partial to the made-in-Catalonia Castañer brand, which has done collaborations with designers like Yves Saint Laurent over its hundred-year history. Their Mary Jane style is especially chic; in my opinion, the little strap gives them a little more mileage than the classic slip-on style and makes them just as right for early fall or late spring as in summer (thus justifying the high price point). And for weddings, I recommend their wedge espadrilles, which will give you a bit of extra height and are especially eye-catching in their blend of chestnut leather and jute. Credit: Bloomingdale's $160 $152 at Amazon View on REI $160 at Nordstrom Here in Spain, we do a lot of walking, even when we don't have somewhere we need to go. Just consider the paseo, that very Spanish custom of pouring into the city streets in the early evening to go for a leisurely stroll and greet friends. To do like a local, you'll want to pack your most comfortable pair of sneakers, like these low-top Veja trainers, and explore Spain's alluring cities and charming pueblos by foot. Not only are these sneakers super comfortable, with solid arch support and no rubbing, but they also feel a bit dressier than your average sneaker. Mind you, these aren't what I'd wear to go hiking or do other sporty activities, but I do find they work in 75 percent of the other scenarios I find myself in on vacation. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon If there's one accessory that can take you from a morning of sightseeing to a sunset vermouth, it's a crochet handbag. As much as I love a hands-free crossbody or canvas tote, I've found the crochet bag to be the ultimate all-day companion in Spain. It has a breezy, Mediterranean feel that suits the setting, and it's roomy enough for those inevitable spontaneous purchases (like a bottle of local vermouth, perhaps, or a bar of Arquinesia soap from Mallorca). I always stash one in my beach bag, just in case we end up at a chiringuito and I want something chicer than a tote to hold my phone and wallet. No joke—I almost never leave home without a sun hat. After one too many times getting caught off guard by the Spanish sun and having to cut my day short to dash home for a hat and some sunscreen, I've learned my lesson. My go-to is a soft, lightweight raffia style like this one from Jenni Kayne; it folds easily into a bag and keeps its relaxed shape. While I love a good statement hat (and in Spain, bold colors reign supreme), I usually stick to classic colors like straw or black when I travel since they go with everything and make packing way easier. A sunny summer day in Seville. Credit: Raen $150 at Amazon View on View on Anthropologie I'm all for a stylish pair of sunnies, but in Spain, function comes first. Look for sunglasses that are polarized, offer 100 percent UVA/UVB protection, and are durable enough to withstand gusty winds, salty air, and being tossed in and out of your bag all day. I'm a huge fan of these editor-approved Raen Keera Sunglasses, which have a subtle cat-eye shape and deliver on all the aforementioned criteria. Plus, the nose bridge is snug enough that it's not necessary to constantly adjust if reading on the beach or playing padel outdoors with friends. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Spain may be known for its tapas and traditions, but it's just as much a paradise for thrill-seekers. Whether you're hiking the Camino, wine tasting in Lanzarote's volcanic vineyards, or discovering Galicia's hidden Islas Cíes, you'll want to be ready for a little adventure. So pack accordingly! In addition to your walking shoes and weather-appropriate layers, don't forget the practical must-haves: a universal adapter, noise-canceling headphones for long train rides, and a portable charger to keep your phone powered through every beach, hike, and pintxo crawl. And, while I sport a carry-all backpack for the majority of my trips, my Spanish friends are just as likely to show up to a group vacay with a rolling duffel or checked suitcase (particularly for longer holidays) so your favorite suitcase to fill all the gear is up to you. Credit: REI $70 $61 at Amazon $70 at REI View on One of my essential packing items for Spain, especially if you're planning any coastal adventures, is a good dry bag. The Sea to Summit set is my go-to: it comes with three ultralight, roll-top bags (3-liter, 5-liter, and 8-liter) that keep valuables safe from humidity, salt spray, and unexpected splashes. I've used mine along the Camí de Ronda in Costa Brava, a cliff-hugging trail that lets you walk up the coast from one crystalline cove to the next, with stops for kayaking, sailing, and swimming. It's also a must for more rugged coastal routes like the Camino del Norte in the Basque Country or Galicia's Ruta dos Faros, where the weather can turn quickly and dry gear is a must. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Cotopaxi $225 at Amazon $250 at REI $250 at Backcountry If you're accustomed to traveling in Europe, you know that checking baggage can be a serious headache (not to mention, a massive expense) and that carry-on travel is the way to go. This is especially true in Spain, where budget carriers like Vueling and Volotea will make you pay big time for additional baggage. It's for that reason that I opt for this roomy Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack whenever I travel. Whether I'm heading to Madrid for a work trip or pintxo-hopping in San Sebastián with friends, this backpack fits the bill: roomy enough for my laptop, five days' worth of outfits, and a couple pairs of shoes, yet compact enough to slide into the overhead bin on planes and trains. Even when it's packed to the brim, it never feels too heavy thanks to the padded shoulder straps and supportive waist belt. And with plenty of outer compartments—including a stretch water bottle pocket—I'm not left rummaging around for my keys or passport at every turn. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon Here in Spain, we live in smaller apartments, pay steep energy prices, and enjoy sunshine nearly year-round—so it's no surprise that most people air-dry their clothes. While fancy hotels typically offer laundry service, if you're staying in an Airbnb or more budget-friendly spot, I highly recommend packing a retractable clothesline. My favorite is this compact, heavy-duty version that comes with 12 colorful clothespins and 13 anti-slip clips. It takes up barely any space in your bag and works like a charm. I've strung it up between trees while hiking the Picos de Europa, used it to dry swimsuits on a Costa Brava camping trip, and even rigged it on a Mediterranean cruise balcony. It's saved me countless trips to the laundromat—and spared me the desperate move of drying socks on a radiator. Sightseeing in Palma de Mallorca. Planning a trip to Spain with a specific adventure or itinerary in mind? It's worth doing a little extra research to make sure your packing list matches the realities on the ground. Here are just a few top-level scenarios that require gear beyond the usual sandals and sundresses. If you're walking the Camino de Santiago: While I've never done the Camino, I've heard from friends that anti-blister socks, a water-hydration backpack, and comfortable, broken-in hiking boots are just a few of the essentials you'll need for conquering Spain's most famous pilgrimage. While I've never done the Camino, I've heard from friends that anti-blister socks, a water-hydration backpack, and comfortable, broken-in hiking boots are just a few of the essentials you'll need for conquering Spain's most famous pilgrimage. If you're skiing in the Sierra Nevada: Europe's southernmost ski resort is famously one of the only places on the continent where you can ski in the morning and swim in the Mediterranean by the afternoon. Along with the usual ski essentials, one item I always pack for the Sierra Nevada is a pair of high-quality goggles with 100 percent UV protection—the sun at the summit can be intense and blinding. This particular pair is also known for its anti-fog technology, which comes in handy when you're squinting to spot the African coastline on a clear day. Europe's southernmost ski resort is famously one of the only places on the continent where you can ski in the morning and swim in the Mediterranean by the afternoon. Along with the usual ski essentials, one item I pack for the Sierra Nevada is a pair of high-quality goggles with 100 percent UV protection—the sun at the summit can be intense and blinding. This particular pair is also known for its anti-fog technology, which comes in handy when you're squinting to spot the African coastline on a clear day. If you're cala -hopping in Mallorca: I've spent a lot of time on Mallorca—the largest of the Balearic Islands—and I'm always surprised by how underprepared travelers are when exploring the island's pebble-strewn beaches and rugged, cliff-lined coast. Save your toes from the torture and invest in this pair of quick-drying, sock-like water shoes, which have 3D non-slip treads to keep you on your feet. At a cala in Mallorca. Spain is made up of 17 autonomous regions, each with its own distinct identity, traditions, and style, so it's tricky to lay down universal rules about what not to wear. What flies in Seville might feel out of place in Bilbao, and even just comparing Madrid and Barcelona shows how varied fashion sensibilities can be. In Madrid, you'll often see a more colorful, preppy aesthetic, while in Barcelona, the vibe leans more low-key and monochromatic, with darker palettes, sneakers, and utilitarian accessories. That said, if you want to avoid standing out as a tourist, there are a few guidelines I've picked up after years of living here. Skip the loud foreign logos, destination tees, or anything emblazoned with oversized slogans. Stick with sensible footwear, especially during the day when you might be walking on cobblestones or exploring on foot. Spaniards tend to dress neatly even when casual, so you'll feel more in sync with the locals by opting for smart, well-fitting basics. In front of the Arc de Triomf in Barcelona. Spain's weather is remarkably varied, so it's worth checking the forecast for your specific destination before you travel. Broadly speaking, northern Spain (think Galicia, Asturias, and the Basque Country) has a wetter, more temperate climate, with plenty of rain and cooler temperatures year-round. The Mediterranean coast—home to cities like Barcelona and Valencia—enjoys hot, humid summers and mild, relatively sunny winters. In central Spain, including Madrid, you'll find a more continental climate: dry and intensely hot in summer (often climbing above 100 degrees Fahrenheit), and surprisingly chilly in winter, with crisp, blue-sky days. Down south, in Andalucía, winters are sunny and pleasant, but summers can be extreme, with temperatures regularly soaring as high as 114 degrees Fahrenheit. As for Spain's islands, both the Balearics (like Mallorca and Ibiza) and the Canary Islands see milder, more stable weather. The Canaries, located off the northwest coast of Africa, are a popular escape among sunbirds, thanks to the warm weather and plentiful sunshine. On Ses Illetes beach in Formentera. Given that Spain is one of Europe's most popular destination wedding spots, it's no surprise this question is the question I'm most frequently asked. While there's no single dress code that applies to every Spanish wedding, there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind. Since Spain is traditionally a Catholic country, more conservative attire is often encouraged, especially for church ceremonies. Think dresses with sleeves or bringing a shawl or wrap to cover your shoulders. Wearing black is typically avoided, as it's associated with mourning. That said, non-religious or more modern couples—especially those hosting coastal or countryside celebrations—often adopt a relaxed, Mediterranean-inspired dress code, with more freedom in both style and color. As for footwear: Spanish weddings tend to be quite formal, so heels are welcome (and often expected). Don't worry about blisters: if there's a dance floor, it's common for hosts to provide flip-flops or other comfy shoes so you can keep going late into the night. At the cliffs of Formentera. Siobhan Reid has lived in Spain for three and a half years and, as a full-time travel writer, she's constantly on the move in search of stylish hotels, under-the-radar adventures, and lesser-visited corners. This has given her a deeper understanding of life beyond the big cities—and impressed upon her just how important it is to pack smartly for Spain's incredible diversity of landscapes, climates, and cultures. This packing list includes actual products she owns and would recommend to friends and family visiting the region. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Daily Mail
25-05-2025
- Daily Mail
The worst places for overtourism in Spain this summer - and where to go instead
With strikes planned on the Balearics in June and July and anti-tourism protests happening across much of Spain, particularly in mainland cities and on the Canary Islands, you'd be forgiven for pointing your compass elsewhere this summer. Recent weeks have seen holidaymakers cowering in hotels across the Canaries as fed-up locals have disrupted sunshine bliss for thousands of Brits abroad. Protests have taken place in Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Ela Hierro, La Palma, La Gomera, and Lanzarote, with those protesting chanting the slogan 'Canarias tiene un limite' (The Canaries has a limit) as they marched through popular resorts. Demonstrators have also taken to the streets in Barcelona and Valencia as well as Madrid, as tensions towards tourists have continued to rise over the last year. In April, locals fired water pistols at a tour bus outside Barcelona's Sagrada Familia, as they warned of bigger protests this summer. And tourists heading to Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca could see their holidays disrupted by waves of strikes this summer. Hotel workers across the Balearic islands are set to down tools in protests over pay and conditions during June and July - saying they're keen to cause as much upheaval as possible for tourists to cause maximum impact. The decision to strike - which is likely to affect thousands of holidaymakers - comes after the workers' union, Unión General de Trabajadores (UGT), said they were dissatisfied with progress during ongoing talks. Tourists heading to Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca could see their holidays disrupted by waves of strikes this summer. However, while the current situation appears far from ideal, a little lateral thinking can ensure a holiday in Spain can still be on the cards this summer, simply by switch out the country's busiest tourist hotspots for lesser known locations. Here's some of the best Spanish destination dupes to consider: SWAP MADRID A high citadel in Castile, foodie town Segovia is known for its turreted fairytale Alcazar castle and pretty sand-coloured buildings and an imposing Roman aqueduct, built under Emperor Trajan in the early 2nd century AD, and still standing despite the efforts of the besieging Moors in 1071. Then there's Segovia's strangest and most beautiful church, La Vera Cruz, or Church of the True Cross. It is 13th-century Romanesque with saints, herons and ghoulish wombats carved atop columns either side of the doors. The Knights Templar are said to have stood vigil over their arms all night in La Vera Cruz before riding off Santa Agueda dates from it is the women to rule on holy quests. Around 60 miles north of Madrid, it's easy to reach by train. It's hilly, so pack comfortable shoes. Another destination that's just an hour, this time in a southerly direction, from the Spanish capital - so easy to access via low-cost flights, Toledo is pretty as a picture. There's handsome stone buildings, cobbled passageways and towering spires that are enticing enough to make you forget the Catalan capital. The central Spanish city sits on the Tajo river, and rises up the hill to the Alcazar, a renaissance palace, with its Gothic cathedral right at the top. And like Segovia, it also has an Alcazar, although this one houses Madrid's National Army Museum. It is Toledo's dominant landmark and has undergone a series of transformations, most recently with the addition of a side wing built around the 16th-century foundations. When the mercury hots up, Ibiza's tiny little sister, Formentera, offers those in the know the chance to shrug off mass tourism and enjoy a more exclusive take on the Mediterranean summer. Yes, you'll need to fly into Ibiza to reach it, but then you're only a half-hour boat ride away from a much more tranquil destination - particularly in high season. The island is just 12 miles long and a mile-and-a-half wide at its narrowest point and there's little to do apart from eat, drink and enjoy the soft sand beaches. SWAP MARBELLA FOR... ESTEPONA Admittedly, there'll be less reality TV stars in Estepona, 40 minutes from Malaga airport, but that's a good thing, right? Quieter this Costa del Sol town may be but it's no less charming, with genteel white washed squares, a buzzing cultural life with urban art and poetry on the streets, and plenty of museums and galleries to enjoy. It's also surprisingly lush, and is frequently lauded as the 'garden of the Costa Del Sol' thanks to its stunning botanical gardens and orchid house. SWAP MALLORCA If you can bear to turn your back on the Balearics then the mainland has a city where the beaches are just as delightful. Murcia, in the county's south-east remains one of the least visited holiday destinations, but there's plenty to admire. Nicknamed 'Europe's Orchard' thanks to its production of fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers, Murcia is home to a simmering gastronomic scene. Flat and walkable, Spain's seventh largest city is worth visiting for restaurants alone, all offering reasonably-priced regional dishes. SWAP MENORCA FOR CADIZ... The Baroque watchtower of Torre Tavira offers stunning views of Cadiz from above. Pictured is the panoramic vista from the tower On Spain's Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light), there's a string of beguiling beach towns, with Cadiz amongst the most charming of them. Divided into old town and new, Cadiz is said to be the oldest continually inhabited city in Western Europe. So it's hardly surprising that this friendly port city is drenched in history – an estimated 3,000 years of it, to be precise. Those who do visit tourists feast on its renowned seafood, unwind on its glorious beaches or attend its wild annual carnival. The Gaditanos (or locals) are a friendly bunch and there's bargain tapas and live music alongside ancient sights and sandy beaches. Known affectionately as 'Little Havana', it's also home to a warren of narrow streets, sun-filled squares and a waterfront like that of the Cuban capital. So similar are the cities that Havana scenes in the Bond film Die Another Day - with Pierce Brosnan and Halle Berry - were filmed here. Get there: Fly to Jerez, 45 minutes away, with Ryanair Tenerife has been one of the hardest hit destinations by the over-tourism protests but don't give up on the Canary Island; there are parts of it that are so peaceful, you'll think you've left and landed somewhere new. Tinerfeños have let tourism own the dark, dry plains of the south but preserved the lush, undulating lands of the north. The supermarkets and souvenir shops give way to pine trees, banana plantations - sectioned like the paddy fields of the Far East, and Dragon trees. UNESCO-stamped former capital San Cristóbal de La Laguna - or just La Laguna – in the heart of the north-east has one foot firmly in the past. It became an architectural blueprint for new towns across the Americas and still retains a 'last stop before the New World' feel to it. The best Airbnbs in Spain that you CAN stay in this summer - and how to tell if your holiday let is legal This week, Spain 's Ministry of Consumer Affairs ordered Airbnb to remove more than 65,000 holiday homes from its platform as part of a crackdown on illegal listings. Spain ordered the online holiday lets giant to remove the listings on Monday, with Pablo Bustinduy, Spain's Consumer Rights Minister, saying: 'No more excuses. Enough with protecting those who make a business out of the right to housing in our country.' The minister said his goal was to end the 'lack of control' and 'illegality' in the holiday rental industry - the country is currently facing a housing crisis as construction has failed to keep up with demand. The worst affected destinations appear to be cities, including tourist hotspots Barcelona, Madrid and Malaga; the latter has 85 per cent of flats in its historic centre linked to tourism lets. Where does the move leave your summer plans if you fancied heading to Britain's favourite holiday destination? The good news is that there are still plenty of properties right across Spain - including the Balearics and the Canary Islands - listed on Airbnb's website that are perfectly legal and do have the required registration. How can you tell? Look for the required eight digit 'registration number' - made up of letters and numbers - on listings. Tourists can find the code at the bottom of the page entitled 'About this space', which usually appears in a 'show more' grey box at the end of the property's initial description - if you can't see it, it's likely the let falls foul of Spain's requirements. Here's a selection of Spanish properties that all have registration numbers on their pages... so, what are you waiting for? MALLORCA Villa Sylvia, Pollença Villa Sylvia costs from £438 per night in the height of the summer holidays, and sleeps six people This three-bed rustic villa with a pool sits in beautiful Pollença, on Mallorca's north-eastern coast. Sleeping six guests, there's two bathrooms and a large covered terrace for al fresco dining - visitors can pick up delights at the weekly food market in Pollença. Other highlights nearby? Puerto Pollença, just a few miles east, has gently sloping golden sands that are perfect for families with younger children. Book it: From £438 a night, based on August departures MENORCA Ses Milans Villa Stylish interiors - and wi-fi and air con - make it a perfect summer stay for large groups Sleeping ten, this huge villa sits in rural splendour close to Menorca's second city of Mahon. There's five bedrooms, an outdoor bar, pool and beautiful beaches nearby. Inside there's stylish muted blue interiors, with all mod cons including wi-fi, a built-in sink bar and air con. IBIZA ' Country house with views ' Fancy a rustic bolt-hole just for two on the White Isle? This one-bed couple's retreat sits in Can Surya, in the northern part of Ibiza. Nearby beaches include Benirras or Puerto de Sant Miquel and tranquility is guaranteed. One former guest described it as 'one of the best airbnbs i've stayed in my many years of traveling'. Book it: From £259 a night BARCELONA Serviced boutique next to Rambla The registration number on this gorgeous apartment is front and centre in its listing, offering reassurance that this Barcelona holiday let is legit. The period apartment sleeps six in three bedrooms, each of which have a bathroom each - even better, Barcelona's most famous shopping street is just outside. SAN SEBASTIAN La Concha Natural light floods into La Concha, which overlooks San Sebastian's easy-on-the-eye beach This elegant two-bed property in Spain's most famous foodie town, just 15 miles from the French border in the country's north, boasts views of its winsome crescent bay. Sleeping four, there's bold modern artwork on the walls and a bright and airy island kitchen in the offing too. A stay in Donostia – as the city is known to locals - comes with gourmet dining opportunities galore, including San Seb's famous pintxo, the Basque region's refined take on tapas. Book it: From £501 a night CANARY ISLANDS Tenerife Finca la Mandarina Just a ten-minute drive from Tenerife's otherworldly Teide National Park, Finca la Mandarina is far from the madding crowds and has a 4.99 review score. Sleeping six guests across three bedrooms, this white-washed modern property is set on a 3,000m2 farm. There's one large villa, sleeping four, and another sleeping two - so ideal for grandparents wanting to travel on a family getaway.
Daily Mirror
24-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Spain's 'zombieland' airport is dubbed 'hidden city' as homelessness takes over
Madrid-Barajas Airport - the second-largest airport in Europe by physical size - handles more than 60million tourists every year, including passengers on Ryanair and Iberia flights One of the busiest airports in Europe is trying to support hundreds of rough sleepers. Photographs taken recently at Madrid-Barajas Airport show homeless people attempting to rest in terminals, which make up what has now been branded "a zombieland" airport. Armed police patrol the hub, which caters for more than 60million tourists every year, but one officer even warned a journalist this week to "be careful". Madrid-Barajas Airport has now turned into a so-called "hidden city" with the rough sleepers, ranging in age from early 30s to late 60s, seeking shelter there. One woman in her 60s said: "I got robbed and lost all my documentation, so I have been scraping by and flitting around ever since. Basically, the little money I have isn't enough to live on outside of the airport." So the airport is, in many cases, a sanctuary in the northeast of the Spanish capital. They turn in for the night at around 7.30pm, after which time images and videos were taken. They show kind-hearted staff, including police, engaging with the sleepers as the airport tries to ensure the homeless don't come to any harm. READ MORE: 'I was homeless and spent £3.5k a week on drugs, now I have a home for my 3 kids' Up to 500 homeless are thought to cram into the terminals each night. Some stories are heartbreaking, including that of a 67-year-old man who now has no home. The man told Mail Online: "I was in full-time employment for 50 years. I lost my job and I've no pension left. That's how I ended up in this situation." A police officer told a reporter with the publication: "Be careful... It can be dangerous here – this is zombieland." Yet, despite the "hidden city" emerging, no conflict has been reported. In contrast, a man was stabbed without an apparent motive in front of stunned passengers at Palma de Mallorca's Son Sant Joan airport this week. Carlos Heriberto Beltran Perdomo, a 45-year-old man, who is believed to be among dozens sleeping rough at the airport, later appeared in court over the attack. Madrid-Barajas Airport, which caters for several airlines including Ryanair, Iberia and Wizz Air, is in the busy capital, and only around eight miles from the bustling city centre. It is understood homeless extends across the city in Spain, a nation with the highest unemployment rate in Europe. While tourism is hugely important to the country's economy, it and its sustainability presents challenges. Authorities on the Balearics, which include Majorca and Menorca, plugged the industry by encouraging selfie-addicted influencers to promote its wonders. Those with a huge social media followings plugged attractions which have failed to enter the tourist limelight - but it seems the plan worked too well. For example, after a slew of TikTok and Instagram influencers started raving about Caló des Moro, an incredible bay tucked away in the southeast corner of Majorca, an insufferable amount of tourists were flocking their en masse.
Irish Independent
23-05-2025
- Irish Independent
Spain's Balearic Islands to cut ties with influencers in bid to stop ‘selfie tourism'
The Balearic government backtracked on the use of influencer marketing campaigns after a cove in Mallorca was swarmed by 4,000 visitors a day last summer. Caló des Moro only has the space to welcome around 100 beachgoers each day. Influencer content showcasing the small cove prompted tourists to travel for pictures of the golden sands and clear waters. The local mayor of Mallorca's Santanyí, Maria Pons, said at a press conference last June that 4,000 people and 1,200 vehicles were descending on Caló des Moro daily. In June 2024, hundreds of activists descended on the once secluded cove to demand sunbathers leave the beach with a giant banner that declared: 'Ocupem les nostres platges' – 'We will occupy our beaches'. Previously, the Balearics had hoped that the use of influencer content would redirect tourist flow to more remote parts of the popular holiday islands and highlight hidden gems. However, following a push on social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, the tourism marketing strategy has seen remote and protected parts of Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza overrun with holidaymakers looking to snap a selfie. Last weekend, a spokesman for the Balearic tourism department said selfie tourism had 'had the completely opposite effect to what was intended and runs contrary to government policy on containing tourism', reported the Guardian. The local authority has since removed all images of the cove from its website and pleaded with journalists and tour operators to stop promoting the location altogether. Similarly, in March, residents in Ibiza vowed to continue anti-tourism protests this summer, barricading a famous viewpoint with boulders and 'no entry' warnings. Angry locals in Cala d'Hort de Sant Josep blocked tourist access to the Es Vedra lookout and its car parks in a bid to curb overtourism and 'wild parties' in the area. Hundreds of unregulated holidaymakers flock to the islet viewpoint on Ibiza's southwest coast each day in summer, using unofficial car parks on private land to watch the sunset.
Times
21-05-2025
- Times
The Balearics are calling — these are the islands' loveliest villas
My first family holiday out of Ireland was a fortnight on Menorca when I was seven. I remember being impressed by Spanish lollipops with bubblegum inside, which cost five pesetas. I liked the beach just fine but I was more intrigued by the dusty hills, the dark mouths of caves, the strong, mysterious breezes that would rake the pines overhead. The peculiar allure of that island I have since come to recognise as a signature murmur heard across the Balearics. By the time I went to Ibiza with a friend — when we were both at the youngest end of our 18-30 package tour group — 'Balearic' also referred to a nebulous subgenre of house and trance music deployed on the dancefloors of Amnesia and Ku. Those superclubs were then in their mid-Nineties pomp, but my best memories of that trip are the bleary sunrises and hungover boat rides over luminous blue meadows of seagrass. Living in Madrid for the past decade, I have hopped on a lot of short, cheap flights back to Ibiza, though usually in winter when the clubs are shuttered and local life ticks over at a pace and volume better suited to my advancing years. In that time, the visitor demographics have grown and spread on all four of the main Balearic islands — Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera — from the summer charter market to encompass quieter holidays for nature lovers, longer stays in the off-season, and glam options for those who arrive by yacht to occupy the VIP booths at venues like the spanking new 'hyperclub' [UNVRS] (opening this summer where Ku used to be). The corresponding villa rental business is booming and the very definition of that term might now be stretched to historic Mallorcan townhouses, Menorcan hillside eco-lodges, former farms on Formentera, and luxury compounds atop Ibizan cliffs. Some make handy coastal bases for beach and bar excursions, others take up such remote positions in island interiors that they qualify as genuine retreats for solitary couples or whole extended families. Swimming pools and barbecue pits come as standard these days, but there's always something distinctive about a villa stay on the Balearics — not just the location or design of the property itself, but the angle at which it reflects that particular cast of sunlight off the Mediterranean, and receives that distinctive whispering breeze. Sitting on the roof terrace of your rental, or half asleep in a hammock strung between citrus trees, you could swear you were hearing the same call that coaxed ancient Phoenicians to these shores 3,000 years ago. Or it might just be the bass from a sound system in the distance. This article contains affiliate links that can earn us revenue Sleeps 4 The farm built by the owner Lucas Prats's grandfather on this site, high on a hill near the centre of the island, gives its modern iteration a pastoral appeal. Olive and citrus trees grow between the free-standing garden suites, villas and holiday homes since added by Prats and his family. Some fall within a 'traditional' zone of architecture around the original farmhouse; other units are sleek and contemporary. The overall feel is something like a sleepy rural hamlet, perfectly positioned for sunset views all the way down to the Med. Nearby, the village of San Rafael hosts various food and craft markets throughout the week. Details Seven nights' self-catering for four from £4,770 ( Fly to Ibiza • Read our full guide to Ibiza Sleeps 12The architect Rolf Blakstad lovingly modelled Can Nemo on traditional Ibizan fincas — sturdy white stone walls, imposing timber doors — looking east to sunrise from the cape just beyond the bars and beaches of Ibiza Town. Inside it's hypermodern, from the kitchen attended by private chefs (there is also a clay pizza oven and a barbecue pit elsewhere on the property) to a silo-style wine cellar and a basement cocktail bar and disco room that doubles as a cinema. There are 15,000 sq m of gardens, including an area inlaid with a curved pool and hot tub as well as earthier elements such as a roomy chicken coop, whose residents keep the place stocked with free-range Seven nights' full board for 12 from £25,550 ( Fly to Ibiza Sleeps 12Only a ten-minute drive from Ibiza Town and the destination beaches of Bossa and Cavallet, this modernist villa nevertheless feels pretty secluded behind thick shrouds of palms. Within lies a main house with several bedrooms, as well as a separate casita and a bedroom built into a treehouse. Other standout touches include the onsite tennis court, sauna and meditation room, and an outdoor pool with surround-sound music. The house cook makes breakfast every morning, with other meals catered on Seven nights' B&B for 12 from £20,393 ( Fly to Ibiza • 17 of the best hotels in Ibiza Sleeps 10Many Ibizan villas have a chic rustic look but this compound takes the opposite approach, towards cutting-edge minimalism. It's deep in the northeast wilds of the Morna Valley, and its clean, cubist lines stand out against the pines to make a Balearic fortress of solitude. The bedrooms, with huge picture windows, feel part of the wraparound gardens and there is a gorgeous alfresco dining space, where a Sonos sound system plays clear across the saltwater pool and yoga deck. Forest trails lead over the hills to north coast beaches and lookouts. Details: Seven nights' self-catering for ten from £26,120 ( Fly to Ibiza Sleeps 12The owner-architects Diego Alonso and Alexeja Pozzoni put all their taste and training into reworking a 17th-century monastery in Ibiza's northern hills. Beams of juniper and Ibiza's native sabina wood frame a house fitted with a sauna, massage room and glass-walled yoga studio, while the main bedroom is built into a separate casita over manicured Balinese gardens. There are two pools out there — one saltwater, one 'natural' — and an alfresco dining space big enough for a banquet. The setting is maximally rural but you're not far from the landmark fortified church of Sant Miquel village, nor the island's best bullit de peix (fish stew) in Port Balansat. Details Seven nights' self-catering for 12 from £20,640 ( Fly to Ibiza Sleeps 28For those looking to go large literally on Ibiza, here is a renovated townhouse in the old quarter of the capital which a single party can take over as a complete, serviced villa. Its five storeys are stacked with 14 bedrooms, rising to a penthouse terrace suite and rooftop pool overlooking the walled medieval citadel, Dalt Vila. Inside you've got lounges, bars and a full wellness area with a yoga studio and steam room. Outside you've got the Old Town and marina, with the landmark nightclub Pacha and restaurants such as Ibiza Food Studio practically next door. Details Seven nights' self-catering for 28 from £9,502 ( Fly to Ibiza • The historic side of the island that everyone knows for partying Sleeps 9The west coast of Ibiza looks out to the pyramidal islet Es Vedra, which has long been a vector for weird legends, UFO sightings and so on. It's the island's totemic focal point for sunset-viewing, and this simple modern villa gives you the full panorama from the 'infinity edge' of its swimming pool. Drinks at dusk at this elevation may be as sublime an experience as Ibiza can offer. It's about two miles downhill to the beaches of Cala Carbo and Cala d'Hort — the latter home to the seafood restaurant El Seven nights' self-catering for nine from £3,836 ( Fly to Ibiza Sleeps 12The Ses Salines Nature Reserve stretches all the way over the channel from Ibiza to north Formentera, crossing salt deposits, seagrass meadows and green coastal fields to reach the gates of this country villa. Surrounded by Mediterranean gardens and covered with bright spillages of bougainvillea that seem an organic part of the park, the grounds extend to an outdoor pool and courts for volleyball and badminton (as well as a full gym). Insulated as it feels, the house is only a ten-minute walk from Migjorn Beach, which forms a chain of rocky and sandy coves along the south coast, where there are many points en route for seafood or cocktails. Details Seven nights' self-catering for 12 from £20,280 ( Fly to Ibiza Sleeps 8A modern villa annexed to a little country house, this one delivers on two key promises of Formentera by way of breezy seaside tranquillity and proximity to the gilded nightlife of the capital, Sant Francesc. Super-stylish but unflashy, the design favours Balearic white stone walls and native woods. Beyond the sunbeds and hammocks arrayed around the pool and garden, nature trails lead straight out of the gate to the beach at Cala Saona, to the lighthouse at Cap Barbaria and to the capital's growing locus of boutiques, bars and Seven nights' self-catering for eight from £2,100 ( Fly to Ibiza Sleeps 12The house is a gem, distinguished by an especially lovely attic room, a library, and an outdoor pool, lounge and dining area under a thatched canopy. But the location adds immense value: a large herb-scented garden blurs into surrounding vineyards and beyond to the lighthouse at Faro de la Mola, its beam winking over the starry Med by night. La Mola is little more than a mile away for excursions to shops and bars, with a secluded beach, Es Calo des Mort, only a little further Seven nights' self-catering for 12 from £7,150 ( Fly to Ibiza Sleeps 6A modern villa built in 2019, this is styled like an exclusive beach club set on a pine-forested hill over the northwest coast. Interiors are fresh and stylish — all Dutch furniture and whitewashed walls — and there's an emphasis on outdoor living by way of an alfresco kitchen, fire pit, tennis court and swimming pool. It's right on the edge of Can Marroig too, a former estate turned nature reserve with natural pools in disused quarries, protected habitats for native birds such as the Balearic shearwater, and a prime dive site around an undersea rock Seven nights' self-catering for six from £4,120 ( Fly to Ibiza Sleeps 4A relatively small and simple option geared towards the traditional quietude of Formentera: a two-bedroom bungalow in classic Balearic blue and white, with a fireplace, terracotta tiling and some nicely chosen artworks. It opens to one of those covered garden verandas that allow for all-day dining and lounging. Migjorn Beach nearby begins a stretch of white sands and sheltered coves, with the idyllic fishing village Es Calo almost as Seven nights' self-catering for four from £1,449 ( Fly to Ibiza Sleeps 12A Mallorcan country house in a garden of palm and fruit trees, with the Serra de Tramuntana mountains as a painterly backdrop and the culture-rich medieval town of Pollensa just out of view. Recent restoration work preserved the traditional stone walls, wood beams and classical archways while adding smart modern lighting and entertainment systems. Besides the large pool and orchard-view terrace, the big sell for many will be a full leisure annexe with pool and football tables, exercise equipment and a separate hangout Seven nights' self-catering for 12 from £7,968, including flights ( Sleeps 10 This one has the trifecta many seek on Mallorca: an outdoor pool, a seabird's vantage over the Med, and equally easy access to town and beach. The garden terrace looks unobstructed over the southeast edge of the island, and it's a short walk downhill to the sand at Cala Esmeralda or dockside bars and restaurants in Cala d'Or. Cooking within the villa itself is easy and appealing enough to stay put — there's a fully kitted kitchen and a substantial barbecue area out on the Seven nights' self-catering for 10 from £5,880, including flights ( • Read our full guide to Mallorca Sleeps 7Most Mallorca villas are at least a little out of town, but this slots neatly into the historical centre of Pollensa at the north end of the island — a five-storey townhouse with a beautiful façade built from the same yellow stone as surrounding architecture (mostly 17th and 18th century). The interior rises from an open-plan ground-level lounge to a top-floor master bedroom overlooking those timewarped rooflines, and the sweetest touch is a private pool terrace that fills the outer courtyard. Pollensa's market, beach, medieval churches and central square Placa Major are effectively around the Seven nights' self-catering for seven from £1,718 ( Fly to Mallorca Sleeps 11Big enough for almost a dozen, with a child-friendly dorm-style bedroom, this south-coast villa rolls out across various outdoor dining and lounging spaces so guests can also look west to sunset over the Med from the pool or roof terrace at dusk. Son Bou beach is just downhill through a small, sleepy residential area, and the location makes a perfect jump-off point for exploring some of the island's most isolated coves and sea caves in rented boats or Seven nights' self-catering for 11 from £6,127, including flights ( • 25 of the best hotels in Mallorca Sleeps 2More a chalet than a complex, this whitewashed bungalow is concentrated on simple, essential pleasures: a private pool with loungers under almond trees, and a cooling, cane-covered porch oriented toward the sunrise. The interior is a cosy open-plan arrangement of kitchen and living room, and surrounding land leads out through orchards into the Tramuntana mountains — prime hiking, cycling, and climbing territory — with the small, sweet central Mallorcan village of Selva a short walk Seven nights' self-catering for two from £1,904 ( Fly to Mallorca Sleeps 10The garden really sells this hillside ranch, with 18-acre grounds across a northwestern valley of olive and orange groves. There are many shaded places to sit or eat half hidden out there under ancient trees while the main house uses lots of local wood inside for added organic effect, from walls to wardrobes to ceiling beams. It's not unduly rustic though: you've also got a cinema room and a big modern kitchen for cooking with the olive oil made on-site. Soller itself is the closest place to eat out, an incredibly attractive town with an outstanding art museum at Can Prunera ( Seven nights' self-catering for ten from £4,582 ( Fly to Mallorca Sleeps 6Rentals are hard to come by in and around the pretty northern fishing village of Cala San Vicente, most local villas being private summer retreats for Spanish owners. This house in the residential outskirts has more character than surrounding properties too, all exposed beams and stones with a lovely lounge on the balcony and a walled garden terrace around the pool. Four separate beaches are a short walk away in turquoise coves under sheer cliffs, and an hour's gentle hike will bring you to Puerto Pollensa for lunch at the new marina. Details Seven nights' self-catering for six from £4,669, including flights, care hire and concierge services ( Sleeps 22That very cool name for a villa — the Eagle's Beak — testifies to the prime hilltop position chosen by the merchant family who built their weekend retreat here almost 200 years ago. It's isolated in a hikeable expanse of central countryside, and a recent restoration revived the best original features: vaulted ceilings, Cuban tiles, a country club living room with a marble bar and library. Eleven bedrooms make room for a big crowd of guests but the set-up allows everyone to spread out across the yoga studio, cinema, and ceramic workshop, with Balinese sunbeds at the pool pavilion in a French-style landscaped Seven nights' full board for 22 from £20,300 ( Fly to Menorca Sleeps 14A 74-acre estate near the island's southeast beaches, this villa sprawls across a private vineyard, mini-golf course, pétanque court and bowling lanes, not to mention two outdoor pools and a hot tub. The interior is modern-Mediterranean; it houses a library, lounge and screening room personalised with the owners' tasteful art. Their passions are also geared toward the gardens, where the grapes, olives, and lavender yield wines, honeys, and oils so good they're used by chefs in Paris (and by the optional house cook right here in the villa kitchen). A housekeeper and concierge service is Seven nights' self-catering for 14 from £12,191 ( Fly to Menorca • Read our full guide to Menorca Sleeps 13At the edge of Alcaufar, a small fishing village on the southeast coast, this property descends to its own private cave, converted into a summer hangout. A concrete platform drops directly into the Med, with a buoy just offshore that guests can rent to tie up small boats out front. It's a fine spot for sailing, the local cove and beach being the very spot where the French landed to retake the island from the British in 1756. Wrapped inside a large garden, the house itself makes for a pretty singular Seven nights' self-catering for 13 from £6,470 ( Fly to Menorca Sleeps 14An actual working finca here, on a 2,500-acre plot home to pigs, cattle and Menorcan horses that you can ride along the isolated trail to the north coast beach of Cala Pilar. That remoteness is a big part of the appeal, with a main farmhouse, a separate lodge in a converted cowshed and an outdoor pool in fields of almonds, olives, herbs and vegetables. Design-wise it's all fittingly traditional: whitewashed walls, rattan furniture, stone fireplaces and a big old country-style dining table, where hosts Toni and Sisca provide outstanding homemade meals (as well as sorting hikes, rides, and massages on request).Details Seven nights' full board for 14 from £13,617 ( Fly to Menorca • The Med island where you can still find splendid isolation Sleeps 8Many Balearic island villas play up proximity to a beach, but few have the Med itself at the end of the garden. This mid-sized, light-filled villa near the southern tip of Menorca looks straight out the kitchen window to an elevated terrace and sun deck overlooking a glowing blue swimming pool on a vivid green lawn, with the sea so close that passing sailboats seem to float over the boundary hedge. The fishing hamlet of Cala Torret on the doorstep, and the bigger, busier coastal resort of Binibeca less than a mile Seven nights' self-catering for eight from £2,170 ( Fly to Menorca Sleeps 4It can be tricky to find smaller villas with a bit of character, especially in the Balearic summer, but this little gem is a good call for couples or families with up to two children. Right on the sea near the southwestern beach of Cala en Bosch, it's a stone-built, open-plan bungalow recently modernised with a subtle maritime design that suits the name and setting. There's a pool terrace outside framed by high walls and plants that make the place feel nicely tucked away from a pretty rich and dynamic corner of the island — a lot of good bars and restaurants are clustered inside the medieval walls of Ciutadella, less than seven miles Seven nights' self-catering for fourfrom £3,640 with flights (
