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Spanish ‘beach' in lesser-visited city is one of Europe's warmest with average highs of 31C
THE hottest and sunniest European beaches have been revealed - and an honourable mention goes to one that isn't even on the coast.
Saga Holidays has put together a list of Europe's sunniest beaches, and has revealed that Valdearenas Beach in Córdoba is one of them - despite being nowhere near the sea.
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Valdearenas Beach is in the landlocked city of Córdoba - which was one of the top trending European destinations in 2025.
The beach is completely man-made, sits on the banks of the Iznájar Reservoir and has sandy shores.
But the best part is that in the high season, average temperatures reach up to 31C.
According to Saga Holidays, Valdearenas Beach outperforms two coastal competitors in Badajoz, Playa de Cheles and Playa de Orellana, by 1C.
One visitor on Tripadvisor described it as being a "great lakeside beach with lovely lake for swimming or kayaking or pedaloing! Not crowded or touristy."
Another said: "The views are incredible. Some mornings it is just so quiet, you feel like the only person on earth."
Anyone wanting a dip will be happy to know that you can enjoy swimming, rent kayaks and pedal boats, or try paddleboarding.
During the summer months, the water turns a vibrant blue and the golden sands become a sunbathers paradise.
Some visitors remarked it can appear even hotter as there is no shade apart from some provided by the sun umbrellas that pop up during the summer.
The beach is about an hour inland from the southern coast of Spain.
The Spanish beach resort named the best in the country
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As for the city of Córdoba, it is known for having the most UNESCO sites in the world.
These include the Mosque-Cathedral, the historic city centre, the Festival of the Patios (Courtyards), and Medina Azahara.
The culture capital is popular for anyone wanting to take a close look at history with the Mosque-Cathedral being built in the 8th century.
For anyone who wants to see something particularly spectacular, schedule a visit to Córdoba during the Festival of the Patios.
The event is held during the first two weeks in May - and has been since 1921.
This annual event showcases the city's most beautiful and historic courtyards, which are decorated with flowers and are opened to the public.
Córdoba is an hour's drive away from Seville where Sun Travel found cheap wine and beautiful royal palaces.
Down towards the coast is also this underrated Spanish beach destination that's popular for winter sun.
