At Sunvil, our aim is to introduce travellers to the real country; shining a spotlight on lesser-known destinations and favouring locally-owned accommodation. In Spain we have found a country deserved of our refreshingly-unique approach to holidays and which rewards those who venture beyond the mainstream holiday resorts.
In the northern provinces of Asturias, Galicia and the Basque Country the weather is oceanic without a well-defined summer with rainy days representing almost half the annual total with maximum temperatures between 25°C and 26°C and minimum 6°C to 7°C. In Andalucia in the south, summer temperatures can reach 40°C in Seville, although the average in July is 28°C with winter average temperatures at around 11°C.
Culturally Spain is as diverse as its weather, with the south, having been under Moorish occupation for 500 years until 1492 still showing visible signs of that period in all the Andalucian cities.
Beginning with Andalucia and then travelling north to Extremadura we have researched a series of itineraries, some of which feature two centre suggestions with Portugal, which explore the lesser known areas of these regions. You will be surprised at the beauty of the landscapes, and of the many national parks and the picture postcard towns, villages and cities which are still generally unknown to many.
East of Extremudara is Castile and Leon (Castilla y Leon) which also borders Portugal but is often ignored as it is landlocked. However, it is the largest autonomous community in Spain, with Valladolid as its capital. It is said that Spanish culture was born in this region which has a long historical tradition. Here you will find some of the most beautiful and historically rich cities in Spain; like Salamanca, known for its 12th century university, Renaissance churches and the Baroque Plaza Major. Segovia has an ancient Roman aqueduct with over 160 arches and a hilltop Alcazar castle dominates the city. The Spanish Gothic cathedral in the city of Burgos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city of Leon too has a superb Gothic cathedral and many other historical buildings including the Basilica de San Isidoro and the Casa Botines designed by Gaudi.
It is in Castile and Leon that you will find a collection of the most beautiful boutique historic spa hotels, the Castilla Termal Monasterio de Valbuena, the Castilla Termal Burgo de Osma, the Castilla Termal Olmedo and the Castilla Termal Brihuega. The ultimate in a spa, multi centre trip with a difference.
Catalonia, or more specifically the Costa Brava, is the latest area within Spain which we have recently explored. We consider the coastline of Costa Brava in the province of Girona, Catalonia and specifically that between San Pol and Sa Riera, to be the most beautiful coastline in Spain. This is not a newly discovered tourist destination but is an area that has resisted the blight of large hotels and over development which has marred so many of the beautiful coastal areas of the Mediterranean.
Behind the dramatic coastline and pretty villages rise the mountains of the Pyrenees, areas ideal for hiking and for breathing the mountain air. A region of rushing rivers, rugged landscapes, delicious food and a vibrant culture. The two, fused together, along with the historic city of Girona make the most perfect of holiday choices.
Over a period of time more regions will be added but we intend to take one step at a time - it’s a big place!
