On the Map

On the Map: Unmissable Stays in Spain

12 August 2022

“Oh, this year we’re off to sunny Spain…”

If you’re of a certain vintage, you’ll not only know the rest of the lyrics to Y Viva España, you’ll also know that sandy Spanish beaches have been a mainstay of British holidaymakers for decades.

But what you may not know is that there’s much more to Spain than sangria and straw donkeys!

For one thing, Spain is one of the world’s 50 largest countries, which means that whatever your holiday pleasure, you’re bound to find it here.

Look to the Iberian Peninsula for that classic mix of coast and climate: to Andalucia for culture, tradition, and fiery fiestas! Head to the north of Spain, and the captivating Basque region, for the very best Rioja, while for sherry and gazpacho you can’t beat Cadiz or Malaga (seriously).

Meanwhile, unsurpassed city breaks can be spent in the likes of Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia… but if all else fails, and it’s that traditional Spanish beach holiday you crave, then you won’t go wrong with a visit to Palma or Ibiza.  

However you decide to discover Spain’s many delights, there’s a fabulous Host Unusual retreat waiting for you.  

Each one is distinctive and special – perfect for a Spanish break that’s quite unlike any other!
Author: Nina Jervis
Main image: Calma Nordica | Galicia

Otro Mundo

Elche De La Sierra, Castilla La Mancha, Spain
Soak up the serenity of spectacular Southern Spain at Otro Mundo - an incredible retreat in the mountains of Sierra del Sugura, offering two retro-inspired, wonderfully exclusive Eco Domes.
Bedrooms: Studio
Sleeps: 2 or 4 per unit
From
£53 / night

Cuevas Helena

Benamaurel, Granada, Andalucia, Spain
Cuevas Helena defines unique cave living for the modern age, set deep in the heart of the Andalucian countryside.
Bedrooms: 3
Sleeps: 6
From
150 / night

Finca de Arrieta Yurts

Arrieta, Lanzarote, Spain
Luxury Lanzarote eco-yurt accommodation set within a friendly family-run finca, where nothing is too much trouble!
Bedrooms: Varies
Sleeps:
From
£840 / week

Finca de Arrieta Eco Cottages

Arrieta, Lanzarote, Spain
A friendly and family-run off-grid resort, set in one of Lanzarote's most tranquil and unspoilt locations.
Bedrooms: Varies
Sleeps: 2-8
From
£840/ week

Refugio Marnes

Benissa, Alicante, Spain
Indulge in a luxurious Bedouin tent fit for royalty, found within the refreshing rural retreat of Refugio Marnes, on Spain's breathtaking Costa Blanca.
Bedrooms: 1
Sleeps: 2
From
110€ / night

Villa CP

Girona, Catalonia, Spain
A lovingly restored, eco-friendly Catalan farmhouse with natural swimming pool, for luxury group breaks steeped in peaceful tradition.
Bedrooms: 4 (+1)
Sleeps: 8 (+2)
From
£2790 (1 week)

Ermita del Carmen

Carcabuey, Andalucia, Spain
Ermita del Carmen is a stunning 15th century chapel conversion, set within the soul-soothing natural heart of Andalucia.
Bedrooms: 4
Sleeps: 8
From
£580 / night

Urgell Apartment

Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
An architect-designed, cutting-edge penthouse overlooking the heart of Barcelona's thriving Sant Antoni district.
Bedrooms: 2
Sleeps: 4
From
£350 /night

Macaronesian Eco Suites Caves

San Cristobal de la Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
Live in harmony with the natural world in a Tenerife cave suite steeped in rustic luxury and just a short drive from the beach.
Bedrooms: 2
Sleeps: 4
From
£145 / night

DDG Retreat

Casares, Andalucia, Spain
The ultimate in unique Andalusian luxury; a peacefully private glamping haven featuring the world's most opulent tents.
Bedrooms: 1 per unit
Sleeps: 2 per unit
From
£300 / night

Solo Office

Cretas, Aragón, Spain
Jaw-droppingly innovative architecture, secluded amongst untouched forest land set within the mountainous ‘Spanish Tuscany'.
Bedrooms: 4
Sleeps: 6 adults
From
£570 / night

Cuevas Las Nubes

Albalate de Zorita, Guadalajara, Spain
Rest your head in a cloud-like cave for two, set close to Madrid in the rural heart of Spain's La Alcarria.
Bedrooms: 1 per cave
Sleeps: 2 per cave
From
£107 / night

Cuevas de Bardenas

Valtierra, Navarra, Spain
A unique, awe-inspiring labyrinth of cave houses for couples, friends and families, beautifully set in Northern Spain.
Bedrooms: Varies
Sleeps: 2-7 per cave
From
£190 /night

Cuevas La Granja

Benalua, Andalucia, Spain
An exquisite collection of restored cave houses to suit every taste, set on an historic farm site in the rural heart of Granada.
Bedrooms: 6 units
Sleeps: 2-6
From
£52 / night (studio)

Eco Fisherman's Cottage

Arrieta, Lanzarote, Spain
A quaint and historic off-grid retreat, featuring soothing sea views and an authentic slice of rustic village life in Lanzarote.
Bedrooms: 1
Sleeps:
From
£110 / night

Miluna

Hormigos, Castilla La Mancha, Spain
Savour a star-sprinkled dream in nature, from the comfort of your own private ‘moon' set amongst wide open Spanish countryside, mere moments from the World Heritage city of Toledo.
Bedrooms: 1 per 'moon'
Sleeps: 2 per 'moon'
From
£237 / night

La Esperanza

Granada, Andalucia, Spain
A grand, authentic hacienda with luxury suites, a swimming pool, and a designer courtyard inspired by the Alhambra, nestled amongst private flower gardens just 35 minutes from Granada.
Bedrooms: 6
Sleeps: Up to 14
From
£394 / night

Calma Nordica

A Coruña, Galicia, Spain
A sanctuary of calm inspired by the rural barns of northern Europe, rich in luxurious simplicity and secluded among the picture-perfect landscape of northwest Spain.
Bedrooms: 3
Sleeps: 6 (+1)
From
£215 / night

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