Northern Spain remains a bit of a local secret, and is largely unvisited. Those who do come though, stay for the medieval towns, sprawling beaches on the Atlantic Coast, and the wonderful inland landscape of Basque Country. For a holiday with the whole family, a family hotel ensures you have all the strappings for a relaxing and fun-filled time – providing special services that take some of the stress of watching the kids off your hands. With them happy and entertained, take some time for yourself, soaking up the Spanish sun and relishing in the unparalleled beauty of the region.
Where to stay at a family hotel in Northern Spain? Northern Spain at a glance:
Western Coast: Beach vacation in Galicia & Cambados
© Parador de Cambados The Western Coast, in the regions of Galicia and Cambados, has everything you need for a dream beach vacation. Chill out in the rejuvenating spas with mineral healing water while the kids splash around at clean beaches. Sip a cocktail at dinner on the hotel terrace, with only the finest Spanish cuisine served. On the little island of Illa Da Toxa, accessible via the gorgeous Ponte de Toxa Bridge from mainland Spain, enjoy a stay almost next door to the stunning Ermida da Toxa Church. Spend a day with the kids at the nearby aquarium and perhaps an evening, at the local casino or one of the many delicious tapas restaurants. At a family hotel in the town of Cambados, settle into a spot tucked between lush forests and sandy beaches, on a cliff or sitting proudly steps away from the Atlantic. The town itself is a fusion of three medieval villages – make sure to check out the artifacts leftover form this time, like the Torre San Sadurnino and the Ruins of Santa Marina.
Northern Coast: Hiking in the mountains of Cantabria & Asturias
© Hosteria de Torazo Nature Spain’s northern coast along the Bay of Biscay, brims with white-sand beaches, Gaudi buildings, and a myriad opportunity for hiking and water sports. Cantabria is a region clad in green, hugged by the inland mountains in the hinterland and fronting the sea on its cliffy coast. A family hotel in Cantabria places you within lush landscapes, primed for hiking and lounging on the beach. Spend an afternoon in the hot-spring Jacuzzis while the kids play in the hotel’s playground or explore the area with a hotel guide. A family hotel in Asturias promises days spent in sprawling swimming pools with views of the mountains, or simply hanging out drinking coffee on the terrace in secluded locations. Northern Spain’s northern coast is the perfect choice for those looking for a peaceful and intimate family vacation, spent within nature, uninterrupted by tourists and the bustle of city life.
Basque Country: Northern Spain’s wonderful countryside
© Aldori Landetxea Basque Country is situated near the border of France, stretching inward from the Atlantic coast. Equipped with a different language from the rest of Spain, a different set of culinary traditions, and a particularly beautiful natural landscape, Basque Country is a place unlike any other. With something for everyone, a family hotel near Laguardia, Bilbao, or deep in the countryside promises an enriching vacation through and through. In Spain’s wine country, enjoy a tour of a local vineyard, sip local cider, or traverse the cobbled streets of some of the area’s exciting cities and towns, like Bilbao, home to one of Modernism’s most iconic buildings, the Guggenheim. The area has plenty of family-friendly activities to intersperse into your relaxation and bonding time: check out the kid-friendly La Concha Beach, the giant puppy statue in Bilbao, or even take a day trip to the amusement park on top of Monte Igueldo in San Sebastian.
Good to know:
Getting there: For a quick and easy transfer from major airports in the UK, hop aboard one of the no-frills airlines and you’ll be in Bilbao, Santander, La Coruna, Santiago, or Vigo in just a couple hours’ time. From these well-equipped airports, you can catch a cab, book a transfer, or a take a bus to get to your hotel. That said, renting a car is always a good idea on a trip with the family – with wheels, you can bounce around between your secluded hotel and whatever sightseeing destination is on the agenda that day. A road trip along the coast of Northern Spain is also highly recommended by locals and visitors alike – a slow trip along the beachy coast and mountainous landscape just can’t be beat. Finally, if you’re looking to arrive in Northern Spain in style, board one of twice-weekly ferries running between Portsmouth (UK) and the Port of Bilbao. Expect an overnight trip.
