The Best Places to Take a Sabbatical in Spain
In today's fast-paced world, many are dying to escape from the hustle and bustle, venturing into places that can rejuvenate their minds and soul as they immerse in a vibrant culture. Spain is the perfect destination for this. Your sabbatical trip to Spain offers an exciting opportunity to embark on an enriching journey as you explore breathtaking landscapes, historic cities, and picturesque islands.
Here are the best places to take a sabbatical in Spain.
Ibiza
Renowned for its incredible nightlife scene, stunning resorts, and beautiful beaches, Ibiza is an easy choice for your sabbatical trip to Spain. The party scene is concentrated in the south and spills into the fabulous white sand beaches during the day. Beyond the parties, Ibiza has charming historic towns, lively hippy markets, and a fantastic dining scene.
You'll have numerous options when heading to the beach in Ibiza. Aside from the lively party beaches, the island has family-friendly bays and remote coves, ideal for those who crave peace and tranquillity. You'll find a quieter atmosphere at the far end of Playa d'en Bossa. It doesn't have any of those busy bars and is a favourite of beachgoers looking for a chilled-out atmosphere.
If you want to learn some history, the Old Town is the best place to be. Steeped in culture and history, the Old Town is a fun place to explore on foot, where you'll come across old structures dating as far back as the 16th century. If you have built an appetite after strolling around, sit in a traditional restaurant and order local delicacies like paella and ensaimadas.
Mallorca
Mallorca is the biggest among Spain's Balearic Islands. It's a fantastic place to visit all year round. Aside from its beautiful beaches, Mallorca boasts a unique culture and delectable cuisine. In addition, it has a reputation as a world-class destination, hosting some of the world's most prestigious sailing events. Mallorca is perfect for those seeking a little R&R on their sabbatical to Spain.
One of Mallorca's biggest draws is its incredible natural landscapes. If you love exploring the great outdoors, visit Serra de Tramuntana. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a rugged limestone mountain range stretching the length of Mallorca's northwest coast.
Like the other Balearic Islands, Mallorca has its share of paradisical beaches lapped by turquoise waters. Some are tucked in the island's quiet corners, while others are full of beachgoers and those wanting to try water sports. Some of the best beaches in Mallorca are Cala Deià, Cala Formentor, and Cala Varques.
Food lovers will have a blast discovering Mallorca's varied food scene. It's famous for its ensaimada, a delightful pastry with different fillings, such as pumpkin preserve, cream, and chocolate. Try the sobrasada, an orange-flavoured sausage made with ground pork and spices, best paired with local wine.
Menorca
If you want to spend your sabbatical in a stunning Mediterranean island destination that's easy to reach, Menorca is an ideal option. It's Balearic's second-largest island, renowned for its stunning beaches with crystal clear waters. As one of Spain's top holiday destinations, you will find plenty of lovely villas in Menorca, offering the perfect place to stay for a sabbatical.
Menorca may be smaller than Mallorca, but it also has numerous beaches boasting fine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, similar to the Caribbean. Visit Cala Macarella, considered Menorca's most beautiful beach. It's a tiny cove with fine white sands, flanked by rugged cliffs and lush pine forest. Another beach worth visiting on the island is Son Bou, boasting over 2 km of golden sands, running along the island's south coast.
Nature lovers on a sabbatical to Spain should explore Menorca's varied landscape. In 1993, it was declared a Biosphere Reserve, and you'll find Areas of Special Interest throughout the island, such as the Albufera des Grau Natural Park. If you love hiking, you'll find numerous trails leading to stunning wetlands, dunes, and coastal islets.
Tenerife
Choose Tenerife if you're heading to the Canary Islands for your sabbatical. The charming island offers incredible landscapes and numerous activities to do. Also called the "island of eternal spring," it boasts an excellent climate all year round, with mild temperatures and sun shining all seasons.
Being a diverse island, you'll find everything in Tenerife. Whether you're fond of the beach, mountains, or historic towns, there is something for everyone on the island. Aside from sunbathing on its incredible beaches, you can indulge in fun outdoor activities like hiking in volcanic landscapes, swimming with turtles, exploring deserted canyons, or strolling around the historic centre of La Laguna.
Tenerife also offers numerous scenic trails for all levels of hikers. If you love climbing mountains, you should ascend to the majestic Mount Teide, Spain's highest mountain, at over 3,000 meters above sea level. Another famous hike in Tenerife is the descent towards the gorges of Masca and the walks through the lush forest of Anaga. If you're an avid golfer, visit Costa Adeje, home to the island's best golf courses.
Lanzarote
If you want to visit a beautiful island with a unique landscape, venture into Lanzarote on your sabbatical trip to Spain. The island's volcanic landscape, lava fields, and black and red soil are a contrast to its whitewashed villages and deep blue waters. Located in the easternmost section of the Canary Islands, the island will delight you with its fascinating natural attractions and fantastic beaches.
In addition to its unique scenery that seems like you're on planet Mars, Lanzarote has many stunning beaches, offering the perfect place to relax in the sunshine. Many beaches have calm and shallow waters, best suited for families with little kids. There are also beaches for those who like waves and long scenic walks by the coast.
Lanzarote's pleasant weather has made it a hub for outdoor sports. The island offers the perfect condition for outdoor sports like cycling, hiking, surfing, windsurfing, and diving. In fact, the island has hosted several prestigious sporting events.