Below is a map of some of the most beautiful villages in Spain. And it is not because we say they are but because they belong to a select list awarded by the Association Los Pueblos más Bonitos de España (Most beautiful villages in Spain).
To belong to this list the village must meet the following criteria:
- Have no more than 15.000 inhabitants.
- Have a recognized architectural or environmental patrimony.
- Have a program that preserves this patrimony by, amongst other measures, reducing motor traffic, preserving historical homogeneity and prioritising green spaces.
Obviously, there are many beautiful villages that have not been included in this list. Indeed, you may even have your own list of suggestions and candidates. However, when planning your trip to Spain, this list may be a good place to start. You are sure to discover some new places.
And in case you are wondering, here are some of our favorites:
Tejeda
This picture perfect village is set amongst the volcanoes of the Island of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands. It’s also on the Camino de Santiago de Gran Canaria!
Zuheros
Zuheros is everything you expect from an Andalucian village: a church, a castle, and lots of whitewashed homes. We stop here for lunch on our Andalucian Affair Tour.
Laguardia
This medieval walled ton sits on the top of a ridge in the heart of the Rioja wine region of southern Basque Country. It makes an easy day trip from Logroño, the city where we end our Chapter 1 Tour.
Castrojeriz
Situated on the threshold of the Meseta, Castrojeriz is one of the most iconic and beautiful villages on the Camino. We walk through town on our Chapter 2 Tour (only for former clients).
Castrillo de los Polvazares
Castrillo is a perfect example of a Castilian maragato village. The Camino crosses the Maragato region on its way to the Iron Cross and the Bierzo valley.