See Spain's islands, cities and coastline

16th Mar 2012 by Just You

Spain is a diverse, easygoing and visually stunning country where travellers can do whatever suits them, whether their interests run to adventurous excursions or relaxing getaways.

From the vibrancy and verve of Barcelona to the quaint towns and irresistible beaches of Mallorca, Spain has it all.

Barcelona and Catalonia

The Catalonia region and its capital of Barcelona are among Spain's most colourful and appealing holiday destinations. Famous for food, football, culture and much more, this part of the country offers endless opportunities for visitors.

People enjoying singles holidays in the region can stay in the seaside resort of Calella, which provides a relaxing base from which to set off on tours and excursions.

At the top of the 'to-do' list for many visitors will be exploring Barcelona, which is home to an array of attractions including museums, shopping districts, tapas bars, lively markets and beaches.

Sights to look out for include the distinctive architecture of Antoni Gaudi, which is represented in buildings such as La Pedrera, Casa Calvet and the Sagrada Familia, a stunning Catholic church that has become a symbol of the city.

As well as taking in Barcelona's famous attractions, visitors to Catalonia can enjoy a drive along the coastline of the Costa Brava and see the traditional seaside town of San Feliu de Guixols.

Other highlights of the region include the cliff-side monastery of Montserrat and Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dali.

Mallorca

Mallorca may have become a hotspot for summer holidaymakers from Britain and dozens of other countries, but behind all the hustle-and-bustle and commercial trappings of a major tourist destination is a beautiful island offering delightful scenery and charming towns full of history.

People embarking on solo holidays in Mallorca can discover the true face of the island in locations such as Valldemossa, a scenic hilltop town that can be explored via a maze of narrow streets. The collection of local buildings ranges from old stone properties to luxurious modern villas.

While staying in Santa Ponsa, guests will also have the opportunity to head into the island's capital of Palma, which is home to an imposing Gothic cathedral and several lesser-known attractions.

The Balearic island offers many other memorable experiences, such as riding a vintage train into the hills near the picturesque town of Soller and spending a day in the seafront resort of Puerto Pollensa.

Coastal retreats

Spain's sun-baked coastal areas are among the strongest aspects of its tourism industry and for good reason, with countless beaches and a spectacular range of sights and landscapes to see.

One area that offers the benefits of a stay on the coast without the chaos and congestion is the Costa de la Luz in the far south-west, which boasts sandy beaches, unspoilt nature and a pleasant climate throughout the year.

During their stay in the area, travellers can enjoy a full-day tour of the fascinating city of Seville, cross the border into Portugal to visit Tavira and explore a number of sites associated with Christopher Columbus.

Another option for single holidaymakers planning to combine relaxation with some exhilarating excursions near the Spanish coast is a trip to the Andalucian town of Mijas, which boasts a pretty setting in the foothills of the Sierra de Mijas mountains.

Nearby locations include the clifftop town of Ronda, the Alhambra palace and the British territory of Gibraltar, all of which can be visited during a stay in Mijas.