Spain is one of Europe’s busiest countries during the summer. But with warm temperatures in many parts of the country until November and mild winters, the off-season is the perfect time for a weekend escape from the UK and other countries with colder climates.
There’s no denying that Spain’s most picturesque towns and cities are great to visit any time of the year, but some can get overwhelming during the high season. In addition to avoiding the crowds, travelling during the off-season – which in Spain goes from November to March – also means better airfare deals and lower hotel prices. There are other reasons to travel to Spain during the winter months, though, like cultural festivals that take place only in the winter. Below, we look at some of the best Spanish towns to visit in the off-season.
Jávea
This seaside town in Spain’s Costa Blanca is known for its idyllic coves and steep coastline. While the town has a relaxed vibe – even at the height of the holiday period in August, it doesn’t feel overridden by tourism – its beaches can get crowded during the summer, especially popular haunts like El Arenal, La Granadella, and Cala del Portixol. Jávea remains sunny until December, and its winter temperatures reach 16-22°C during the day, making it one of the warmest places in the country during this time of year.
Cala Granadella, SpainGetty Images
On the Mediterranean coast, travellers to Jávea can try their hand at plenty of water activities like kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing. However, its shores also draw visitors who prefer to stay on dry land. To the north, Cape San Antonio and Montgó Natural Park have several hiking and cycling trails. There are also tons of foodie draws here: Cala Clemence, a restaurant in Portixol Beach, extends the summer until the end of November and is the place to see and be seen for breakfast or post-lunch drinks while taking in the view of the cove below. La Mar de Chola serves up an exquisite fusion of Peruvian and Japanese flavours (Nikkei cuisine), and its cebiches are memorable. For drinks in a casual beach setting, visitors should head to La Siesta – except in February, when they usually close for renovations.
To stay close to the famous El Arenal Beach, the only sandy beach in town, Parador de Jávea is a good option. Opened in 1965, this four-star hotel has excellent views throughout the property and its 70 rooms all have a balcony or patio. Closer to the restaurant strip, Nomad Hotel Xábia Port sits directly across from the blue-flag La Grava Beach and is a haven for interior design lovers. Earthy tones, wooden touches, and vintage Valencian tiles are found in each of the hotel’s 14 units, some consisting of two bedrooms.
