Tenerife is among the top destinations in the country for immersing oneself in nature. When it comes to family getaways, Spain offers a diverse range of experiences. From volcanic parks to coastal wonders, it’s a place that you can revisit numerous times and still uncover new adventures. To assist you in planning your next excursion, we’ve compiled a selection of the finest family vacation spots in Spain.
Whether you’re traveling with young children or teenagers, our thoughtfully curated list caters to families who enjoy outdoor exploration and connecting with the natural world. Each recommendation is brimming with activities to engage the whole family, from rock climbing to windsurfing and more.
Our list showcases secluded locales that offer a respite from bustling resort towns and mainstream tourist attractions. These picturesque destinations are perfect for bonding with family members and embarking on unforgettable adventures to create lasting memories.
Costa de la Luz
The coastline is dotted with charming whitewashed villages / ©Shutterstock
Commencing our lineup of the best family vacation destinations in Spain is Costa de la Luz – a scenic stretch of the Andalusian coastline that spans from the Province of Cadiz to the mouth of the Guadiana River in the Province of Huelva.
With its verdant pine forests, pristine beaches, and secluded coves, this region is an ideal escape from the crowds. The shoreline is adorned with quaint whitewashed villages connected by narrow cobblestone streets and picturesque churches.
Located at the southernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Tarifa is a must-visit destination. Renowned for its windy conditions on the Strait of Gibraltar, it’s a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Playa de Valdevaqueros, a golden sandy beach popular among kite surfers, is one of the windiest spots in the area. Additionally, there are windsurfing schools offering specialized courses for children.
Tarifa also presents excellent opportunities for whale watching; starting in spring, killer whale pods migrate to the Mediterranean Sea entrance to hunt bluefin tuna. Consider booking a tour with a marine biologist for a chance to observe bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, and sperm whales.
Las Médulas
The dramatic red cliffs offer a captivating sight, especially during sunset / ©Shutterstock
Our next stop is Las Médulas – a historic gold mining site nestled between Leon and Ponferrada in the El Bierzo region of Leon. The striking red cliffs adorned with wildflowers and chestnut trees exude a mesmerizing beauty, particularly at sunset.
Once the largest open-pit goldmine in the Roman Empire, Las Médulas is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The awe-inspiring landscape is a result of ruina montium (the wrecking of the mountains), an ancient Roman mining technique that utilized water pressure to disintegrate the soil, revealing the hidden gold deposits beneath.
Ideal for families, this area offers a plethora of activities, from exploring natural caves to hiking and horseback riding along the trails. Don’t miss the opportunity to drive to the nearby city of Ponferrada to visit the Templar Castle – a grand fortress erected by Ferdinand II in 178 AD to safeguard pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago.
Matarraña
The enchanting town of Valderrobres is a delightful family vacation destination / ©Shutterstock
Our selection of the best family vacation destinations in Spain would be incomplete without a mention of Matarraña. Nestled in a secluded corner of Aragon bordering Valencia and Catalonia, this region offers a tranquil retreat away from the tourist crowds.
Often likened to Tuscany for its charming medieval villages and meticulously tended vineyards, Matarraña is a serene haven perfect for a relaxing family holiday. Spend your days exploring the towns of Valderrobres, Calaceite, and Cretas before venturing out on bike or horseback to discover the Puertos de Beceite National Park.
A short drive from Valderrobres leads to the Vulture Center. Here, visitors can observe Jose Ramon and his wife feeding the vultures daily. Matarraña also boasts various secluded ponds, including a serene natural pool just outside the village of Beceite.
For culinary enthusiasts, Matarraña offers a gastronomic delight. Renowned for its exceptional olive oil, cured ham, and peaches, the region boasts numerous traditional eateries scattered throughout its hilltop villages.
Garrotxa
Garrotxa is celebrated for its breathtaking volcanic landscapes / ©Shutterstock
For a truly immersive natural experience, Garrotxa is a fantastic choice. Nestled amidst the Pyrenees foothills in northern Spain, this ruggedly beautiful region of Catalonia is renowned for its stunning volcanic terrain.
Families will delight in exploring the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park – the best-preserved volcanic area on the Iberian Peninsula, featuring 40 volcanic cones. Rest assured, none of these volcanoes are currently active, with the most recent eruption occurring approximately 11,000 years ago at Volca de Croscat.
Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife inhabiting the park; you may encounter wild boars, foxes, short-toed eagles, woodpeckers, marsh tits, and peregrine falcons. For panoramic views of the landscape, consider trekking up the slopes of Montsacopa volcano (note that the climb is quite steep and more suitable for teenagers and experienced hikers).
Tenerife
Mount Teide stands as the highest peak in Spain and the third tallest volcano globally / ©Shutterstock
Wrapping up our list is Tenerife. As the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, it stands out as a prime destination for families seeking to immerse themselves in nature. At the heart of the island lies Mount Teide, a majestic volcano soaring 12,100 feet above sea level, making it the highest peak in Spain and the third tallest volcano worldwide.
Embark on an exploration of the Teide National Park by foot or bicycle, keeping an eye out for the island’s unique lizard and gecko species. Don’t forget your binoculars; bird enthusiasts can spot kestrels, grey herons, and the endemic blue chaffinch.
Tenerife offers a plethora of family-friendly activities. Consider spending an afternoon at the island’s enchanting botanical gardens or visiting the Loro Parque to catch a glimpse of ring-tailed lemurs, Cuban crocodiles, and giant tortoises.