Spain, a country of diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers countless hidden gems for photography enthusiasts. Beyond the famous landmarks, there are lesserknown spots that capture the essence of Spain’s beauty. Begin your journey in the village of Ronda in Andalusia, perched on a dramatic cliffside, where the Puente Nuevo bridge spans a deep gorge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Ronda’s whitewashed houses and narrow streets make for perfect photo opportunities, especially at sunset when the light casts a golden hue over the town. Moving north to the Basque Country, the coastal town of Zumaia offers a geological wonder known as the Flysch, a series of vertical rock formations along the beach. These layers of sedimentary rock create a striking landscape that looks like something out of a science fiction movie. The best time to photograph the Flysch is during low tide when the formations are fully exposed, and the reflections in the tidal pools add to the surreal atmosphere. In the heart of Spain, the city of Cuenca is famous for its Casas Colgadas, or Hanging Houses, perched precariously over the cliffs of the Huécar River gorge. The medieval old town, with its cobbled streets and ancient buildings, provides a glimpse into Spain’s past. For a unique perspective, capture the Casas Colgadas from the San Pablo Bridge, where the contrast between the architectural ingenuity and the natural landscape is most striking. In the region of CastillaLa Mancha, the Campo de Criptana is home to the iconic windmills that inspired Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote. These whitewashed giants stand proudly on a hill, overlooking the vast plains. Photographers will find endless inspiration in the everchanging light and shadows that play across the landscape, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Finally, venture to the Canary Islands, where the island of La Palma offers some of the clearest skies in the world. Known as a stargazer’s paradise, La Palma’s Roque de los Muchachos Observatory is the perfect place to capture the Milky Way and other celestial wonders. During the day, explore the island’s volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and dramatic coastlines, each providing a unique backdrop for your photography.
In the heart of Catalonia, the village of Besalú is a medieval gem with a photogenic charm that captivates any visitor. Known for its wellpreserved Romanesque architecture, Besalú’s iconic stone bridge, the Pont Vell, with its seven arches and fortified gate, is a dream for photographers. Early morning mist often shrouds the village, creating an ethereal atmosphere that enhances the medieval ambiance. Wander through the narrow cobbled streets and capture the intricate details of the Jewish bathhouse, the mikveh, and the imposing Church of Sant Pere. The surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills and lush greenery, provides a stunning backdrop for landscape photography. Heading south to the region of Extremadura, the Monfragüe National Park is a haven for wildlife photographers. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is home to a diverse array of bird species, including the endangered Iberian imperial eagle and the griffon vulture. The rugged landscapes of rocky cliffs, dense forests, and the meandering Tagus River offer a dramatic setting for nature photography. The park’s iconic Peñafalcón viewpoint provides panoramic views of the river and the surrounding terrain, making it an ideal spot for capturing the park’s natural beauty. In spring, the park comes alive with vibrant wildflowers, adding bursts of color to the landscape. Back in Andalusia, the town of Setenil de las Bodegas is a photographer’s dream, with its unique houses built into the rock face. This picturesque village, nestled in a gorge carved by the Trejo River, offers a surreal blend of human and natural architecture. The whitewashed houses, with their brightly colored doors and windows, contrast beautifully with the rugged rock formations above. Stroll along the Calle Cuevas del Sol and Calle Cuevas de la Sombra, where the overhanging cliffs provide a natural roof for the houses, creating a play of light and shadow that photographers will find irresistible. Setenil’s charm lies in its ability to seamlessly integrate into its natural surroundings, offering endless photo opportunities at every turn. On the northern coast of Spain, the Asturias region is home to the stunning Playa de Gulpiyuri, a hidden inland beach surrounded by green meadows. This small, circular beach, fed by underground tunnels from the sea, is a natural wonder that seems almost too perfect to be real. At high tide, the waters fill the beach’s sandy basin, creating a tranquil pool that reflects the blue sky above. Photographers will find the contrast between the emerald green of the surrounding fields and the turquoise waters of the beach mesmerizing. The rugged cliffs and jagged rocks that encircle Gulpiyuri add a dramatic element to this secluded paradise, making it a mustvisit spot for capturing nature’s artistry. Finally, in the region of Galicia, the town of Combarro offers a glimpse into traditional Galician life with its charming hórreos, or granaries, perched on stone pillars along the seafront. These iconic structures, designed to keep grain dry and away from rodents, create a picturesque scene against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. The narrow streets of Combarro are lined with stone houses adorned with colorful flowers, inviting photographers to capture the timeless beauty of this fishing village. At sunset, the warm glow of the setting sun casts a golden light over the hórreos and the sea, creating a magical atmosphere that is perfect for photography.
