Best Relaxing Spain Vacation: Wine, Yoga, Thermal Pools, and More

The old parts of Madrid, despite their contemporary design that dominates much of the cityscape, retain their traditional flair, especially the Habsburg Quarter. The Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor are emblematic buildings that boast Baroque details, harking back to Spain’s romantic period. The sunshine will flood the large town squares and illuminate Puerta del Sol’s towering belltower. This afternoon, you will continue discovering the spirit of Spain during a tour of Spanish tapas in stylish bars before a heart-throbbing flamenco performance in a charming restaurant.

While Madrid may lack in historical focal points, a trip just beyond the city will showcase its spellbinding history in one of the most royal settings throughout Spain. Today, you will visit the UNESCO World Heritage City of Toledo. Massive, decorated, and hemmed in the luxuriant hills, Toledo is a breathtaking destination that was once diversely cohabited by Moors, Christians, and Jews. Evidence of these three distinctive cultures commands every corner of the venerated city, from damascene art to meticulously crafted statues.

The Tena Valley, which is locally known as the Valle de Tena, is a mountainous region blanketed in prolific vegetation and nestled alongside the Gallego River. You will transfer through the Spanish countryside today and delight in panoramas of emerald hills. Soon, you will spot the snow-capped peaks that loom over the valley. After arriving at a boutique resort in the valley, you will be able to bask in the luxuriant landscapes while exploring the welcoming town. A dreamy sunset will provide a spectacular backdrop to sip on Spanish wines as your day slowly drifts to an end.

Your second day in the Tena Valley will prove to be peaceful and serene as you soak up your sublime surroundings with activities in nature. Beginning with a brisk hike up Piedrafita de Jaca, you will travel off the beaten path with no crowds in sight; only the sprawling wilderness scenes will accompany you and unfold before your eyes. You will catch a glimpse of endemic wildlife, from gliding birds to fleeting mammals, before arriving at your resting place in a flowery field. Here, you can let the scenery seduce you as you partake in a vitalizing yoga class in an untouched mountain paradise.

The Pyrenees Mountain Range is vast and beautiful, stretching hundreds of miles between Spain and France. The mountains also boast and are home to a plethora of ski resorts. Today, you will capture unrivaled views of its staggering peaks in addition to traversing its forested trails on horseback. After a ride backdropped by the mountains, you will warm yourself in the rejuvenating hot springs of Panticosa. Here, unique therapies range from a Finnish massage to a hydromassage pool, either of which will hypnotize you under the imposing crests of the Pyrenees.

The Spanish countryside is riddled with mesmerizing landscape scenes. In Ordesa National Park, you will find more natural beauty to explore. Some of today's activities include strolling along stoned trails, meandering through forest-carpeted hinterlands, resting on the rocky outcrops, gazing at soaring summits, and spending time in charming villages with character. Today, you will cherish moments of quiet contemplation and capture postcard memories to last a lifetime. These pleasures will eventually lead you to the endearing village of Alquezar.

The allure of Alquezar is not found within magnificent monuments and buzzing town squares. Rather, it is found in the maze-like appearance of its tight streets. Alquezar is a town stuck in time that disregards the demand for contemporary invention. This is a quality that can be so charming that you will be in absolutely no rush to leave. By perusing its breathtaking ravine and chatting with friendly locals, you will witness unspoiled scenes and hear fables of Arab kings and mermaids.

You will transfer through the bucolic pastures of Spain today, returning to the city that overflows with palpable energy. Before reaching the city of Barcelona, you will stop in the Spanish wine region where the country’s finest vintages are produced. On these decadent estates, panoramic views of lush vineyards bask in the sun and stretch to the golden hills. With a backdrop of this incredible scene and the soundtrack of a gentle country breeze, you will sip on exceptional wines and learn about each estate's meticulous craftsmanship.

Medieval character shines in Barcelona’s beloved Gothic Quarter, the location of choice for your morning bicycle trip. As you spend time slowly appreciating its traditional qualities, you will be bestowed with the incredible finds that line its cobblestone streets. There will be much to adore, from the Roman relics and ruins to the lofty spires of Gothic cathedrals. Afterward, you may spend the remainder of the day relaxing on the lively beachfront of Barceloneta before tucking into Spanish tapas.

Barcelona is a cosmopolitan city that exudes Modernist charm, specifically in the phenomenal work of Antoni Gaudi. Today, you will revel in a guided tour of his masterpieces, beginning beneath the evocative facade of Casa Batllo. With a bit of insight into his whimsical style, you will continue to the colorful mosaics that litter Guell Park before admiring the astonishing spires and stained murals of the Sagrada Familia. Each architectural work will dazzle and enchant you on this surreal tour.

Although your extensive exploration of Spain will be coming to an end shortly after the sunshine has flooded the city, you will be returning home vitalized after this gentle expedition through the Spanish countryside. You can allow yourself to enjoy your final moments in Barcelona by sipping on coffee and savoring Spanish tapas. Soon, you will be collected by your driver and transferred to the international airport.