Summer Escapes in Northern Spain
- Fénix Digital Technology Digital Agency
- 3d
- 4 min read
Plan your 2025 summer holiday in Northern Spain with our guide to top destinations, from coastal villages to green mountain getaways. Avoid the crowds and travel smart.
Looking for a refreshing getaway this summer? Escape the heat and crowds of the south and venture into Northern Spain’s cooler, greener, and lesser-known treasures. From the misty peaks of the Picos de Europa to the wild Atlantic coast, Northern Spain offers culture, cuisine, and landscapes unlike anywhere else in the country.
If you loved our guide on the Best Hidden Travel Spots in Spain for 2025, this summer itinerary is your next step to experiencing Spain like a local.
Why Choose Northern Spain for Summer Travel?
Northern Spain boasts mild summer temperatures, lush scenery, and unique cultural experiences rooted in Celtic, Basque, and Romanesque traditions. It’s the perfect destination for:
Nature lovers looking for coastal hikes or mountain adventures
Foodies eager to explore the home of pintxos and cider
Travelers seeking authentic, crowd-free towns and villages.
Whether you're planning a road trip or slow travel adventure, the north offers a balance of history, gastronomy, and jaw-dropping landscapes.
Top Destinations for a Northern Spain Summer Getaway
1. Sierra de Bezana, Cantabria: the silence of the mountains and thermal springs
Secluded villages, pine forests, thermal waters - the Sierra de Bezaia is ideal for those who want a break from the hustle and bustle. Hiking trails, bike rides and authentic Cantabrian cuisine will make this place unforgettable.
📌 Tip: Visit the thermal springs in Las Caldas before sunrise, the perfect moment for relaxation.
📌 See also: Hidden gems of Spain
2. Sela, Asturias: a village on the edge of a cliff
Sela is a small mountain village with spectacular views of the Picos de Europa. It combines ancient traditions, cheese shops and unusual panoramic hiking trails.
📌 Tip: Try the Cabrales, a cheese with character that is made right in the caves next to the village.
3. San Juan de Gaztelugache, Basque Country: island of legends
This rocky chapel on an island connected to the shore by an ancient staircase is famous as the filming location for Game of Thrones. But beyond the popularity are the quiet coves, delicious seafood and green coastal trails.
📌 Tip: Arrive before 9am to avoid the influx of tourists and take the best photos.
4. Lugo, Galicia: Roman walls and magical forest
The city of Lugo is famous for its preserved Roman wall, and a few kilometers away is the Fragas do Eumé forest, where magical moss-covered hiking trails await.
📌 Tip: Take a kayak ride along the route along the Eumé River and discover the ancient monasteries.
Read also: Travel Galicia without the crowds (soon...)
5. Navara: route through the Bardenas Desert and the Pyrenees
The unique landscape of the Bardenas-Reales Desert is often compared to Mars. Then head north to the Pyrenees to end your journey in the village of Roncesvalles, filled with the history and atmosphere of the Santiago Way.
📌 Tip: The perfect route to rent a car and stay overnight in cozy “casas rurales”.
Cudillero, Asturias
This cliffside fishing village dazzles with its rainbow-colored houses and peaceful harbors. Visit the lighthouse at sunset, sample fresh seafood, and relax in one of the least touristy coastal gems.
San Sebastián, Basque Country
Famous for its culinary scene, golden beaches, and stylish ambiance, San Sebastián blends sophistication with summer charm. Take a pintxos crawl through the Old Town, then enjoy the view from Mount Igueldo.
📌 See also: The Basque Country: the picturesque Atlantic
Picos de Europa National Park
Ideal for hiking, canyoning, and wildlife spotting, this dramatic mountain range rivals the Alps in beauty but offers a more intimate, less commercial experience. Base yourself in Potes or Cangas de Onís.
Comillas & Santillana del Mar, Cantabria
These fairytale towns in Cantabria charm visitors with cobbled streets, Gaudí architecture, and access to natural wonders like the Altamira Caves.
Santiago de Compostela, Galicia
More than a pilgrimage destination, Santiago comes alive in summer with music festivals, open-air dining, and lush green parks. Don’t miss the Cathedral and the nearby Rías Baixas for wine lovers.
How to Plan Your Route
Travel time: Plan for 7–10 days to explore the region at a relaxed pace.
Transport: A rental car offers the most flexibility. Public transport is available but slower.
Accommodation: Look for rural casas or boutique guesthouses for an immersive experience.
Download our full 2025 Fenix Travel Map with hidden gems and detailed routes.
FAQ About Summer Escapes in Northern Spain
What’s the best month to visit Northern Spain?
July and early September offer warm weather with fewer crowds than August.
Is Northern Spain good for families?
What to pack?
Are the beaches in the north swimmable?
Ready to Plan Your Northern Spain Adventure?
At Fenix.info, we offer curated road trip guides, relocation support, and local insights to help you get the most out of your Spanish journey.
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