Exploring Hidden Gems in Spain and Portugal: Off-the-Beaten-Path Wonders You Can’t Miss

For most travelers, Spain and Portugal are picturesque with iconic cities Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon, and Porto. Undoubtedly, those destinations are breathtaking, yet the Iberian Peninsula has a secret treasury of smaller, lesser-known places that are just as filled with culture, history, and stunning landscapes with much smaller crowds.
At Travellife DMC, we think that experiences should be more than ordinary. Join us for a journey through off-the-beaten-path Spain and Portugal, ideal for tailor-made group trips, FITs, or MICE travel that you will never forget.

Spain’s Hidden Gems: Where Tradition Meets Tranquility

1. Albarracín, Aragón

Typically considered one of Spain’s most beautiful villages, Albarracín is a medieval hilltop town set in the mountains of Teruel. Its pink-colored buildings, cobblestone streetways, and medieval walls give a feeling of being in a fairy tale.
These destinations are best suited for:

Don’t miss: The breathtaking views from the walls of the fortress and the centuries-old cathedral

Add-on concept: Regional cheese and cured meats tasting tour

2. Ronda, Andalucía

Although well-liked by some tourists, Ronda is relatively untouristy in comparison with Andalucía’s more populous cities. It is situated spectacularly above a gorge and is renowned for its bridge of stone, white-walled houses, and bull culture.

Don’t miss: Puente Nuevo, the former bullring, and the Arab baths

Travel Tip: Take a private wine tasting tour in the Serranía de Ronda area

3. Cudillero, Asturias

Nestled into a cliffside on Spain’s dramatic north coast, Cud

This Western Spanish UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a wildlife and bird-watching enthusiast’s dream. Less crowded than some of Spain’s more popular parks, it provides dramatic cliffs, great biodiversity, and Roman remains.

Don’t miss: Iberian imperial eagle spotting or vultures

Sustainable choice: Pair with a stay in a country finca (rural country house)

4. Extremadura’s Monfragüe National Park

With its sweeping vistas of the Lake of Alqueva and untouched medieval streets, Monsaraz is one of the most charming hilltop villages in Portugal. Centuries of tales are revealed in its white-painted houses and castle walls.

Don’t miss: Megalithic monuments and local artisan workshops

Tour Highlight: Stargazing tours in Europe’s first Starlight Tourism Destination

Portugal’s Hidden Corners: Serenity and Soul

1. Monsaraz, Alentejo

With its sweeping vistas of the Lake of Alqueva and untouched medieval streets, Monsaraz is one of the most charming hilltop villages in Portugal. Centuries of tales are revealed in its white-painted houses and castle walls.

Don’t miss: Seafood lunch in the harbor and a hike up to the lighthouse

Recommended group activity: A local fisherman-guided boat tour to learn about traditional fishing methods

2. Azenhas do Mar, Sintra Coast

This cliffside seaside village seems straight from a postcard. Sintra may take most of the glory, but Azenhas do Mar provides more peace and breathtaking views of Atlantic.

Don’t miss: Oceanfront natural pool and grilled octopus at a cliffside restaurant

Travel Tip: Private tour of Sintra’s palaces and then cocktails here during sunset

3. Douro International Natural Park

This park, situated in north-eastern Portugal and hugging the Spanish border, is less touristy than the picturesque Douro Valley, and offers dramatic river gorges, isolated hiking paths, and authentic villages.

Don’t miss: Kayaking through the canyons or a visit to the prehistoric rock engravings in Foz Côa

Sustainable experience: Wine and local dining experiences at an eco-lodge

4. Piódão, Serra do Açor

This schist village is nestled into the mountains with slate roofs and stone homes, and is one of the most atmospheric and photogenic spots in central Portugal.

Don’t miss: Serra do Açor hiking paths and traditional Portuguese cuisine in a local taverna
Recommended activity: Include a guided historical walk with a local storyteller

Create Tailor-Made Journeys for Your Clients with Travellife DMC

Whether you’re planning a private group escape, a luxury FIT, or an out-of-the-ordinary incentive trip, Travellife DMC is here to provide you with the experience that lies beyond the masses. With more than a decade of expertise, we craft authentic, seamless, and inspiring travel experiences throughout Spain and Portugal.

Call us now and begin planning your client’s next unforgettable journey.