DISCOVER NEW HORIZONS WITH SECRETSPAIN

REQUESENS CASTLE

Requesens Castle is a historical building in Catalonia, Spain. The main structure is characterized by a triple line of walls, with square and rounded towers. In the lower court is the chapel, including Romanesque elements from original structures of the area

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The Castle probably exists since the 9th century, however in the 19th century, the ruined castle was rebuilt in a neo-medieval style. The castle was extensively used during and after the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939).

CASTELFOLLIT - CATALONIA

Castelfollit, a gem in Catalonia, clings dramatically to the edge of a basalt cliff, offering a picturesque scene straight out of a fairy tale. This historic village, with its narrow, winding streets and centuries-old buildings, invites visitors to step back in time. Overlooking the Fluvià river, its stunning natural surroundings and the iconic Church of Sant Salvador add to its enchanting atmosphere. Castelfollit is not just a destination; it's a journey into Catalonia's heart, where history and beauty converge

VILLALONGA RAILWAY

The old railway lines between Villalonga and Lorcha have been converted into one of the most beautiful trails for hiking in the Valencian Community. You walk in a riverside forest, along banks of river “Serpis, passing through several tunnels and two bridges. About halfway one finds a well preserved building, “Fábrica del Infierno” (the factory of Hell), an old hydroelectric power station. One then crosses into Barranc de l’Infern a declared protected landscape, and finishes at “El Racó del Duc”, a beautiful natural area rated among the best in the Valencian Community.

CASTILLO TORRE SALVANA

This once grand castle is over 1,000 years old, but now sits dilapidated, abandoned, and open for people to explore.

Castillo Torre Salvana dates back to the 10th century. It can be found just outside of the city of Barcelona and is little-known by most people, even many locals who live in the city.

The fortress-like castle is located next to the historic Colonia Güell, a purpose-built village for the workers of a nearby textile mill. The castle was partially destroyed in the Catalan Civil War in 1224. It has sat abandoned for centuries.

EL VALLE DE JERTE

The Valle de Jerte, nestled in the heart of Spain, transforms into a breathtaking spectacle each spring with the blooming of over a million cherry trees, painting the landscape in a vibrant blanket of white. This picturesque valley, with its crystal-clear streams and verdant mountains, offers a serene escape into nature's beauty. Visitors can indulge in the sweet flavors of freshly picked cherries, explore charming villages, and immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions that have thrived in this fertile valley for centuries

EL BIERZO 

El Bierzo, an area of roughly 2,800km2 is located on the western edge of León province, 

While El Bierzo is pretty at any time of the year, it takes on added charm in the fall, when its forests of chestnut and walnut trees start dropping their load on the ground, and the hillsides acquire a variety of hues. This is also the time when El Bierzo’s solid mountain cooking (available in many bars and restaurants) comes into its own, as temperatures begin to drop

ALBUFEA NATIONAL PARK

Albufera National Park, a jewel on the Spanish coast near Valencia, is a mesmerizing blend of biodiversity and beauty. This vital wetland is a haven for birdwatchers, with its serene lagoons and marshes hosting hundreds of bird species. Traditional wooden boats glide over tranquil waters, offering a glimpse into a way of life unchanged by time. Amidst rice paddies that paint the landscape green, Albufera's sunset transforms the sky into a breathtaking canvas, promising an enchanting escape into nature's wonders.

GARDENS OF ARANJUEZ

The Gardens of Aranjuez, a masterpiece of landscape design, unfold in an enchanting display of nature's artistry near Madrid, Spain. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, these gardens mesmerize visitors with their harmonious blend of natural beauty and architectural precision. Majestic trees, delicate flowers, and ornate fountains weave a tapestry of tranquility, while the historical Royal Palace of Aranjuez stands guard, a testament to Spain's rich cultural heritage. Every path and pond tells a story of royal elegance and botanical wonder.

BEECH FOREST OF MONTEJO

The Beech Forest of Montejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Madrid, is a hidden gem that enchants visitors with its ethereal beauty. This ancient woodland, one of Spain's southernmost beech forests, transforms through the seasons, offering a kaleidoscope of colors and experiences. Its mysterious, mist-wrapped trees and the soft rustle of leaves underfoot create a magical atmosphere, inviting wanderers to step into a fairy tale. A visit here promises a serene communion with nature, leaving a lasting impression of wonder and tranquility.

LAS CARCAVAS (THE VALLEY OF DEATH)

There are many and very diverse landscapes across the Spanish geography. One of the most peculiar is found in the north of the Community of Madrid, very close to the Sierra de Ayllón. A reddish canvas of deep and sharp cuts known by the name of carvas that could well be the protagonist of a Martian movie. Others even dare to compare it with the rock formations of Death Valley National Park, in the United States.

But what are the snams? This is the name of the incisions that occur on clay soils and that have strong slopes. 

SIERRA DE CASTRIL

Nestled in the heart of Andalusia, the Sierra de Castril is a breathtaking natural paradise, just a stone's throw from Granada. Its rugged landscapes are a tapestry of craggy peaks, verdant valleys, and crystal-clear rivers, offering a sanctuary for adventure and tranquility alike. Hikers and nature lovers are drawn to its rich biodiversity and mesmerizing vistas, while the whispering winds through ancient pine forests tell tales of the area's rich history and cultural heritage. A visit to Sierra de Castril is an unforgettable escape into nature's embrace.

ALDEADÁVILA DAM

The Aldeadávila Dam, a marvel of engineering nestled along the Douro River, stands as a testament to human ingenuity amidst the rugged beauty of Spain's landscape. Towering walls of concrete harness the river's mighty power, providing vital energy to thousands. Its location within the Arribes del Duero Natural Park adds a layer of majesty, with breathtaking gorges and vistas that captivate the soul. This dam is also  a beacon of harmony between man and nature, drawing visitors to witness its grandeur and the serene beauty of its surroundings.

CASTLE OF COCA

The Castle of Coca, standing majestically in Segovia, Spain, is a masterpiece of Spanish Mudejar architecture, distinguished by its unique blend of Islamic and Christian design. Surrounded by a lush forest, its imposing red brick walls and intricate turrets rise dramatically against the sky. This fortress, once a symbol of power, now invites visitors to step back in time, explore its opulent halls, and marvel at the craftsmanship of a bygone era. A visit to Coca Castle is a journey into the heart of medieval splendor.

CASTLES & WINDMILLS OF CONSEGUIR

Journey into the realm of Conseguir, where the silhouettes of the castle and windmills sketch a tale of valor and innovation against the backdrop of a timeless landscape. These towering structures, with their stories of knights and ingenious minds, stand as monuments to the region's rich historical tapestry. The windmills' blades standout gracefully against the sky. A visit to Conseguir is a step into a storybook, where history and imagination intertwine.

MONASTERIO DE PIEDRA

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Aragon, Spain, the Monasterio de Piedra is a haven of serenity and natural beauty. This historic monastery, founded in the 12th century, is surrounded by lush gardens, thundering waterfalls, and tranquil ponds, creating a mystical atmosphere. Visitors are transported to a world where nature and spiritual heritage intertwine, offering paths of discovery through enchanting landscapes and the timeless architecture of the monastery itself. 

Las Médulas de León

Las Médulas, located in the province of León, Spain, is a striking landscape formed by ancient Roman gold mining. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases eerie, reddish spires and carved hills that dominate the lush greenery of chestnut and oak forests. These monumental remnants of Roman engineering, created through hydraulic mining, offer a vivid glimpse into the past. Today, Las Médulas serves as a stunning natural and archaeological park, attracting visitors with its unique, dramatic vistas and rich history.

Cuevas de Nerja

The Cuevas de Nerja, located in southern Spain, are a series of breathtaking limestone caves known for their vast chambers and impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Discovered in 1959, these caves are a treasure trove of Paleolithic art and archaeological finds, showcasing human history spanning thousands of years. The largest cavern, Sala de los Belenes, hosts concerts due to its natural acoustics. Visiting the Cuevas de Nerja offers a unique glimpse into the Earth's geological past and ancient human civilizations.