Spain is an infinitely diverse country, its northern territories are not at all similar to the southern and central parts. Here, each city has its own face and character. And the nature of the north of Spain is significantly different from the nature and climate of the rest of the country. The history of these places is rooted in antiquity, and it left a huge mark on the culture and appearance of this part of the country. Let's talk about what interesting places in the north of Spain are worth visiting and why.
Geography
Spain is one of the largest countries. It occupies 85% of the territory of the Iberian Peninsula. Because of such a large space, different parts of the state are very different in relief and climatic conditions. The north of Spain is predominantly occupied by mountain ranges and high plateaus of the Meseta and the Cantabrian mountains, and only areas along the coast are characterized by a flat landscape descending towards the water.
The extreme northern point of the country is Cape Estaca de Bares. The coasts of the north are indented with numerous bays and bays with rocky shores and caves. Thanks to the favorable influence, the northern parts of the country are called "Green Spain", because there are many forests with rich vegetation.
The northern coast is divided among 9 provinces: Galicia, Asturias, Castile and Leon, Cantabria, Basque Country, Rioja, Navarre, Aragon and Catalonia. Since Aragon and Catalonia lie in the northeast and have vast areas covering other parts of the country, they are usually not classified as northern territories.
Climate
Spain covers three climatic zones at once. Each of them has significant differences from other territories. The climate of northern Spain is oceanic, with high rainfall. Summers in these parts are not very hot, and winters are mild and very humid. Here everything is in moderation, both warm and cold. In this, the north is very different from the rest of Spain, where temperature contrasts are strong.
History
On the northern coast of Spain, people lived a million years ago. Archaeologists have found traces of people living in these parts at the beginning of the Stone Age. These lands have always been attractive for life, so there was no peace in these territories for a long time. The history of the northern regions of Spain is a history of wars, conquests, alliances and reconciliations. For example, the historical region in northern Spain, Asturias, was conquered by the Roman Empire, and then fought for independence for a long time with varying success, but, unlike many Spanishprovinces, it has never been under the rule of the Moors.
Each province had its own kings, princes, so today they are so different from each other. So, the Basque Country, for example, in its traditions, history, language is significantly different from Asturias and Cantabria.
Holiday features
Spain confidently ranks second in popularity among foreign tourists. They are attracted here not only by 300 sunny days a year, but also by a rich history, vibrant gastronomic national traditions, and beautiful nature. The northern part of the country is not a leader in tourist traffic, and this is explained by the fact that the beach season here is shorter than in the southern regions, and the weather is cooler. However, this is the main charm of the north, here you can still find solitude, admire untouched nature. Although the prices for holidays in the northern regions are often higher than in the promoted resorts of the Mediterranean. But it's not in vain, for example, San Sebastian has long been considered a place of aristocratic recreation.
Tourists go north not only to spend time on the beach, but also to see local attractions, and there are many of them. The question of what to see in the north of Spain is not worth it, here each city and region is a separate series of exciting discoveries. Rather, the question is how to have time to see, if not everything, it is almost impossible, then at least a lot? The northern provinces are a harmonious combination of sightseeing, beach and educational recreation. Many nationalholidays, the local cuisine of each province deserves a whole study, and the beauty of nature can be enjoyed endlessly.
Beach vacation
Famous resorts in the north of Spain are located along the entire coastline of the Bay of Biscay. The infrastructure here is excellent, usually higher class than on the Costa Brava or Costa Dorada, which are well known to Russians. The beaches are mostly sandy, despite the fact that rocks are close to the coast. One of the reasons why there is not a huge flow of “beachers” to the north is that the waters of the Bay of Biscay are treacherous and at times there can be strong currents and waves here, which will frighten even experienced swimmers. The water here also warms up less than the Mediterranean Sea, and the descent is often quite abrupt. This all leads to the fact that there are fewer families with small children on these shores. These places are for aesthetes, for those who want not only to lie on the beach, but also to immerse themselves in national, very original cultures, enjoy the most beautiful landscapes, comprehend the basics of unique gastronomic traditions.
Attractions
All European countries are rich in interesting places and numerous historical and architectural monuments, and the north of Spain is no exception. The sights of the region reflect the interesting history of these places. Tourists are attracted to objects of two groups in the northern provinces: these are the most beautiful natural parks and famous monuments of history and art. Northern cities are real collections of sights. For example, Bilbao, Oviedo or Santiagode Compostela is a real tourist Mecca with many interesting objects.
Nature
The north of Spain differs from the rest of the country in the most diverse nature, If in Central and Southern Spain the natural environment is a hot land with sparse vegetation, and nature is mainly represented by gardens and parks, then in the north the world of flora is very rich and fauna. There are several national reserves with unique nature, which is interesting to study and you can just admire it. For example, the alpine park Picos de Europa allows you to see the original appearance of the alpine landscape with forests, rivers and mountain peaks. The landscapes of the north are more picturesque and varied than the rest of the provinces. Therefore, summer hiking is developed here, and rural tourism is also very popular.
Galicia
The capital of the region - Santiago de Compostela is called the Third Rome due to the fact that the famous pilgrimage center of Christians is located here, as the relics of St. James are kept here. The city itself is very beautiful and interesting, in addition to the amazing Cathedral, there is a 16th century pilgrimage shelter, an old university and many buildings from the 16th-18th centuries.
Vigo is the largest Galician city in northern Spain, interesting in that part of it is located on the islands, which can only be reached by ferry, here are the beaches included in the top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world. La Coruña is another interesting city in Galicia. One of the main attractions is the lighthouse, built over two thousand years ago. Here you also need to see the longest glazed facades of houses. But the main attraction of the region is its cuisine. Local dishes of caldo, empanada, tapas with fish and seafood attract gourmets from all over the world. There are several original varieties of cheese and their own wines. And, of course, the region is famous for its magnificent nature, in some parts completely untouched.
Asturias
The unspoiled and virgin north of Spain is best seen in this region. There are very few tourists here, and you can find completely deserted shores. The water here, of course, is cool, and you can swim only in the midst of summer. But in the region there is the oldest and very interesting natural park Peaks of Europe with a beautiful forest, mountain rivers and lakes. The most interesting city of the province is Oviedo. Here you need to pay attention to the Cathedral of St. Salvador of the 16th century and two more ancient churches. Asturias also has its own shrines, to which pilgrims are drawn. This is the altar of the Virgin of Kavadonga, located in a cave of a sheer cliff. The region of Asturias is conducive to making long hikes on mountain trails.
Castile and Leon
This large administrative unit can only partially be attributed to the north. Usually only three provinces are referred to it: Leon, Burgas and Palencia. They are landlocked and located in mountainous areas. But in these provinces there are very interesting ancient cities. León is a vibrant city in northern Spain, known since ancient Rome. Historic city centerhas remained virtually unchanged since the Middle Ages. Here for tourists will be interesting: the Cathedral of St. Mary, the Mayor complex, the huge monastery of Saint-Marcos.
And there is also Gaudí's house, the Botines house, in which elements of Art Nouveau architecture are combined with medieval motifs. The city of Burgos is notable even for its Cathedral, an example of Spanish Gothic, it is so valuable that it is included in the list of objects protected by UNESCO. In addition, there are several more ancient churches and a luxurious medieval monastery in Burgos. The brutal fortress of Burgos deserves special attention.
Cantabria
The most popular beaches of the north are in this province. Cantabria is part of the so-called Green Spain, there are 5 natural reserves, part of the Peaks of Europe national park and the unique Monte Cabezon sequoia plantations. The rich nature and favorable climate made this region very attractive for life, so Cantabria has seen many wars and different cultures. The capital of the region, Santander, embodies all the best that is in the north of Spain. Whatever kind of vacation a tourist prefers, he will find all this in this city. Beautiful and comfortable beaches, many historical sights, palaces. It's no wonder that every summer the Spanish royal family comes here for their holidays.
Rioja
A small region of northern Spain is world famous for its wines. More than 500 wineries are located here. Tourists go to Rioja to visit wineries.plantations, visit tastings, master classes and learn to understand this huge wine variety.
Basque Country
The most rave reviews about the north of Spain are associated with visits to the Basque Country. This province is unlike any of the Spanish regions. It surprisingly combines developed industrial cities and untouched nature. This region is ideal for hiking, and there are several national parks for this. At the same time, sandy coastal areas are the perfect place for a beach holiday.
The Basque Country is also interesting for its cultural attractions. The city of Bilbao combines a medieval center and buildings of modern architecture. Tourists rush here to visit the magnificent Guggenheim Museum of Modern Art with a rich collection. It receives over 1.5 million visitors annually. Another famous city in these parts is San Sebastian, the most popular resort among the aristocracy. It hosts several famous festivals and holidays, which attract celebrities from all over the world.
Navarra
Another northern province that has retained its unique look and beautiful nature. Tourists tend to come here to see the heritage of the Kingdom of Navarre, from which magnificent castles and medieval cities have been preserved here. Nature lovers in the province will be interested in the southern Ribera with a relatively flat landscape and the zone of the northern mountains withgreat views and climbing opportunities. The largest and most beautiful city in the province is Pamplona. In it, the attention of tourists is attracted by the complex of the Old Town and the cathedral of the 14th century.
