Being a single parent is hard. You’ll have to singlehandedly take on responsibilities and a long to-do list. Sure, it’s a rewarding experience, but you must recognise that you also need a much-needed break. So, if you’ve been daydreaming about leaving the kids at home and heading for a much-needed R&R, you should head to Spain. It’s a gorgeous country offering endless things to see and do, whether you love architecture, wine, and adventure.
Below, check out some of the best travel experiences in Spain for single mums.
See the Architecture in Seville
Seville is a fascinating city steeped in tradition and history. Mysterious and flamboyant, Seville is one of Spain’s most beautiful cities, boasting delectable cuisines, vibrant markets, and stunning architecture. The city is over 2,000 years old, ruled by Phoenicians and Romans before the Moorish conquest in 712. Evidence of this still exists in the city’s ancient and narrow streets.
Thanks to its many historical highlights, you can spend your day in Seville discovering historic sites blending with modern architecture. Begin by visiting the stunning Alcázar Palace, a UNESCO-listed site that the Spanish royal family still use. Game of Thrones fans will recognise this place as the Water Gardens of Dorne, featuring Moorish patios pre-dating the Alhambra in Granada. You’ll be in awe at the stunning grounds of the palace, featuring pools, fountains, and a maze.
From across the palace is the impressive Catedral de Sevilla, the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, built in the same area where a mosque once stood. You’ll also find the Giralda bell tower, offering panoramic city views. Don’t miss the Avenue de la Constitucion, just beside Alcazar, where you’ll find documents of historical significance, including the diary of Christopher Columbus.
Wine Tours in Barcelona
Catalonia is Spain’s wine region, and a wine tour around Barcelona is the best destination for a wine-centred holiday in Spain. Famous for its magnificent architecture and mouthwatering food, Barcelona is also home to some of Spain’s best wineries and wine bars. These are the perfect places to discover the country’s delectable wine.
Wine lovers will have plenty of opportunities to sample delectable local wine in Barcelona. The best way to start is to stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Gothic Quarter to indulge in mouth-watering tapas and wine in one of the area’s many fantastic restaurants. Head to the beach and check out the many beach bars and restaurants to sample delectable wines as you marvel at the stunning ocean views.
On the southwest of Barcelona, you’ll find the picturesque coastal region of Costa Dorada. It has a thriving wine scene, with sun-soaked vineyards as delightful as the wines! Costa Dorada is renowned for its outstanding sparkling wine, Cava. The best way to discover Costa Dorada’s thriving wine scene is to go for a wine tour and indulge in sparkling wine tastings.
Witness the Art in Madrid
Madrid has some of the world’s best art museums, making it a top destination for art lovers. These museums feature incredible collections from many of the country’s best artists. The most popular ones include the Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza, and the Reina Sofia. Exploring the city’s bustling art scene is a fun activity, where even the city streets are works of art themselves!
The best place to start is in Museo del Prado, the city’s most famous art museum, renowned for its extensive religious and Renaissance art pieces. Check out Las Meninas by Diego Velazquez, depicting the royal family during King Philip IV’s reign. From the Prado, head to Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, which showcases the private collection of Baroness Thyssen. Check out the museum’s permanent art collections featuring the works of famous artists like Rembrandt and Rubens.
Next, walk towards the Reina Sofia, a museum focusing on modern arts. Check out Pablo Picasso’s “Guernica,” showcasing the horrors of the Spanish Civil War. Another highlight would be the extensive collection of Salvador Dali, including his most famous paintings.
Cycling the 312 in Mallorca
Mallorca 312 is a closed-road cycling event around the Serra Tramuntana mountains. It is one of Europe’s most famous sporting events, renowned for being the most challenging amateur cycling event. Your adventure will see you cycling along a 312-km route with over 5,000 metres of climb! You can choose from three route options, 167 km, 225 km, and 312 km.
The ride begins in Playa de Muro, a charming resort along the island’s northeast section. It covers a loop of the Serra Tramuntana mountains, looping out into Mallorca’s northeast. The cycling route features some of Mallorca’s finest roads, including the spectacular MA-10. The first 150 kilometres of the journey contain nearly all the climbing, but once you are halfway through, there won’t be any climbs left to tackle.
If you plan to join Mallorca 312, it’s worth booking through travel agencies that offer packages including entry fees, accommodation, and transfer.
Lounge on the Beaches in Ibiza
If you prefer a relaxed holiday, Ibiza offers the perfect place to do so. It’s home to over 80 spectacular beaches, from secluded bays surrounded by jagged cliffs to pristine white sands lined with lush pine trees. While the island is renowned for its wild beach parties, it also has beaches for those who prefer to lounge around and soak up its tranquil atmosphere.
Cala Saladeta is a sheltered beach with turquoise blue waters and pink golden sands. It’s the perfect place for those seeking a more intimate atmosphere. Getting to the beach isn’t easy, requiring you to scale rocky terrains. However, it will be well worth it once you arrive at the beach. Don’t expect tourist amenities like beach bars, so don’t forget to pack snacks and refreshments.
Sa Caleta is another ideal place to lounge, with its shallow waters surrounded by soaring cliffs. However, it is popular among locals and can fill up during summer. Single mums who plan to bring their little ones will find this beach ideal for their little swimmers since it has shallow waters and fine white sands.