Spain’s ‘most underrated destination’ is a small seaside town with a secret island
A picturesque and characterful fishing village, Combarro is an underrated Spanish destination with plenty of charm.
Located in the Galicia region, it was recently listed. National Geographic as one of the ‘seven lesser-known Spanish towns that welcome visitors’.
While masses of tourists head to Barcelona and Madrid, Combarro’s streets are generally much quieter.
It has coastal views, stretching beaches and even a ‘secret’ island.
Located just three miles offshore, Tambo was recently under the jurisdiction of the local military but is now open to visitors.
The unique island has two beaches, Area da Illa and A Dreidá, as well as the Tenlo lighthouse.
Ancient buildings, including Iron Age forts, can be found on the island, and there are ruins of a small chapel dedicated to San Miguel.
Tambo island has an interesting history; a place where Benedictine monks once lived and even witnessed pirates.
Situated in the Galicia region, Combarro was recently listed by National Geographic as one of ‘seven lesser-known Spanish towns welcoming visitors’.
It has coastal views, stretching beaches and even a ‘secret’ island.
The only way to reach the island is by boat from Combarro on the Mar De Ons, and the number of visitors is limited to protect the area.
Early booking is recommended and a visitor permit is also required. Return tickets are priced at €16 (£14) per adult.
Combarro is known for its 60 stone hórreos that can be found along the coastline and are best viewed at low tide.
They are elevated structures built in the Middle Ages to store grain and other foodstuffs.
Flights to Vigo, the nearest airport to Combarro, can be booked for around £130 return in August when traveling from London.
By the way, hotels start from £120 per night in the summer months.
Holidaymakers will not be disappointed with the weather conditions, as temperatures rise above the 20s during the summer months.
Situated on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, Almería, also known as the ‘Desert Coast’, is another lesser-known Spanish destination.
Located just three miles offshore, Tambo was recently under the jurisdiction of the local military but is now open to visitors.
Combarro is known for its 60 stone hórreos (pictured), which can be found along the coastline and are best viewed during low tide. They are elevated structures built in the Middle Ages to store grain and other foodstuffs.
I enjoy near-summer sunshine year-round and only see 26 days of precipitation each year.
The region is recognized as the continent’s only true desert, thanks to its proximity to the Tabernas Desert and its geographic location in the rain shadow of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Beyond its laid-back vibe, the area boasts breathtaking natural landmarks, unparalleled views and a coastline largely free of high-rise hotel blocks.
It is home to the impressive Alcazaba de Almería, the 16th-century Catedral de la Encarnación, and numerous museums and galleries, including the Almeria Museum and the Museo de la Guitarra, home to a selection of vintage guitars.
