The Secret Sights and Sounds of Spain

The rays of the Spanish sun cast a celebrated glow on the ancient history of a region that conceals its modernity well. Visiting Spain may mean itineraries filled with the most popular stops in Barcelona and Madrid, yet some of the most memorable visits diverge from the typical tourist’s travel plans. Instead, venturing into this country’s secret valleys, obscure and forgotten ruins, and cheery local taverns (known as tabernas) offers a more profoundly authentic introduction to Spain’s cultural mosaic. Get ready to experience the secret sights and sounds of Spain.

The Alpujarras

One of these areas lies in the shadow of the Sierra Nevada range. The Alpujarras are a cluster of whitewashed villages clinging to the mountainside at an altitude of over 4,000 feet. The scent of almond blossoms wafts delicately through the air, and the only prominent sounds are those of distant goat bells.

Though the population is fewer than 5,000 people, the town is one of Spain’s largest at just shy of 40 miles from end to end. The region is known for its hiking, scenery, and surprisingly succulent ham—the altitude is perfect for open-air curing this meat to a delicate sweetness. A hike through the Alpujarras, depending on fitness level and other planned stops, such as viewing Lanjaron’s waterfalls or tasting ham legs in Trevelez, takes roughly six days.

Barrio del Carmen

Valencia is a modernized area known as the City of Arts and Sciences. Just beyond this bustling metropolis, however, lies Barrio del Carmen with its labyrinthian narrow avenues. If Valencia is the heart of the region, Barrio del Carmen is its soul. Here, your eyes are met with stories told through bohemian street art. Carmen testifies to its agricultural roots in the form of fresh, local produce at the Mercado Central.

Galicia

A strong Celtic vibe permeates Galicia’s misty rivers and green, rolling hills. In O Cebreiro, the ancient stone homes with charming thatch-style roofs, known as pallozas, illustrate a remote but well-retained history. The Celtic culture becomes even more apparent as the sounds of a Galician bagpipe, or gaita, flow through the air.

Sometimes the best experiences are those outside the more popular destinations. While seeing the sights you see others post in their Instagram feeds is exciting, there’s nothing quite like the authenticity of experiencing a destination the way its locals do. Be different and experience the secret sights and sounds of Spain.