Fincas in Spain

City breaks are not for everyone and lying on a beach for a week does not have universal appeal either. So it is easy to see why fincas in Spain are getting much more popular. For those who are unaware, fincas is the Spanish term for 'estate', but it basically means a piece of agricultural land, or a farm. Fincas typically have a cottage or farmhouse-style accommodation but there are plenty of rural villas in Spain that provide a modern place to stay in a remote location, close to nature. When choosing to stay in fincas in Spain, guests can expect large gardens that are an ideal location to switch off from it all. Some can even house as many as 15 people, so you can take the whole family and perhaps some close friends too.

It is fair to say that the superb sunny weather is one of the top reasons why people choose to book fincas in Spain. The country boasts hot temperatures and clear skies almost all-year round, with winter sun a great way to top up those Vitamin D levels. Brilliant beaches can be found all over Spain, which has a mix of tourist trap coastal resorts and much more traditional, unspoiled villages. A trip to Spain would hardly be complete without a day at the beach, relaxing with a book in hand and perhaps a glass of sangria.

Travellers and activities

When most people picture Spain, they probably think of a popular coastal resort - maybe the Costa del Sol, or the Alicante province. Indeed, with the Costa del Sol typically enjoying well over 300 sunny days a year, it is easy to see why so many people opt to visit. Spain's beaches are renowned around the world, and over 600 sandy shores in the country can boast a Blue Flag award. As that is more than anywhere in the world, the brilliant beaches are certainly a top reason to book fincas in Spain.

The culture in Spain ensures that those with little interest in a beach break will find plenty to keep their minds stimulated. Amazing architecture is studded around the country, from Gaudi's world-famous Basílica de la Sagrada Familia in Barcelona to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. As the birthplace of artists such as Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso, it is no surprise Spain has some of the most-visited galleries and museums on the planet as well. If there is a rainy day - which there probably won't be in Spain - a gallery or a museum is ideal to while away an afternoon.

Top 7 travel tips in Spain

Foodies are spoiled for choice in Spain, with each region having their own must-eat delicacies. But tapas is virtually a way of life here. Order a drink in a bar and guests can expect tapas to be delivered alongside - free of charge. Classics like patatas bravas are among the favourites for tourists, along with the ubiquitous jamon.

Spain produces a huge amount of wine and the majority of it is very quaffable. Rioja is a classic red wine for a reason, easy to drink and perfect for accompanying tapas. The good news is buying Rioja in La Rioja is normally surprisingly affordable too.

Safari and Spain might not sound like natural bedfellows, but the Donana National Park is truly unmissable. Covering a total of 116,000 hectares, it is home to more than 200,000 aquatic birds. Tours are available and activities such as horse riding and hot-air ballooning are offered.

One of the world's most famous pilgrimages can be found in Spain. The Camino de Santiago - The Way of Saint James - dates all the way back to the Middle Ages. There are dozens of pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela, so which will you choose?

Anyone staying near Malaga should check out the Caminito del Rey - the King's Pathway - but be warned, it takes nerves of steel. Around eight kilometres of trail via the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes includes a series of wooden-plank walkways hanging high above the river.

The capital city of Spain has much to recommend it, but Madrid's markets are a real treat for the senses. Mercado de San Miguel tends to attract the tourist crowds but heading away from the beaten track can be very rewarding. Find where the locals go by heading to Casa Dani in the Mercado de la Paz.

Spain is home to two of the best supported football clubs in the world: Real Madrid and Barcelona. The great rivals are usually battling it out for the Spanish league title and meetings between them - known as El Clasico - are a must for any football fans staying in fincas in Spain. Camp Nou, home to Barcelona, is also a pilgrimage for football fans who want to go on the stadium tour and check out the museum, which houses Lionel Messi's collection of Ballon d'Or awards.