Chasing sunrises and sunsets in inland Spain

none

Could you be an opacarophile? This is the name of the love for sunsets, that time of the day that fascinates us so much, especially when we are on holiday. If you travel to Spain, you will feel that moment like never before. Here, watching the sun rise or set is more than just a nice plan: it can be quite the experience. And you don't have to be on the coast to enjoy it. There are inland locations such as large lakes, movie-like ravines or mountain viewpoints that will make you want to chase the sun.

Save favourite

Remove favourite

Go to my favourites

Sunset in L'Albufera Nature Reserve

L'Albufera de València Nature Reserve (Region of Valencia)

Why it is specialImagine contemplating how the sky is tinged with warm colours reflected in the waters of the largest freshwater lake in Spain. In this magical landscape surrounded by rice fields you can experience one of the best sunsets in Spain. And if you want to make the experience even more special, get on board the handcrafted boats (albuferencs) that leave from jetties such as the one at the Mirador de la Gola de Pujol and travel along the waters for about 40 minutes. Did you know that there are even companies that organise boat painting workshops at sunset?How to get thereJust 10 kilometres from Valencia, it is easily accessible by bike, city bus (lines 24 and 25) or car.Bonus: What to do in the areaMake the most of your visit to try an authentic Valencian paella in the village of El Palmar, stroll through the rice fields or take a look at one of the park's viewpoints to watch birds (up to 300 different species take refuge here).
View of Ronda at sunset

Ronda (Andalusia)

What makes it special?Can you imagine seeing how this charming city in the province of Malaga wakes up from a high vantage point? In Ronda several local companies organise paramotor flights at dawn to fly over the white rooftops overlooking the abyss. You may feel dizzy, but also unexpectedly calm. And if you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, sunset is also a perfect time to discover Ronda. As the sun begins to set, head to any vantage point that allows you to gaze at the 98-metre-high iconic New Bridge.How to get thereApproximately 100 kilometres from , it well connected by road, train or bus.Bonus: Other unforgettable sunsets in inland AndalusiaIn the Tabernas Desert (Almeria), the sun sets between canyons that look like something out of a Western film. And if you are an experienced hiker looking for something more epic, you can try climbing the Mulhacén (Granada) to see the sunset from the highest peak of the peninsula. It is a demanding route that rewards you with views over a sea of mountains at almost 3,500 metres.
The summit of Amboto, the main dwelling place of the goddess Mari in the Urkiola Natural Park.

Viewpoint of the Three Crosses (Urkiola Natural Park, Basque Country)

Why it is specialIn the Urkiola Natural Park (Bizkaia), from this viewpoint you can enjoy an incredible sunset while contemplating the Atxarte gorge and the Durangaldea valley. Did you know that, according to Basque tradition, the goddess Mari lives in these surroundings? It is a central figure in the area's mythology, personification of the Earth, taking care of the environment and dispensing justice. You are sure to feel a magical halo.How to get thereIt is approximately 50 kilometres from Bilbao. You can get there by car and take a short walk to the viewpoint from the Urkiola sanctuary.Bonus: What to do in the areaMake sure to visit the Urkiola shrine, where tradition has it that you have to walk around the stone opposite the shrine three times to find a partner. You can also go climbing, hiking or mountain biking.
Barrancas de Burujón in the Castrejón reservoir

Barrancas de Castrejón and Calaña (Castilla - La Mancha)

Why it is specialJust 30 kilometres from Toledo, the so-called Barrancas de Burujón surprise us with a landscape that is unexpected for this plateau area: Huge reddish clay cliffs that fall vertically into the waters of the Castrejón reservoir and which have been formed on sediments dating back 25 million years. Take a sunset walk along the four-kilometre nature trail, which boasts several viewpoints. The walls will seem like fire and the elongated shadows will hypnotise you. Although it is a place that has gained fame in recent years, it remains relatively little known.How to get thereEasily reachable by car from (about 30 minutes); access is well signposted and there is a parking area next to the start of the trail. Tip: Avoid very hot days.Bonus: other incredible places to view the sunset in Castilla-La ManchaContemplate how the sun reflects on the calm waters of the Tablas de Daimiel National Park (Ciudad Real), how it tints the emblematic windmills of Consuegra (Toledo) with gold or how it transforms the lavender fields in Brihuega (Guadalajara) into a sea of violet during the July bloom.
Cranes in the Nature Reserve of the Gallocanta Lagoon, Aragon

Gallocanta Lake Nature Reserve (Aragon)

Why it's specialEvery autumn and into early spring, thousands of cranes choose this wetland to stop over. If you choose to go at sunset, you will see how the light reflects on the water and covers the landscape in shades of pink. It is one of the best places in Spain for birdwatching and guided tours are often organised in winter. If you are passionate about nature, here you will feel a special connection with the environment. You can visit the interpretation centre to learn more about the local fauna. Don't forget to bring binoculars.How to get thereThe lagoon can be reached by taking the road from Gallocanta to Berrueco. It is approximately 100 kilometres from the city of Zaragoza.Bonus: What to do in the areaLess than an hour's drive away, there are other recommended visits such as the impressive waterfalls of Monasterio de Piedra or the medieval town of Daroca.
Salto del Gitano viewpoint in Monfragüe National Park, Extremadura

Salto del Gitano viewpoint (Extremadura)

What makes it specialThis is the most photographed viewpoint in Monfragüe National Park. One of the largest populations of griffon vultures in Europe nests here and, at dusk, you can see them and other species, such as the black stork, flying over the orange-tinted sky. The unmistakable silhouette of the rocky wall of Peña Falcón and the flight of birds against the light create an almost mystical scene.How to get thereYou can get there by car on the EX-208, which is the road that connects Plasencia with Trujillo. You can also get there by bike or even on foot from Villareal de San Carlos along a perfectly signposted route.Bonus: What to do in the areaVisit Monfragüe Castle and its viewpoint, take one of the park's walking or cycling routes or check out the Visitor Centre to find out more about the ecological wealth of this Biosphere Reserve.
Balloon flight over vineyards

Flying over La Rioja vineyards

Why it's specialImagine floating over a sea of vines tinged with ochres, yellows and reds, just at sunrise. In areas of La Rioja such as Haro, there are local companies that offer you this unique experience that combines the thrill of a hot air balloon flight with contemplating the landscapes of one of Spain's most emblematic wine regions. In autumn, the spectacle becomes even more impressive.How to get there,Haro is easily accessible by train or car from Logroño and other nearby cities.Bonus: what makes this experience originalThe pilot can try to fly just a few centimetres above the river Ebro, allowing you to see the effect of the balloon reflecting on the water, travel through the clouds in search of the sun, etc. After the flight, you'll also enjoy a traditional lunch from La Rioja and receive a personalised diploma as a souvenir of this adventure.