Spain in May: 5 surprising ideas off the beaten track

Do you always do the same things when you're in Spain? Not this time. May is the perfect month to discover new sides of the country. Less crowds, pleasant temperatures, and lively streets everywhere. It’s time to look beyond the beach and the pool.

Here are five surprising ways to truly experience Spain in May — with specific tips and places you may not know yet.

1. Stroll through blooming villages
   Leave the coast behind for a moment and wander through charming white villages like Altea, Polop or the hilltop town of Finestrat. In May, village squares are full of flowers, balconies overflow with plants, and the air is filled with the scent of spring. Bonus tip: climb the steep street to the church in Altea for the best view and a peaceful bench among the blossoms.

2. Visit a local bodega
   Wine tasting in spring is pure magic. Skip the big commercial names and explore smaller bodegas such as:

– Bodegas Mendoza in Alfaz del Pi, known for quality wines and great guided tours
– Bodega Las Virtudes in Villena, combining tradition with a modern touch
– Or follow a tapas and wine route in the Jalón Valley, where the atmosphere is intimate and welcoming

May is the ideal time to taste new vintages, often directly from the barrel.

1. Follow an unknown walking trail
   Avoid the usual paths and discover places like:

– Sierra de Mariola (between Alcoy and Cocentaina): ideal for a peaceful walk among wild herbs and viewpoints
– El Hondo Natural Park (near Elche and Dolores): calm, with wooden walkways through bird-filled wetlands
– Cabo de la Huerta (near Alicante): a rugged coastal path with cliffs and hidden coves

The views are breathtaking, and often all yours.

1. Get lost at an artisan market
   In May, Spain is full of artisan markets — often only one day a month. A few suggestions:

– El Zoco Market (Quesada – Algorfa – Benijófar area) on Sundays, with handmade goods, food and live music
– Eco Mercado in La Nucía, featuring organic products and crafts
– Mercadillo de Jesús Pobre (near Dénia), held in an old riurau surrounded by olive and citrus trees

Browse around, sample local honey or olives, and chat with the makers.

1. Take advantage of hidden furniture and decor discounts
   Did you know many furniture shops in Spain offer special discounts in May? It’s the month when spring collections are cleared out for summer stock. Large chains like Conforama, Leroy Merlin, Muebles Marieta and Moblerone often have great deals on garden furniture, dining tables and home decor.

Perfect if you’ve just moved in, or if your home could use a seasonal refresh — without waiting for the summer sales.

May in Spain is more than just sunshine — it’s about discovering, tasting, getting lost and enjoying.
With a little curiosity, this month can feel more local than touristic — and perhaps even better.

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