Top 7 things to do in Spain for active living

Activities To Do In Barcelona

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Visiting Barcelona offers more than just the best of city living; a wealth of opportunities for active living, including Barcelona’s stunning beaches, bustling city parks and proximity to the mountains, make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts as well as city slickers. Enjoy everything from hiking and skiing to playing tennis as Barcelona seamlessly blends active living with cultural riches and culinary delights– guaranteeing an unforgettable experience.

1. Hiking

Some may be surprised to learn that Barcelona boasts more than your average metropolitan hub, with excellent hiking opportunities in its surrounding areas. Parc de Collserola is just a short distance from the city centre and easily accessible by car or train; offering several trails with varying levels of difficulty, this is the place for a peaceful retreat as they are largely unexplored by tourists and local residents. For those with a more adventurous spirit, hiking in the Montserrat mountains is unrivalled thanks to its stunning panoramic views and a chance to explore the unique rock formations and historical monasteries. The hikes up to the summit aren’t for the fainthearted but there is a cable car that takes you straight up to the top, so any non-hikers in the family won’t miss out. Whether you’re a casual walker or an avid hiker, Barcelona’s diverse trails offer something for every ability.

2. Skiing

One of the best kept secrets about Barcelona? Between December and April, the city becomes a gateway to some of the best skiing in the Catalan Pyrenees. Ski resorts like Boí Taüll are just a couple of hours from the city via car or bus but remain surprisingly under the radar – Spain’s most-visited ski resort is only an hour away and draws most of the tourists, leaving serious skiers endless runs of empty slopes. Another little known resort, Port Ainé, is perfect for families with plenty of activities for kids, an abundance of space for everyone to spread out, and varying slopes for all abilities. Plus, both Boí Taüll and Port Ainé are located on the north face of some of the highest peaks in the Pyrenees, preserving the snow for longer than many of rival resorts. Ultimately, skiing near Barcelona provides an excellent escape for winter sports enthusiasts.

3. Tennis

Barcelona is a great destination for tennis lovers, boasting world-class facilities and a strong tennis culture. Many hotels and resorts offer excellent tennis facilities but for those who take their sport a little more seriously, the city is home to several prestigious tennis clubs – including the Real Club de Tenis Barcelona, which counts Rafael Nadal as a member, and Club Natació Montjuic. A more relaxed way to get active in the city while basking in the Mediterranean sun is at Club De Tennis i Pàdel OLÍMPIA. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, this club specialises in padel (a hugely popular racket sport that’s taking the world by storm] as well as tennis, and allows non-members to rent courts and equipment.

Activities To Do In Mallorca

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Mallorca is the most visited island in the Balearics and a paradise for those seeking an active lifestyle. Instantly recognisable by its diverse landscapes and beautiful coastline, Mallorca offers an array of outdoor activities – from the best routes and scenic vistas of the Serra de Tramuntana for cycling enthusiasts to crystal-clear waters that are ideal for watersports. There’s something for golfers, too – top-notch courses with stunning views abound, while thrill-seekers can sample some of the best rock climbing in Europe.

4. Cycling

Mallorca’s mountainous landscape is perfect for cycling enthusiasts, offering a mix of challenging terrains and scenic routes that cater to both aficionados and beginners. Popular routes for serious cyclists include the Sa Calobra ascent at 9.5km and the Col de Soller loop, which takes you to the top of Puig Major. Both provide breathtaking views in exchange for demanding climbs, although there are pit stops along the way. For recovery rides or relaxed days out with the whole family, the Port de Pollença to Petra route is ideal – plenty of gentle inclines and flat roads lead to a selection of charming cafes at your final stop. Whether you're a professional cyclist or enjoy leisurely rides, Mallorca’s diverse landscape ensures an unforgettable cycling experience.

5. Watersports

Mallorca's crystal-clear waters and more than 30km of coastlines make it the ideal destination for watersports. Paddleboarding and kayaking in the tranquil sea are perfect for the whole family to explore beautiful coves and pristine beaches together, while jet-skiing and windsurfing are guaranteed to provide a thrill for the more adventurous. Snorkelling and scuba diving are the cherry on top of the watersports offering, with the crystalline waters of the marine reserves around the island giving you the opportunity to spot sting rays, octopi and more.

6. Golf

Thanks to its temperate year-round climate, Mallorca is now widely accepted as one of the best golfing destinations in Europe. With more than 20 world-class golf courses for non-members and visitors to choose from, such as Alcanada and Capdepera, the island offers a variety of landscapes renowned for their stunning views and meticulously maintained greens. Trust us, it’s almost impossible to have a bad round on any of these courses – no matter how you play.

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7. Climbing

Unsurprisingly for an island where the Serra de Tramuntana mountains make up more than a third of the terrain, Mallorca is a premier destination for climbing. The area’s limestone cliffs, particularly in areas like Sa Gubia and E Calo de Betlem, provide the ideal base for both challenging climbs and beginner routes that are popular across the island after the hordes of summer tourists have moved on and the temperatures have cooled. Whether you're into bouldering or traditional climbing, Mallorca has something to offer – plus, the added benefit of exploring beautiful beaches and charming villages after a day on the rocks perfectly combines adventure with the island’s natural beauty.

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Mallorca and Barcelona offer an abundance of activities for those seeking an active lifestyle, making them the ultimate destinations for adventurers as well as beach lovers looking for a change of pace. From cycling and watersports to golf in Mallorca, the island's diverse landscape and mild climate cater to a wide range of interests, while Barcelona’s options are equally enticing – hiking, skiing and tennis providing endless opportunities for fitness and fun against the backdrop of a vibrant European city.

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