A camping journey through Spain goes beyond the allure of its picturesque landscapes, sandy beaches and vibrant culture. It can also serve as a true immersion into art and artists who found inspiration in every corner of this diverse country.
For art lovers camping in Spain, here's your ultimate guide to the best towns and cities to visit. From the surreal landscapes of Dalí's Figueres to the mysticism of El Greco's Toledo or Juan Gris' Cubist Madrid, there's so much to discover.
Whether you're seeking sun-kissed shores, peaceful towns or vibrant cities, unearth the profound connections between nature, art and the creative souls who called Spain home.
Salvador Dalí
Salvador Dalí's Surreal Figueres
Starting our journey in northeast Spain, we pay a visit to the beautiful town of Figueres, birthplace of the eccentric Salvador Dalí.
As a pioneer of surrealist art, Dalí's fantastical creations are proudly displayed in the Dalí Theatre-Museum. The artist lived and worked here between 1984 and 1989 – and is buried in a crypt underneath the stage.
The Persistence of Memory, 1931
Campers can revel in the dream-like atmosphere, exploring iconic Dalí paintings and sculptures throughout the building. Once you've had your artistic fill, there are also truly stunning landscapes surrounding the town of Figueres, with plenty of hiking trails to explore.
Las Dunas is an extensive, impressive and well-organised resort-style site with many on-site activities and an ongoing programme of improvements. The site has direct access to a superb sandy beach stretching for nearly a kilometre, with a windsurfing school and beach bar. There is also a much-used, huge swimming pool, plus a large double pool for children.
The Ribas family has run Camping Solmar for over 40 years, and a warm welcome awaits you. The well-equipped site is located 150 metres from a sandy beach in the busy resort of Blanes and is sprinkled with palm trees. The accessible, shaded pitches are 65-85 sq.m., and all have 6A electricity connections. On-site amenities include an attractive restaurant, bar, terrace, and a central swimming pool complex with islands and bridges.
In the Bay of Roses, south of Empuriabrava and beside the Parc Natural dels Aiguamolls de l’Empordà, this is a high quality site of particular interest to nature lovers (especially birdwatchers) and families. A large site, there are 1,110 well kept, large, numbered pitches, all with electricity and on flat, sandy ground. Beautifully laid out, it is arranged around the river and waterways, so will suit those who like to be close to water or who enjoy watersports and boating. It is also a superb beachside site, and there is also accommodation for rental.
Michelle, Josep and their daughter run this spacious, friendly site, which is always a popular destination. It is spotlessly clean and well-maintained, and the owners operate the site in an environmentally friendly way. Eight hundred seventy-two level grass pitches (720 for touring units) are laid out in a grid system, all with 10A electricity.
Heading down the coast to Barcelona, our camping adventure takes a fantastical turn as we explore the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudí.
Born in Catalonia in 1852, Gaudí's influence is etched in the organic forms of Parc Güell, the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia and La Pedrera-Casa Milà. Surrounded by these iconic landmarks, it's hard not to feel inspired by the sheer artistic and architectural creativity.
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While you're in the city, it's also worth exploring The Fundació Joan Miró, where many of Miró's avant-garde abstract paintings are on display. If that wasn't enough, The Fundació Antoni Tàpies is another contemporary haven showcasing Tàpies' textured, philosophical artworks.
We also couldn't fail to mention that Picasso spent many of his early years in the city. Indeed, Picasso's artistic journey took root in Barcelona before he left an indelible mark on the global art scene. The Picasso Museum invites visitors to delve into his artistic evolution, with guided tours available on Tuesdays and weekends.
Sitting on the terrace in front of the restaurant – a beautifully converted Catalan farmhouse dating from 1908 – it isn't easy to believe that in 1982, this was still a farm with few trees and known as Mas Roque (literally, Rock Farm). Since then, the imaginative planting of thousands of trees and gloriously colourful shrubs have made this large campsite most attractive. It has an impressive range of high-quality amenities and facilities open all year.
An African Man Dressed in Yellow - Josep Tapiró i Baró
Josep Tapiró i Baró Moroccan Masterpieces
Born in Reus, near Tarragona, Josep Tapiró i Baró (1836–1913) was a master of the Orientalist movement in painting. A close friend of Marià Fortuny, he shared a fascination with North African culture, which became central to his art.
Tapiró’s highly detailed watercolor portraits of Moroccan subjects are renowned for their luminous and realistic style. Unlike many Orientalist painters, he lived in Tangier for much of his career, allowing him to authentically capture the attire, expressions, and cultural richness of his subjects.
A significant collection of his paintings is housed at the Museu de Reus, offering a glimpse into his artistry and his deep connection to Moroccan culture.
Playa Montroig Camping Resort is about 30 kilometres from Tarragona, set in its own tropical gardens with direct access to a very long, narrow, soft sand beach. The central part of the site lies between the sea, road and railway (as at other sites on this coast, with occasional train noise on some pitches) with a huge underpass. Aside from a wide range of excellent facilities, notably an impressive aqua park and dining options, Port Aventura theme park is 20 km away, making this a highly desirable location for many families.
This campsite is situated on the beach in the small fishing village of L’Ampolla, famous for its gastronomy, peaceful beaches and coves. The site offers 87 large grass shady touring pitches with electric hook up connections available a and fully equipped bungalows for rent. Ideal for couples, families and anybody who wants lots of activities including fishing, excursions (walking, cycling, horseriding, boats), watersports (windsurfing, kite-surfing, kayaking and waterskiing), as well as good food and relaxation.
Children on the Seashore - Joaquín Sorolla y Bastida
One of Spain’s most beloved painters, Joaquín Sorolla i Bastida (1863–1923) was born in Valencia and became famous for his bright, sunlit beach scenes, portraits, and social realist works.
A master of light, his paintings capture the Mediterranean's shimmering blues, the golden hues of the sand, and the gentle movement of figures bathed in sunshine. Sorolla’s brushwork is expressive and fluid, evoking a sense of immediacy and joy.
The Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia houses an exceptional collection of his paintings, including some of his most evocative seascapes and portraits.
Camping Kikopark Playa is a smart site nestling behind protective dunes alongside a Blue Flag beach. There are sets of attractively tiled steps over the dunes or a long boardwalk near the beach bar (suitable for prams and wheelchairs) to take you to the fine white sandy beach and the sea. From the central reception point (where good English is spoken), flat, fine gravel pitches and access roads are divided to the left and right.
Alannia Costa Blanca (formerly Marjal) is a fully equipped site situated 15 km. inland on the southern Alicante coast, close to the towns of Crevillente and Catral and the Parque Natural de El Hondo. Around 1,200 hardstanding pitches range in size from 90-95 sq.m, and all have electricity (16A), water, drainage, TV and high-speed internet connections (charged).
Very efficiently run, Camping La Marina Resort has 450 touring pitches of three different types and sizes ranging from 50 sq.m. to 150 sq.m. with electricity (10/16A), TV, water and drainage. Artificial shade is provided, and the pitches are well maintained on level, well-drained ground, with a particular area allocated for tents in a small orchard.
Born in Almería, Jesús de Perceval (1915–1985) was a key figure in the "Indalian Movement," an artistic and cultural movement that sought to blend surrealism and mysticism with Mediterranean themes. Deeply inspired by the rugged landscapes, and rich history of Almería, Perceval developed a unique visual language that reflected both the beauty and harshness of his surroundings.
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Today, his works can be admired at the Museo de Arte de Almería, where visitors can explore not only his paintings but also his influence on the broader Indalian Movement. His legacy lives on in Almería’s vibrant art scene, which continues to draw inspiration from the landscapes that shaped his vision.
Previously known as Camping Cuevas Mar, this is a well-established campsite that proves popular and busy during the warm winter months. The 179 flat pitches on a stone chip are generally 80-100 sq.m. each with a 6/10amp electric supply. Shrubs and trees (some shade) act as pitch dividers, and those near the road are not overly affected as traffic volume is relatively low. Some areas have shade canopies erected during the hot summer months. Overall, throughout, there is a peaceful atmosphere.
Javier Ciga Echandi’s Portraits of Basque and Navarrese Life
A renowned painter from Navarra, Javier Ciga Echandi (1877–1960) was deeply influenced by the traditions, landscapes, and people of his homeland.
His realist and post-impressionist style vividly captured the rural life and cultural identity of the Basque and Navarrese regions.
Ciga’s works often depict everyday scenes—peasants working in the fields, bustling village markets, and serene pastoral landscapes—imbued with a strong sense of place and social realism. His meticulous attention to detail and use of vibrant yet earthy tones reflect both the hardship and dignity of rural communities. His influence remains a vital part of Navarre’s cultural heritage, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past through his masterful brushwork.
This is an extensive site set by an attractive weir near the town of Mendigorria alongside the River Arga. It takes its name from an old water mill close by. It features a sophisticated dock and boat launching facility and an ambitious watersports competition programme in the season with a safety boat present at all times. A Roman aqueduct (4km) is well worth a visit, perhaps by bike. July is very busy due to the bull running festival in Pamplona (28 km).
Moving inland towards Zaragoza (a stunning city full of large plazas and architectural marvels), campers can explore the birthplace of Francisco Goya. Born in 1746, Goya began his artistic education in the city before moving to Madrid to pursue a career as a Spanish court painter.
Celebrated as one of the most revolutionary and exciting Old Master artists, Goya's pioneering spirit is captured in his early portraits and religious masterpieces. The Zaragoza Museum (housed in the Old Pavilion, created for the city's 1908 Universal Exhibition) boasts many important works.
The Parasol, 1777
The Goya Museum is also a fascinating stop for any art lover. It reveals Goya's deep insights into the societal upheavals of his time, with fifteen works by Goya and his complete collection of art and etchings.
This large, busy municipal site 4 km. from Zaragoza, is primarily for short-stay, transit visitors, being well placed halfway between the ports of Santander and Bilbao and the beaches of the Costa Brava. The city, however, has much more to offer as the former capital of Aragon and now Spain’s fifth-largest city.
Heading towards Spain's western border with Portugal, adventurous campers find themselves in Valladolid, home to the National Sculpture Museum. Housed in a magnificent fifteenth-century building, you'll find a living testament to Spanish sculpture stretching from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Visitors can also enjoy three dedicated sections to Spanish Baroque sculptors, including Juan de Juni, Gregorio Fernández and Alonso Berruguete. Considered one of the most significant sculptures of the Spanish Renaissance, the star attraction is Berruguete's Altarpiece of San Benito, created in the sixteenth century.
Detail of "The Transfiguration of Christ," from the main altarpiece, c.1560 (Peter Heidelberg/Shutterstock)
Although Berruguete wasn't born in the city, he lived and worked in Valladolid after his family obtained him a legal position. He stayed in the city until his father's death before travelling to Italy for artistic training. Berruguete later returned to Valladolid, however, to create his famed wooden altarpiece at the Church of San Benito.
A friendly, popular site for those travelling to and fro the ferry ports of Santander or Bilbao. Set in a delightful position alongside the River Duero (safely fenced), one may see a nightly roost of cattle egrets. The family-run site is overseen by Eduardo Gutierrez (excellent English), ably assisted by brother Gustavo, sister Lola and son Armando.
Go walking, fishing or sightseeing with a stay at Camping Cubillas Valladolid in Castilla y León. A walkers paradise near the Canal de Castilla hiking route, 10 minutes walk from the superb casting off of the Pisuerga river, and 10 minutes drive from the cities of Palencia and Valladolid.
If you are travelling along the road between Soria and Valladolid you will see some exceptional scenery and in order to reflect upon it, you can do no better than to stop at this small and very traditional family owned site where you will receive a warm welcome. Located at the end of a dusty road and about two kilometers from the centre of Penafiel, the site has been thoughtfully constructed within a plantation of pine trees that provide some good shade to many of the 50 touring pitches, all of which are on level grass and with 6/10A electricity (2-pin). The owner has an irrigation system in place that helps to keep the site green.
Our journey takes a contemporary turn as we head to Madrid, the capital of Spain and the birthplace of Juan Gris.
Born in 1887 in the city, Gris became a pivotal figure in Cubism. He studied engineering at the Madrid School of Arts and Sciences before moving on to study painting with the Madrid society painter José Moreno Carbonero.
Glass and Checkerboard, c.1917
The Reina Sofia Museum is a beacon for insights into Gris's distinctive contributions to modern art for anyone visiting this stylish city. Works such as Open Window (1921) and Coffee Grinder (1920) reflect the bold early expressions of the Cubist movement.
While you're in the city, don't miss the Sorolla Museum (home to Joaquín Sorolla's vibrant landscapes and beach scenes) and Fernando Botero's plump and playful "hand" sculpture adorning the Paseo de la Castellana.
Camping Arco Iris is one of very few sites close to the city centre, with excellent access to the city by car, bus or light rail. This family campsite is open all year and for the past 30 years the owners have undertaken an ongoing programme of improvement to their facilities. All pitches are grassy and have abundant shade. They also have electrical connections (5/6A) and water taps close at hand. Some also have a private toilet facility (extra charge). No arrivals before 12 noon. Madrid is a fascinating city with a vast array of leisure and cultural opportunities, including the world-famous Museo del Prado.
This picturesque and conservation-minded site is situated in an open, sunny lower valley in Madrid’s only beech forest in the Parque Natural Sierre de Guadarrama. The area is ideal for walkers and nature lovers and offers many opportunities for outdoor sports enthusiasts.
Heading south to Toledo, campers can step into the mystical world of El Greco.
Born in Crete, El Greco found his artistic home in Toledo in the late sixteenth century. He enjoyed a profound connection to this historic city and stayed there from 1577 until his death in 1614.
Christ Driving the Money Changers from the Temple, c.1570
The El Greco Museum offers a backdrop rich in history and creativity, where elongated figures and religious themes converge. You'll find a peaceful garden and a courtyard recreating El Greco's home alongside the many masterpieces. A series of thirteen paintings depicting Christ and the Apostles and View and Plan of Toledo are particular highlights.
Toledo was the home of the Grecian painter, El Greco, and the site that bears his name boasts a beautiful view of the ancient city from the restaurant, bar and attractive pool and terrace area. The friendly, family owners make you welcome and are proud of their site, which is the only one in Toledo (it can get crowded). The 150 pitches are of 80 sq.m. with 10A electricity connections and shade from strategically planted trees. Most have separating hedges that give privacy, with others in herringbone layouts (long leads required in this area). The River Tajo stretches alongside the site, which has an attractive, tree-lined approach.
With panoramic views all around the Sierra de Valdefuertes mountains, Camping El Mirador de Cabañeros is set in the Cabañeros National Park. This is a well-cared-for, landscaped site with 44 terraced pitches on gravel, all with 6A electricity. Although pitches are level once sited, the approach is steep, which may cause difficulties for larger units.
Winding further south through Spain's picturesque landscapes, we reach the sun-soaked city of Seville. It's the birthplace of famed Golden Age painter Diego Velázquez, who captured the essence of seventeenth-century Spain.
In 1620, Velázquez painted The Water Seller of Seville. From such humble origins, he became the country's most respected painter (responsible for depicting the royal family in Las Meninas).
The Triumph of Bacchus/The Drunks, 1629
Off the beaten track, you can find Casa Natal Velázquez (the artist's birthplace) and Hospital de los Venerables, where you'll discover three of the four paintings Velázquez created in his hometown. There's also a beautiful and shaded courtyard to while away those hot Andalusian afternoons.
To complete the set, Velázquez's only other Seville painting can be found at the Museo de Bellas Artes.
Situated in the heart of Andalusia, Huttopia Parque de Doñana is the perfect base for exploring the region amid the Andalusian provinces of Huelva, Seville and Cadiz, nestled in the heart of the Doñana National Park (the largest protected natural site in Europe and a UNESCO biosphere reserve). Nature is everywhere here, and with 200 touring pitches on this site, it is the preferred place to explore the surrounding region.
Camping La Aldea lies on the edge of the famous Parque Nacional de Doñana, southwest of Seville. This important park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest eco-reserve in Europe, home to the Iberian lynx, unique ecosystems and rare birds. The campsite is family-run and friendly, offering excursions to Almonte, Matalascanas beach and even the Algarve. For something a little different, ask at reception about expeditions into the national park on horseback or by 4x4 - it's a great way to experience this unique landscape.
Lastly, our camping odyssey concludes in Marbella, a haven for modern art lovers. In this coastal city's many contemporary art galleries, you can glimpse dynamic creations from both Spanish and international artists.
Enjoy free entry to the Contemporary Engraving Museum (featuring artworks by Picasso and Miro), where you can participate in guided tours and workshops. The city's industrial district also has a growing cultural scene, with several modern galleries (such as Yusto / Giner Gallery), independent artists' studios, and music spaces.
In yet more good news for arts and culture lovers, there's also a public square dedicated to Salvador Dali sculptures! The outdoor collection at Avenida del Mar boasts ten sculptures by Dali, as well as other modern sculptors.
This large, mature site is alongside the main N340/A7 Costa del Sol coast road, 12 km. east of Marbella and 15 km. from Fuengirola. The Costa del Sol is also known as the Costa del Golf and fittingly there is a major golf course alongside the site. The site is set amongst tall pine trees which provide shade for the pitches (there are some huge areas for large units). The 250 touring pitches, a mix of level and sloping (chocks advisable), all have electricity (10A), but long leads may be required for some. There is a separate area on the western side for groups of younger guests.
Situated between Estepona and Marbella, Parque Tropical is a small, family-run site and is well-placed for those wishing to explore the Costa del Sol. Set with attractive tropical plants, the overall atmosphere is peaceful and quiet, and the friendly staff will help arrange day trips on request. A 5-minute walk takes you to the nearest beach across the road, where there are opportunities for water sports such as windsurfing and snorkelling.
Whether you're exploring the mystical allure of El Greco's Toledo, the contemporary artworks of Marbella or the winding streets of Velázquez's Sun-Soaked Seville, camping in Spain unveils a unique perspective on the country's artistic heritage.
With hundreds of campsites around the country, plan your next camping adventure with us. Pitch up beneath the Spanish stars and find inspiration in the landscapes and cities that fuelled the creative fire of these iconic artists.
Author
Rob Fearn
Editor - Alan Rogers Guides
Rob has been involved in the leisure industry since completing a BTEC in Travel & Tourism in 1993. Previous roles have included the promotion of tourism in Yorkshire and running a motorcycle touring company in the Australian Outback.
He is the General Manager at Alan Rogers Travel Group, responsible for the ongoing development of the Alan Rogers website and the publication of the Alan Rogers Guides and 'Destinations' magazine.
Rob has owned several caravans, and he regularly travels with his wife and young daughter in their VW Transporter, complete with a Tentbox roof tent. A keen cycling fan, Rob can often be found in a field in Belgium during the 'Spring Classics' season.
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