Huelva is a truly privileged part of the world. The Costa de la Luz, along the shores of the Atlantic, enjoys excellent temperatures and long, sunny days all year round. Despite being incredibly popular with tourists, the beaches retain many of the unbeatable characteristics of untouched coastline. And there is plenty of history in Huelva, too. There are numerous connections to Christopher Columbus who obtained much of the finances he needed in order to undertake his journeys of discovery from the local area. Furthermore, many of the brave seamen and captains who accompanied him on those journeys, making history as they travelled, originated from that part of Spain. Nature is bountiful in Huelva, too. Nature reserves such as the Doñana National Park and the Odiel Marshes give the area an essential role in preserving the ecological equilibrium and are a sight to behold. But if you’re looking for relaxation, excellent cuisine, culture and art, then Huelva has all that on offer, too. If you’re planning a surprise break with your partner, here are a few ways of making the most of your romantic getaway. A visit to Huelva is just what you and your partner need to make unforgettable memories that will last forever.
Planning a romantic getaway in Huelva? Make sure it includes dusk on the Río Tinto pier
There’s nothing more romantic than watching the sunset with your partner. Try the Río Tinto pier for a perfect end to any day. The impressive wooden and iron structure was used as a mineral loading quay in the 19th century. It is part of the city’s history and nowadays it is one of the most significant features of Huelva. Make sure you visit it in the evening as the sun goes down because it’s one of the most romantic spots in the city. Take a seat and enjoy watching the sun as it dips behind the horizon over the River Odiel in a blanket of colour. This is romanticism at its very best.
Horse rides across Doñana
The Doñana National Park is one of the most valued nature reserves in Spain because of its huge ecological significance. Huelva is nothing without Doñana, a natural space that includes sixty kilometres of untouched beaches. A few days there is a truly unique experience. One of the most romantic things that you can do whilst you are there is a trek on horseback. It’s an excellent way of enjoying the dunes, pine trees and sea. Plus, it’s incredibly romantic. Let the sea breeze wash over you as you trot along and enjoy each other’s company.
Boat rides along the estuary
The estuary in Huelva has long been a source of inspiration for poets, writers and artists. You can’t help but fall in love with it. Lend yourself to its charms as you take a relaxing boat ride. The spectacular views in the Odiel Marshes will take your breath away. Enjoy the view, the aroma and the colours in one of the most attractive parts of Huelva and turn this visit into a truly romantic excursion. Who knows, you might even be inspired to pop a certain question!
A relaxing massage and spa getaway in Huelva
What better than sitting back and relaxing with your partner, far from the hustle and bustle of your everyday routine? Surely there are few more romantic and soothing plans than immersing yourself in an environment that has been configured specifically for your wellbeing. In Huelva, there are some excellent options for healing both body and mind and if you can share that with your partner, then all the better. If you’re after something truly special, then don’t miss the marvellous health resorts and spas in the Barceló hotels in the province of Huelva.
Barceló Punta Umbría Beach Resort is right opposite one of the best untouched beaches in Punta Umbría and surrounded by nature such as the Odiel Marshes and Los Enebrales. You can find Hotel Barceló Punta Umbría Mar on arrival in Punta Umbría. It has spectacular sea views. Hotel Barceló Occidental Isla Cristina, meanwhile, is in the very heart of an unbeatable environment – the Isla Cristina Marshlands – and surrounded by over twelve kilometres of untouched beaches. All three of them have everything that you need in order to care for your body and mind. Treat yourself to a massage or beauty treatment and enjoy feeling beautiful both inside and out. It’s a perfect gift that will leave you feeling that you’re floating on air.
Huelva’s most romantic beaches
Huelva most certainly has some amazing beaches. They are quite extraordinary and there are kilometres and kilometres of untouched sand that attract visitors from all around the world. El Rompido, Matalascañas, Punta Umbría and Isla Cristina are all in the area. What better than spending the day together walking across the dunes and sinking down into the fine, white, sparkling sand? Bring your day to a perfect end by sitting down and watching the sunset. There will be no doubt that love is in the air.
Romantic dinners
A romantic dinner for two is a must to round off your break. Huelva has excellent produce. It is particularly well-known for its prawns, ham and traditional cooking. Enjoy it with excellent Condado wines. Las Dunas restaurant (Avenida de los Conquistadores, 178C) is an excellent choice if you would like to try good fish, seafood and cold cuts next to Mazagón beach. If you fancy unbeatable views of the marshlands and Doñana National Park when you visit El Rocío, choose Aires de Doñana as your place to eat (Avenida de Canaliega, 1). It used to be shepherd’s hut.
Follow Christopher Columbus’ tracks
Christopher Columbus’ legacy is never very far away in Huelva. He embarked on his first voyage from there and two of his ships, plus numerous seamen and captains, were from Huelva. Learning all about those journeys is a great activity to share with your partner. Find out all about the history of Huelva, the places that Christopher Columbus visited before he left on his voyages and where he embarked when he went in search of the New World. Go to the Wharf of the Caravels in Palos de la Frontera, the monastery in La Rábida where Christopher Columbus lived with the monks as he planned his journey, or visit Moguer where his ship ‘La Niña’ was built.
A trip to El Rocío
El Rocío, near to Almonte, is a small village in the heart of Doñana National Park, surrounded by marshland. The streets are still dirt roads and the houses are typical Andalusian style and shepherd’s homes. El Rocío is also an essential element of culture and folklore in Huelva and Andalusia as a whole. It is home to the image of Our Lady of El Rocío, which is hugely venerated in Andalusia. The pilgrimage is a huge event for believers who spend the entire year preparing for it. Once a year, the Virgin is taken from the hermitage and carried out into the village streets. It is one of the most extraordinary events you can see in Andalusia, laced with religious fervour and folklore. Get a taste of that passion as you stroll around El Rocío. It doesn’t get much more romantic than this. Visit the local craft shops and take something special back home with you.
