Spain has long been on travelers’ radars, known for its mild temperatures, coastal landscapes and sweeping vistas. Not only is the Mediterranean country easy to reach, but it’s filled with enough art, culture, outdoor pursuits and dining options to keep one busy for months to come.

At about 75% the size of Texas, there are plenty of destinations from which to choose in Spain. Three to consider are Barcelona, one of the first European destinations to host international meetings; the popular Mediterranean island of Mallorca; and the charming Andalusian town of Estepona on the world-famous Costa del Sol.

Why Spain?

• 3,000 hours of sunshine and mild year-round temperatures
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites, world-class museums, architectural wonders, miles of coastline, stunning landscapes and delectable dining
• Non-stop flights to Spain depart from Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia

There are plenty of options when it comes to things to see and do around Spain, as well as places to grab a bite to eat or host a power lunch or dinner. Here, we take a look at what’s new in Barcelona, Mallorca and Estepona, and a few spots to pique your interest.

What’s New in Barcelona?

•  Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) recently renewed its Level 3 Airport Carbon Accreditation in recognition of its efforts to reduce CO2 emissions.

• 800 tourism organizations within Destination Barcelona received Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle certifications

   

See

Mirador Torre Glòries

Experience the iconic Torre Glòries in three new ways with Mirador Torre Glòries. Hyperview Barcelona is the first stop, an observation deck at the bottom of the tower, without windows. The art instillation projects real-time data about Barcelona, a city “where people, ecosystems, infrastructures and technologies all intertwine.” Next is the Observation Deck on the 30th floor, with 360-degree views of Barcelona in “a privileged space wrapped in glass, steel and concrete.” Finally, immerse yourself in “Cloud Cities Barcelona,” an interactive art installation by Tomás Saraceno.

Guided group tours Mirador Torre Glòries are available, and its spaces can be rented for exclusive events.

Torre de Jesucrist

The recently-completed Torre de Jesucrist at the Basílica de la Sagrada Família stands nearly 600 feet over Barcelona. The bascilica, on which Gaudí worked for 40 years, is open to tour on your own or with a guide. Climb to the top of one of the towers with a guide for breathtaking views of the city below.
 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services.

Do

Moco Museum

Modern, contemporary and street art come together under one roof at Moco Museum, which is based in Barcelona and Amsterdam. Moco’s exhibits include works of art by Banksy, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Tracey Emin, Andy Warhol and more. The museum’s Barcelona location is housed within Palacio Cervelló, a former private residence of the Cervelló family; it is available for special events.

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services.

Eat

GoXo

Michelin-starred Chef Dabid Muñoz, twice named “Best Chef in the World” at Best Chef Awards, brings his street food concept to Barcelona with GoXo, which serves up fast-food style dishes, but that’s not to say they’re lacking. Rather, Muñoz’s playful blends of flavor tempt the tastebuds with dishes like Mumbai lasagna with a coconut and cardamom béchamel; Hong Kong—Madriz, a traditional Spanish stew with a twist; and Ensaladilla XO: salmon carpaccio with a kimchi mayonnaise and nori-tapioca seaweed crackers.

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services.

Stay / Meet

Nobu Hotel Barcelona

Within the city’s Eixample neighborhood and near Plaza de España is Nobu Hotel Barcelona, combining Catalan vibes with the luxury equated with Nobu Hotels. In addition to its 259 spacious and sleek guest rooms and suites, the hotel houses Kozara for light bites and cocktails in the lobby, and Nobu Barcelona Restaurant on the twenty-third floor with panoramic views of the city below. Seven event spaces can be configured to welcome groups of up to 200, and public spaces, including outdoor terraces, can be transformed for private events. For a special indulgence, treat guests to an exclusive dining experience at Matsuhisa’s Table inside Nobu Barcelona Restaurant.

What’s New in Mallorca

• Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) has achieved renewal of its Level 3 Airport Carbon Accreditation in recognition of its efforts to reduce CO2 emissions.
• Direct flights between New York and Palma from June to September.

See

Catedral de Mallorca

Enjoy a 360 degree view of Palma. Visit the impressive Palma Cathedral “La Seu” and don’t forget to go up to the bell tower and terraces to admire the most emblematic monument of the island from a different and unique viewpoint. But not only the view is impressive, you can also have a closer look at the central rose window, consisting of 1,115 colored pieces of glass. It is one of the largest gothic style windows in the world.

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services.

Do

Finca Son Miranda

You’ve heard of agro- and gastro-tourism, but how about oleotourism? One of the stars of Spanish dishes is olive oil, so it’s little wonder that oleotourism was born. This new type of tourism represents a lifestyle that combines culture, nature and gastronomy in the country with the most olive-filled acres in the world. An olive oil tour at Finca Son Miranda will introduce your guests to world of olive oil. 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services.

Eat

Port d’Andratx

Enjoy a beautiful sunset at one of the most famous ports of the island. Stroll along the promenade and stop at one of the many restaurants. At LATITUD39, located at the waterfront, you can enjoy a fancy cocktail and Mediterranean cuisine with some creative touches. At Restaurant Barlovento on the other side of the port you can eat delicious tapas, the freshest fish and great Paellas.

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services.

Stay / Meet

Cap Vermell Grand Hotel

Just five minute from the beaches of the Balearic Sea is Cap Vermell Grand Hotel. Overlooking the Canyamel Valley, the design of the 142-room hotel was inspired by a Majorcan hilltop village, with traditional architecture and hand-carved stone, and local art. The spacious guest rooms, and executive and presidential suites are luxuriously appointed, and each has its own private terrace. More than 10,750 square feet of meeting and event spaces can be transformed to suit your needs, and welcome guests with elegant décor, modern sophistication and state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment. Outside, spaces surrounded by fragrant gardens and the mountainous valley await.

What’s New in Estepona?

•  Accessible tourism ensures that this part of the Costa del Sol has no barriers and everyone can enjoy.

• Several beaches along the 13 miles of Estepona’s coastline have been awarded the European Blue Flag  in recognition of sustainability. 

   

See

Senda Litoral

The Senda Litoral is a 124-mile-long coastal path that connects the beaches and ports along the Málaga coast. Starting in Manilva to the north, the path travels through Estepona and 11 other Mediterranean cities and towns, including Málaga, before ending in Maro in the south. Along the way, stop to see marinas, watchtowers and archaeological sites, not to mention flora and fauna like butterflies, birds and marine life. 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services.

Do

Take An Art Tour

The walkable town of Estepona has a couple of art routes that meander through its streets, like the Murals Route with more than 40 work of art. The Sculpture Route features more than 30 works of art by different artists, and the Poetry Route features word art in several different languages. Whichever route you choose, glimpse the Clock Tower, the 18th-century Los Remedios church and the San Luis Castle. Follow that by attending Europe's noted Boutique Festival.

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services.

Eat

Alelí, Kemuri and Tragabuches by Chef Dani García

Michelin-starred Chef Dani García is opening eight restaurants this year, three of which are in Marbella, not far from Estepona. First up is Alelí, featuring fresh Italian dishes in a space that can seat up to 110 guests. Kemuri is a Japanese izakaya tavern that seats up to 41 guests and has a 15-seat bar that serves an omakase menu. Third is Tragabuches, a 195-seat reprisal of García’s first restaurant that serves traditional Andalusian cuisine.

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services.

Stay / Meet

Kempinski Hotel Bahia Marbella Estepona

Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea with views of the coasts of Africa and Gibraltar, the five-star Kempinski Hotel Bahia Marbella Estepona welcomes guests with its exemplary service and luxurious accommodations. The hotel’s spacious guest rooms and stays suites ensure a comfortable stay, and its private apartments are ideal for executive retreats and longer stays. Six meeting rooms can be arranged to accommodate up to 350 people, as can outdoor garden and poolside spaces.  Team building activities like city treasure hunts, a paella challenge, yacht days and beach Olympics will make your event memorable for years to come.

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services.