EOS MAIL BOX

For years, the dream of moving to Spain came with a well-known caveat: the "mañana" culture. While we love the relaxed pace of a three-hour lunch, the paperwork involved in setting up a new life—banking, utilities, and residency—often felt like a relic of a different century.

However, 2026 is proving to be a landmark year for the "Digital Expat." Whether you are looking at a sleek apartment in Marbella or a rustic finca in the Murcian countryside, the digital tools at your disposal have transformed the relocation process.

1. Banking Without the Borders

Traditionally, opening a Spanish bank account was the first "boss level" of moving. You needed a NIE (tax number), a stack of translated documents, and a physical appointment.

Today, digital-first platforms like Revolut and N26 have become the gold standard for new arrivals. They allow you to hold Euros, enjoy competitive exchange rates, and—crucially—handle everything from your smartphone. While a local Spanish IBAN is still often required for certain utility bills, these digital banks provide a bridge that didn't exist five years ago, allowing you to pay for your first café con leche the moment you land.

2. High-Speed Spain: No More Buffering

One of the biggest concerns for property buyers is connectivity, especially for the growing number of digital nomads. Spain has invested heavily in its infrastructure, and the results are impressive. Median fixed internet download speeds in Spain have surged to over 229 Mbps, outperforming many other European neighbours.

Even in semi-rural areas and coastal regions, fiber-optic "FTTH" (Fiber to the Home) is now common. This means you can stream UK or Irish television, join Zoom calls, or manage your property rentals from your terrace without the dreaded "buffering" wheel.

3. Bureaucracy Goes Paperless (Mostly)

The Spanish government has confirmed a major digital overhaul of the residency system for 2026. The goal is to move away from fragmented regional systems toward a unified digital platform for visas and TIE (residency card) renewals.

• Centralised Submissions: Soon, you'll be able to upload digital versions of your documents directly, reducing the risk of "lost paperwork."

• The Cl@ve System: If you haven't already, getting your Cl@ve PIN or digital certificate is now the single most important thing you can do. It allows you to book doctor’s appointments, check your driving licence points, and even pay local taxes from your laptop.

4. Home Comforts via the Cloud

Homesickness is often just "TV-sickness." The way expats consume media has shifted entirely from massive 2-meter satellite dishes to professional IPTV and streaming services. While Amazon and other providers are tightening rules on unapproved apps, the availability of high-speed fiber means that "Internet TV" is now the reliable, high-definition standard for keeping up with the news and shows from back home.

5. Shopping and Services

The "heavy lifting" of moving into a new home is also being mitigated by technology. Major supermarket chains now offer sophisticated delivery apps, and local startups are connecting expats with organic farms and specialty services. If you’re moving into a hilly pueblo where carrying groceries in the heat is a chore, these apps are a literal lifesaver.

The Eye on Spain Verdict

The "digitalization" of Spain isn't just about convenience; it’s about integration. By removing the friction of daily tasks, expats can spend less time at the Extranjería (foreigner’s office) and more time enjoying the culture, gastronomy, and 300 days of sunshine that drew them to Spain in the first place.

If you are currently looking at properties, don't just ask about the view—ask about the fiber connection. In 2026, the best of both worlds is finally within reach.

Are you navigating the new digital landscape in Spain? Share your experiences with our community in the Eye on Spain forums!

If you've been driving in Spain recently, you’ve likely heard the chatter about the new V16 emergency beacons. As of January 1, 2026, these connected flashing lights officially replaced the traditional warning triangles as a mandatory safety requirement for vehicles on Spanish roads.

While the DGT claims the beacons (which cost between €30 and €50) will make breakdowns safer, the rollout has sparked plenty of controversy. Even the European Commission has questioned the legality of making the new tech compulsory. But despite the debates, the first fines are already being handed out.

If you've been slapped with a penalty for not having a V16 beacon, don't panic just yet. Here is a look at what went wrong with the rollout and how you might be able to challenge the fine.

The First Fines Are Already Here. The first highly publicised fine was issued on January 6th (Three Kings' Day) to a driver on the AP-7 motorway near Valencia. A Guardia Civil traffic officer handed the driver an €80 fine (reducible to €40 for prompt payment) for failing to carry the regulatory V-16 signal, citing breaches of the Traffic Law and General Vehicle Regulations.

The fine quickly caught the attention of legal experts, highlighting a massive contradiction between the actions of the Guardia Civil and the promises made by the Spanish government.

What Happened to the Promised "Grace Period"? Before the law came into effect, the DGT and top government officials—including Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska and DGT Director Pere Navarro—spoke publicly about a transitional "grace period." Expats and locals alike were assured that officers would initially focus on informing and educating drivers about the new requirement rather than immediately reaching for their ticket books.

The problem? This grace period was entirely verbal. It was never officially put into writing, nor was an end date defined. This vagueness left a legal grey area, meaning traffic officers on the ground have been legally permitted to issue fines from day one, despite the public reassurances of leniency.

How You Can Challenge the Fine. If you have received a fine during these early weeks of the new law, you have the right to file an appeal (recurso).

According to Pyramid Consulting, a legal firm specialising in Spanish traffic fines, drivers have a solid foundation to appeal based on the legal principle of "legitimate expectations" (principio de confianza legítima). In Spanish law, this doctrine dictates that public administration must act in a predictable, consistent, and transparent manner.

Because top officials publicly promised a grace period and no immediate fines, penalising drivers just days into the new year contradicts those statements. In simple terms, the authorities promised leniency, the public trusted that promise, and therefore, early enforcement is unfair.

While success is never 100% guaranteed—since the law technically remains in force—legal experts suggest that appeals that cite this lack of a defined grace period and the conflicting official messages have a very good chance of succeeding.

A Quick Note for Expats and Tourists If you are driving a rental car, the hire company should be responsible for ensuring the vehicle is equipped with a V16 beacon. Additionally, the mandate currently targets Spanish-registered vehicles, so if you are driving a foreign-registered car on a visit to Spain, you should technically be exempt—though having one certainly doesn't hurt for your own safety.

Whether you’ve just moved to the Costas or you’ve been living in Spain for years, it’s easy to fall into the routine of visiting the same familiar hotspots. But beyond the well-trodden paths of the Costa del Sol and the big-city buzz of Madrid and Barcelona, Spain hides some truly magical corners.

A recent feature by National Geographic highlighted seven lesser-known towns that offer a glimpse into the "real" Spain—perfect for an expat weekend getaway or a scouting trip if you're looking for a quieter pace of life.

From the misty mountains of the north to the windswept Atlantic coast, here is the full list of destinations every Spain-based resident should have on their radar.

1. Beget (Catalonia): The Ultimate Off-Grid Escape

If you really want to leave the modern world behind, head to the Catalan Pyrenees. Beget is so tucked away that it wasn't even accessible by car until the 1960s and only received mobile phone service in 2023. Today, it remains a honey-hued treasure of cobblestone streets and stone bridges.

• Don’t Miss: The 12th-century Church of Sant Cristòfol.

• Best For: Hikers and those looking for authentic mountain cuisine. It’s a key starting point for the Camí de Nord, a stunning trail through ancient oak forests.

2. Aínsa (Aragon): A Medieval Fortress with a View

Located in the Aragonese Pyrenees near the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Aínsa is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s not just a gorgeous medieval village; it’s a strategic hub for some of the best birdwatching and mountain biking in Europe.

• Highlight: The Zona Zero mountain biking destination features over 150 miles of marked trails.

• Nature Lovers: Visit the Pyrenees Bird Centre along the town's fortress walls to see majestic birds of prey.

3. Combarro (Galicia): Coastal Charm Without the Crowds

Galicia offers a completely different vibe from the Mediterranean south. Combarro is famous for its hórreos—unique stone granaries raised on stilts that line the shoreline. While it is on a variant of the Camino de Santiago, it remains much quieter than the main routes.

• Why Go: To see quintessential Galician architecture and enjoy some of the freshest seafood in the country.

• Pro Tip: Visit during the low season (even if it rains!) to see the 60+ stone granaries without the summer crowds.

4. Priego de Córdoba (Andalusia): The World's Best Olive Oil

This village checks every box for a southern Spanish escape: whitewashed facades, cascading magenta flowers, and sweeping hilltop views. But Priego’s true "liquid gold" is its extra-virgin olive oil, which has been recognized as the best in the world for 14 consecutive years.

• The Experience: Take a tour of 1,000-year-old groves at mills like Aceites Vizcántar to see the extraction process.

• Don't Miss: A hike to La Tiñosa, the area’s highest peak, where you can see farmers still harvesting olives by hand.

5. San Martín del Castañar (Castile and León): A Step Back in Time

Located south of Salamanca in the heart of the Sierra de Francia, this town feels like a living museum. It features half-timbered houses, Roman bridges, and the second-oldest bullring in Spain.

• Nature & Art: Hike the Camino de Espejos, a nearly 6-mile trek through chestnut forests where sculptures are hidden among the trees.

• Summer Tip: Cool off like a local in the natural spring pool located in the Parque Municipal.

6. Zumaia (Basque Country): Geological Wonders and Txakoli

An hour east of Bilbao lies Zumaia, home to the "Flysch"—coastal rock formations that look like the pages of a giant stone book revealing 15 million years of history.

• Must Do: Hike the coastal Ruta del Flysch from Deba to Zumaia. At low tide, you can walk right out onto the rocks.

• Taste of the North: Sip on txakoli (the region's famous effervescent white wine) and, if you're feeling indulgent, head to nearby Getaria for the world-famous grilled turbot at Elkano.

7. Trujillo (Extremadura): Ancient History and "3D" Art

Equidistant from Madrid and Lisbon, Trujillo is a powerhouse of history. Its Plaza Mayor and 10th-century Alcazaba (castle) are so atmospheric they were used as filming locations for Game of Thrones.

• The History: Explore the Moorish architecture and the underground cisterns with a local guide.

• Modern Twist: Drive 30 minutes to Romangordo to see the transpantojo murals—stunning 3D-style street art that pays homage to traditional village life.

In recent years, the narrative surrounding Spanish rosé has undergone a radical transformation. Long relegated to the category of "summer-only" refreshment or a second-tier substitute for reds and whites, Spanish rosados are now proving they possess a sophistication once thought impossible: the ability to age gracefully.

There is a  growing movement of wineries that are treating rosé not as a fleeting seasonal product, but as a fine wine capable of developing "the charm of maturity." These producers are utilising old vines, barrel fermentation, and extended bottle ageing to create complex, gastronomic wines that rival the best reds and whites of Spain.

Here are the standout age-worthy rosés featured in the article that are redefining the category:

1. Viña Tondonia Gran Reserva Rosado 2008

Winery: López de Heredia-Viña Tondonia (Rioja DOCa) A true legend in the wine world, this is the only surviving wine of its kind in Rioja. Released only in exceptional vintages (this 2008 is the first since 2000), it undergoes four years in barrels and four more in the bottle. It is celebrated for its delicate elegance, featuring notes of dried rose, cinnamon, and fresh almonds.

2. Chivite Colección 125 Rosado 2022

Winery: Chivite Family Estates (VT 3 Riberas) First created in 1985, this barrel-fermented blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha was a pioneer of quality rosé. While it is delightful when fresh, it is known to be truly surprising after eight years of bottle aging, offering a refined palate with high acidity and notes of noble woods and spices.

3. Classica Gran Reserva Rosado 2013

Winery: López de Haro (Rioja DOCa) Made from old-vine Garnacha Tinta and Viura, this wine spends four years in oak and at least six in the bottle. It is characterised by its bright acidity, spicy floral notes, and a persistence that promises a very long life in the cellar.

4. Le Rosé 2022

Winery: Antídoto (Ribera del Duero DO) Created by French winemaker Bertrand Sourdais, this "Grand Cru" of Ribera del Duero rosés is sourced from a single plot where Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) grows alongside white Albillo. Fermented and aged in barrels, it is a rich, mineral-driven wine that is stunning with age.

5. Valduero Rosado Reserva 2016

Winery: Valduero (Ribera del Duero DO) The García Viadero family applies their expertise in extended aging to this Reserva, which spends four years in barrel and two in bottle. It maintains vibrant red fruit and silky textures while gaining complex spicy undertones.

6. Gran Caus Rosado 2023

Winery: Can Ràfols dels Caus (Penedès DO). This 100% Merlot "rosé with a red soul" comes from the limestone soils of the Garraf Massif. Fermented with native yeasts and aged for six months in the bottle before release, its concentration and firm acidity allow it to evolve beautifully over time, defying the convention that Merlot rosés must be consumed immediately.

7. 200 Monges Rosado Reserva 2017

Winery: Vinícola Real (Rioja DOCa) Winemaker Miguel Ángel Rodríguez honours the Rioja tradition with this bold blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha. Aged for 20 months in new French oak barrels, it offers a sophisticated profile of fruit and sweet spice with a delicate, characteristic bitterness on the finish.

These wines represent a shift in the Spanish wine landscape. By embracing traditional techniques and the inherent potential of their terroirs, these wineries are proving that rosé can be a serious, collectable, and deeply rewarding experience for those patient enough to let them mature.

Discover the rich cultural and natural heritage of Spain through its stunning UNESCO-listed sites. From ancient Roman ruins to stunning Moorish palaces and unique modern architecture, Spain's World Heritage Sites offer a fascinating journey through the country's history and diverse landscapes.

1. Alhambra, Generalife, and Albayzín (Granada) 

This breathtaking complex of palaces, gardens, and fortresses in Granada showcases the exquisite architecture and artistry of the Nasrid dynasty. The Alhambra and Generalife are prime examples of Moorish architecture, while the Albayzín district represents the medieval Moorish town.

2. The Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of the Asturias

The Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of the Asturias are a group of pre-Romanesque buildings and structures in the region of Asturias, Spain. These monuments date back to the 9th and 10th centuries during the reign of the Kingdom of Asturias. They represent some of the earliest examples of Christian architecture on the Iberian Peninsula

3. Historic City of Toledo

Once the capital of Spain, Toledo is a melting pot of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish cultures. Its narrow streets, historic bridges, and impressive cathedral make it a fascinating destination for history buffs.

4. Works of Antoni Gaudí (Barcelona and surrounding areas)

In addition to the Sagrada Família, Gaudí's unique architectural style can be seen in various other buildings in Barcelona, such as Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà. The Colonia Güell Crypt, located just outside Barcelona, is also part of this UNESCO site.

5. Santiago de Compostela (Old Town)

The historic city of Santiago de Compostela is the final destination for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. Its impressive cathedral, Romanesque architecture, and narrow streets make it a truly unique site.

6. Old City of Salamanca

Salamanca is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, and its historic city center is a stunning display of Renaissance, Baroque, and Gothic architecture.

7. Las Médulas (León)

This ancient Roman gold mining site in the region of León offers a glimpse into the engineering prowess of the Roman Empire. The unique landscape, with its red-hued soil and terraces, is a testament to the scale of the mining operations.

8. Doñana National Park (Andalucia)

This vast wetland reserve in Andalusia is a haven for migratory birds and endangered species. Its diverse ecosystems, including marshes, lagoons, and sand dunes, make it a unique natural site.

9. La Lonja de la Seda (Valencia)

This Gothic-style building in Valencia, once a silk exchange, is an exceptional example of European secular architecture from the late Middle Ages.

10. Altamira Cave (Cantabria)

Known as the "Sistine Chapel of Paleolithic Art," the Altamira Cave is home to some of the world's most impressive prehistoric cave paintings, dating back around 15,000 years.

These are just a few of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain, each offering a unique glimpse into the country's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or nature explorer, Spain's World Heritage Sites are sure to leave you in awe.

If you ask the average wine drinker to define Sherry, you might be met with a blank stare or a vague reference to a sweet drink enjoyed by elderly relatives at Christmas. But here in Spain, and specifically in the south-west, Sherry (or Jerez) is a serious cultural institution with a complexity that rivals the world’s finest wines.

For expats and visitors looking to navigate the wine lists of Andalusia, understanding the basics is key. Based on insights from Foods and Wines from Spain, here is a primer on the dry Sherry styles that form the foundation of this iconic Spanish drink.

Sherry is exclusively produced in the "Marco de Jerez," a triangle of land defined by three towns: Jerez de la Frontera, El Puerto de Santa María, and Sanlúcar de Barrameda. While the region is famous for its unique solera ageing system, there is a growing movement returning to the roots of the vine, emphasising specific vineyard parcels (pagos) and how the land influences the final glass.

The vast majority of dry Sherry is made from the white Palomino grape. It is chosen for its neutral flavour profile, which acts as a blank canvas for the ageing process.

After fermentation, the wines are classified into two main paths:

1. Biological Ageing: Wines fortified to about 15.5% alcohol, allowing a layer of native yeast called flor to grow on the surface. This yeast protects the wine from oxygen and imparts unique flavours.

2. Oxidative Ageing: Wines fortified to at least 17% alcohol. This higher strength prevents flor from surviving, exposing the wine to oxygen and creating a darker, richer profile.

The Solera System

Have you ever wondered why Sherry bottles rarely show a vintage year? It’s because of the solera y criaderas system. This method involves fractional blending where younger wines are systematically mixed with older wines. The result is a consistent product where every bottle contains a tiny drop of wine that could be decades (or even a century) old.

The 5 Styles of Dry Sherry You Should Know

1. Fino 

A pale, delicate wine aged entirely under the layer of flor yeast. It is dry, crisp, and carries notes of almonds, wild herbs, and dough. It is the perfect match for tapas, olives, and Iberian ham.

2. Manzanilla 

Essentially a Fino, but produced exclusively in the coastal town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda. The humid sea air leads to a thicker layer of flor, resulting in a wine that is even paler and lighter, often with a distinctive salty, sea-spray "tang."

3. Oloroso 

"Oloroso" means "fragrant." These wines are aged without flor, exposing them to oxygen. They are dark, nutty, and full-bodied, with flavours of toffee, leather, spice, and walnuts. With a texture similar to red wine, they pair beautifully with stews, game meat, and mature cheeses.

4. Amontillado 

An Amontillado starts its life as a Fino (under flor) but is later refortified to kill the yeast, allowing it to age oxidatively. The result is an amber-colored wine that combines the yeasty, sharp aromas of a Fino with the nutty complexity of an Oloroso.

5. Palo Cortado 

The rarest style, Palo Cortado is an elegant enigma. It technically undergoes a similar process to Amontillado (biological followed by oxidative ageing), but typically spends less time under the flor. Connoisseurs say it has the aromatic finesse of an Amontillado but the body and structure of an Oloroso.

Next time you are at a bar in Andalusia, don't just ask for a glass of wine—order a chilled copa of Fino or a glass of Oloroso with your lunch. You’ll be tasting centuries of tradition in a single sip.

In the bustling heart of Madrid, tucked away in the historic Austrias district, stands a culinary monument that has outlasted empires, wars, and revolutions. Sobrino de Botín, widely known simply as Botín, celebrated a monumental milestone in 2025: its 300th anniversary. Founded in 1725 by French cook Jean Botín, this legendary establishment holds the Guinness World Record as the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world, a title it wears with quiet dignity and the aroma of roast pork.

The Soul of the Kitchen

While the restaurant has evolved since its early days as an inn where travellers would cook their own meat, one thing has remained constant: the fire. The true heart of Botín is its original wood-fired oven, which has been in continuous use since the restaurant opened three centuries ago.

Considered the "soul" of the establishment, this oven has cooked countless meals and witnessed the passage of history. Since 1930, the stewardship of this flame has belonged to the González family, who have meticulously preserved the venue's authenticity and traditions.

A Menu Written in History

Botín’s cuisine is a tribute to classic Castilian gastronomy, resisting modern fads in favour of timeless flavours. The undisputed star of the menu is the cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig). Sourced from Segovia, the piglets are slow-roasted in that centuries-old oven until the skin is shatteringly crisp while the meat remains impossibly tender. This dish is not just food; it is a piece of literary history, famously immortalised by Ernest Hemingway in his novel The Sun Also Rises, where he declared it the best suckling pig in the world.

Beyond the pig, the menu features other stalwarts of Spanish cuisine. The lechazo (roast baby lamb) is prepared with equal care in the same wood-fired oven. Diners also flock for the garlic soup with egg, callos a la madrileña (a spicy tripe stew), and delicate seafood options like baby squid in its ink or Botín-style clams.

To finish, the house speciality Tarta Botín—a layered confection of meringue, sponge cake, and cream—provides a nostalgic, sweet end to a savoury journey.

Dining in a Museum

Eating at Botín is an immersive experience that transports guests back to the 18th century. The restaurant spans four floors, each oozing with character. The cellar, with its ancient brick walls, offers an intimate, cavernous atmosphere, while dining rooms like the "Castilla" and "Felipe IV" are decorated with traditional tiles and period furniture.

As Botín celebrated 300 years, it stands as more than just a place to eat. It is a living testament to Madrid’s history, a place where the fire never goes out, and where the hospitality remains as warm as it was in 1725.

Red wine contains antioxidants, particularly resveratrol, which has been associated with potential health benefits. However, it's important to note that any potential benefits are likely only seen with moderate consumption, meaning one glass per day for women and up to two glasses per day for men.

Moderate consumption of red wine has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, certain types of cancer, and improved cognitive function. However, excessive consumption can lead to negative health consequences, such as liver disease, high blood pressure, and addiction.

It's also important to note that while red wine does contain antioxidants, these can also be found in other foods such as berries, nuts, and dark chocolate. So, while moderate red wine consumption can be a part of a healthy diet, it's not necessary to consume red wine to obtain the benefits of antioxidants.

Resveratrol is found in the skin of grapes and in red wine and is conjectured to be a partial explanation for the French paradox, the puzzling fact that people in France enjoy a high-fat diet yet suffer less heart disease than Americans.

David Sinclair is a renowned Harvard geneticist who has done extensive research on ageing and longevity. He has suggested that antioxidants are essential for maintaining good health and longevity. According to Sinclair, antioxidants help combat oxidative stress, which is a major cause of ageing and age-related diseases.

However, Sinclair has also cautioned against relying solely on antioxidant supplements to obtain these benefits. He believes that the best way to get antioxidants is through a healthy and varied diet, which includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-rich foods. In addition, Sinclair suggests that intermittent fasting and other forms of calorie restriction can help activate the body's natural antioxidant defences and promote longevity.

As Spain continues to solidify its reputation as a global gastronomic powerhouse, the results of the 2025 World Cheese Awards have given expats and locals alike a new reason to celebrate. Held for the first time in Switzerland, the "Oscars of the Cheese World" saw Spanish cheesemakers defy the home-turf advantage of the Swiss to bring home a staggering haul of medals.

For the readership of Eye on Spain, who know that a good meal starts with the best local ingredients, here is the breakdown of Spain’s big wins and what to look for at your local charcutería.

The "Super Gold" Elite

Out of over 5,000 entries from 46 countries, only 110 cheeses were awarded the prestigious Super Gold—the highest possible distinction. Spain claimed an impressive 20 of these spots.

Notable winners included:

• Catalonia’s Rising Stars: L'ovella del Pirineu and Sarró de búfala proved that Catalan sheep and buffalo milk cheeses are world-class.

• Castilla y León Dominance: From Palencia, Quesos Cerrato won for their "Umami" cheese, while Valladolid’s Quesos Quevedo struck gold with their aptly named Queso Adictivo.

• Andalusian Excellence: Cádiz continues to be a hotspot for boutique dairy, with Quesos Pajarete’s semi-cured goat cheese taking a Super Gold.

• Extremadura's Tradition: The region's raw goat milk cheese (Curado de cabra leche cruda) and the Oveja al romero Gran Reserva (rosemary-crusted sheep cheese) were standout winners.

The Most Decorated: Quesos El Bosqueño

If you are looking for a brand that consistently delivers, look no further than Quesos El Bosqueño from the Sierra de Grazalema (Cádiz). They became the most-awarded Spanish dairy of the 2025 competition, bagging 20 medals in total. Their experimental infusions—such as sheep cheese cured in aged rum and goat cheese with Oloroso sherry wine—continue to push the boundaries of traditional Spanish cheesemaking.

A New Honor: The “Es La Leche” Award

The 2025 awards introduced a new category celebrating the foundation of all great cheese: the milk. The inaugural Es La Leche Award was presented to Galician producer Airas Moniz. This award recognises their commitment to sustainable herding and the exceptional quality of the milk from their Jersey cows, highlighting the move toward eco-conscious farming in Spain.

Shopping Guide: What to Look For

Beyond the Super Golds, several other Spanish staples performed brilliantly:

• Mahón-Menorca DOP: This Menorcan classic picked up 10 medals across its various producers, proving its consistency.

• Blue Cheeses: For fans of the "stinky stuff," keep an eye out for Azul de Bunker (Aragón) and the famous Valdeón blue from Queserías Picos de Europa, both of which took home Gold.

Looking Ahead: The Awards are Coming to Spain!

While the Swiss dominated the top podium this year, the tide may turn in 2026. The World Cheese Awards Super Jury announced that the next edition of the competition will be held in Córdoba, Andalusia.

For those living in or visiting Spain, this is the perfect excuse to explore the "Cheese Routes" of the peninsula. Whether it’s the smoky Idiazabal of the north or the creamy Torta del Casar of the west, Spain’s cheese scene has never been more vibrant—or more globally recognised.

** Pro Tip for Expats: Many of these award-winning cheeses can be found in the gourmet sections of El Corte Inglés or specialised local queserías. Look for the World Cheese Awards seal on the packaging to ensure you're tasting a world champion!

Online travel agent, loveholidays, looked for the sunniest European destinations. Where’s the best destination for Brits to escape the UK winter?

The best winter sun destinations are:

1. Almeria, Spain
2. Las Palmas, Spain
3. Larnaca, Cyprus
4. Cadiz, Spain
5. Seville, Spain
6. Valletta, Malta
7. Valencia, Spain
8. Faro, Portugal
9. Barcelona, Spain
10. Marseille, France

Almeria, in sunny Spanish Andalucia, was ranked the brightest city for a break in the winter sun.

The beautiful destination has an average of six hours and 18 minutes of sunshine between December and February.

Almeria’s top attraction is the Parque Natural de Cabo de Gata, Andalucia’s largest protected coastal area.

A visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “We really enjoyed Cabo de Gata and went to Playa de Los Genoveses. The whole area was very unspoilt.”

Another said: “The views in this park are amazing. The seas, the mountains and especially the pine smell, make it worth a trip.”

Tourists can also visit the Alcazaba of Almeria, a fortified complex built in the time of the Moors.

A tourist wrote on Tripadvisor: “This is a magical place with incredible views. Well worth a visit- and we’ll come back!”

Almeria can enjoy highs of 16 degrees in January with the temperature rarely dropping below nine degrees.