Beyond their religious significance, Spain's shrines and chapels are almost always set in places chosen for their beauty and their peace: summits with endless views, river bends, forests, cliffs. That makes them a beautiful, calm theme for a motorhome route, whether or not the spiritual side interests you. They are pockets of calm in unique settings. Here are some ideas.
Shrines in spectacular settings
- Montserrat (Barcelona): the monastery set among the rocky mountains, spectacular.
- San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (Bizkaia): the chapel on a rocky islet, one of the country's most famous images.
- The Covadonga shrine (Asturias), deep in the mountains.
- Hidden chapels found all across the country, on summits and in secluded bends.
Why they work so well by camper
These places are usually set in remote, peaceful spots, ideal for a motorhome. They offer calm, viewpoints and, often, hiking trails to reach the most remote ones (see hiking). They're perfect for a slow, disconnected trip (see slow travel), whatever your beliefs.
How to experience the route
This isn't a route to rush: it's one to savour — stop, enjoy the peace and the views, walk up to the chapel, respect the place (many are still active places of worship). It's one of the most serene ways to travel and get to know rural, mountain Spain.
Practical tips
- Respect places of worship and those visiting them out of faith.
- Check access and opening times: some are up high and reached only on foot.
- Spring and autumn: better weather for the mountain ones.
- Use nearby sites and respect local overnight rules.
In short
A route of shrines and chapels takes you to places of peace in spectacular settings, whatever your beliefs. The step to take today: choose a handful of shrines in beautiful settings (Montserrat or Gaztelugatxe are spectacular), take them at a slow pace, walking up to them and enjoying the views; it's one of the most serene routes you can take. Pair it with slow travel.