Beauty, history, and panoramic views from five Spanish lighthouses

From the Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean, Spain's lighthouses have guided navigators for centuries and have become authentic tourist attractions today. These structures not only stand out for their maritime function, but also for their historical, architectural, and landscape value. One of the most iconic is the Tower of Hercules (A Coruña), the oldest Roman lighthouse still in operation and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is estimated to have been built in the second half of the first or early second century and offers a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean. In the Mediterranean, the Formentor Lighthouse (Mallorca) offers one of the most impressive views of the island. Located on a cliff over 200 meters high, it’s an essential stop for those traveling through the Sierra de Tramontana. This lighthouse, inaugurated in 1863, is one of the oldest.

Panoramic view of the famous Mermaid Reef with Cabo de Gata Lighthouse (Almeria, Spain) in the background © Shutterstock

Many lighthouses have been restored to offer unique experiences. Some, such as the Cabo de Palos Lighthouse (Almería), located in the heart of the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Nature Park, have become real reference points for diving, thanks to the wealth of their marine environment. From this point, it’s possible to see the famous Mermaids’ Reef where monk seals lived in ancient times, mistaken for mythological creatures by sailors. The Chipiona Lighthouse, located in the province of Cádiz, is the tallest in Spain, standing at a height of 69 meters, and one of the largest in Europe. It is possible to climb up to the skylight, though you’ll have to tackle the 244 steps first. Built in 1867, the waters of the Guadalquivir and the Atlantic meet at its feet. The Maspalomas Lighthouse, in Gran Canaria, is surrounded by the famous dunes of Maspalomas. This emblematic coastal symbol, reaching up 55 meters high and lit for the first time in 1890, originally guided sailors making their way along the routes between Europe and America. Though its tower is still in operation, tours of the lighthouse’s interior are possible.