A decade of beauty and commitment: eleven villages celebrate 10 years in the Most Beautiful Villages of Spain network
25 Feb 2026 · 16:00
Eleven towns across Spain are celebrating a decade as part of the network of Spain's Most Beautiful Towns this year. Ten years in which they have shown that beauty is not only to be admired, but also to be cared for. This anniversary recognizes the daily work of those who preserve the soul of rural Spain and promote responsible tourism that protects their heritage and way of life.
They are all part of a network that brings together the most beautiful villages committed to heritage conservation, demonstrating that cooperation between small municipalities can have a national and international impact.
The villages celebrating a decade in the network
These villages, spread across seven autonomous communities, reflect the diversity and cultural richness of our country. The eleven municipalities celebrating their tenth anniversary as part of the network in 2025 are: Aínsa, Anento, Ansó, and Alquézar (Aragon); Almagro (Castile-La Mancha); Bárcena Mayor (Cantabria); Candelario (Castile and León); El Castell de Guadalest and Vilafamés (Valencia); Frigiliana (Andalusia); and Tejeda (Canary Islands).
Over the past decade, these municipalities have demonstrated that responsible tourism can coexist with tradition, that innovation is not at odds with authenticity, and that working together strengthens the identity of inland Spain. They have all worked under the umbrella of the same quality brand, which seeks to disseminate, promote, and foster the economic development of inland villages.
"Reaching ten years in the network is a symbol of commitment to excellence and conservation," says Francisco Mestre, president of the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in Spain. "Being one of the most beautiful villages in Spain implies a permanent commitment: to maintain and improve the qualities for which the certification was obtained. That is why both local councils and residents must be involved in the conservation of local heritage, both tangible and intangible, in order to continue representing the beauty and authenticity of rural Spain."
The importance of being part of the Association
Ten years on, the results are clear. Being part of the network of Spain's Most Beautiful Villages offers municipalities exceptional visibility and a common platform to showcase their rich heritage, culture, and landscapes, both nationally and internationally.
Through its strong presence in the media and social networks, national and international promotional campaigns, and the annual publication of the Official Guide and MICHELIN Map, the Association promotes quality and sustainable tourism throughout the country.
In addition, it works closely with public and private institutions to support rural development, heritage conservation, and the promotion of inland Spain, and promotes innovative tools such as the Digital Traffic Light, which helps to manage visitor flows responsibly.
Presentation of commemorative awards at the Annual Assembly
On November 29, these eleven towns will receive the commemorative award at the Association's Annual Assembly, which this year will take place in the Cantabrian town of Santillana del Mar. During the day, the new municipalities that will join the network in 2026 will be announced.
This anniversary symbolizes the pride of rural Spain, which remains alive thanks to the commitment of its residents, its heritage, and its authenticity. Eleven towns that remind us that beauty must also be protected every day.


