A TOTAL solar eclipse will sweep across parts of Spain on August 12, turning day into night for a few unforgettable minutes.
These are the best villages and viewpoints in northern Spain to watch the spectacle:
One of the best places to experience it will be the province of Soria in northern Spain.
Open landscapes, very low light pollution and quiet medieval villages make this corner of Castilla y Leon a dream spot for skywatchers.
The eclipse will pass directly over the province, giving visitors a rare chance to watch the moon completely cover the sun.
Vinuesa: forests, mountain lakes and dark skies
In the north of the province, Vinuesa sits among pine forests and mountain scenery.
Just a short drive away lies the famous Laguna Negra, one of the most photographed natural spots in Castilla y Leon.
Surrounded by dramatic glacial landscapes in the Urbion mountains, it has amazing views and really peaceful hiking trails.
Thanks to its clear horizons and lack of artificial light, Vinuesa is one of the top places in Spain to watch the eclipse.
Calatañazor: the village where time stands still
Sitting on a hilltop, Calatañazor is one of Soria’s most famous medieval villages.
Narrow cobbled streets, adobe houses, and timber-framed buildings make the village feel like an open-air museum.
Walking through Calatañazor feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages.
Its elevated position makes it an ideal place to watch the eclipse.
Medinaceli: Roman arches and sweeping views
Over the centuries Medinaceli served as a Roman settlement, a Muslim frontier town and later as a key medieval stronghold between Castilla and Aragon.
Its most famous monument is the only Roman gateway with three arches on the Iberian Peninsula, built in the first century.
Visitors can find old city walls, churches, palaces and monasteries spread across the village.
The elegant Plaza Mayor offers a perfect meeting point before the eclipse begins.
From here, visitors can enjoy wide views over the surrounding valley and countryside.
El Burgo de Osma: history beside the river
El Burgo de Osma combines Roman roots, medieval history and impressive architecture.
Its cathedral, dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption, dominates the historic centre and ranks among the finest in Castilla y Leon.
The rivers Ucero and Abion run through town, adding green spaces and quiet walking routes to the historic atmosphere.
Visitors who come for the eclipse will find lively squares, excellent food and a beautifully preserved old quarter.
Monte Valonsadero: Soria’s natural viewing platform
Just outside the city of Soria, Monte Valonsadero offers one of the province’s best natural viewing areas.
Ancient cave paintings from the Copper and Bronze Ages hide among the rocks. Locals use Valonsadero for major festivals and sporting events.
On eclipse day, its wide fields will likely be filled with photographers, hikers and astronomy fans.
Easy to reach from Soria city with plenty of open space, it’s ideal for an uninterrupted eclipse view.
For travellers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Soria is going to be hard to beat.
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