1788040570
Made in Spain

Advertise on podcast: Made in Spain

Rating
★★★★★
5
from
14 reviews
This podcast has
30 episodes
Language
English
Publisher
Made in Spain
Explicit
No
Date created
2024/12/31
Latest episode
2026/02/03
Average duration
45 min.
Release period
15 days

Description

Whether you’re an expat chasing the dream, a traveller inspired by European elegance or a foodie seeking the perfect paella, Made in Spain is your insider’s guide to all things chic, cultural and quintessentially Spanish. Join hosts Nalini Sharma and Laura Senior García for a glamorous mix of travel, food, fashion and the rich cultural narratives that make Spain a global icon of style and sophistication. Nalini is a former Canadian TV presenter, who has previously covered red carpet and live events, and major news stories. She channels the same wit and curiosity to the Made in Spain podcast, offering sharp, unscripted takes on everything from Spanish traditions to expat surprises. Laura, a seasoned leadership coach and global traveler, shares her deep, first-hand knowledge of Spain—not just as her birthplace, but as a country she continues to rediscover. With a British father and Spanish mother, she considers herself a global citizen with deep roots in Spain. Her insights connect Spain’s rich past with its modern evolution, offering a unique and personal perspective on life, culture, and luxury in Spain today. Every episode of Made in Spain explores the country’s hidden gems and exclusive experiences, but it’s more than just a guide—it’s a conversation. The show’s Slice of Life segment gives listeners an unfiltered peek into Nalini and Laura’s daily experiences – the joys, frustrations, and unexpected moments that make life in Spain, and beyond, full of surprises. Sometimes, it’s about the reality of settling into a new country – at other times, it’s about their travels, funny mishaps, or behind-the-scenes stories from researching the podcast. No matter the topic, listeners feel like they are right there with them, stepping into their world.  

Unlock Made in Spain podcast Email contact info,
Listeners & Audience details

Email contact information

Direct podcast contact details

Listeners

Audience numbers & engagement insights

Audience details

Podcast Insights

Podcast episodes

Check latest episodes from Made in Spain podcast


29. Inside Spanish Wine Culture And A Family Micro-Winery
2026/02/03
Send us a text Spain’s wine isn’t just a tasting note—it’s a way of living that turns an ordinary lunch into a small celebration. We dive into the everyday elegance of drinking by the glass, the surprising value you can find under ten euros, and the regional gems that make Spain a world leader by vineyard area and character. From cava’s crisp sparkle to buttery local whites and deep, contemplative reds, we sketch a map you can actually drink, matching mood and meal without the snobbery. We share a favourite field trip: Masos de Guadalest, a family micro-winery tucked into the mountains near Guadalest. It’s intimate, thoughtful, and beautifully run—a place where three-wine tastings come with simple tapas, olive oil flights, and a tour that explains why staying small keeps quality high. The family’s project doubles as rural revival, proving that craft hospitality can bring life back to mountain towns without losing authenticity. Think curated experiences, fair pricing, and a view you’ll carry home with the bottles. Along the way, we weigh tortilla against the briny punch of a gilda, admit our rosé reluctance, and celebrate the joy of cava at any hour. We chart the must-know regions—Rioja’s age-worthy tempranillo, Catalonia’s traditional-method sparkling, Galicia’s seafood-loving Albariño, and the Basque Country’s zippy Txakoli poured from a height. Then our slice of life takes a lively detour to Trinidad Carnival prep, complete with a mango chow that set our mouths on fire and a shout-out to our band and costumes. It’s all tied together by a Spanish phrase we love: al pan, pan; y al vino, vino—call things what they are, including your taste. If this blend of practical tips, regional highlights, and real-life adventures speaks to you, hit follow, subscribe, and leave a comment with your favourite Spanish bottle or tapas pairing. Got questions or local tips? Email us at Ola at madeinspainpodcast.com and join the conversation. Cheers.
28. Beauty In Spain, Demystified
2026/01/20
Send us a text Beauty shouldn’t feel like a secret handshake. In this episode, we open the door on Spain’s beauty and wellness scene — where confidence is built through transparency, cultural openness, and access that feels refreshingly normal. Click through the link in the description to start your language-learning journey. Buy $10 and get $5 free for your first lesson using our exclusive promo code MADEINSPAIN. The discount is available for the first 50 users only. Web: https://go.italki.com/madeinspain2601 App: https://go.italki.com/madeinspain2601app From PRP for hair and skin to the polynucleotide treatments everyone’s whispering about, we break down real costs, honest results, and how to book smartly in Spain without the gatekeeping. We share first-hand experience about how Spain’s private dermatology system makes high-quality care genuinely accessible. We also explore the full spectrum of clinics, from neighbourhood medispas to elite longevity centres offering full diagnostics and personalised health roadmaps. Not into needles? We spotlight an unexpected Spanish beauty favourite hiding in plain sight: Mercadona’s Deliplus line — from makeup dupes and sturdy brushes to pigment-fighting serums and the cult dragon’s blood cream travellers request by name. Beyond treatments and products, we unpack a cultural shift that feels uniquely Spanish: people openly talk about what they’ve had done. That honesty helps you make better decisions, set realistic expectations, and stop chasing perfection in silence. We round things out with simple seasonal habits — citrus-forward nutrition, plus early notes on Madrid’s upcoming F1 for anyone pairing self-care with a major city event. Subscribe for more grounded guides to living well in Spain. Share this episode with a friend planning a beauty trip, and leave a review with your favourite Spanish product or clinic tip — your recommendations shape future episodes.
27. Murcia’s Cathedrals, Tapas, And Travel Style
2026/01/06
Send us a text Looking for a city that gives you history, flavour, and space to breathe? We head to Murcia and find a place where the cathedral hums with local life, tapas are taught in dialect, and style is less about labels and more about respect. We start with a listener’s question on how to pack without shouting “tourist,” then build a practical wardrobe for Spain: neutral layers, a light blazer or trench, flat shoes that can handle cobbles, and a black dress you can dress up or down. The goal isn’t to hide; it’s to show up well in rooms that still care about showing up well. Our walk lands at the Catedral de Santa María, a time capsule that traces Gothic bones through Renaissance, Baroque, and neoclassical details. Instead of queues and selfie sticks, we find quiet, low-cost entry during museum hours, and a full house for Mass that proves it’s still a working church. A few blocks away, we step into Murcia’s “casino,” which isn’t a casino at all but a 19th‑century social club with Moorish-inspired interiors, salons, and a courtyard that feels like a pocket Alhambra. It’s the kind of building that explains a city’s pride: member-funded, carefully kept, and open to curious visitors. Food ties it together. We taste pastelitos, learn about paparajote, and dive into tapas that carry grammar lessons: marinera with oil-cured anchovy, marinero with vinegar-cured boquerón, and the matrimonio that marries both. Because Murcia sits in the Orchard of Europe, produce shines, prices stay gentle, and the best finds are often places without perfect ratings but full of locals. Add the Mar Menor coastline, golf, small-town castles like Lorca, spring festivals, Holy Week processions, and concert dates that are kinder on the wallet, and you’ve got a destination that beats the obvious without trying. If this guide helps you see Spain with fresh eyes, follow the show, share it with a friend planning a trip, and leave a quick review. Your notes help us choose the next city to explore and the next local table to sit at.
26. Christmas In Madrid: Lights, Traditions, And Travel Tips
2025/12/23
Send us a text Planning a girls’ trip or a festive getaway and want Spain to feel effortless, joyful, and great value? We kick off with a listener question and map out a smart Madrid hub strategy: take fast trains, book early for the lowest fares, and choose destinations that deliver big experiences without long drives. Alicante shines in May with easy rail links and beach weather, Sevilla brings Andalusian heart in two days, and the Basque coast rewards food lovers and sea seekers. We share where to save, where to spend, and how to walk away with memories that outlast price tags. From there we slip into December and watch Madrid light up. The city invests in energy-efficient displays, lively markets, and neighbourhood scenes that turn a night walk into an event. We talk belenes, chestnuts roasted on street corners, and the social rhythm that keeps you outdoors and together. The Spanish holiday calendar runs long: Nochebuena on the 24th, a relaxed lunch on the 25th, grapes for luck at midnight on New Year’s, then the Cabalgata and gifts on Three Kings. Expect hot chocolate with Roscon de Reyes, busy restaurants, and a festive mood that feels both sacred and playful. We also unpack El Gordo, the Christmas lottery that’s more community ritual than mega-jackpot, and highlight how Madrid handles big stages—from an 80,000-strong NFL game at the Bernabéu to arena shows that start on time and keep crowds safe. For splurges, think med-spas, well-run beach clubs on the mainland coast, and Spanish-made fashion or artisan jewelry. For savings, book trains early and take advantage of seasonal sales. And if Zara or Mango is on your list, the prices here often beat what you pay abroad for the same pieces. If you enjoyed the stories and tips, tap follow, share this with a friend planning Spain, and leave a quick review telling us where you’d base your own trip. Your ideas and questions shape what we explore next. 
25. Cadiz, Flamenco, And The Atlantic
2025/12/09
Send us a text The Atlantic changes everything. Drive across the vast bridge into Cadiz and the city tightens around you: lanes narrow, façades lean in, and the wind smells like old voyages and fresh salt. We set out to understand why this port at the edge of Spain feels so singular, and found answers in history, humour, and a cave that sings. Cadiz claims the mantle of Western Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, a Phoenician outpost older than Rome where Columbus launched two voyages and a gold-domed cathedral once guided sailors home. Gaditanos learned to laugh sharp and loud; their carnival favours satire over glitter, scoring the news with bite and melody. The sea feeds a daily ritual too: anglers posted along the promenade, rods bowed to Atlantic depth, and a local devotion to red tuna that borders on religion. The beaches are wilder here, the dunes higher, the water colder, and the horizon points straight to North Africa. The heart of our journey beats underground at La Cueva del Pájaro Azul. Tucked beneath the Barrio del Pópulo, this former Phoenician shipyard is now an intimate tablao where flamenco unfolds with no microphones and no distance. A singer’s cry, a guitarist’s pulse, palms clapping, heels carving rhythm into wood: the room compresses sound into something raw and immediate. We trace the cave’s story from shipbuilders to smugglers to a mid-century golden era that drew legends, and we talk duende in the only place it truly makes sense—close enough to feel the air shift when the dancer turns. This trip stretches further than a map suggests. Andalusia grows avocados and even mangoes now; Jerez’s horses step like drums; Madrid’s Time Warp festival pounds hard techno through IFEMA till dawn. Tradition and modern energy share a charge: precision, surrender, and the thrill of a room moving as one. If Cadiz is on your list, give it time: walk the old town, watch the fishermen, eat tuna two ways, find the cave, and let the Atlantic wind write the rest. Enjoy the journey south with us, and if you loved this, tap follow, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review!
24. Alicante Crowned Spain’s Gastronomic Capital 2025
2025/11/25
Send us a text A city best known for its airport and beaches just stole our hearts with rock and flavour. We start beneath the mountain in Busot’s Cuevas de Canelobre, where a chill 18°C air, vaulted limestone, and centuries-old formations set the mood for a story about time, patience, and the hidden power of place. From there we surface into a surge of taste: Alicante has been named Spain’s Capital of Gastronomy for 2025, and the title feels earned the second you start eating your way through town. We walk you through Alicante Gastronómica at the IFA convention centre, a sprawling, well-run festival that blends market energy with masterclass insight. Think 260 exhibitors, 130 chefs, live competitions for tortilla and arroces, pastry art from Paco Torreblanca, and generous tastings that range from olive oils to unexpected sips like Chinese whisky. It’s the kind of event where you can chat to producers, learn why a fish broth matters, and pick up tips you’ll actually use. Along the way we spotlight the dishes that define the region—arroz a banda, pericana, salazones—and the sweet icon with its own denomination, turrón de Jijona. To make your itinerary sing, we share two standouts at different moods and price points. Manero brings polished tapas, preserved seafood, tomato salads, truffled omelettes, and a stellar Russian salad in a room with vintage charm. Natsu Ramen delivers fast, soulful bowls that justify the queue and prove Alicante’s palate is wider than many imagine. Add in strong Arabic and halal options, plus local wines, mistela, and gins that speak of citrus and scrub, and you’ve got a city ready to reward curiosity without breaking the budget. Hungry for more journeys like this? Follow and subscribe so you never miss a plate, share the episode with a friend who loves Spain, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. What should we eat next time we’re in Alicante? Tell us on Instagram.
23. Inside The Royal Andalusian School Of Equestrian Art
2025/11/10
Send us a text Step through the gates of Jerez and into a world where horses dance, leather is stitched by hand, and a French‑style palace shelters Spain’s living equestrian heritage. We head to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art to see how classical dressage and Doma Vaquera are taught, preserved, and performed with precision and heart. From the first moments on the grounds, the details floored us: spotless stables, braids like artwork, and a team that treats horsemanship as a craft worth a lifetime. We tour the carriage museum inside a former sherry bodega and discover how engineering and elegance once ruled the streets: royal wedding coaches, ingenious suspensions, and the right‑hand driving legacy that still shapes the UK. In the saddlery room, students work leather the old way, building saddles layer by layer with natural stuffing and careful stitching. This is a real school with five disciplines—dressage, saddlery, grooming, vet, and carriage driving—offering multi‑year training to a select few. For riders, bespoke clinics put you on schoolmaster horses that feel like professors, compressing years of learning into focused sessions. Then the music starts. Como Bailan Los Caballos Andaluces unfolds like a ballet: pirouettes, lateral work, airs above the ground, and synchronised patterns that make a 600‑kilo stallion look weightless. It’s not spectacle for spectacle’s sake; it’s trust, timing, and quiet aids in perfect balance. Along the way we connect the dots between Jerez and sherry—why the region led early electrification, how British merchants and Spanish producers built a global trade, and what makes Pedro Ximénez taste like sunshine concentrated in a glass. If you love travel, craftsmanship, or horses, this journey belongs on your list. Hit play, get inspired, and share the episode with someone who needs a little Andalusian magic. Subscribe for more Spanish stories, leave a review to help others find us, and tell us: would you ride, study, or just sit back and watch the dance?
22. Spain’s October: Spirit, Saints, And Steins
2025/10/28
Send us a text Spain’s October doesn’t pick a lane. One night brings witches, costumes, and playful scares; the next morning, families file into cemeteries with buckets, brushes, and armfuls of flowers. We lean into that contrast and explore why it feels so right: a season that holds both noise and hush, thunder and reflection. We start with Halloween’s Spanish footprint—Galician echoes of pagan rites, La Noche de las Brujas, and the idea of the veil between worlds. One of us loves the eerie creativity of full-on spooky costumes; the other side-eyes the commercial frenzy. From there we step into 1 November, when All Saints Day turns the country toward remembrance. We talk about social expectations around tending graves, the rows of abuelas at flower stalls, and the flavours that mark the day: huesos de santo from Madrid’s convent lore and panellets from Catalonia and Valencia. Curiosity pulls us across the Atlantic to Día de Muertos, recognised by UNESCO and rich with colour, marigolds, and altars set with favourite foods. We unpack the calavera story—born from satire—and the deeper message that remembering our dead can be communal, joyful, and grounding. Then we swing back to steins and brass bands as Oktoberfest takes over Spanish coastal towns. Even if you don’t drink beer, the spectacle is irresistible, and the tradition’s origin is surprising: an 1810 royal wedding that turned into a global ritual. Between sips and stories, we share a slice of life in lederhosen, sample regaliz licorice bark, and reflect on a borrowed Thanksgiving that centres gratitude without the gift-wrapping. A Spanish saying ties it all together: no hay octubre sin trueno ni santos sin duelo. Storms will come; sorrow belongs to remembrance. If this blend of spooky, sacred, and social sounds like your kind of autumn, hit play, subscribe, and leave a review to tell us which tradition speaks to you most.
21. First Light in Jávea
2025/10/13
Send us a text First light hits Spain in Javea, and that’s where our day begins: a deliberate detour off the motorway, a coastline that rewards patience, and a kayak glide into La Cova de la Granadella where the water lights up like stained glass. We map Javea’s three faces – the fortress old town, the working port, and the Arenal’s soft sand  – and share the small facts that change how you travel: the easternmost sunrise, pirate alarms woven into church walls, and a raisin trade once called “black gold.” Curiosity pulls us inland to a narrow street and The Archives, a mother–son vintage boutique with a philosophy that feels both stylish and sane. Deborah restores luxury handbags by hand, while Manoa decodes the craft of authentication, from stitching and hardware to those quiet LV stamp tells. It’s a masterclass in buying well, repairing better and keeping pieces in circulation because they deserve more years, not more landfills. You’ll hear how to spot fakes, why date codes matter, and how sustainable fashion can still feel glamorous. We round the night in Benidorm, where Pride’s closing concert turns into a neighbourhood party: tribute acts, kids on shoulders, abuelas down from the flats with beers in hand. The vibe is welcoming, the parade joyful, and yes, not every tribute lands– an uneasy Amy Winehouse moment reminds us homage has edges – but the wider feeling is freedom shared in public. Between scenes we dip into very Spanish comforts: ensaladilla rusa on crisp breadsticks, a friendly debate on whether mayonnaise is Menorcan or French, and a plastic-cup salute with Tinto de Verano because sometimes convenience is the right flavour. Come for the sunrise, stay for the bag spa, dance for the encore. If this journey made you smile, learn, or plan a trip, tap follow, rate the show, and share it with a friend who loves Spain’s coast and its hidden stories. Your reviews help us keep exploring and bring back the good stuff.
20. La Tomatina: Spain's Epic Food Fight
2025/09/29
Send us a text Ever wondered what happens when you mix 10,000 locals, 22,000 visitors, and 150,000 kilograms of tomatoes in a tiny Spanish town? We plunged headfirst into the chaotic wonder of La Tomatina to find out! This annual festival transforms the sleepy town of Buñol into ground zero for the world's largest food fight. Armed with media passes and a healthy dose of caution, we navigated the narrow cobblestone streets alongside revelers from across the globe. The atmosphere was electric – locals offering food and drinks from their homes, music pumping through the streets, and morning drinks flowing freely (though we stayed sober for the drive home). What struck us most was the surprising diversity of participants. From young children gleefully pelting their parents with tomatoes to elderly folks with canes, La Tomatina draws people of all ages. The festival follows strict traditions: the greasy pole challenge where brave souls attempt to climb for a ham, the cannon blast at noon signaling the start, and the precision one-hour timeline that ends exactly at 1 PM – a remarkable display of punctuality in a country not typically known for it! We learned the fascinating history behind this bizarre tradition, which began spontaneously in 1945 and was once banned by Franco for being "un-Spanish." Today, it's one of Spain's most internationally recognized festivals, inspiring similar events worldwide. The tomatoes themselves aren't even edible varieties – they're specifically grown for the festival, addressing concerns about food waste. Whether you're planning your own tomato-soaked adventure or just curious about Spain's more unusual traditions, this episode offers an intimate glimpse into an event that defies easy explanation. As we discovered, La Tomatina isn't just about throwing tomatoes – it's about release, community, and the strangely therapeutic joy of embracing absurdity. Ready to add this messy bucket-list experience to your travel plans? Listen now for our complete survival guide, including how to secure tickets, what to wear, and why you absolutely need goggles!
19. Summer Round Up
2025/09/15
Send us a text Saddle up for a refreshing summer roundup as Laura and Nalini return for Season 4 of Made in Spain! After discovering a shared passion for horseback riding (despite choosing Spain's hottest months to begin this adventure), the hosts swap stories of how they navigated the notorious Spanish summer. Nalini whisks us away to Toronto, where she rediscovered her hometown from a new perspective, tried heated dark Pilates classes, and even traveled with her surprisingly well-behaved dog Luna—though hilariously, no airport official ever actually checked if there was really a dog in her carrier! Meanwhile, Laura reveals her highlights included magical sunset trail rides overlooking the Peñón de Ifach in Calpe and precious beach moments with her family. The pair doesn't shy away from the realities of Spanish summers—the exodus of locals, quadrupled hotel prices, impossible parking situations, and the futility of trying to accomplish anything beyond tourism in August. As Nalini puts it, "It's like Groundhog Day—you wake up and it's vacation day again." They share candid insights about attending a White Party (complete with belly dancers and an unexpected baby wild boar), traveling to Formula One qualifying in Austria, and discovering the refreshing joys of zero-alcohol drinks for beating the heat without the hangover. Whether you're planning a Spanish getaway or simply curious about expat life on the Costa Blanca, this episode offers both practical wisdom and entertaining anecdotes about making the most of summer's challenges. Subscribe now to catch upcoming episodes featuring La Tomatina festival, Benidorm Pride, and Alicante's rising gastronomic recognition!
18. Madrid: Serrano style, Malasaña nights and yayos
2025/09/01
Send us a text Step into Madrid, a city that confidently wears contrasts like a second skin. From our first moments exploring the Spanish capital, we were struck by its ability to simultaneously embrace luxury and grit, tradition and rebellion, elegance and edge. The city's personality reveals itself in layers. You might start your evening sipping expertly crafted cocktails beneath the chandeliers of the Four Seasons, only to end the night in a historic dive bar where the floor sticks to your shoes and the bartender rings a school bell when patrons get too rowdy. This is Madrid – unapologetically authentic and full of surprises. Our whirlwind day began with exquisite Asian cuisine at Li Long, where we discovered that even upscale restaurants offer affordable weekday lunch menus. The sommelier's passionate knowledge enhanced our meal, particularly when accompanying what might have been the best lobster we've ever tasted. From there, we ventured to the Golden Mile of shopping along Calle Serrano, where luxury boutiques like Purificación García and Carolina Herrera showcase Spanish design at its finest. Pro tip: if you're visiting in early July, even these high-end stores offer significant discounts during Spain's major sales period. The heart of our Madrid experience came in Malasaña, once the epicenter of Madrid's counterculture "Movida" movement. At Casa Camacho, a bar unchanged since the 1800s, we sampled the authentic Yayo cocktail in its birthplace. The contrast between the morning's luxury shopping bags and this neighborhood dive couldn't have been more striking – yet somehow, perfectly Madrid. We also discovered the Temple of Debod, a 2,200-year-old Egyptian temple gifted to Spain and reconstructed in Parque del Oeste, offering magical sunset views that shouldn't be missed. A word of caution: Madrid's summer heat is intense. Without coastal breezes, the city can feel like an oven, with even the wind bringing no relief. Many locals escape to the coast in August, but with proper planning (indoor activities during peak afternoon heat), summer visits can still be rewarding. Have you experienced Madrid's fascinating contrasts? We'd love to hear which side of this multifaceted city captured your heart – the elegant luxury or the authentic local haunts. Either way, Madrid awaits, ready to show you all its fascinating faces.
17. Discovering Costa Blanca’s Wine Culture
2025/08/18
Send us a text Venture beyond Spain's famous Rioja as we uncork the hidden wine treasures of Costa Blanca! What began as a two-hour content creation session turned into a delightful deep dive into the region's surprising viticulture scene. Nestled near the medieval town of Guadalest, we discovered Masos de Guadalest, a winery reviving century-old traditions after a 100-year hiatus. For a mere €20, their tastings offer premium wines paired with local cheeses and charcuterie, all served with the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like their most important guest. They're even opening a boutique wine-themed hotel later this summer – perfect for oenophiles seeking immersion in Spanish wine culture. Our most fascinating find was Mar de Vins, a micro-winery where a husband-wife team ages bottles 30 meters underwater in the Mediterranean Sea for six months! Using local Maravilla and Hero grape varieties, they create uniquely "clean" wines with distinctive character. Their submarine-aged bottles (around €80) are limited production treasures worth seeking out. We also explored La Nucía's annual "Night of Wine" festival, a celebration featuring 150 wine and food experiences from local producers. Unlike many wine events dominated by commercial brands, this festival spotlights small, passionate winemakers sharing their stories and craft. The eco-friendly approach – reusable wine glasses and cleaning stations instead of disposable cups – perfectly complemented the authentic experience. Whether you're planning a visit to Costa Blanca or simply looking to expand your wine knowledge beyond familiar Spanish regions, these hidden gems offer a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and Mediterranean charm. As the Spanish saying goes, "Donde no hay vino, no hay amor" – Where there is no wine, there is no love!
16. Hidden Gems of the Costa Blanca
2025/08/04
Send us a text Ever wondered where the locals go when tourists aren't watching? Those secret spots that never make it to the guidebooks but hold the true essence of a place? This episode peels back the curtain on Costa Blanca's best-kept secrets—places that even long-term residents might miss without the right insider knowledge. We journey to Elche, where generations of artisanal shoemakers create masterpieces one stitch at a time. At Brian Stepwise, we discover handcrafted cowboy boots that would cost five times as much anywhere else, made with techniques passed down through generations. These aren't just shoes; they're wearable Spanish heritage at surprisingly accessible prices. The gastronomic adventures take us to El Crank, a chiringuito perched directly on Altea's golden sands, where the fideuà (noodle paella) has locals booking weeks in advance. Nearby, we explore Calangels in mountainous Polop—a family home turned restaurant where there's no menu, just whatever exceptional ingredients the owner sourced that morning from his network of local producers and fishermen. Perhaps most surprising is our visit to Gata de Gorgos, an unassuming one-street town that houses Zahati—hat makers whose creations have graced Netflix productions and high-end boutiques across Europe. In their workshop, older generations of craftswomen spend ten hours handmaking each distinctive piece, creating statement accessories that combine traditional techniques with contemporary designs. We wrap up our hidden gems tour with the delightful discovery of Valencia's coffee parties—afternoon dance events that bring nightlife energy to daylight hours, creating inclusive spaces for people to connect without staying out until dawn. These treasures represent the authentic Spain we've fallen in love with—where craftsmanship matters, relationships with producers are valued, and traditions evolve while maintaining their soul. Listen now to add these special places to your Costa Blanca adventure, and remember to subscribe for our upcoming episode on Spanish wines and a very unique wine festival we recently attended!
15. Epic Day Trips From Bilbao: From Dragonstone to Ghecho
2025/07/21
Send us a text Beyond the gleaming curves of Bilbao's Guggenheim lie two extraordinary destinations that showcase the true magic of Spain's Basque Country. Our adventure begins in Ghecho – the "Hamptons of Spain" – just 20 minutes from Bilbao yet worlds apart in atmosphere. Strolling through Ghecho feels like stepping into another era. French-style châteaux line tree-shaded streets, remnants of a time when Spain's industrial elite built summer palaces along this privileged coastline. The town presents two distinct faces: one of aristocratic grandeur with boutiques and refined dining, another more authentic and connected to its seafaring past. What truly distinguishes Ghecho is the UNESCO-protected Puente de Vizcaya – a hanging bridge designed by Gustav Eiffel's student. This remarkable structure isn't just a tourist attraction but a functioning transport system locals use daily, with a suspended gondola carrying pedestrians and vehicles across the river. But nothing prepares you for San Juan de Gatelugache – better known to millions as Dragonstone from Game of Thrones. Unlike many filming locations that quickly commercialize, this ancient hermitage remains untouched by branding, honoring its centuries-old history as a spiritual pilgrimage site. The dramatic stone pathway leading to the church, with 241 steps carved into rugged cliffs, creates an almost mystical experience as Atlantic waves crash against volcanic rock formations. What makes this location particularly special is how it's managed. Free timed-entry tickets must be reserved in advance, creating a measured flow of visitors that preserves the site's magic. While queuing, we witnessed dozens refreshing their phones hoping for last-minute cancellations – testament to its popularity even years after Game of Thrones concluded. Between adventures, we sampled local specialties including Calimocho (the surprisingly drinkable combination of cheap red wine and Coca-Cola) and burnt Basque cheesecake that The New York Times once crowned "flavor of the year." These culinary innovations, born from necessity and creativity, perfectly mirror the resourceful spirit of the Basque people themselves. Whether you're planning a romantic date (we've included three budget options!) or seeking to escape Bilbao's urban energy, these day trips offer unforgettable glimpses into the region's aristocratic past and dramatic natural beauty. Subscribe to hear more as we continue exploring Spain's hidden treasures in upcoming episodes!

Podcast reviews

Read Made in Spain podcast reviews


5 out of 5
14 reviews
★★★★★
Amufr sxzwg 2025/11/22
A Beautiful Insider’s Guide to Spain
This podcast is my secret guide to Spain — Nalini and Laura uncover artisan ateliers and local traditions even seasoned travelers miss.
★★★★★
ScriptureJourney 2025/10/30
Immerse Yourself in Spanish Style & Substance
I arrived expecting typical tourist clichés — but this podcast pleasantly surprised me. Hosts Nalini and Laura take you beyond the postcard: from arti...
★★★★★
CultureCurious66 2025/10/28
The Perfect Mix of Culture, Style & Storytelling
Absolutely love this podcast! The mix of travel, fashion, culture and Spanish insider stories is fresh and stylish. Nalini’s global-perspective and La...
★★★★★
TravelBuff88 2025/10/28
A Warm, Flavorful Journey Through Spain
What a joy to discover! ‘Made in Spain’ blends luxe culture, delicious food, and laid-back Spanish life in such a warm, inviting way. Hosts Nalini and...
★★★★★
ToppingsAndTales254 2025/10/27
A Perfect Blend of Travel and Culture
I absolutely loved this episode! The way the host weaves together the beauty of Javea’s coast with hidden stories like the pirate alarms in the church...
★★★★★
VintageVoyager54 2025/10/27
Engaging, Informative, and Fun
I particularly loved the little historical tidbits like the pirate alarms in the churches—such a unique way to explore Spain’s past. The vibe of the P...
★★★★★
LambruscoLover21 2025/10/27
A Beautiful Slice of Spain
This episode made me want to hop on a plane to Spain immediately! From the vivid descriptions of the coastline to the deep dive into sustainable fashi...
★★★★★
Hendricks334 2025/10/27
A Perfect Blend of Travel and Culture
I absolutely loved this episode! The way the host weaves together the beauty of Javea’s coast with hidden stories like the pirate alarms in the church...
★★★★★
RamekSiri 2025/05/19
Great Insight!
Really loved that you shared insights about the oleves! It's different now!
★★★★★
D.00.W 2025/01/10
Amazing!
Such a great podcast, amazing insights into the Spanish culture. Very excited for more episodes!
check all reviews on apple podcasts

Podcast sponsorship advertising

Start advertising on Made in Spain relevant audience podcasts


What do you want to promote?