On 12 August 2026, Spain will experience a historic moment: a total solar eclipse — the first in over a century — will cast a shadow across the sky to reveal an unprecedented cosmic spectacle. But beyond the astronomical event, what is really happening is a silent reconfiguration of desire: mass tourism is giving way to essential, intimate travel that is deeply connected to the territory.
Along the eclipse route, small towns that until recently were off the beaten track are now becoming epicentres of the new experiential luxury. According to Airbnb data, searches in these areas have grown by 830%, confirming that discerning travellers are no longer simply looking to escape, but to connect with their surroundings, fresh air, absolute silence and skies free from light pollution.
According to Jaime Rodríguez de Santiago, Managing Director of Airbnb Marketing Services, SL: ‘The 2026 eclipse puts rural Spanish communities at the centre of the world map. Our hosts are opening their doors to travellers from all over the world, many of whom would never have discovered these towns otherwise.’
The phenomenon has also catalysed a series of exclusive experiences designed for astronomy enthusiasts. From night-time tours guided by experts and events dedicated to the eclipse, to private visits to observatories, each activity is designed to experience the sky as a cultural, almost spiritual event.
Astroturism
Astrotourism is establishing itself as a new form of travel: sustainable, elevated, silent and deeply connected to the natural environment and local heritage. With this long-term vision, Airbnb is strengthening its partnership with the Starlight Foundation, a key institution in the protection of Spain’s dark skies. The goal: to enable more towns to preserve the natural spectacle of the night sky intact.
Here are some of the places that are attracting those seeking a truly unique experience:
- Teruel (Aragon)
- Ariza (Aragon)
- Guadalajara (Castille-La Mancha)
- Huesca (Aragon)
- Reus (Catalonia)
- Aras de los Olmos (Valencia)
- Valldemossa (Mallorca, Balearic Islands)
- Aliaga (Aragon)
- Arcos de las Salinas (Aragon)
- Daroca (Aragon)
- Morella (Valencia)
Accommodations that are portals to the universe
From crystal dome houses in Extremadura to rural villas in Cantabria or cabins hidden among mountains in Asturias, Airbnb’s range of accommodations suits all plans:
- La Guarida Norte (Lugás, Asturias)
- Casa La Roza (Peruyes, Asturias)
- Monte Zarro (Cudillero, Asturias)
- Villa Brenagudina (La Sota, Cantabria)
- Estrellas de Gredos (Hontanares, Castilla y León)
- Casa Josephine (La Losa, Castilla y León)
- Villa con vistas a la montaña (Sotillo de la Adrada, Castilla y León)
- La Mirada de Amelia (Tabera de Abajo, Castilla y León)
- Caserío Bizkar (Aya, País Vasco)
- Casa Adaka (Guipúzcoa, País Vasco)
- Casa domo bajo las estrellas (Monesterio, Extremadura)
- MU Morada Cabañas de Compostela (Teo, Galicia)
The solar eclipse of 2026 will not simply be an astronomical phenomenon, but a contemporary ritual of reconnection. A moment suspended in time that redraws the coordinates of desire and chooses as its setting the forgotten villages, those that now shine brighter than ever. The future of tourism—more conscious, more leisurely, more sublime—is written in the stars.
Visit airbnb.es to discover all the accommodations.
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