It’s no secret that a short vacation is a great way to boost your energy, but sometimes you need more than a quick getaway. Taking a sabbatical gives you the time to reflect on your personal life and reconsider your career, or simply relax and take it easy to recharge your batteries. With a slower pace of life, beautiful beaches, and delicious, affordable tapas, Spain is at the top of the list. Here are six of the best Spanish destinations for a sabbatical, along with properties to book a long stay (an accommodation offering guests stays of up to 90 days).

Barcelona

If you’re taking time off work to embark on a creative pursuit, you’ll be looking for a little inspiration from your surroundings. Barcelona offers plenty of this. From snow-capped mountains to clear blue waters—not to mention architecture of all colors in-between—it’s not hard to see why artists of all kinds have been drawn to the Catalonian capital for centuries. So if you want to undertake a creative pursuit, head to Happy Apartments, located in Barcelona’s Raval District.

Bilbao

Bilbao is synonymous with the Guggenheim and for many, it’s the sole reason to visit. But as you snake down the mountain roads and gaze out on the city below, it becomes clear that Frank Gehry’s masterpiece is just one of Bilbao’s many architectural crown jewels. All this against the backdrop of rolling green hills and a winding river that leads to a stunning coastline less than 10 miles away. Simply put, Bilbao is incredibly easy on the eye.

But sight isn’t the only sense the Basque Country caters to. With epicurean delights at every turn—including numerous Michelin-starred restaurants—it’s a must for foodies, too. Get settled at the BMA by Forever Apartments for a couple of months and enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Madrid

It’s time to forget about the 9-to-5, so why not wave goodbye to early bedtime too and head to Madrid? Nocturnal escapades in the Spanish capital’s seemingly infinite number of bars and clubs are the perfect way to let loose and unwind. And if you really want to impress on the dancefloor—and meet people—try taking a local flamenco class.

Madrid is also home to some of the best galleries in the world, such as The Prado Museum and Reina Sofia, where you’ll find masterpieces by Spanish greats such as Dali and Picasso. Ideally situated in the heart of Madrid, Smartrental Collection Gran Vía Centric is the perfect base for exploring one of the world’s great cities.

Puerto Del Carmen

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