Covid-19's days are numbered, we're convinced of it, and we want to be ready to celebrate in the best possible way when we've won this battle. The outdoors awaits us sooner rather than later, so once you've caught up on all the stories and memes, done the thousand workout routines you've been sent, read the gloomiest news and applauded from your balcony, it's time to focus your mind on positive things.
Staying home doesn't mean your adventurous spirit has to wither; after lockdown, it'll be more charged than ever. That's why we've put together a list of the best ideas to avoid staying indoors once we've beaten coronavirus. We're not thinking small... quite the opposite. So start taking notes and booking the activities you fancy most because the web is buzzing with plans for everyone and, as expected... as far away from four walls as possible.
What to do after coronavirus
This time we won't tell you "there's something for everyone". No. Now it's time to get out and socialise, leaving behind those activities that, though fun, don't let you see how beautiful the world is or spend time with those you haven't seen in ages. Even with those you've been video-calling non-stop during lockdown! What we can say is there are some mad ideas, though also options for those who aren't into shocks after the pandemic.Canyoning with your crew
When we can go out again, temperatures will be higher and we'll likely bring summer forward in our lives. Add to that our craving for nature and a bit (or "a lot") of adrenaline, and canyoning becomes one of the top plans we're suggesting.
The Peninsula has countless canyons, most aquatic with spectacular landscapes. Sima del Diablo in Málaga, Barranco del Infierno in Lleida or the Sierra de Guara in Huesca are just some of the most famous, but they're found nationwide for all levels – even if you've never tried it.
We couldn't pick just one, so check out all the canyons we have in Spain and pick dates. Now you've got time, you'll look like a legend when you tell everyone about the next outing you've organised.
Via ferratas to get back into sport
This mix of climbing, hiking and "acting the goat" on hanging bridges and rocks, also known as via ferratas, deserves a special section here as it combines everything we're craving these days: fresh air, exercise, stunning views and socialising.
You can choose inland routes like those in Cantabria's Los Ramales de la Victoria, Valencia's Fuente de Godalla ferrata or Málaga's Puerto del Agua de Comares. But there are also options for water lovers – you won't get wet but you'll enjoy unique perspectives. Try the Río Tajo route in Málaga's Ronda, Cala del Molí on the Costa Brava or Murcia's Cañón de Almadenes – some of the coolest.
Never overlook having a professional guide. Post-lockdown we all want adventures, but safety comes first. Even with routes for all levels, it's best to have a prepared team. Click here to find the best via ferratas for you in our country.
Horse riding routes away from the city
A Mecano song says city air is what humans prefer, but even the most cosmopolitan among us will fancy a countryside plan after quarantine. A great way is a horse riding route on the city outskirts. Beginners can satisfy curiosity in an hour, while experienced riders should choose longer trips to rediscover equestrian fun.
In cities like Barcelona or Madrid, just head slightly beyond the centre to find equestrian centres revealing unexpected nearby landscapes. Madrid's Sierra de Guadarrama or Montseny are among the most sought-after equestrian excursions.
Luckily, we're a country with strong equestrian tradition – you'll find tailor-made routes nationwide. Check here for the best horse riding routes for your level.
Explore Spain by buggy
Our next proposal also involves dirt and dust, but this time in a buggy – that hybrid between a quad and 4x4 taking you on incredible off-road adventures. Best part? Being two-seaters, you share the adventure, and with multiple vehicles available, it becomes an epic group outing.
Off road routes are always coolest, as the lead expert adjusts adrenaline levels based on the group's skill.
One fantastic place to drive a buggy is Tenerife around Teide for hours, accelerating guilt-free. But any terrain that gets your heart racing is a superb plan. Here are Spain's best buggy routes – start booking your day.
The most charming wine tastings
Anyone claiming they haven't thought about – or outright had – a glass of wine during the Covid-19 crisis is lying. Far from a vice, wine is part of our culture and social fabric, so a weekend tasting with friends is a perfect way to celebrate regained freedom.
Cádiz, Málaga, Ciudad Real, Albacete, La Rioja... no Spanish region lacks a winery to visit. Many visits come in special packages including stays at charming local accommodation.
Like a parent who can't choose a favourite child, we struggle to pick just one wine tourism plan. So you should decide based on your grape preferences. Here's the complete list of wine tourism visits in Spain – choose your favourite.
A boat trip to remind us we're free
Is there anything more symbolic of freedom than the sea? It might sound intense, but while confined to our homes, browsing the best options for a day's sailing along our coasts is simply idyllic.
Living on a peninsula means options for everyone, regardless of proximity to water. But since we're dreaming big, better choose somewhere with outstanding views.
The vessel matters too. You can charter with or without a skipper (if qualified), choosing sailboats, yachts or motorboats. Consider passenger numbers, comfort and duration.
The Costa del Sol, Alicante, Costa Dorada, Rías Baixas or the Balearics are perennial summer favourites. But with time to plan, organise an unprecedented holiday. See all options for boat hire in Iberia and enjoy your post-viral freedom like never before.
Jet skis to speed across the sea
Adrenaline is one of our most sought-after hormones, and currently completely lacking. So any plan delivering it from start to finish... is a great plan. It might sound clichéd, but jet skis never disappoint.
Like other vehicles, these carry two people, allowing routes exploring coves and beaches with other riders. Choose coastal areas with sights and swimming spots over endless empty sea.
Portichol on Alicante's coast or Girona's Illes Medes are fantastic routes. Find all the most incredible jet ski routes here, whatever you're after... they're all here!
The coolest rapids for rafting
Staying with water activities, one of the most thrilling is rafting. It's got vegetation, water and friends – perfect for post-lockdown!
As with any adventure sport, routes adapt to group levels. Some even allow children who can swim well.
Mountainous regions nationwide have rivers, but for maximum fun, choose stretches with exciting rapids delivering the adrenaline highs we're currently missing. Llavorsí-Sort in Lleida, Segura in Murcia, Cabriel in Valencia or Cantabria's Alto Ebro feature in the definitive guide to Spain's best rafting.
The best part? By the time you finish reading, we'll be closer to beating coronavirus. Don't lose heart – start booking your ideal post-lockdown plan, because one thing's certain: when this is over, nothing will stop us.
