You’re in Spain, looking for gut-wrenching adventure.
You’ve seen Barcelona, eaten your fair share of tapas, rocked out at lively Ibiza hotels and clubs, slept on the beach — but you need more. Running with the Bulls? Been there, done that, need more adventure.
Read on to learn about three gut-wrenching activities that you can do the next time you’re in Spain.
1. Take a BASE Jumping Course in Spain
BASE jumping is one of the world’s more recent extreme sports, and there are only a few spots around the world where people can take actual BASE jumping courses, in a professional environment. Much better than hurtling oneself off of a cliff and figuring it out, right?
Freefall University, located in Aranjuez (with locations in Portugal and London, as well), is not only a skydiving drop zone, but also a BASE jumping school. Freefall University — can I call it FU? — offers four different courses for experience skydivers looking to get their feet wet in the world of BASE jumping. Look it up. Cool stuff.
2. Walk El Camino de Santiago
El Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St. James, has existed for 1000+ years. Traditionally one of the most important Christian pilgrimages during medieval times, today the path takes both pilgrims and tourists across the country of Spain in an epic, sometimes very difficult hike.
Normally, hikes aren’t very gut-wrenching, but El Camino de Santiago passes the Nerve Rush test. The walk from the French border to Santiago de Compostela on the main routes of the Camino Frances take about a month. If you’re walking fast, you can do it in as little as two weeks, but that’s pushing it. You’d have to walk 40+ kilometers a day.
Most of the route is relatively well marked, but you’ll definitely need to be in good physical condition. You’ll also need a sturdy pair of hiking boots, and if you plan to camp, you’ll need a backpack, clothing and a sleeping bag. Keep in mind, though, that you can stay in hostels for a pretty low cost.
3. Extreme Skiing in the Pyrenees
Finally, check out Spain’s largest ski area, Baqueira/Beret. It’s huge, folks. Some 4700 acres, larger than Big Sky, Montana by 1000 acres. Six peaks and ridges, 33 lifts, with a huge vertical drop to boot. If Spain’s royal family hangs out here, it’s certainly Nerve Rush worthy.
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Bottom line — next time you’re in Spain, have a gut-wrenchingly good time.
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