Spain Geography & Climate

Spain occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula and is framed by mountains on nearly every side -- the Pyrenees along the French border, and the Sierra Nevada and other ranges crossing the interior and south.

The interior is dominated by the Meseta Central, a vast high plateau giving Madrid a notably different, more continental climate than the coasts.

Spain's coastline varies dramatically -- the green, Atlantic-facing north is lush and rainy, the Mediterranean south is dry and sunny, and the Balearic and volcanic Canary Islands add distinct landscapes of their own.

Spain's climate varies significantly by region. The Mediterranean coast and south are hot and dry in summer with mild winters, while the interior Meseta has a more extreme continental climate around Madrid.

The northern "Green Spain" coast has an oceanic climate much closer to the UK or Ireland than the rest of the country.

The Canary Islands maintain a stable, mild, spring-like climate nearly all year, making them Europe's most reliable winter-sun destination.