Famed explorers, adventurers and artists hail from Spain, a land of beauty and romance. Spain inspired the talents of Picasso and Cortes to accomplish great things. Travelers to this European treasure will no doubt feel inspired by its history, scenery and the warm welcome of the Spanish people.

Madrid, Spain’s most populous city offers plenty of historic sites and museums, as well as excellent parks to enjoy. For those who want to enjoy the coast, Barcelona rests along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. But there are plenty of smaller cities and quaint villages and towns that are not to be missed. Even if you stick to the bigger cities, be sure to plan a one-day trip somewhere special.

On her comprehensive website, travel writer Karen Brown has created several unique itineraries for visitors to Spain. They encompass both big city travel and sites off the beaten path. In addition to these helpful travel ideas, Karen Brown readers have voted and chosen the following inns and hotels as the best in Spain:

If budget is a consideration, and it often is these days, consider a stay at Posada de San Jose in Cuenca, an ancient walled city southeast of Madrid. Posada de San Jose offers plenty of old world charm with its restored tile floors, exposed beams and thick, stucco walls. Most of the rooms offer views across the Huecar Gorge. The restaurant offers breakfast, light dinners and tapas. The inn was the recipient of the Karen Brown Readers’ Choice Award for “Greatest Value” in Spain.

Molino del Santo, a charming inn set in the countryside just minutes from the town of Ronda, is the recipient of the Karen Brown Readers’ Choice Award for Spain’s “Warmest Welcome.” The inn originally served as a grain and olive mill, not surprising in an area filled with almond and olive groves. The reception area, as well as a lounge, bar and dining room are located in what was the old water mill. Outside dining on the terrace is a delight; both the food and garden views are exceptional. Rooms are simple and stylish, and many have their own terrace.

High up in the heart of the Pyrenees is the hidden treasure of Cal Teixdo, a quaint, country inn located in the village of Estamariu. The accommodations are found in what once was an old farm. The guest rooms are named for herbs and are decorated in a pleasing country style. The views of the surrounding countryside and mountains are excellent. The inn’s restaurant is located in what once was the old hayloft, and features more than 200 local wines on the menu. The reception area and a bar are found in the restored barn. The area is a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of walking, hiking, golfing and bicycling opportunities. Guests can even tour the area by hot air balloon. This historic inn was named by Karen Brown readers as Spain’s “Most Romantic” Lodging.

At Barcel la Bobadilla, guests can pamper and enjoy themselves to their heart’s content. This stunning boutique hotel is really a full-service resort with a spa, vast grounds and wonderful, spacious guest rooms and suites. Book a massage or beauty treatment, soak in the Jacuzzi or enjoy the outdoors in the swimming pool, which is surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds. There are several restaurants, La Finca is especially recommended and known for its inventive cuisine. The hotel is located in the province of Granada and if you do decide that you wish to venture off the 1,000-acre grounds, there are plenty of unique attractions, including The Alhambra, Spain’s oldest and best preserved Arab palace. Barcel la Bobadilla was chosen as the recipient of the Karen Brown Readers’ Choice Award for best “Splendid Splurge” in Spain.