10 tips for keeping cool in the summer in Spain

We all know that Spain is hot, hot, hot in the summer. For many people this is one of the reasons they come here. However, July and August can see the mercury in the barometer rising to 40 degrees, a temperature which can leave even the most ardent sun lover, wilting. So, what can you do to enjoy balmy summer days without feeling as frazzled as a piece of streaky bacon?

Yes, it does get hot and there is no point in denying that there will be times when the idea of shutting yourself in the fridge is a very desirable one. However, summers in Spain have a lot going for them. So, read our tips and enjoy yours!

1. Dine like the Spanish

It might seem ridiculously late to be setting out for dinner, but really why go out before the sun is setting for your evening meal? Spanish people prefer to wait until the latter part of the day during the summer months. Any earlier – when the sun is still high – and there really was no point in that shower you’ve just taken. in Spain it is perfectly acceptable to be dining at 9.00 and 10.00 pm with your children. Why not relax in a restaurant’s outside terrace and then take a saunter along the sea front?

2.    Covering up can be cool

Don’t assume that minimalist dressing reduces your temperature. This can be especially true if you find yourself waiting at a bus stop for longer than anticipated in the afternoon sun. Loose clothes rather than tight are definitely the order of the day and if they ‘waft’ a little – you are carrying round your own personal fan.

3.    Water, water everywhere…

Keep yourself hydrated and get in the habit of carrying a flask of water around with you. You don’t need to give up alcohol but why not order some water to drink alongside? Tap water in Spain is safe now in most places but if you don’t like the taste there are filters that you can buy for your sink.

4.    … and not a drop to drink

It’s not only for drinking purposes that water comes in handy at this time of year. Spending time by the swimming pool, in the sea or even just a little paddling pool – can be the perfect way to cool down. In the end, if you have no available water to dive into, why not take a cold shower and refresh yourself that way instead.

5.    Make some shade

Make sure when you are out of the water you are shaded. Buying effective, quality shade for home or away, is a good investment. There are plenty of shops selling awnings that you can adjust depending on the time of year. A sturdy beach umbrella is important too if you are planning a day out. Just be aware, that if it is windy it might be a better idea to avoid the beach altogether.

6.    Manual or automatic – fans can work

You don’t always have to resort to air conditioning. Ceiling fans can be effective and it is worthwhile replacing old, rickety fans with something more streamlined. You will still see Spanish people walking round with hand-held fans and even sometimes grasping leaflets to use instead.

7.    Avoid the mid-day heat

It’s an obvious point to make but people from Northern European countries, for example, do not necessarily recognise the value of respecting siesta time. It needn’t be to sleep – although an afternoon snooze between 14.00 – 17.00 can be recommended. Take time out of the heat of the day to eat lunch, sit inside and cool down or watch a good movie. Being outside at this time saps your energy and, after all, many places will be closed themselves.

8.    Pull down the blinds

Spanish houses might not be great at keeping in the heat in the winter but they are usually pretty effective at keeping out the sun. Window blinds and shutters can be pulled down firmly and often you can secure a near complete blackout that can make having a siesta no problem. Get to know the direction of your property and work out when to have the door open and let in that breeze and when to keep as much closed as possible.

9.    Visit somewhere cool

If you don’t have air conditioning yourself and the heat is really getting too much, consider visiting a public building, cinema or even taking a trip to the shops. Most Spanish shops have air-conditioning and it can be a pleasant relief for a few hours.

10. Take advantage of Spain’s glorious summer food

It’s not just about paella – although this can still be an enjoyable meal to eat in the cooler late evening. During the day choose to snack on lighter, summer food such as salads, fruit and gazpacho.

Some people choose to avoid the summer months in Spain altogether. However, if you’re not one of those people, the summer can be a very enjoyable time. It boasts many traditional fiestas, almost a guarantee of blue sky and the opportunity to walk late at night convivially, making the most of the luxury of a warm, summer evening.