The sun in Spain is one of the most generous in Europe, boasting an impressive number of sunshine hours throughout the year across the country. From regions like Andalusia to cities such as Alicante, the sun shines brightly in Spain, offering health benefits but also some risks that are crucial to consider.
How many hours of sunshine does Spain have?
Spain enjoys an average of approximately 2,800 to 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. This figure varies slightly by region, with southern areas receiving the most sunlight. Specifically, Andalusia is one of the sunniest regions in Europe, with more than 3,000 hours of sunshine annually. In contrast, northern parts of Spain, such as the Basque Country or Galicia, record fewer hours, around 2,000 to 2,200 hours each year. Overall, the Mediterranean coast, the Balearic Islands, and the Canary Islands also receive plenty of sunshine.
Sunniest places in Spain
Alicante tops the list of Spanish cities with the most sunshine, averaging 349 hours of sun per month, followed by Murcia and Málaga. València, Las Palmas, Granada, Seville, Zaragoza, Barcelona, and Palma de Mallorca also rank among the cities with the most sunshine in Spain. In total, up to 12 major Spanish cities are listed among the 30 sunniest locations in Europe.
These statistics make Spain an ideal destination for enjoying sunny weather for most of the year, making it a popular spot for tourism and outdoor activities. However, it’s essential to remember the importance of protecting oneself from solar radiation, especially during peak sunlight hours and throughout the summer, to prevent sunburns and take care of our skin.
What are “peak sun hours”?
Peak sun hours are the times when solar radiation reaches its highest intensity, varying by geographical location and season. Generally, regions closer to the equator experience more peak sun hours throughout the year.
Sun risks in Spain
Excessive sun exposure can pose health risks such as:
- Sunburns: ranging from mild redness to blistering and severe pain.
- Allergies: continuous sun exposure without protection can lead to skin allergies, such as dermatitis and urticaria.
- Premature skin aging: ultraviolet radiation degrades collagen and elastin in the skin, resulting in wrinkles, spots, and sagging earlier than expected.
- Cancer risk: overexposure to the sun increases the risk of skin cancer, particularly basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, which are the most common types of skin cancer.
So how can you protect yourself from these risks? With responsibility. Therefore, it’s vital to shield yourself from the sun using sunscreen, appropriate clothing, staying hydrated, and avoiding exposure during peak ultraviolet radiation hours.
What sunscreen should I use in Spain?
To protect your skin from the sun in Spain during the summer, it’s recommended to use a sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher. It’s important to choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, apply it properly to the skin before sun exposure, and reapply every two hours. These are some guidelines, but always read the product instructions as they may vary. Additionally, it’s crucial to check the expiry date and store sunscreen in a cool, dark place to ensure its effectiveness. Don’t take chances—protect your skin adequately this summer!
The best way to protect yourself from the sun in Spain
At Wosler, we understand the importance of sun protection in summer. We often underestimate the damage it can cause and how a small lapse in judgment can significantly impact our health and well-being during our holidays.
That’s why we offer a care system that allows you to quickly access healthcare professionals in case you experience the effects of the sun. This way, we avoid long waits in public or private care centres, ensuring you receive effective solutions promptly.
Don’t let sun exposure ruin your plans, choose Wosler and enjoy your holidays worry-free. Your well-being is our priority.
