What was Almas Locales created for?

Learn the history of Almas Locales


When was the last time you truly disconnected? If you’re like many of us, it was probably a long time ago. We live in an age where work and daily life overwhelm us: endless meetings, incessant emails, the constant noise of the city. It's easy to feel trapped in an endless cycle. If you've ever felt this way, then this article is for you. Let me tell you about Almas Locales, a project born from the desire to reconnect with the essentials, with nature, and with a calmer, more authentic way of life.

Marc and Justyna, the founders of Almas Locales, experienced this feeling firsthand. Both came from intense work lives, worn out by the city's routine. For them, traveling was their way to escape, but not just any way. They wanted to find places that were not overcrowded with tourists or based on superficial experiences. They sought a corner of the world that truly felt like home, even if only for a few days. Thus, Almas Locales was born.

Almas Locales: Travel as if You’re Coming Home

Almas Locales is not just a booking platform. It's a community of travelers tired of mass tourism, people looking for something more genuine. For many, the stress of work, city life, and daily monotony makes us long for a place where time stands still, where the loudest sound is the wind rustling through the trees or the song of birds at dawn. Almas Locales was created for those moments when you need a breather, for those who seek less-traveled paths and uncommon places.

It's more than just a place to stay. Each accommodation at Almas Locales has its own story, a tale linked to the land, its inhabitants, and the products grown around it. Marc and Justyna decided to create this project not just to offer rural homes, but to foster connections. Every host they work with is committed to preserving local traditions, which often get lost in conventional tourist destinations. And the best part is that you, as a traveler, become part of that story.

A Life-Changing Journey: Returning to the Essentials

For many, traveling has lost some of its magic. We land in beautiful places but find ourselves surrounded by crowds and long lines. The most famous cities feel less authentic, and we leave without truly experiencing the essence of the place. In contrast, Almas Locales invites you to experience slow tourism, a more deliberate and mindful approach, where the goal is not to tick off monuments from a list, but to immerse yourself in the daily life of a village, connect with its inhabitants, and savor the flavors of the land.

Imagine arriving at a small village in the Sierra de Gredos, where time seems to have stood still. There are no crowds, no noise, just the whisper of the wind and the sound of your footsteps on rural paths. The accommodation you’ve booked through Almas Locales belongs to a family that has lived there for generations. It's not just a house; it's their home, and you feel a part of it during your stay.

You wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread, pour yourself a cup of coffee while gazing at the distant mountains. Your hosts invite you to walk along the local trails, sharing stories about life in the countryside and how they grow the ingredients they will later use to prepare a delicious, authentic meal. These moments are not found in travel guides; they are experiences you can only have when you take the time to travel slowly, with an open heart to what each place has to offer.

Why Choose Rural and Less-Known Destinations?

Spain is much more than the crowded streets of Barcelona or the iconic beaches of the Costa del Sol. If you’re looking for a true escape where you can disconnect and recharge, consider rural destinations. These less-traveled places offer a beauty that often goes unnoticed: rolling hills, lush forests, and small villages with centuries of history. Through Almas Locales, you'll discover that the authentic essence of Spain lies in these less-explored corners.

For example, in the region of Extremadura, one of Spain's best-kept secrets, you can walk among oak forests where Iberian pigs roam freely. Here, Iberian ham is just one of the many culinary treasures you can savor. In Galicia, travelers enjoy fresh seafood and tranquil green landscapes that contrast with the rugged coast.

Each of these destinations offers a personalized experience. Almas Locales specializes in carefully curating the properties featured on their platform, ensuring that each accommodation provides not only comfort but also an enriching and authentic experience. Forget about spending hours searching on generic platforms like Booking or Airbnb. Here, each property has been handpicked to guarantee that you enjoy the perfect retreat.

Why choose lesser-known destinations?

Pet-Friendly and Beyond: Travel with Your Best Friends

Almas Locales also understands that your furry friends are an essential part of your life. If you've felt frustrated trying to find pet-friendly accommodations, worry no more. On our platform, we've done the work for you. Whether you want to walk your dog in the mountains or let it run free in the meadows of a rural estate, you’ll find accommodations where your four-legged companions are welcome.

Here you can find tips on how to travel safely with your pet.

The Story of Marc and Justyna: Why They Created Almas Locales

Marc and Justyna never imagined they would create a platform like Almas Locales. They both shared a love for travel, but not for the kind of tourism that takes you to tourist-filled capitals. They had experienced firsthand the stress of working life in big cities and always sought getaways where they could truly disconnect. However, it became increasingly difficult to find places that offered the tranquility they desperately needed.

Major tour operators and booking platforms didn’t offer what they wanted: something more personalized, authentic, and carefully curated. After many conversations with friends and fellow travelers, they realized they were not alone in this desire. Thus, the idea of Almas Locales was born: a platform dedicated to those seeking an uncommon refuge, in places that offer peace, nature, and authenticity.

Since its launch, Marc and Justyna have worked tirelessly to identify special places across Spain, from rural homes hidden in valleys to small inns in villages that have barely changed in centuries. What sets Almas Locales apart is its commitment to quality and authenticity. Each stay is carefully selected, and each host is more than just an owner; they are an ambassador of local culture.

Read more about our story.

How to Choose Your Next Destination with Almas Locales

If you feel it’s time to escape from stress and seek a refuge in the countryside, here are some tips for choosing your next destination with Almas Locales:

  • Define your pace: Do you prefer walking among the vineyards of La Rioja or exploring the trails of the Pyrenees? Almas Locales offers options across Spain, from mountains to tranquil coasts.
  • Connect with local cuisine: Many accommodations allow you to taste fresh, local products. Look for stays that offer gastronomic experiences based on seasonal ingredients.
  • Travel with your pet: If your dog is part of your travel life, make sure to select a pet-friendly stay. Almas Locales makes it easy to find those places where your furry friend is welcome.
  • Make it personal: Don't hesitate to reach out to the hosts before your arrival. Ask about local activities or recommendations, and take advantage of the experience of traveling with Almas Locales. Traveling with Almas Locales is not just a lodging option; it's an invitation to immerse yourself in the authentic. The stories you'll hear, the food you’ll taste, and the people you’ll meet will deeply connect you with the place you visit. Each trip is an opportunity to create memories that last far beyond your vacation.

So, if you find yourself overwhelmed, tired of crowds, and looking for a space where you can be yourself, consider a trip with Almas Locales. Let us be your guide on this path to more conscious tourism, where each stay is a home in a new place. Because, in the end, it’s not just about traveling; it’s about returning to yourself, to what really matters. At Almas Locales, each experience invites you to find the peace you so long for.

A Call to Calm and Connection

Almas Locales is more than just an accommodation platform; it’s a community of restless souls seeking to disconnect and reconnect. With every journey, every encounter, and every experience, we make a difference in how we travel. If you’re ready to leave behind the hustle and bustle of modern life and discover places that truly resonate with your spirit, we invite you to join us. Come and experience the essence of slow travel, where each moment becomes an indelible memory.

About the Author