Top 20 hiking destinations in Spain
best places for hiking in Spain that every tourist should visit
Spain is a country with a rich natural heritage and offers great hiking destinations for visitors, from easy walks to challenging trekking routes. Its diverse landscapes, from Mediterranean forests to mountain ranges, offer a wide range of options for nature lovers. Visitors can also find a rich cultural heritage, and many of the hiking trails pass through ancient ruins and picturesque villages. There are also plenty of things to do in Spain that you can find out more about them here.
1- Picos de Europa National Park
Picos de Europa National Park is a must-see destination for hikers in Spain. The park is located in the Cantabrian Mountains of northern Spain and offers a wide variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the Cares Gorge, which is a 12-mile hike that takes you through a narrow gorge carved by the Cares River. The trail is challenging but offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the river below. Other popular trails include the Ruta del Cares, which offers a more strenuous hike through the mountains and the Ruta de los Beyos, which is a moderate hike that takes you through a beautiful valley. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine. Overall, Picos de Europa National Park is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in Spain.
2- Sierra de Guadarrama National Park
Sierra de Guadarrama National Park is a beautiful hiking destination located in central Spain, just a short distance from Madrid. The park offers a diverse range of hiking trails for all skill levels, from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs. One of the most popular trails is the ascent of Peñalara, the highest peak in the park, which offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and the Madrid skyline. Another popular trail is the Cascada de la Cimbarra, a moderate hike that takes you to a beautiful waterfall. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine. Overall, Sierra de Guadarrama National Park is a great destination for those looking for a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
3- Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park
Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park is a spectacular hiking destination located in the Pyrenees Mountains of northern Spain. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs. The most popular trail is the hike to the summit of Monte Perdido, the third highest peak in the Pyrenees, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the valley below. Another popular trail is the hike to the Circo de Soaso, a beautiful glacial cirque that offers a glimpse into the park’s unique geology. The park is also home to the Ordesa Valley, a beautiful U-shaped valley that offers a more relaxed hike along the Arazas River. Overall, Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Pyrenees Mountains.
4- Pyrenees National Park
Pyrenees National Park is a must-see destination for hikers in Spain. The park is located in the Pyrenees Mountains, which forms a natural border between Spain and France. The park offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it a suitable destination for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the GR-11, which is a long-distance trail that takes you through the entire park, crossing the Pyrenees from east to west, and offering a chance to explore the diverse landscapes, cultures, and wildlife of the Pyrenees. Other popular trails include the ascent of the Aneto, the highest peak in the Pyrenees, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, and the Ordesa Valley, which offers a more relaxed hike along the Arazas River. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine. Overall, Pyrenees National Park is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Pyrenees Mountains.
5- Garajonay National Park
Garajonay National Park is a unique hiking destination located on the island of La Gomera, one of the Canary Islands of Spain. The park is home to the largest remaining area of laurisilva, a type of subtropical rainforest that is native to the Canary Islands. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it a suitable destination for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the Los Roques de Garajonay, which is a moderate hike that takes you through the heart of the laurisilva forest, offering a chance to explore the unique flora and fauna of the island. Another popular trail is the Mirador de Abrante, which is a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of the island and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the Atlantic Ocean. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Canarian cuisine. Overall, Garajonay National Park is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a unique and rewarding experience in the Canary Islands.
6- Teide National Park
Teide National Park is a unique and spectacular hiking destination located on the island of Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands of Spain. The park is home to the Teide volcano, which is the highest point in Spain, and offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs. The most popular trail is the ascent of the Teide volcano, which is a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of the volcano, offering breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding ocean. Another popular trail is the Ruta de los Volcanes, which is a moderate hike that takes you through the volcanic landscape of the island, offering a chance to explore the unique geology and flora of the area. The park also offers several other trails that offer the chance to see unique landscapes and the unique biodiversity of the island. The park is also home to the Teide Observatory, which offers the chance to take guided tours and learn more about the history and culture of the island. Overall, Teide National Park is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a unique and rewarding experience in the Canary Islands.
7- Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park
Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park is a beautiful hiking destination located in the Pyrenees Mountains of northeastern Spain. The park is known for its glacial lakes, waterfalls, and diverse landscapes, which make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the hike to the Estany de Sant Maurici, a beautiful glacial lake that offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Another popular trail is the hike to the Mirador de Colomers, a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of the mountain and offers panoramic views of the park. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Catalan cuisine. Overall, Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Pyrenees Mountains.
8- Cabañeros National Park
Cabañeros National Park is a beautiful and unspoiled hiking destination located in the La Mancha region of central Spain. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, including Mediterranean forests, oak groves, and grasslands, which make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the hike to the Mirador del Rey, a moderate hike that takes you to the summit of a mountain and offers panoramic views of the park. Another popular trail is the hike to the Río Jabalón, a beautiful river that offers the opportunity to explore the park’s unique biodiversity. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine. Overall, Cabañeros National Park is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the La Mancha region.
9- Monasterio de Piedra Natural Park
Monasterio de Piedra Natural Park is a beautiful hiking destination located in the Aragón region of northeastern Spain. The park is known for its natural beauty, including rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation, as well as its historical and cultural significance. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the hike to the waterfall of the Monasterio de Piedra, a moderate hike that takes you to the base of a spectacular waterfall. Another popular trail is the hike to the Mirador de la Peña, a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of a mountain and offers panoramic views of the park. The park is also home to the Monasterio de Piedra, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery, which offers the chance to explore the history and culture of the region. Overall, Monasterio de Piedra Natural Park is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Aragón region.
10- Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Natural Park
Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Natural Park is a beautiful hiking destination located in the Andalusia region of southern Spain. The park is known for its natural beauty, including rugged mountains, picturesque lakes, and diverse wildlife, which make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the hike to the Laguna de Cazorla, a beautiful lake that offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Another popular trail is the hike to the Mirador del Tiempo, a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of a mountain and offers panoramic views of the park. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Andalusian cuisine. Overall, Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Natural Park is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Andalusia region.
11- Parque Natural de la Sierra Norte de Sevilla
Parque Natural de la Sierra Norte de Sevilla is a beautiful hiking destination located in the Andalusia region of southern Spain. The park is known for its natural beauty, including rolling hills, Mediterranean forest and diverse wildlife, which make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the hike to the Mirador del Rey, a moderate hike that takes you to the summit of a mountain and offers panoramic views of the park. Another popular trail is the hike to the Río Alcanadre, a beautiful river that offers the opportunity to explore the park’s unique biodiversity. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Andalusian cuisine. Overall, Parque Natural de la Sierra Norte de Sevilla is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Andalusia region.
12- Parque Natural de la Albufera
Parque Natural de la Albufera is a beautiful hiking destination located in the Valencia region of eastern Spain. The park is known for its natural beauty, including wetlands, lagoons, and diverse wildlife, which make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the hike to the Mirador del Saler, a moderate hike that takes you to the summit of a mountain and offers panoramic views of the park and the Mediterranean Sea. Another popular trail is the hike to the Albufera Lagoon, a beautiful lagoon that offers the opportunity to explore the park’s unique biodiversity and birdwatching. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Valencian cuisine. Overall, Parque Natural de la Albufera is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Valencia region.
13- Parque Natural de la Sierra de Grazalema
Parque Natural de la Sierra de Grazalema is a beautiful hiking destination located in the Andalusia region of southern Spain. The park is known for its natural beauty, including rugged mountains, picturesque villages, and diverse wildlife, which make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the hike to the Pinsapar, a beautiful pine forest that offers the opportunity to explore the park’s unique flora. Another popular trail is the hike to the Mirador de la Cruz, a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of a mountain and offers panoramic views of the park and the Mediterranean Sea. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Andalusian cuisine. Overall, Parque Natural de la Sierra de Grazalema is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Andalusia region.
14- Parque Natural de la Sierra de las Nieves
Parque Natural de la Sierra de las Nieves is a beautiful hiking destination located in the Andalusia region of southern Spain. The park is known for its natural beauty, including rugged mountains, snow-capped peaks, and diverse wildlife, which make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the hike to the Pico del Rey, a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of the mountain and offers panoramic views of the park and the Mediterranean Sea. Another popular trail is the hike to the Laguna de las Yeguas, a beautiful lake that offers the opportunity to explore the park’s unique biodiversity and birdwatching. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Andalusian cuisine. Overall, Parque Natural de la Sierra de las Nieves is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Andalusia region.
15- Parque Natural de la Sierra de Hornachuelos
Parque Natural de la Sierra de Hornachuelos is a beautiful hiking destination located in the Andalusia region of southern Spain. The park is known for its natural beauty, including rugged mountains, Mediterranean forests, and diverse wildlife, which make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the hike to the Mirador de la Peña, a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of a mountain and offers panoramic views of the park and the Mediterranean Sea. Another popular trail is the hike to the Río Guadiato, a beautiful river that offers the opportunity to explore the park’s unique biodiversity and birdwatching. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Andalusian cuisine. Overall, Parque Natural de la Sierra de Hornachuelos is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Andalusia region.
16- Parque Natural de la Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche
Parque Natural de la Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche is a beautiful hiking destination located in the Andalusia region of southern Spain. The park is known for its natural beauty, including rugged mountains, Mediterranean forests, and diverse wildlife, which make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the hike to the Mirador de la Peña del Águila, a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of a mountain and offers panoramic views of the park and the Mediterranean Sea. Another popular trail is the hike to the Laguna de la Media Luna, a beautiful lake that offers the opportunity to explore the park’s unique biodiversity and birdwatching. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Andalusian cuisine. Overall, Parque Natural de la Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Andalusia region.
17- Parque Natural de la Sierra de las Estancias
Parque Natural de la Sierra de las Estrellas is a beautiful hiking destination located in the Castilla-La Mancha region of central Spain. The park is known for its natural beauty, including rugged mountains, Mediterranean forests, and diverse wildlife, which make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a wide variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels. The most popular trail is the hike to the Mirador de la Peña, a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of a mountain and offers panoramic views of the park and the surrounding countryside. Another popular trail is the hike to the Laguna de las Yeguas, a beautiful lake that offers the opportunity to explore the park’s unique biodiversity and birdwatching. The park is also home to several small villages where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine. Overall, Parque Natural de la Sierra de las Estrellas is a must-see destination for any hiker looking for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Castilla-La Mancha region.
18- Parque Natural de la Sierra de Collserola
Parque Natural de la Sierra de Collserola is a beautiful natural park located in the hills of Barcelona, Spain. The park offers a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore, ranging from easy walks to more challenging trekking routes. The park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, including many species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the city of Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea from the park’s many lookout points. Overall, Parque Natural de la Sierra de Collserola is a great destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful stroll, the park has something to offer for everyone.
19- Parque Natural de la Sierra de Baza
Parque Natural de la Sierra de Baza is a great destination for hiking enthusiasts. The park offers a variety of trails for visitors to explore, ranging from easy walks to more challenging trekking routes. The park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, including many species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including the nearby towns and villages. The park’s trails are well-marked and maintained, making it easy for hikers of all levels to navigate. The park is also known for its diverse ecology, visitors can find a Mediterranean forest, grasslands and wetlands. Overall, Parque Natural de la Sierra de Baza is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy nature and get some exercise.
20- Parque Natural de la Sierra de la Contraviesa
Parque Natural de la Sierra de la Contraviesa is a natural park located in the province of Almeria, Spain. The park offers a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore, ranging from easy walks to more challenging trekking routes. The park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, including many species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including the nearby towns and villages. The park’s trails are well-marked and maintained, making it easy for hikers of all levels to navigate. The park is also known for its diverse ecology, visitors can find a Mediterranean forest, grasslands, and wetlands. The park also offers a rich historical heritage, visitors can find ruins of ancient Iberian and Moorish settlements. Overall, Parque Natural de la Sierra de la Contraviesa is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy nature, history, and get some exercise.
Summary
Spain offers diverse hiking options, from easy walks to challenging trekking routes. It has a rich natural and cultural heritage, with diverse landscapes and ancient ruins. Visitors can enjoy nature, history and get some exercise.