Spain is famous for its vibrant cities and golden beaches, but its hiking trails are just as spectacular. From rugged coastal paths to dramatic mountain peaks, Spain offers some of Europe’s best hiking experiences. Whether you're an experienced trekker or a casual walker, there's a trail waiting for you. Here’s our guide to the best hikes in Spain that deserve a spot on your travel list.
Hiking in Spain
Spain offers a diverse range of hiking opportunities, from coastal paths to mountainous terrain. The country's varied landscapes, including the Pyrenees, Sierra Nevada, Picos de Europa, and the Canary Islands, provide hikers with an array of options to explore.
Many of Spain's hiking routes offer breathtaking scenery, including rugged coastlines, lush forests, picturesque villages, and stunning mountain vistas. Plus, the country's mild climate in many regions makes hiking enjoyable year-round. Whether you're interested in day hikes or multi-day treks, Spain's diverse landscapes and well-maintained trails make it a fantastic destination for hiking enthusiasts.
What is the most famous hiking trail in Spain?
One of the most famous hiking trails in Spain is the Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of Saint James. This historic pilgrimage route spans across various paths leading to the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Galicia, northwestern Spain. It's renowned for its cultural significance, stunning landscapes, and the camaraderie among pilgrims from all over the world. The most popular route is the Camino Francés, which stretches from the French border through northern Spain.
The best hikes in Spain: our top picks
In addition to the Camino de Santiago, Spain boasts numerous national parks and natural reserves with well-marked hiking trails. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, you'll find trails suited to all levels of experience. These are our top picks.
Garganta de Puerto Oscuro, Cadiz
The Ruta de la Garganta de Puerto Oscuro trail is an excellent choice for beginners to hiking in the Alcornocales Natural Park and suitable all ages. This is also one of the best hikes in Southern Spain.
The Alcornocales Natural Park, also known as Parque Natural Los Alcornocales, is a protected natural area located in the province of Cadiz, in the autonomous community of Andalusia, Spain. Covering an area of approximately 1,756 square kilometers (678 square miles), it is one of the largest natural parks in Spain and the largest cork oak forest in the world.
This particular route is a very easy hike, with very little gradient, but of great beauty. Highlights include being able to enter the cork oak grove and contemplating El Picacho Lagoon.
- Find your holiday rental in the Alcornocales Natural Park
- Find property for sale in the Sierra de Cádiz
Ruta del Cares, Picos de Europa
The Ruta del Cares, or "The Divine Gorge," is one of Spain’s most thrilling day hikes, offering stunning views of rugged limestone peaks. The 12-kilometre trail, located between León and Asturias, follows a dramatic gorge, cutting through cliffs and offering jaw-dropping vistas at every turn. Hikers are treated to a breathtaking view of the river below and the possibility of spotting wild goats and birds of prey along the way, making it a highlight for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
La Fortaleza, Tenerife
The lunar-like landscape of the Teide National Park is at your feet if you follow the La Fortaleza route. For 5 km with little slope you will be able to observe and get to know the characteristic flora and fauna of the area.
And all this without losing sight of the magnitude of the Teide. Teide National Park, known as Parque Nacional del Teide in Spanish, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain. It is named after Mount Teide, an active volcano and the highest peak in Spain, standing at 3,718 meters (12,198 feet) above sea level, and is one of the best places for hiking and trekking in Spain.
Caminito del Rey, Málaga
The Caminito del Rey is famous for its thrilling cliffside walkways suspended above the El Chorro Gorge. Once known as the most dangerous walkway in the world, it has been fully restored and is now a safe but exhilarating experience. Spanning 7.7 kilometres, this trail offers heart-pumping views, including sections with glass floors that make it feel as if you're walking on air. Its easy access from Málaga city makes it a popular destination for thrill-seekers looking for a unique hiking adventure.
Los Cahorros, Monachil
The passage of the Monachil River over hundreds of years has shaped the landscape of this hiking route, where the paths at some points become really narrow. This route has the possibility to go through Los Cahorros Bajos (recommended for beginners) or Los Cachorros Altos, where the views of the river bed are worth the effort.
This particular route is located close to the village of Monachil which provides a tranquil and scenic escape in the heart of Andalusia. Its proximity to the Sierra Nevada National Park makes it an excellent base for outdoor activities, while its traditional atmosphere and cultural attractions offer a glimpse into the region's heritage.
The highlight of this hiking route is without a doubt the spectacular 63-metre long suspension bridge that you will find on your way. A real highlight!
Río Borosa, Jaén
The Ruta del Río Borosa, a popular hiking trail that follows the river's course for approximately 24 kilometres. This is another one of the most popular and best hikes in southern Spain, so it is best avoided in July and August and enjoyed in May, June or September due to the high temperatures.
This trail offers hikers the opportunity to explore the river's canyon, enjoy breathtaking views, and discover the natural wonders of the area. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy, suitable for hikers of various skill levels.
Along the Ruta del Río Borosa, hikers will encounter several notable landmarks. One of the highlights is the Salto de los Órganos, a waterfall cascading down a series of rock formations, creating a spectacle of water and sound. Another notable feature is the Cerrada de Elías, a narrow gorge where the river narrows and the rock walls rise steeply on both sides, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape.
Tips for hiking in Spain
- Best time to hike: Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Stay hydrated: Some trails, especially in southern Spain, can be hot and dry.
- Plan ahead: Popular routes like Caminito del Rey require advance booking.
- Respect nature: Stick to marked paths and carry out your rubbish.
Spain’s diverse landscapes offer hiking experiences for every type of adventurer. Whether you're walking a legendary pilgrimage route or discovering secret coastal paths, each trail promises breathtaking scenery and a deep connection to Spain’s natural beauty.
Ready to lace up your boots and explore Spain on foot?
Tennis, sunshine, and style: Davis Cup 2025 arrives in Marbella
Spain will host Denmark in an electrifying Davis Cup Qualifier at Marbella’s prestigious Puente Romano Tennis Club from 13–14 September 2025. This decisive tie will determine which nation earns a coveted place in the Final 8 in Bologna this November — and it’s set to be one of the highlights of Marbella’s late-summer social calendar.
Madrid, the safest city in the world according to Trump
The President of the United States, Donald Trump, has described Madrid as the safest city in the world. He made the statement during a press briefing in which he announced that the federal government would take control of the Washington DC police, with the aim of reducing crime rates.
Discover the most beautiful white villages in Andalusia and Southern Spain
Southern Spain is famous for its sunshine, beaches, rich culture and historic towns – but nothing quite compares to its pueblos blancos, or white villages. These charming whitewashed towns are found throughout Andalusia, Murcia, and Extremadura, offering stunning views, fascinating architecture, and a peaceful escape from the modern world.
Living in Coripe: houses from €20K in rural Seville
Tucked away in the province of Seville, Coripe is the kind of place that barely registers on the usual tourist map. This is precisely why its property market is so remarkable, with traditional village houses starting from around €20,000. It’s an ideal spot for anyone seeking an authentic, rural Andalusian life without the hefty price tag.
Living in Sant Pere de Ribes: coast, city and countryside
For anyone considering living in Sant Pere de Ribes, this town in the Garraf region offers a wonderfully peaceful lifestyle while still keeping you well-connected to Barcelona. Its fantastic spot means you’re never far from the coast and can easily explore the many natural areas nearby.
Typical Balearic Islands dishes: this is the archipelago's cuisine
Visitors to the Balearic Islands don't only love their idyllic landscapes and crystal-clear beaches but also their rich, time-honoured cuisine that reflects centuries of history, cultural fusion and a deep respect for local ingredients.
Living in Madrid: calling the capital home
As Spain's capital, Madrid is a powerhouse of art, business, and culture. It’s a city with a personality very different to the coastal spots many people first think of in Spain. Proudly landlocked, the city has scorching summers and crisp winters. It's a city that comes alive after dark, with a social scene that revolves around late dinners and finding the perfect terrace for a caña.