Where can you experience an autumn you'll remember all year? In places where beech forests turn gold, where entire valleys celebrate the season, where seaside towns smell of cider and sea salt, and where vineyards invite visitors to slow down. Where Pyrenean landscapes are ideal for mushroom foraging, among Atlantic dunes and in historic towns where a Gaudí palace surprises pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. These are the autumn experiences that make a trip worthwhile, complete with practical details, destinations and tips to help you choose your next getaway.
It's all about combining nature, gastronomy and culture with accommodation that enhances the experience. There's no need to cross the country: this carefully selected list connects northern Spain, the interior and the islands through manageable routes and varied options. It also includes useful dates and recent accolades to make planning even easier.
- Beech forests ablaze with colour and a valley in celebration
- Cantabrian coast and cider: Gijón after summer
- Mushrooms, cycling and star-filled skies in the Catalan Pyrenees
- Vineyards, fine food and places to unwind
- Islands in autumn: Gran Canaria facing the Atlantic
- Astorga and Gaudí: a palace on the Camino
Beech forests ablaze with colour and a valley in celebration
Spain's temperate forests are at their most spectacular when autumn arrives, and this year is no exception. These destinations combine easy walking trails, charming villages and viewpoints that require no specialist experience. To enjoy them at their best, arrive early and, where possible, visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Irati Forest (Navarre): immersed in autumn colours
The Irati Forest, one of Europe's largest beech and fir forests, reveals its most photogenic side in autumn. Entering via Ochagavía gives access to waymarked trails beneath towering beech and fir trees, with peaceful clearings where only the sound of flowing water interrupts the silence.
The village itself, with its stone bridge and traditional houses, is the ideal starting point for exploring the area before returning to enjoy the hearty stews and grilled dishes for which the region is known. It's advisable to check access conditions and parking regulations before travelling.
Ambroz Valley (Cáceres): Magical Autumn from 23 October to 29 November
Each year, the Ambroz Valley celebrates autumn with a programme that combines nature and culture. Activities include concerts, dance performances, family workshops, photography events, trail races and guided walks led by local experts.
The Castañar Gallego in Hervás, the Castañar del Duque in Aldeanueva del Camino and the birch forests of Puerto de Honduras all showcase spectacular autumn colours. The ancient chestnut trees of El Temblar, in Segura de Toro, are another highlight. Among the numerous walking routes, the trail connecting Gargantilla and Hervás offers an excellent introduction to riverside woodland, meadows and traditional dehesa landscapes.
Cantabrian coast and cider: Gijón after summer
As temperatures begin to fall, Gijón comes into its own as a destination for walking, sightseeing and dining. Its maritime character makes it ideal for a relaxed getaway. Here, a day can begin with a coastal stroll and end in a traditional cider house.
Essential walks and a horizon shaped by Chillida
San Lorenzo Beach is perfect for a walk at low tide. From there, continue through Cimadevilla, the city's historic seafront area, before climbing to Santa Catalina Hill.
At the summit stands Elogio del Horizonte, Eduardo Chillida's iconic sculpture overlooking the Cantabrian Sea. The route is simple yet rewarding, offering excellent views without any demanding climbs.
Food recommendations
Autumn menus revolve around traditional favourites: hearty fabada stew, freshly caught fish such as hake, bonito and mackerel, and high-quality local meats.
The ritual of cider pouring defines the atmosphere of many bars, while cafés and pastry shops around Paseo de Begoña encourage visitors to linger well into the afternoon.
Mushrooms, cycling and star-filled skies in the Catalan Pyrenees
The Cadí-Moixeró area brings together forests, dramatic peaks and mountain villages. Autumn is an ideal time for mushroom foraging, hiking and stargazing.
Huttopia Barcelona Pyrenees: a comfortable base camp
Located beside Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park, Huttopia Barcelona Pyrenees provides easy access to hiking and cycling routes. Accommodation includes wooden cabins and Trappeur-style tents, some equipped with heating for cooler evenings.
Cingles de Vallcebre, Bagà, Gósol and the Gresolet viewpoint
The circular trail around the Cingles de Vallcebre cliffs covers around 10 kilometres and offers excellent views of the Cadí range and Pedraforca. It is accessible to families and suitable for dogs.
For a quieter experience, the mountain villages of Bagà and Gósol retain their traditional atmosphere, while the Gresolet viewpoint provides one of the finest panoramas in the region.
Vineyards, fine food and places to unwind
Wine tourism is at its best when vineyard landscapes turn shades of red and gold. Several destinations combine outstanding accommodation, gastronomy and wellness experiences.
Haro (La Rioja): a five-star palace hotel and Echapresto cuisine
In Haro, the Hotel Palacio de los Ángeles occupies an 18th-century Baroque palace and has become the town's first five-star hotel.
Experiences include hot-air balloon flights, vineyard picnics and visits to renowned Rioja wineries. Gastronomy is overseen by the Echapresto brothers through both a restaurant and wine bar.
Ribera del Duero: thermal waters at Valbuena Monastery
Castilla Termal Monasterio de Valbuena features thermal pools and grape-based wellness treatments.
Its Converso restaurant celebrates regional cuisine while overlooking vineyards surrounding the 12th-century monastery.
Penedès: two award-winning rural stays
Along the Penedès Wine Route, Bolet Casa Modernista and Mas Grimosach have been recognised as Best Wine Tourism Accommodation by the Wine Routes of Spain.
Both offer intimate settings among vineyards, olive groves and woodland, making them ideal for a peaceful autumn escape.
Islands in autumn: Gran Canaria facing the Atlantic
While mainland Spain enters autumn, southern Gran Canaria often enjoys sunshine, warm temperatures and long beaches.
Maspalomas, picturesque villages and a newly renovated resort
Between Arguineguín and Puerto de Mogán, attractive coastal promenades connect fishing villages and marinas.
Close to the Maspalomas lighthouse, the recently reopened H10 Playa Meloneras Horizons Collection features a design inspired by the Atlantic and offers Italian and Japanese dining options. An unusual touch is the analogue cameras provided in guest rooms for capturing holiday memories.
Astorga and Gaudí: a palace on the Camino
Astorga, located at the crossroads of the Vía de la Plata and the Camino Francés, is preparing for 2026 as the Year of Gaudí.
The architect's Palace of Gaudí, built in grey granite, now houses the Museum of the Ways and offers guided tours exploring architecture, history and pilgrimage traditions.
A culinary curiosity: cocido maragato served in reverse
One of the area's best-known traditions is cocido maragato, served in reverse order, beginning with the meats and ending with the soup.
It provides the perfect conclusion to a visit spent exploring the palace and wandering through Astorga's historic streets, where Roman and medieval heritage remain visible at every turn.
