As summer fades, Spain's landscapes transform into a vibrant tapestry of reds, golds, and ochres. Autumn 2025 is the perfect time to explore Spain's enchanting forests, where the fall foliage creates breathtaking views and tranquil retreats. Whether you're seeking a peaceful getaway or an active adventure, Spain's diverse forests offer something for every traveller. These are the best forests in Spain to visit this Autumn 2025.
Irati Forest (Navarre)
Location: Navarre, near the French border
Highlights: Europe's second-largest beech forest, rich wildlife, and serene hiking trails
Nestled in the Pyrenees, the Irati Forest is a haven for nature lovers. Its expansive beech and fir trees turn brilliant shades of red and orange in autumn. The forest is home to diverse wildlife, including roe deer, wild boar, and various bird species. Visitors can enjoy hiking, photography, and the peaceful ambiance of this magical forest.
Montejo de la Sierra Beech Forest (Madrid Region)
Location: Montejo de la Sierra, Community of Madrid
Highlights: Guided eco-tours, riverside trails, and vibrant autumn colours
Just a short drive from Madrid, the Hayedo de Montejo offers an accessible autumn escape. Guided tours lead visitors through beech forests along the tranquil River Jarama, showcasing the forest's stunning fall foliage. With limited visitor numbers, it's advisable to book tours in advance to ensure a spot.
Saja-Besaya Natural Park (Cantabria)
Location: Cantabria, northern Spain
Highlights: Diverse ecosystems, charming villages, and rich biodiversity
The Saja-Besaya Natural Park is a hidden gem in northern Spain. Its beech forests, interspersed with oak and chestnut trees, create a colourful autumn landscape. The park is also home to traditional villages like Bárcena Mayor, where visitors can experience local culture and cuisine.
Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park (Aragon)
Location: Aragon, Pyrenees
Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage site, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant autumn colours
Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park offers some of Spain's most stunning autumn scenery. The park's deep canyons and towering cliffs are framed by beech forests that turn golden in the fall. With well-marked trails and breathtaking vistas, it's a must-visit for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Redes Natural Park (Asturias)
Location: Asturias, northern Spain
Highlights: Lush forests, traditional villages, and rich biodiversity
Redes Natural Park is a sanctuary of beech and oak forests, rivers, and mountains. In autumn, the park's landscapes are painted in warm hues, making it a perfect destination for photography and hiking. Visitors can also explore traditional Asturian villages and enjoy local cuisine.
Discover the magic of Autumn in Spain
Whether you’re exploring the beech forests of Navarre or hiking through Asturias’s mountain valleys, autumn in Spain is an experience filled with colour, peace, and natural beauty. Pack your walking boots, grab your camera, and let the country’s most beautiful forests inspire you this season.
Travel tips for tourists
- Best time to visit: Late October to early November offers peak autumn colours.
- Getting there: Spain's major airports include Madrid (MAD), Barcelona (BCN), and Bilbao (BIO). From these cities, you can reach forest destinations by train, bus, or car.
- Accommodation: Consider staying in rural lodges, eco-hotels, or charming villages to immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Packing tips: Bring layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking boots to prepare for variable autumn weather.