8 forests to visit in Spain for spectacular autumn colours

Nestled between the Navarrese valleys of Aezkoa and Salazar, the Irati Forest is one of the Pyrenees' most spectacular woodland landscapes. This vast beech and fir forest is renowned for its extensive tree cover and network of tracks winding through the woods.

Autumn colours are usually at their peak between late October and November, although the timing varies depending on altitude and weather conditions. Visitors can access the forest from villages such as Irati, Orbaitzeta and Ochagavía, choosing routes that suit the time available.

The Ordesa Valley offers one of Aragón's most iconic autumn landscapes. The Arazas River runs alongside much of the main route, passing through scenery of waterfalls, limestone cliffs and forests of beech, fir, pine and maple.

The trail to Cola de Caballo is one of the park's most popular routes, although it requires a full day. Shorter alternatives are available from the Ordesa meadow. During busy periods, vehicle access may be restricted.

Located on the border between Álava and Bizkaia, the Otzarreta Beech Forest is one of the most photographed corners of Gorbeia Natural Park. Its distinctive beech trees, characterised by twisted trunks and low branches, create a landscape unlike any other, shaped by centuries of traditional forestry practices.

Visitors can combine the walk with a trip to the nearby Saldropo wetland and other trails around Barazar. Although relatively small, the forest is extremely popular, so arriving early is recommended.

Fragas do Eume preserves one of the finest examples of Atlantic riverside forest on the Iberian Peninsula. Centred around the Eume River, the natural park is home to oaks, alders, ash trees, hazel trees, ferns and mosses, creating a lush and humid environment.

One of its most emblematic landmarks is the Monastery of Caaveiro, nestled within the valley and connected by several walking routes. Road access and traffic within the park may be regulated at certain times of the year.

Located within the Fuentes del Narcea, Degaña e Ibias Natural Park, Muniellos contains the largest oak forest in Spain and is considered one of the country's best-preserved woodland ecosystems. During autumn, oaks, beeches, birches and other deciduous species create an impressive display of seasonal colours.

Access to the reserve is strictly regulated and requires advance booking. Visitor numbers are limited each day to protect this particularly sensitive natural environment.

Northern Cáceres is one of the best places to experience autumn in Extremadura, and the Ambroz Valley is a key part of that appeal. The chestnut groves surrounding towns such as Hervás, Segura de Toro and Casas del Monte take on striking autumn colours.

One of the best-known sites is the Castaños del Temblar in Segura de Toro, home to several monumental chestnut trees that are centuries old. Access to the route may be regulated during certain periods of the year.

Just over an hour from the capital, the Montejo Beech Forest offers one of the most distinctive autumn escapes in the Sierra del Rincón. This protected area forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage network of ancient beech forests shared across Europe.

Visits are organised through a regulated booking system designed to protect the vegetation and riverside ecosystem of the Jarama River. It is therefore essential to check availability and reserve in advance.

Autumn also leaves its mark on the forests of southern Spain. In Sierra de las Nieves National Park, in the province of Málaga, the star attraction is the Spanish fir, a rare conifer species that survives as a relic of ancient Mediterranean forests.

Although it does not produce the same dramatic display of colours as beech or chestnut woodlands, the contrast between Spanish firs, gall oaks, maples and the rugged mountain landscape creates a scenery that is distinctly different from that of northern Spain. Trails starting from the Los Quejigales recreation area provide access to some of the park's most representative and scenic sections.