8 perfect hikes to experience nature in spring

The arrival of spring allows you to enjoy nature in some places that are now at their best
spring hiking trails
Lavender fields in Brihuega Pixabay

Spring is one of the best times of year for hiking – conditions are more favourable, with mild temperatures, longer days and less risk of extreme heat. This allows you to tackle longer hikes or with some elevation gain without the fatigue of summer or the limitations of winter. Furthermore, many natural areas are now at their peak. Discover eight hiking trails to enjoy this spring.

Jerte Valley (Extremadura)

The main attraction of the Jerte Valley in spring is the cherry blossom – a natural phenomenon that covers more than a million trees and completely transforms the landscape for several weeks.

The network of trails in this area of Cáceres allows you to explore traditional terraced fields, learn about the agricultural system and access natural viewpoints. The Garganta de los Infiernos trail adds an extra attraction: natural pools carved into the rock and a protected environment with good signage.

graft
Jerte Valley / Gonzalo Riestra, CC BY 2.0 Wikimedia commons

Montejo Beech Forest (Madrid)

The Montejo Beech Forest stands out as one of the best-preserved forests in the Community of Madrid. It is home to centuries-old beech trees at the southernmost limit of their range in Europe – a remarkable rarity at this latitude.

In spring, the undergrowth comes alive and the streams that cross the beech forest swell. Guided tours or controlled group visits allow you to explore the forest, ensuring an organised and environmentally responsible experience.

spring hiking trails
Hayedo de Montejo / Jarmad78, CC BY-SA 3.0 Wikimedia commons

Sierra de las Nieves (Málaga)

The Sierra de las Nieves is distinguished by its Spanish fir (pinsapo), a relict fir species that only grows in very specific areas of southern Spain. Hiking through these forests is a unique experience in Andalusia and is interesting for botanical buffs.

Its diverse landscapes – karst regions, peaks nearing 2,000 metres and forest trails – allow the route to be adapted to each person's skill level. In spring, the temperatures make hiking far more accessible than in summer, when the heat can be unbearable.

spring hiking trails
Sierra de las Nieves / MartinD, CC BY-SA 3.0 Wikimedia commons

Cares Trail (Asturias and León)

The main attraction of the Cares Trail is a path connecting the towns of Caín and Poncebos halfway up the hillside, carved into the rock for hydraulic canal maintenance. Walking this trail takes you through a deep gorge with never-ending views of the river.

In spring, the increased water flow and vegetation on the slopes enhance the scenic appeal. It's a long but technically straightforward trail, making it accessible for hikers with an average fitness level.

spring hiking trails
Cares Route / Javier Mendia García from leioa, CC BY 2.0 Wikimedia commons

Brihuega and the Alcarria (Castilla-La Mancha)

In spring, the Alcarria region offers an agricultural landscape at its finest, with green fields and almond blossom. This area's appeal lies in the combination of open nature and historical heritage.

The town of Brihuega, besides being known for its lavender in summer, boasts city walls, historic gardens and country lanes perfect for easy hikes. It's a great option for those seeking walks without steep inclines and with added cultural interest.

spring hiking trails
Brihuega Pixabay

Chelva Water Route (Valencian Community)

The main attraction of this route, in inland Valencia province, is the mix of natural surroundings and traditional heritage. The route follows ancient water conduits, tunnels carved into the rock and small weirs.

It's a well-marked, easy circular trail, making it suitable for families. In spring, the higher river flow and moderate temperatures significantly enhance the experience.

spring hiking trails
La Peña Cortada, on the water route of Chelva / Falconaumanni, CC BY-SA 3.0 Wikimedia commons

Baztán Valley (Navarra)

The Baztán Valley is known for its Atlantic landscape: wide meadows, gentle hills and mixed forests. In spring, the grass and wildflowers enhance the lush character so typical of northern Spain.

This area of northern Navarre also boasts a network of trails connecting villages with well-preserved traditional architecture, allowing for circular routes that combine nature and rural heritage over manageable distances.

spring hiking trails
Panoramic view of Elizondo, in the Baztán Valley / Alberto-g-rovi, CC BY 3.0 Wikimedia commons

Ordesa y Monte Perdido (Aragón)

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, in the Aragonese Pyrenees, is one of Spain's most important high mountain areas. In spring, the snowmelt feeds iconic waterfalls such as the Gradas de Soaso and the Cola de Caballo, which reach their peak flow.

Its network of trails is well-structured and offers options ranging from family-friendly walks along the valley floor to challenging routes to elevated viewpoints – making it a destination of high scenic and geological value.

Ordesa
Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park / Heparina1985, CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia commons