Spain has long held the top spot as the most-visited overseas destination for UK tourists. But many people think holidaying in Spain means lying on a beach, cooking yourself to an unedifying shade of lobster-ish pink in the sun. Meanwhile Spain's many options for outdoor activities get overlooked.
"The crazy coastline around the Cap de Creus inspired a young Salvador Dalì"
Spain is home to some of Europe’s most dramatic scenery, from the peaks of the Picos de Europa, to the crazy coastline around the Cap de Creus, which inspired a young Salvador Dalì. The Camino de Santiago is among the best walking holidays in Europe, and the best walks in Spain easily rival the best walking tours in France or Italy.
Contents
- Why Choose Spain for Your Walking Holiday?
- Where are the Best Walking Holidays in Spain?
- Walking Holidays in the Pyrenees
- Walking Holidays in Andalusia
- Walking Holidays in the Canary Islands
- Walking Holidays in Galicia
- Walking Holidays in the Picos de Europa
- Types of Walking Holidays in Spain
- Planning Your Walking Holiday in Spain
Why Choose Spain for Your Walking Holiday?
Spain is brilliantly well set up for walking holidays, with clearly sign-posted trails, easy to book accommodation, and lots of recommendations for itineraries from regional tourist boards. The country is home to many of Europe's GR trails (known as the Gran Recorrido in Spanish) but there are also numerous shorter walking routes to choose from.
"Spain is just as exciting from a historical point of view as it is geographically"
When you need to refuel you're guaranteed to eat well on a walking holiday in Spain. Spanish's cuisine's most famous pillars—tapas, paella, rioja wines—are so well-known that they've almost become clichés, but each region has its own delicacies, crying out to be sampled. The sheer variety of food and drink on offer is one of the great pleasures of a walking tour in the country.
Spain is just as exciting from a historical point of view as it is geographically, and the country's many world-famous monuments—from the Moorish Alhambra in Granada to Gaudi's Sagrada Familia in Barcelona—add an extra layer of enjoyment to your hiking adventure.
Where are the Best Walking Holidays in Spain?
Spain is divided into 17 autonomous communities, each with its own unique landscapes and cultures. Here are five of our favourites for walking holidays.
Walking Holidays in the Pyrenees: Majestic Peaks and Ancient Trails
The Pyrenees form a natural border between Spain and France, offering some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in Europe. The region is characterised by its rugged peaks, deep valleys, and ancient forests.
Long-distance trails like the GR11 traverse the entire Spanish Pyrenees, from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic. For a shorter but equally spectacular hike, consider the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic cliffs and abundant wildlife.
Insider tips for walking holidays in the Pyrenees:
• The Pyrenees are dotted with refugios (mountain huts), providing shelter and meals for hikers. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
• While wild camping is generally not allowed, bivouacking (camping for one night without a tent) is sometimes permitted in national parks. Check local regulations before setting out.
The Aragon and Catalunya tourism websites provide excellent resources for planning your trip.
Walking Holidays in Andalusia: Moorish Heritage and Scenic Trails
Andalusia, in southern Spain, offers a rich blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The region is famous for its Moorish architecture, flamenco music, and sunny climate.
The Sierra Nevada National Park, home to the highest peaks in mainland Spain, is a hiker’s paradise. Trails like the Sulayr GR240 circuit offer stunning views of snow-capped mountains and Mediterranean landscapes. The Caminito del Rey, a dramatic walkway pinned to the cliffs of El Chorro gorge, is another top recommendation.
Insider tips for walking holidays in Andalusia:
• The Alpujarras region, at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, is famous for its charming white villages and excellent hiking trails.
• Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Andalusia for walking holidays, as summer temperatures can be extremely high—especially as the planet warms.
The Andalusia tourism website offers detailed information on walking routes and accommodations.
Walking Holidays in the Canary Islands: Volcanic Landscapes and Subtropical Climates
The Canary Islands, located off the northwest coast of Africa, offer unique volcanic landscapes and a subtropical climate, making them an ideal year-round walking destination.
Tenerife’s Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, is a highlight for hikers. La Palma, known as “La Isla Bonita,” features the spectacular Caldera de Taburiente National Park with its lush forests and dramatic scenery. Meanwhile, there are almost endless options for hiking in Gran Canaria.
Insider tips for walking holidays in the Canary Islands:
• Due to the varied terrain and climate, pack layers and be prepared for rapid weather changes. Weather systems rolling in off the Atlantic ocean can be fierce!
• Many trails are remote, so carry sufficient water and supplies.
The Canary Islands tourism website is a valuable resource for planning your walking holiday.
The Canary Islands tourism website is a valuable resource for planning your walking holiday.
Walking Holidays in Galicia: Home to the Camino de Santiago
Galicia, in northwestern Spain, is synonymous with the Camino de Santiago, one of the world’s most famous pilgrimage routes. The Camino Frances, the most popular route, stretches 800km from the French border to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. At peak times, especially over the summer, the route can suffer from over-tourism. But there are usually variants and other things to explore if you want to escape the hordes.
The lush green landscapes of Galicia, with its rolling hills, jagged coastline and historic villages, provides a stunning backdrop for this spiritual journey.
Insider tips for walking holidays in Galicia:
• The Camino de Santiago is well-marked with yellow arrows and scallop shell symbols. Accommodation is plentiful along the route, with numerous albergues (hostels) catering to pilgrims.
• The best time to walk the Camino is in spring or autumn, avoiding the peak summer heat and crowds.
The official Camino de Santiago website offers comprehensive information on routes, accommodations, and preparation tips.
Walking Holidays in the Picos de Europa: Explore Dramatic Limestone Peaks
The Picos de Europa, a mountain range in the province of Asturias in northern Spain, offers some of the most dramatic and challenging hiking in the country. Characterised by its towering limestone peaks, deep gorges, and lush valleys, this region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts—and yet its little known amongst Brits.
The Ruta del Cares, a spectacular trail carved into the cliffs of the Cares Gorge, is a must-do. The Covadonga Lakes and the Fuente Dé cable car, which provides access to high-altitude trails, are also worth a visit.
Insider tips for walking holidays in the Picos de Europa:
• The weather in the Picos can be unpredictable, so come prepared with appropriate gear. A decent waterproof jacket is a must here.
• The region’s mountain refuges provide basic but comfortable accommodation for hikers.
The Asturias tourism website offers detailed maps and information on hiking routes in the Picos de Europa.
Types of Walking Holidays in Spain
Self-Guided Walking Holidays: Explore at Your Own Pace
Self-guided walking holidays are easy to arrange in Spain. Trails are well-marked, and numerous resources are available online to help you plan your itinerary. Booking accommodations through platforms like Booking.com, Air Bnb and others ensures a hassle-free experience.
Guided Walking Holidays: Expert Guidance and Local Insights
Guided walking holidays are ideal for those who prefer the security and social aspect of traveling with a group. Spanish guides tend to offer insights that you'd never get if you were travelling by yourself, especially in rural areas where locals may prefer their local dialect to Spanish, let alone speaking English.
Planning Your Walking Holiday in Spain
Choosing the Right Time to Visit
Spain’s diverse climate means that the best time for a walking holiday depends on your chosen region. Generally, the walking season runs from April to October, but some areas, like the Canary Islands, offer excellent hiking year-round.
If you're heading to somewhere like Andalusia or the coast of Catalunya in summer, beware it can get very hot.
Packing Essentials
Packing for a walking holiday in Spain depends on the region and time of year. Here are some essentials to consider:
• Walking boots or approach shoes for hiking in.
• A waterproof jacket. Contrary to the saying, the rain in Spain can fall everywhere, not just on the plain.
• Travel trousers or specific hiking trousers are a good idea. Especially the ones that zip off to become shorts when it's hot.
• Depending on where you're going, you may well want a lightweight fleece or even a down jacket for cooler evenings and higher altitudes.
• A decent hiking backpack is a must.
• Walking poles make a world of difference on steep descents, especially in the Pyrenees or Picos de Europa.
• Sunglasses and a sun hat are vital in Spain.
• As is a reusable water bottle is essential. It's important to stay hydrated.
• A first aid kit is always a good idea.
