10 Best Hikes in Spain
Where to Find the Best Trails in Spain?
The best hikes in Spain span the country’s eastern mountain ranges all the way to a volcanic island off the coast of Morocco. Spain is an idyllic destination, known for its food culture, history and grand architecture. While the museums in Madrid are magnificent and the cocktails in Barcelona can’t be beaten, getting out of the cosmopolitan areas into the mountainous countryside is bucket-list-worthy for many, especially hikers.
Some of the best hikes are multi-day pilgrimages, like the very famous Camino de Santiago. Others can be done in an afternoon. Regardless of which trail you choose, though, you’ll be met with wondrous views atop Spain’s most notable mountains.
1. Camino de Santiago
Attracts more than 200,000 trekkers each year
Good for: History, Adventure
Every year, hundreds of thousands of people traverse the historic Camino de Santiago. Multiple routes, starting throughout Europe and Africa, all lead to Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia in northwestern Spain. There are 2 specific Camino de Santiago routes that are marked as UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Northern Spain route and the French route.
The culmination of the pilgrimage is the Cathedral of Saint James. Inside there is the shrine of Saint James the Great, which inspired Christians in medieval times to make the initial pilgrimage. While many still travel the Camino de Santiago for spiritual purposes today, it is also popular with hikers and history buffs who may or may not have religious ties.
Camino de Santiago
2. Cares Trail
Gorgeous trails along the Rio Cares
Good for: Photo, Adventure
Within Picos de Europa National Park is the Cares Trail, 1 of Spain’s most beautiful hiking trails. For a shorter and more accessible hike, many visitors start at Caín. This starting point sets you up for a 12 km hike that is mostly flat. However, the official trail begins in León, making the trek 21 km in each direction.
Spring and early autumn are the best times to walk the Cares Trail along the Cares Canyon as the weather is pleasant and the trail is less crowded. Spring is recommended because it is right after the waterfalls have thawed and flow abundantly. Photographers, don’t forget to bring your cameras because the views from Los Collaos and the bridges are mesmerising.
Cares Trail
3. Camí de Cavalls
Named the ’horse path‘ after 14th-century knights
Good for: Photo, Adventure
Stunning clifftop views await hikers along Camí de Cavalls on Menorca, a mid-sized Balearic Island off the coast of Spain. To follow the trail, you’ll want to locate the red and white postings and the official trail marker: GR 223. The entire trail is 185 km but is broken into 20 smaller ’stages’.
Along the Camí de Cavalls you can expect to encounter a variable climate, so it’s best to be prepared with suitable hiking boots for the at-times rocky pavement; sunscreen and a hat for the glaring sun, and a bathing suit for a dip in the tranquil coves. Cala Blanca, or ‘white cove’, is one such treasure you should plan to stop and rest at.
Camí de Cavalls
4. Caminito del Rey
Was once a path for hydroelectric plant workers
Good for: Photo, History, Unusual
While Caminito del Rey is one of Spain’s best hikes, it is not for the faint of heart. The 7.7 km trail is mostly a descent, with part of the path on walkways suspended over the gorge called El Chorro. The path is a singletrack, with paid shuttles waiting at the end to return hikers back to the parking lot up top.
Tickets to access Caminito del Rey can be purchased at the ticket office or online. There is also a visitor’s reception area where you can join a guided tour and learn more about the trail’s fascinating history. The reception area is also where visitors are given helmets, a safety precaution on this narrow walkway.
Location: El Caminito del Rey, 29550 Ardales, Málaga, Spain
Open: Daily from 9 am to 5.20 pm
Caminito del Rey
5. Pico Sobarcal Trail
Along the Navarre-France border
Good for: Photo, Adventure
Hike through the Spanish Pyrenees mountains on the Pico Sobarcal Trail. Though the trail is lengthy at 20 km, it passes through several small villages where you can stop and rest. Most trekkers finish the hike within two days.
The spectacular rocky views are one reason why Pico Sobarcal Trail is regarded as one of the best hikes in Spain. Anguja Sur de Ansabere, in particular, is a sight to behold as the 350 metres rocky peak looms above for much of the walk. The trail is considered moderate in terms of difficulty with some steeper climbs and rocky paths.
Pico Sobarcal Trail
6. Coastal path of Asturias
Ideal for hiking or cycling
Good for: Photo, History, Adventure
While anyone can enjoy the beauty along the coastal path of Asturias, those interested in history will especially appreciate the past the trail invokes. Specifically, the medieval Kingdom of Asturia and the medieval pilgrimage are breathtaking. Along the path, a variety of architecture can be seen and admired like the church of Nuestra Señora de los Dolores or the towering Universidad Laboral.
The entire coastal path is around 280 km long but is broken into 13 stages ranging from 7 km to 30 km. The trail runs from Bustio, Spain to Abres on the northern coast in Portugal. The great advantage of walking the Coastal Path of Asturias is the picturesque mountain and ocean views that, at times, blend together.
Coastal path of Asturias
7. Montserrat
Hear the Montserrat monastery church bells echo off the mountain
Good for: Photo, History
Just a day trip from Barcelona is Montserrat, a mountain range in the Catalonia countryside. At the top of the trail is a monastery that is worth spending an hour or 2 exploring. Or take a short detour from the main trail to see Capella de la Santa Cova, a small salmon-coloured church that was built into the side of the mountain.
It’s worth noting the climb up Montserrat can be quite steep, but you’re rewarded with picturesque views. Hiking past the monastery is also an option if you have the energy. The summit of the mountain is even more serene and stunning. If you feel accomplished and are ready to return without hiking down, the funicular railway and cable cars can take you back down the mountain with ease.
Montserrat
8. Mulhacén
Hoya de la Mora is the most popular route to the top
Good for: Photo, Adventure
Part of Spain’s Sierra Nevada Mountain range, Mulhacén stands an impressive 3,482 metres tall. It is the tallest peak in Southern Europe outside of the Alps. Starting from the village of Capileira, hikers are challenged to summit this magnificent mountain.
The trail is rocky, so hiking boots over regular trainers are recommended. Because of Mulhacén’s altitude, hikers should also plan for chilly weather as they ascend, even in the heat of summer. Dressing in layers is key to staying comfortable in the varying temperatures. It’s also wise to pack water and a lunch as the hike will take most of the day and there are no amenities along the way.
Mulhacén
9. Las Canadas del Teide National Park
A photographer’s dream landscape
Good for: Photo, Couples, Families
Las Canadas del Teide National Park is home to one of Spain’s best hikes in a remote destination: the Spanish Canary Island of Tenerife. The National Park is a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. Mount Teide sits at the centre of the national park. It is an active volcano and Spain’s highest peak at 3,700 metres.
To hike to the top of Teide, you’ll have to apply for a permit at least 2 months in advance, because access is metered for conservation purposes. You can explore Las Canadas del Teide National Park via trails that start at the beach or opt to ride a cable car to the top. Montaña Blanca is the most common trail that tourists choose.
Location: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Las Canadas del Teide National Park
10. Los Cahorros Monachil
A tree-lined path that follows the river upstream
Good for: Photo, Couples
Starting in the village of Monachil, the Los Cahorros hike takes you through the Northwest Sierra Nevada mountains. You’ll be rewarded with vast valley views through an unforgettable gorge and winding river trails. If you only have time for a day hike while visiting Spain, this one is worth your time.
Get your camera ready. When hiking Los Cahorros Monachil, you’ll want an Instagram-worthy photo while walking across the hanging bridge. Pro tip: While this hike is pleasant all year round, it’s especially breathtaking in autumn when the foliage is changing colour.
Los Cahorros Monachil
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