A recent study by Spain-Holiday a travel website,has revealed the 25 best natural parks for hiking in Spain.
Spain is truly one of the most beautiful countries in the entire world but many travellers head there with only their beaches in mind. Oh there is so much more to Spain than it’s beaches! It’s natural parks and hiking trails are simply spectacular.
If you have never checked them out then please let me introduce you now.
Somiedo
Somiedo may only have 33 hiking trails, a smaller number than many of the others, but it comes in with a google rating of 4.9 and a great all trails rating.
Somiedo is a natural park and municipality located in the Asturias region of northern Spain. It’s known for its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and diverse flora and fauna. It offers a variety of hiking trails catering to different skill levels. Some popular trails include the Brañas de Saliencia route, Valle del Lago route, and the Senda del Oso trail.
Somiedo is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the Cantabrian brown bear. While encounters with bears are rare and they usually avoid humans, it’s a good idea to be aware of their presence and know how to respond if you do encounter one!!
The best time for hiking in Somiedo is generally from spring to early autumn, when the weather is milder and the trails are more accessible. Keep in mind that some trails might be closed during the winter due to snow and hazardous conditions.
Picos de Europa – Hiking in Spain
Hiking in the Picos de Europa is another fantastic outdoor adventure in northern Spain.
The Picos de Europa is a stunning mountain range located between the regions of Asturias, Cantabria, and Castilla y León. It’s known for its dramatic landscapes, rugged peaks, deep gorges, and lush valleys.
The Picos de Europa park offers a wide range of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents. Some popular trails include the Ruta del Cares, the Mirador del Naranjo de Bulnes, and the Collado Jermoso route. The weather can be really changeable so bring wet weather gear even on sunny days!
Do take your camera and binoculars on a hike here as the Picos de Europa are also home to diverse wildlife, including chamois, wild goats, and birds of prey. You might also encounter cattle grazing in high pastures, which is a common practice in the region.
Garajonay
Garajonay in the Canary Islands has 50 hiking trails and high 4.8 hiking rating trail from Google.
Garajonay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in La Gomera. It is is known for its unique laurel forest ecosystem, which is a type of subtropical forest dominated by laurel trees. The park is named after the highest peak on the island, Garajonay.
The misty, lush environment of the laurel forest is quite distinct and provides habitat to a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are endemic to the Canary Islands and have been around since ancient timse. An unusual and otherworldly experience awaits if you hike here.
What a lovely way to have a fabulous beach holiday in the canaries with an altogether more active adventure.
More hikes in Spain
Take a good look at the list above and explore more of these wonderful natural Spanish parks if you fancy going hiking in Spain.
Keep safe whilst hiking in Spain
Remember that safety should always be a priority while hiking. Make sure someone knows your itinerary, hike with a companion if possible, and be prepared for emergencies. Enjoy your hiking adventure in Spain and take in the breath-taking beauty of this natural paradise!
