Hiking in Spain: 3 Hikes For The Best Views! [2024]

Spain is a paradise known for its beautiful weather and world-class beaches. It's safe to say that the country is stunning, and there are plenty of things to do while you're on vacation in Spain. Although partying and visiting tourist attractions is a popular activity for most travelers, a less common but equally fun one to take part in is hiking.

You can take many amazing hikes around the country, many of which have breathtaking views. The Cares Trail is especially remarkable, known for its tremendous limestone peaks along the gorge path.

With the many different hiking trails in Spain, each has its own difficulty level, which is vital to be aware of. Be prepared before your trip to ensure you stay safe and have as much fun as possible.

Best Time to Go Hiking in Spain

Spain is known for its sun and inviting weather, making hiking in Spain a convenient all-year-round activity. The best time to go hiking in Spain is during the spring and fall when you'll get cooler weather. If you're trekking the northern mountains of Spain, summer hikes can also be manageable, given the generally cooler weather.

Packing for a Hiking Trip

Knowing what to pack is a key element of any hiking trip. If this is your first hike, it's best to go through this guide for all the essentials to pack for a hiking trip!

Hydration and Nutrition

Both hydration and nutrition are essential for any hike, especially in Spain. That's because it's a hot country, and you'll most likely work up a sweat with long-distance walks. Bring at least 1 liter of water for the hike, possibly more if it lasts over 2 hours.

Snacks are less important than keeping adequately hydrated while hiking. Although, bringing some protein bars or a bag of granola will give you an energy and motivation boost on the way.

What to Wear While Hiking in Spain

When hiking in any hot climate, it's safe to say that less clothing is more! The most important focus should be on the type of footwear you choose. That becomes especially critical when climbing on rocky surfaces, which can hurt your feet without the proper hiking boots. 

There are plenty of great options to choose from online, including popular brands. Some great ones are the Salomon X Ultra Pioneer and Columbia Newton Ridge hiking shoes, which are both comfy and offer sturdy protection for your feet.

Depending on the season you choose to travel to Spain, you might need extra clothing if the weather is colder. 

Best Hikes in Spain

1. The Cares Trail

Difficulty Level: Medium

Average Time to Hike: Over 6 hours round trip

The Cares Trail is one of the most epic hikes in Spain that I highly recommend. Mountains surround the walk in every direction you look, and the bridges of Los Rebecos and Bolin are perfect for any photography enthusiast.

The height of this trail makes it the most memorable, and it really is the top of the top when it comes to hiking with a view in Spain. 

That said, bear in mind that this trail is 24 kilometers for a round trip, so it's best if you already have some hiking experience.

2. La Palma Volcano Trail

Difficulty Level: Medium

Average Time to Hike: Over 6 hours round trip

What better way to experience the natural side of Spain than to hike next to a volcano?

La Palma Volcano Trail can be found in the Canary Islands, a short distance from mainland Spain. This stunning walk doesn't just feature one volcano but several of them, making it a must-see attraction on the Canary Islands!

The volcano route not only has a jaw-dropping rise of 1,207 meters to its name, but the 7-hour hike makes it perfect for seasoned travelers.

Although this hike is not for the faint of heart, the incredible landscapes and natural beauty make it well worth striving to the end. La Palma Volcano Trail is the most beautiful hike in the Canary Islands. It is well worth traveling there for this hike alone!

3. Peñalara Route

Difficult Level: Easy-Medium

Average Time to Hike: 3-5 hours round trip

The best part about hiking across the Peñalara Route is that it's very close to Madrid, making it the perfect getaway from the bustling city. The most popular hiking route starts at the Puerto de Cotos Mountain pass and ends at the Peñalara Lagoon.

Peñalara Natural Park has a lot of stunning mountainous areas with many animals and beautiful greenery to see. During the hike, expect to see plenty of birds, including hedge sparrows and rock thrushes that have made the park their home.

It's important to note that this location is popular among tourists, so expect it to be busier during peak season.

How to Stay Safe While Hiking

The most crucial part about hiking is making sure you always stay safe. Here are some helpful tips to ensure that:

• Build up your hiking experience - This means avoiding hikes that seem too challenging for you. If you're a beginner at hiking, choosing something easy and short is best.
• Stay hydrated - One of the worst mistakes you can make when hiking is forgetting or not bringing any liquids. Pack a water bottle with at least 2 liters of water for every 2 hours you walk. 
• Don't go it alone - Aim to go with friends or an experienced guide. Its always safer to have someone with you, and if you've forgotten anything, they've probably got it.
• Use Maps - This can be both digitally and physically. You can use Google Maps or these top hiking apps on your phone. However, it's also good to bring a physical map in case the battery dies on your phone.

Prepare for Hikes in Spain With Pilot!

Now that you're ready to take on the hiking trails of Spain, it's time to get excited! Be fully prepared and use Pilot to plan your journey ahead!