Hiking in Spain
Including Caminito del Rey, Camino de Ronda, and Camí de Cavalls. On the map.
The vibe
Striding across barren high-altitude ridges and deep limestone gorges here carries a sun-baked Mediterranean grit that feels entirely distinct from damp northern European paths. Late spring and early autumn bring the crispest air for long days on the move, avoiding the blistering midday heat of the lowlands. You will share the trails with weekend groups of local mountaineers and wandering pilgrims, keeping the overall atmosphere outdoorsy, self-guided, and remarkably uncrowded once you leave the trailheads.
Caminito del Rey
Andalusia
Adrian Farwell / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Once known as the world's most dangerous path, this restored walkway is now a safe but thrilling canyon-floor and cliff-side experience. The trail clings to the vertical walls of the El Chorro gorge, offering spectacular views of the river below.
Access. Located near Málaga; requires advance booking for timed entry tickets.
Notes. Strict safety regulations; helmets are provided and mandatory.
Camino de Ronda
Catalonia
cazah / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
A series of ancient coastal paths that once connected fishing villages along the Costa Brava. The route offers stunning cliff-top views, pine-scented forest trails, and easy access to secluded coves.
Access. Easily accessible from towns like Begur, Calella de Palafrugell, and Tossa de Mar.
Camí de Cavalls
Balearic Islands
Joan Quintana from Barcelona, Spain / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
A historic 185km coastal path that encircles the entire island of Menorca. It traverses diverse landscapes including rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and pristine Mediterranean beaches.
Access. The trail is divided into 20 stages; accessible from various points along the island's perimeter.
Notes. Best hiked in spring or autumn to avoid intense summer heat.
La Caldera de Taburiente
Canary Islands
Tony Hisgett from Birmingham, UK / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
A massive volcanic crater on La Palma featuring deep, forested ravines and dramatic waterfalls. The hike down into the caldera is a challenging trek through unique geological formations.
Access. Access via the Los Brecitos trailhead; requires a descent into the park interior.
Notes. Flash flooding can occur in the ravine during rain; check park status before entering.
Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park
Aragon
diego_cue / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Located in the heart of the Pyrenees, this park is famous for its massive glacial canyons and sheer limestone cliffs. The Faja de Pelay trail provides a stunning high-level perspective of the valley floor and surrounding waterfalls.
Access. Access via the town of Torla; shuttle buses operate during peak summer months to the trailhead.
Notes. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site with strictly protected trails.
Picos de Europa National Park
Asturias
Picos de Europa National Park — Wikidata / Wikimedia Commons
A dramatic limestone massif offering some of Spain's most rugged alpine scenery. Hikers can traverse high-altitude ridgelines or descend into deep, lush valleys like the Cares Gorge.
Access. Accessible via mountain towns like Potes or Cangas de Onís; well-marked trail networks start from various mountain villages.
Notes. Weather can change rapidly; high-altitude trails are often snow-covered until late spring.
Sierra Nevada National Park
Andalusia
Yabedanie / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0 es)
Home to the highest peaks in mainland Spain, this range offers extensive alpine trekking and high-mountain ridgelines. The ascent of Mulhacén provides an unforgettable challenge for experienced hikers.
Access. Accessible from Granada; various trailheads lead into the high range from the Alpujarras villages.
Notes. High altitude hazards; snow can persist on north-facing slopes well into summer.
Teide National Park
Canary Islands
Николай Максимович / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Dominated by the massive Mount Teide volcano, this high-altitude park features lunar-like lava fields and dramatic crater rim hiking. The ascent to the summit offers a rare view above the clouds on Tenerife.
Access. Accessible by road from various points on Tenerife; summit access requires a specific permit.
Notes. Permits for the final summit ascent must be booked months in advance.