Top Things to Do in Nature in Spain: Complete Guide to Spain's Greatest Outdoor Adventures

Spain offers some of Europe's most spectacular natural landscapes, from alpine peaks and glacial lakes to volcanic terrain and pristine coastlines. With 16 national parks, 195 natural parks, and 49 biosphere reserves, the country hosts extraordinary biodiversity and geological formations that rival anywhere on the continent. This guide covers the best outdoor experiences across Spain, arranged by region and activity type.

Spain's National Parks Overview

Spain currently manages 16 national parks distributed across the country: 11 in the Iberian peninsula, 4 in the Canary Islands, and 1 in the Balearic Islands. These protected spaces showcase the nation's most representative ecosystems and geologically significant formations. National parks are distinct from natural parks—they receive maximum protection designation by the national government and international recognition through UNESCO World Heritage status, the Natura 2000 network, and European Tourism Sustainability certification.

Most Visited and Must-See Destinations

Teide National Park, Tenerife (Canary Islands)

Teide National Park receives more visitors than any other national park in Spain, welcoming over 4 million people annually (4,463,281 in 2023 alone). The park centers on Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak at 3,718 meters above sea level, which is also the third-highest volcano globally when measured from the ocean floor (7,500 meters from base to summit).

What to expect: The landscape is otherworldly—an enormous volcanic plateau with ochre, red, and black volcanic rock stretching across 18,990 hectares. The colors contrast dramatically against the sapphire-blue Atlantic Ocean visible from higher elevations and the deep blue sky. The terrain feels more akin to another planet than mainland Europe, with minimal vegetation in the highest zones adapting to extreme conditions.

Key activities:

• Mount Teide summit hike (requires free advance permit reservation)
• Cable car ascent (Teleférico del Teide) to 3,555 meters, just 163 meters below the summit
• Crater exploration and scenic drives through the volcanic landscape
• Astrophysics observations (the park hosts the Observatorio del Teide telescope)

Best time to visit: Year-round, though summer heat (July-August) can be intense. Winter occasionally brings snow above 2,000 meters, which creates stunning photographic contrasts. March tends to be the busiest month.

Practical information: Free park admission. Mount Teide summit access requires a free permit (€0) booked in advance through the official website. The cable car costs approximately €27 for adults. Average visitor stay: 106 minutes by car, 103 minutes by bus.

Picos de Europa National Park (Asturias, Cantabria, León)

Picos de Europa stretches across three provinces in northern Spain and represents one of Europe's most dramatic mountain ranges. The park encompasses 15,696 hectares of national park designation plus an additional 19,196 hectares of protected peripheral zone. The park was Spain's first national park (declared 1918) and celebrated its centenary in 2018.

What to expect: Jagged, razor-sharp limestone peaks often blanketed in snow during winter months; emerald-green alpine forests; pristine glacial lakes; wildflower meadows in spring; and a landscape so striking that UNESCO officially recognized its significance.

Key activities:

• The Ruta del Cares ("Divine Gorge"): A legendary 12-kilometer trail (24 kilometers round trip) following the River Cares through stunning gorges, tunnels carved into rock, and suspension bridges. The trail is surprisingly accessible—mostly flat along the river despite its dramatic setting.
• Lakes of Covadonga: Spectacular twin glacial lakes accessible via hiking from the sanctuary of Covadonga. The Princesa viewpoint (inaugurated 2018) offers breathtaking panoramas of the lakes and surrounding peaks.
• Summit climbs for experienced mountaineers
• Mountain biking on designated trails
• Mountaineering and rock climbing

Best time to visit: June to September for summer hiking. Spring (May-June) offers wildflowers and longer daylight hours. Autumn (September-October) brings stable weather and fewer crowds.

Accessibility: The park is located just over 2 hours east of Bilbao in northern Spain. The most accessible experience is the Ruta del Cares, which requires minimal technical skill but reasonable fitness. Multiple difficulty levels available for different experience levels.

Sierra Nevada National Park (Andalusia)

With 86,210 hectares, Sierra Nevada is Spain's largest national park and the second-highest mountain range in the Iberian Peninsula. Located in Granada province, it contains Mulhacén (3,482 meters) and Pico Veleta (3,394 meters)—the two highest peaks in Spain outside the Canary Islands.

What to expect: A dramatic transition from Mediterranean coastline (visible from summits on clear days) to high alpine terrain. The range supports a unique microclimate with over 2,000 species of plants, many found nowhere else globally.

Key activities:

• Hiking to Laguna Grande (highest alpine lake in southern Spain)
• Mulhacén and Pico Veleta summit treks
• Sierra Nevada ski resort (Estación de Esquí Sierra Nevada)—the southernmost ski area in Europe, open December-April
• Wildlife observation (Spanish ibex, lynx)
• Photography of Mediterranean-to-alpine transitions

Best time to visit: June-September for hiking. Winter (December-March) for skiing.

Practical information: The park borders the city of Granada, making it accessible from a major urban center. Some sections of the high mountains experience snow and ice well into summer—check conditions before attempting summits.

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park (Aragon)

Located in the heart of the Pyrenees, Ordesa y Monte Perdido encompasses 15,696 hectares and offers some of Spain's most dramatic mountain scenery. The park combines high alpine peaks with deep gorges, cascading waterfalls, and pristine forests.

What to expect: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the spectacular Ordesa Canyon with nearly vertical limestone walls rising 1,000+ meters, Alpine meadows, glacial cirques, and the Monte Perdido massif.

Key activities:

• Ordesa Canyon trekking (multiple routes from 2-6 hours depending on fitness)
• Waterfall visits (Cola de Caballo waterfall is especially popular)
• High-altitude hiking to mountain refugios
• Photography in one of the Pyrenees' most photogenic locations
• Multi-day treks using the refuge network

Best time to visit: July-September for established trail conditions. June and October are suitable for experienced hikers. Spring snowmelt creates impressive waterfalls.

Practical information: The small town of Torla serves as the gateway and provides accommodations and supplies. Book mountain refugios (refugios) in advance during summer.

Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Natural Attractions

While the national parks draw significant tourism, several equally spectacular natural sites receive fewer visitors:

Sierra de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas (Jaén, Andalusia)

Spain's largest protected natural space (214,000 hectares) and Europe's second-largest, this vast mountain region remains relatively undiscovered compared to Granada's Sierra Nevada. Despite its size, it receives a fraction of the visitors of more famous parks.

What to expect: Towering rock walls, dense forests, turquoise rivers, and a pristine wilderness feel. The park encompasses the sources of two of southern Spain's most important rivers: the Guadalquivir and Segura.

Key activities:

• Ruta del Río Borosa (11 kilometers, 22 kilometers round trip): One of Spain's finest easy-to-moderate hikes, following crystal-clear river water through mountain forests and past the narrow Cerrada de Elías gorge with wooden walkways carved into rock face.
• Laguna de Valdeazores: An alpine lake that rewards hikers continuing past the standard route endpoints.
• Guadalquivir source hike
• Photography and nature observation

Best time to visit: Spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October). Summer can be warm; winter occasionally sees snow at higher elevations.

Practical information: Free park entrance. Minimal crowds even during peak season. Well-maintained trails with clear signage suitable for families and casual hikers.

Lagunas de Ruidera (Castilla-La Mancha)

A system of 15 interconnected lakes hidden in the heart of central Spain's flat plains, Lagunas de Ruidera seems incongruous in its landscape but is a true oasis. The waters are remarkably clear, reflecting sky and surrounding hills in mirror-like perfection.

What to expect: Crystalline turquoise lakes separated by natural cascades, surrounded by rolling hills and forests. The site combines natural beauty with historical heritage—ruined water mills and stone houses dating back centuries pepper the shoreline.

Key activities:

• Kayaking and paddle boarding on the lakes
• Easy walking trails connecting the lakes
• Swimming in designated areas
• Photography and nature observation
• Exploring historical ruins

Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for ideal weather and water conditions.

Practical information: Free park entrance. Easy accessibility from highways linking Madrid and Valencia. Several small towns provide basic accommodations and restaurants. One of Spain's most underrated natural sites.

Las Médulas (León, Castilla y León)

Declared UNESCO World Heritage in 1997, Las Médulas is a natural monument resulting from Roman mining operations over 2,000 years ago. The landscape—layered red and ochre earth formations with waterfalls and ancient forests—is unlike anywhere else in Spain.

What to expect: Dramatic earthen formations carved by ancient Roman hydrological mining techniques, now softened by vegetation and water. The red tones of the excavated earth create striking visual contrasts.

Key activities:

• Hiking through multiple routes (1-10+ kilometers available)
• Exploring ancient Roman mines and galleries accessible to visitors
• Wildlife observation (eagles, hawks, deer, wild boar)
• Photography of sunset light on red earth formations
• Viewpoint hikes with panoramic vista points

Best time to visit: Autumn brings the warmest light quality and excellent wildlife activity.

Practical information: Free park entrance. Several marked trails accommodate different fitness levels. The nearby town of Ponferrada provides accommodations.

Selva de Irati (Navarre)

One of Europe's best-preserved beech and fir forests, Selva de Irati stretches across Navarre and the French border. This primeval-feeling forest is an atmospheric contrast to Spain's Mediterranean and mountain destinations.

What to expect: Towering beech and fir trees forming a dense, shaded canopy; pristine mountain streams; mist-shrouded valleys that feel like stepping into another era. The forest is exquisite in autumn when the beech leaves turn.

Key activities:

• Forest walking trails (routes ranging from leisurely to challenging)
• Photography amid ancient trees
• Alpine hiking to mountain lakes
• Wildlife observation (particularly birds and deer)
• Refuge-based multi-day treks

Best time to visit: Autumn (September-October) when beech foliage displays brilliant colors. Spring brings wildflowers and birdsong. Summer offers long daylight hours.

Practical information: The town of Orbaiceta serves as the gateway. Several refugios provide accommodation for trekkers. The forest is most magical in autumn despite being less crowded than other destinations.

Cabo de Gata (Almería, Andalusia)

A natural park featuring one of Spain's most pristine coastlines, Cabo de Gata combines desert landscapes, hidden coves with crystal-clear water, and dramatic red volcanic cliffs. The landscape evokes North Africa more than mainland Spain.

What to expect: Virgin beaches accessible only by foot or boat; turquoise Mediterranean waters; desert-like terrain with minimal development; dramatic geological formations.

Key activities:

• Snorkeling and scuba diving (excellent visibility and marine life)
• Coastal hiking between secluded coves
• Photography of dramatic cliff formations
• Wildlife observation (dolphins, seabirds)
• Beach camping at designated sites

Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) for ideal temperatures. Summer brings crowds and heat.

Practical information: Free park entrance. Some coves require scrambling over rocks; wear appropriate footwear. Beach facilities are minimal—bring supplies.

Montserrat (Catalonia)

Just 30 kilometers from Barcelona, Montserrat offers dramatic geology blended with history, spirituality, and outdoor recreation. The needle-like rock formations of compressed conglomerate rise unexpectedly from the surrounding landscape.

What to expect: Towering sandstone spires and dramatic rock formations; the historic Benedictine monastery; multiple hiking routes connecting various scenic viewpoints; the famous "floating monastery" appearance when mist swirls around peaks.

Key activities:

• Hiking between rock formations and summits (routes of varying difficulty)
• Cable car rides offering different perspectives
• Monastery visits (Santa Maria de Montserrat)
• Rock climbing (limited areas with permits)
• Photography of distinctive rock formations

Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant temperatures.

Practical information: Easily accessible via train from Barcelona (1 hour). Day-trip accessible. Mix of free hiking and paid cable car/train rides.

Seasonal Activities and Regional Highlights

Winter Adventures

Ski resorts:

• Sierra Nevada (Granada): Spain's southernmost and sunniest ski area with reliable snow December-March
• Baqueira Beret (Catalonia): The Pyrenees' premier ski destination
• Formigal (Aragon): Well-developed resort with varied terrain
• Estación de Esquí de Candanchú (Aragon)

Winter sports extend beyond skiing to snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and mountaineering on snow.

Spring Hiking

Spring (March-May) offers ideal hiking conditions across Spain:

• Longer daylight hours
• Moderate temperatures
• Wildflowers in bloom (particularly stunning in Sierra de Gredos, Valley of Jerte cherry blossoms)
• Lower crowds than summer
• Rivers running full with snowmelt creating impressive waterfalls

Summer Activities

Summer is peak season for:

• Coastal activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, swimming
• High-altitude hiking: Mountain trails snow-free and accessible
• Via ferrata: Rock climbing on fixed-protection routes (popular in Cuenca region)
• Paragliding: Active throughout the country, particularly in Catalonia
• Water sports: Rafting in Basque Country rivers, kayaking in multiple locations

Autumn Adventures

Autumn (September-November) combines:

• Stable weather and reduced crowds
• Golden light ideal for photography
• Fall foliage colors (particularly striking in northern Spain)
• Returning wildlife activity
• Festival season in local villages

Hiking by Difficulty Level

Easy Walks (Under 4 km, under 2 hours)

• Camino de Ronda coastal trail (Costa Brava): 2-kilometer accessible section between charming fishing villages
• Parque Natural de la Albufera (Valencia): 5-kilometer flat route through wetlands
• Ruta de las Caras (Cuenca): 4-kilometer circular trail featuring rock art installations
• Lake walks at Picos de Europa: Accessible routes around the Lakes of Covadonga
• Torcal walking trails (Málaga): Several short, scenic routes through limestone formations

Moderate Walks (4-16 km, 3-5 hours)

• Ruta del Cares (Picos de Europa): Famous 12-kilometer gorge walk (can do partially)
• Ruta del Río Borosa (Sierra de Cazorla): 11-kilometer river hike with waterfall
• Senda del Oso (Asturias): 22-kilometer flat former railway trail (can do partial sections)
• Ordesa Canyon routes (multiple options from 2-8 kilometers)
• Montserrat circuit walks (variable distances)

Challenging Routes (16+ km, 5-7+ hours)

• Mount Teide ascent (via cable car + short hike) or full climb
• Mulhacén or Pico Veleta summits (Sierra Nevada)
• Montserrat to Sant Jeroni (full ridge traverse)
• Gavarnie circuit (Pyrenees)
• Multi-day Pyrenean treks using refuge networks

Practical Planning Guide

When to Visit: Regional Seasonal Recommendations

Mediterranean coast (Cabo de Gata, Costa Brava): April-May and September-October for swimming without extreme heat

Northern mountains (Picos de Europa, Pyrenees): June-September for snow-free conditions; spring for waterfalls

Andalusia (Sierra Nevada, Cazorla): March-May and September-November to avoid summer heat

Canary Islands (Teide): December-February for comfortable temperatures at high altitude; March for combined sunshine and light snow

What to Bring

Essential items:

• Appropriate footwear (hiking boots for mountain trails, trainers for easy walks)
• Water (2+ liters for day hikes)
• Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
• Weather-appropriate layers (especially for mountains, which experience rapid temperature changes)
• Map and/or GPS device (though trails are generally well-marked)

Recommended items:

• Snacks and energy food
• Headlamp or torch
• First aid kit basics
• Insect repellent
• Waterproof jacket

Entry Fees and Access

Most Spanish natural parks and hiking areas are free to access. Exceptions include:

• Teide National Park: Free, but Mount Teide summit requires free advance permit
• Cable cars and guided tours: Require payment
• Refugio mountain huts: Charge for overnight stays (typically €20-50)
• Commercial guides and tours: Various pricing depending on length and difficulty

Getting Around

Without a car: Train and bus networks connect major cities to trailhead towns. Regional buses serve smaller villages. Plan connections in advance as frequency varies.

With a car: Provides maximum flexibility to access trailheads. Roads are generally well-maintained. Parking is often free at popular trailheads, though some charge small fees.

Guided tours: Available for most major attractions, ranging from half-day to multi-day experiences.

Physical Fitness Requirements

Most of Spain's major natural attractions accommodate a range of fitness levels:

• No fitness required: Teide via cable car, Montserrat via funicular, flat wetland walks, coastal strolls
• Moderate fitness: Ruta del Cares, Ruta del Río Borosa, most day hikes under 10 kilometers
• Good fitness: Longer mountain hikes, multi-day treks
• Excellent fitness plus technical skill: High alpine scrambles, summer mountaineering on glaciers

Summary of Top Experiences by Interest

For dramatic landscapes: Picos de Europa, Teide, Montserrat, Ordesa y Monte Perdido

For hidden gems with fewer crowds: Sierra de Cazorla, Lagunas de Ruidera, Selva de Irati, Las Médulas

For coastal nature: Cabo de Gata, Camino de Ronda, Delta del Ebro

For easy family-friendly walks: Albufera, Ordesa Canyon (partial), Torcal short routes, Cares River walk

For photography: Montserrat, Teide at sunrise, Sierra de Gredos, Picos de Europa

For serious mountaineers: Mulhacén, Pico Veleta, Ordesa Mont Perdido, Pico de Orizaba

For autumn foliage: Selva de Irati, Sierra de Gredos, Pyrenean valleys

Spain's natural diversity ensures that whether you have one day or several weeks, multiple fitness levels, or specific interests, exceptional outdoor experiences await. Start with the most famous destinations to understand the scale and beauty of Spain's protected natural spaces, then venture into lesser-known areas to discover why the country contains some of Europe's most spectacular and diverse ecosystems.