Wanting to experience Europe without the back-breaking itineraries and local tourist traps? There is no better way to truly appreciate a region than to hike through it, experiencing the native people and the local flora and fauna. Spain is a very diverse country filled with unique culture. It contains dry desert climates as well as tall mountain peaks. If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary during your next vacation, hiking through Spain would be an exciting and unforgettable experience.
In Southern Spain, the dry, sunny climate offers a beautiful landscape of cliffs and dunes which is situated on the Mediterranean Coast. The romantic view of this infamous sea is definitely a rewarding experience. A strong, Moorish influence of the country’s past is also found here as well as the foothills of the Sierra Nevada.
The Paths of Pilgrims is an apt name for hiking through Western Spain. For centuries, pilgrims from all over the world have traveled here by foot to the Gothic Cathedral of Santiago, dedicated to St. James. The beaches here stretch across the coast of the Atlantic Ocean and tiny islands worth exploring dot the landscape.
Perhaps the most popular place to hike in Spain is in the Northern Regions. In the Northwest lie the Picos de Europa, a fantastic mountain range filled with deep gorges, mountains ranging up to 9,000 feet, alpine valleys, and lush forests. With its temperate climate, the hiking ranges from easy to experienced. Rock climbing is also offered with some hiking packages if you decide to hire a guide or go with a group. The Basque culture has always lived here maintaining their unique cultural identity by isolating themselves from the rest of the world. While visiting this region, the visitor will find how friendly these native people are and find their cuisine very delightful. Also living in the mountain range, though very elusive, are the European Brown Bear, wolves, wild boar, and golden salamanders.
Another region in Northern Spain is Aragon and Catalonia. These Northeast regions are filled with a various array of history. While walking across the ancient stone bridges and taking in structures that were built in the 12th century, you cannot help but think of the Moorish and medieval history that has taken place within this area. Also here is the beautiful Monte Perdido National Park.
The province of Alicante is found in Eastern Spain. With the bustling tourist city of Costa Blanca close by, you will be pleasantly surprised at the remoteness of La Montanya Alicantina, the local mountain range there. Moorish, Roman, and Iberian ruins abound and bird enthusiasts will definitely find bliss here while watching for Golden Eagles, Griffon Vultures, nightingales, and the shy Golden Oriole.
For the more adventurous hiker, the isles belonging to Spain are fascinating to explore. These islands include the Balearic Islands, Tenerife, and The Canary Islands. Many of these isles offer high mountains and smoldering volcanic peaks. Since the mainland has no volcanic activity, it is worth your time to visit them.
Spain is a very diverse country that has managed to keep much of its native beauty. A hiking vacation there will prove to be a wonderful, fulfilling experience and is something that you and your family will always remember.
