Hit the Trails: Hiking in Spain! Are you excited to trek through Spain’s diverse landscapes? Imagine hiking from the majestic Pyrenees to the bustling beaches of the Mediterranean, with breathtaking sights and tasty tapas breaks. Or enjoy the challenge of crossing most of Spain on one of the historic longer Caminos de Santiago. Spain is also one of Europe’s top spots for mountain lovers, so if the Alps aren’t your thing, this might be! Pack your gear and let’s dive into all the tips and routes you’ll need.
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In Spain, you can hike all year round if you choose your hiking area and routes carefully.
Spring is the most beautiful time nearly everywhere. It starts early on the islands and in the very south of Spain, sometimes as early as February, and lasts in the higher mountain regions until May or even June. That’s when the landscape is in full bloom. Simply magical.
A special highlight is the cherry blossom in the Jerte Valley in northern Extremadura, which transforms the valley into a sea of white blossoms every year between mid-March and early April. The valley is easily explored via several shorter and longer hiking trails, and of course, there’s a big cherry blossom festival.
Autumn can also be beautiful in the southern regions, starting from October. The first rain after the high summer makes the landscape green again, and the mild air makes hiking pleasant until deep into November or even December.
For the high mountains, the same rules apply as in the Alps: you can hike roughly from June to the end of September. After that, you need to be prepared for snow and other challenges.
If you are hiking in summer, it’s better to avoid the south. It’s just too hot and dry. The landscape isn’t pretty, and it’s not pleasant to be roasted while hiking. Instead, head to the cooler, greener north and the higher mountain areas. Staying along the coast is usually less attractive, as you often share the beaches with millions of holidaymakers.
On the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands, you can often hike all year round, so you can explore the landscape even in December or January if you need to get your dose of sunshine in winter.
Hiking Trails in Spain
Spain is slowly becoming a hiking nation, now boasting over 60,000 km (more than 37,000 miles) of hiking trails.
In Central Europe, the network of the Caminos de Santiago in Spain is probably best known. It was much featured in books, music and movies in the last decades. As a result, the Camino Frances, which starts at St-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France and ends at Santiago de Compostela, can be quite crowded. However, among the Caminos, you have plenty of options and can choose quieter routes. The coastal path along Spain’s northern coast is usually quieter, and on the Via de la Plata, you often find yourself quite alone.
And there’s so much more to discover.
Overview of hiking trails in Spain analysed from the data of the OSM database
The nature trails are a network now totalling around 10,000 km (more than 6,000 miles) of old railway tracks, towpaths (along rivers and canals), or cattle trails that have been developed and marked for hikers. Included in these are the “vias verdes” (green ways), which mainly follow old railway tracks, offering you a more leisurely way to explore the landscape than direct hiking trails over the mountains.
Additionally, there are long-distance hiking trails (the GR-trails over 50 km), some of which coincide with the Spanish sections of the European long-distance paths E3, E4, E7, E9, E10 and E12. The GR trails are typically marked in red and white.
Short hiking trails (PR) range from 10 to 50 km (about 6.2 to 31.1 miles) and are marked in yellow or yellow and white. Locally, there are also trails under 10 km, which are marked in green. These are often paths that can easily be included in a day trip or are particularly suitable for beginners, including hikes with children.
The Most Popular Hiking Trails in Spain
Camino de Santiago/Camino Francés
Starting Point: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, France
Ending Point: Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Total Length: About 790 km (490 miles)
Number of Stages: 30-35 stages
Stage Length: On average 20-30 km (12-19 miles) per day
Best Time to Hike: Spring (April-June) and Autumn (September-October)
Special Equipment: Pilgrim’s Passport (Credencial)
Luggage Transport: e.g., Correos Paq Mochila, Jacotrans, Camino Facil
Experience Level: Suitable for all fitness levels, basic fitness required
Fear of Heights: No problematic sections, the path is well-built and mostly easy to walk
Suitability for Tent Campers: Less suitable, as there are many hostels; campsites are rare, wild camping is forbidden in many areas
More Information: Spain.info – Camino Francés
The Camino Francés, also known as the French Way, is the most famous and frequently walked part of the European Camino de Santiago network. It starts in the French town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and spans about 790 km (490.9 miles) through diverse landscapes and historic towns until reaching Santiago de Compostela. The route is renowned for its cultural and natural highlights, including the majestic Pyrenees, the gentle hills of the La Rioja wine region, the vast plains of the Meseta, and the lush green landscapes of Galicia. Numerous historical sites, churches, and cathedrals line the way, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Camino.
What makes the Camino Francés special is the blend of historical significance, cultural diversity, and scenic beauty. The route is well-marked and offers excellent infrastructure with numerous hostels and restaurants catering specifically to the needs of pilgrims. These factors make the path attractive to both seasoned hikers and beginners. Hiking the Camino Francés in spring and autumn is particularly pleasant due to the mild weather and fewer pilgrims compared to the summer months. The sense of community and the encounters along the way add to the unique experience of walking this historic trail.
GR 11 (Trans-Pyrenean Route)
Starting Point: Cap de Creus, Spain
Ending Point: Hondarribia, Spain
Total Length: About 820 km (510 miles)
Number of Stages: 45-50 stages
Stage Length: On average 15-20 km (9-12 miles) per day
Best Time to Hike: Summer (July to September)
Special Equipment: Hiking gear for alpine tours including an emergency kit & maps (possibly also emergency camping gear)
Luggage Transport: Unknown
Experience Level: Advanced level, good fitness and experience in alpine terrain required
Fear of Heights: Some steep and exposed sections, surefootedness and no fear of heights necessary
Suitability for Tent Campers: Well-suited, many remote areas with opportunities for wild camping; however, there are restrictions in nature reserves
More information: decent information is hard to come by on the internet, you will find a few descriptions on blogs though, like this one. The go-to information for the trail seems to be the Cicerone Guide* for the trail
The GR 11, also known as the Trans-Pyrenean Route, is a challenging long-distance hike that traverses the entire Spanish side of the Pyrenees from east to west. The trail starts at Cap de Creus on the Mediterranean coast and ends in Hondarribia on the Atlantic. With a total length of about 820 km (510 miles) and a duration of 45-50 stages, this route is designed for experienced hikers who are physically and mentally well-prepared.
What makes the GR 11 special is its spectacular and varied landscape, featuring high mountain peaks, deep valleys, and clear mountain lakes. Hikers pass through numerous national parks and nature reserves like the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park and the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, which offer breathtaking views and unique flora and fauna. The route also leads through remote villages, providing insights into the local culture and traditions of the Pyrenees region.
Due to the alpine nature of the GR 11, good fitness, surefootedness, and experience in mountain hiking are required. There are some exposed sections that can be challenging for people with a fear of heights. The best time to hike the GR 11 is in the summer when most of the snowfields have melted, and the temperatures are pleasant. The trail is well-suited for tent campers, but local regulations regarding wild camping, especially in nature reserves, should be followed.
Camino del Norte
Starting Point: Irún, Spain
Ending Point: Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Total Length: About 825 km (513 miles)
Number of Stages: 34-38 stages
Stage Length: On average 20-25 km (12-16 miles) per day
Best Time to Hike: Spring (May-June) and Autumn (September-October)
Special Equipment: Pilgrim’s Passport (Credencial)
Luggage Transport: e.g., Correos Paq Mochila, Camino Facil
Experience Level: Medium level, basic fitness and some hiking experience required
Fear of Heights: No particularly problematic sections, the path mostly runs along the coast and through gentle hills
Suitability for Tent Campers: Partly suitable, as there are many hostels; campsites are available, wild camping is largely forbidden
Further Information: Spain.info – Camino del Norte
The Camino del Norte, also known as the Northern Way, runs along the stunning northern coast of Spain from Irún near the French border to Santiago de Compostela. With a total length of about 825 km (513 miles), the route spans 34-38 stages. The Northern Way is less crowded than the more famous Camino Francés and offers breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea, as well as the chance to walk through charming coastal towns and the green hinterlands of the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia.
The Camino del Norte stands out for its diverse landscapes and cultural highlights. Hikers can explore picturesque coastal landscapes, traditional Basque villages, and historic cities such as San Sebastián, Bilbao, and Santander. The route mainly traverses gentle hills and follows the coast. Despite its proximity to the sea, the paths are well-marked and the infrastructure for pilgrims is excellent, with numerous hostels and other accommodation options.
The path requires a medium level of experience and good basic fitness. The best time to hike the Camino del Norte is in spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and there are fewer pilgrims. This makes for pleasant hiking and the opportunity to fully enjoy the region’s scenic and cultural variety. For tent campers, the route offers limited camping opportunities, as wild camping is forbidden. It is advisable to use the many hostels and campsites along the way.
Caminito del Rey
Start Point: Ardales, Spain
End Point: El Chorro, Spain
Total Length: About 7.7 km (4.8 miles)
Best Time to Hike: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Special Equipment: Sturdy hiking shoes, helmet (provided)
Experience Level: Medium level, basic fitness required
Fear of Heights: Many exposed sections, unsuitable for people with fear of heights
Further Information: Caminito del Rey
The Caminito del Rey, once known as one of the most dangerous hiking trails in the world, has become much safer after extensive renovations and now offers a unique and spectacular hiking experience. The path stretches about 7.7 km (4.8 miles) from Ardales to El Chorro and leads through impressive gorges, along steep rock faces, and over dizzying hanging bridges. The scenery is breathtaking and the views into the depths are fascinating, making the Caminito del Rey a special attraction.
Originally built as a supply route for workers at a hydroelectric power plant, the trail is now a tourist highlight. Notable features include the passages along vertical rock walls and the spectacular hanging bridge over the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge. The hike requires a certain level of surefootedness and is not for people with severe fear of heights, as many sections are highly exposed. However, due to the good infrastructure and the provided safety equipment, the trail is suitable for hikers with medium experience.
The best time to hike the Caminito del Rey is in spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the number of visitors is lower. During the summer months, it can get very hot, making the hike more strenuous. A helmet is provided to ensure the safety of hikers. This combination of adventure, history, and spectacular nature makes the Caminito del Rey an unforgettable experience.
La Ruta del Cares
Starting Point: Poncebos, Asturias, Spain
Ending Point: Caín, Castile and León, Spain
Total Length: About 12 km (7.5 miles) one way
Best Time to Hike: Spring (May-June) and Autumn (September-October)
Special Equipment: Normal hiking gear for a day trip
Experience Level: Medium level, basic fitness required
Fear of Heights: Some exposed sections, surefootedness required
Further Information: Ruta del Cares
The Ruta del Cares, also known as “La Garganta Divina” (The Divine Gorge), is one of the most spectacular hikes in the Picos de Europa. The route runs along the impressive Cares Gorge and connects the villages of Poncebos in Asturias and Caín in Castile and León. With a total length of about 12 km (7.5 miles) one way, this hike is one of the most well-known and popular in the region. It follows the path of the Cares River, which winds through steep rock walls and offers breathtaking views.
The Ruta del Cares stands out for its dramatic landscape, featuring high rock walls, deep gorges, and clear, sparkling waters. The well-maintained path is partly carved into the rock and includes numerous tunnels and bridges, making the hike an unforgettable experience. The route requires surefootedness and good basic fitness, as there are some exposed sections that can be challenging for hikers with a fear of heights.
The best time to hike the Ruta del Cares is in spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the number of visitors is lower. These seasons also offer the most beautiful scenery, with blooming flora in spring and colourful forests in autumn. The hike is ideal for a day trip and only requires basic equipment such as sturdy hiking shoes, weatherproof clothing, and sufficient water and snacks. The Ruta del Cares is an impressive natural experience that delights both experienced hikers and families as well as nature lovers.
GR 221 (Ruta de Pedra en Sec)
Starting Point: Port d’Andratx, Mallorca, Spain
Ending Point: Pollença, Mallorca, Spain
Total Length: About 140 km (87 miles)
Number of Stages: 8-10 stages
Stage Length: On average 15-20 km (9-12 miles) per day
Best Time to Hike: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Special Equipment: Normal hiking gear for southern climates
Luggage Transport: Mallorca Hiking (on request)
Experience Level: Medium level, basic fitness required
Fear of Heights: Some exposed sections, surefootedness and no fear of heights necessary
Suitability for Tent Campers: Partly suitable, wild camping is not allowed, but there are official campsites and hostels
Further Information: Dry Stone Route – GR221
The GR 221, also known as the Ruta de Pedra en Sec or Dry Stone Route, traverses the impressive Serra de Tramuntana on the island of Mallorca. The hiking trail spans about 140 km (87 miles) from Port d’Andratx in the southwest to Pollença in the northeast of the island. This route passes through picturesque mountain villages, along historical paths, and impressive dry stone walls that give the trail its name. The GR 221 is divided into 8 to 10 stages and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean as well as the diverse flora and fauna of the Serra de Tramuntana.
What makes the GR 221 special is the unique combination of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Hikers can discover traditional Mallorcan architecture, such as old farmhouses and monasteries, as well as the famous dry stone walls that characterize the route. The trail also features a varied landscape with mountains, forests, and coastal sections. The well-marked paths and excellent infrastructure with numerous hostels and refugios make the GR 221 attractive for both experienced hikers and less seasoned adventurers.
The best time to hike the GR 221 is in spring or autumn when the climate is pleasantly mild and the landscape is in full bloom or displaying autumnal colours. In summer, it can get very hot on Mallorca, making the hike more strenuous. These factors make the GR 221 an unforgettable experience for anyone who wants to experience the natural and cultural diversity of Mallorca up close.
GR 92 (Mediterranean Way)
Starting Point: Portbou, Catalonia, Spain
Ending Point: Ulldecona, Catalonia, Spain
Total Length: About 580 km (360 miles) (Catalan section)
Number of Stages: 30-35 stages
Stage Length: On average 15-25 km (9-15 miles) per day
Best Time to Hike: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Special Equipment: Normal hiking gear
Luggage Transport: CostaBravaTaxi along the Costa Brava
Experience Level: Medium level, good basic fitness required
Fear of Heights: Few exposed sections, the path mostly runs along the coast
Suitability for Tent Campers: Well-suited, numerous campsites and official camping areas along the route
Miscellaneous: The GR 92 is part of the E10 and E12 European long-distance paths
Further Information: Wikipedia, Costa Brava section
The GR 92, also known as the Mediterranean Way, is an impressive long-distance hiking trail that runs along the Catalan coast of the Mediterranean from Portbou near the French border to Ulldecona. With a total length of about 580 km (360 miles), the trail is divided into 30-35 stages, passing through varied coastal landscapes, picturesque fishing villages, and historic towns. The GR 92 offers hikers the chance to experience the diversity of the Catalan coast, from steep cliffs and sandy beaches to dense forests and gentle inland hills.
The GR 92 is particularly attractive due to its proximity to the Mediterranean, offering breathtaking views and the opportunity for refreshing beach breaks. Cultural highlights along the route include historical sites, medieval villages, and vibrant cities like Barcelona and Tarragona. This blend of nature and culture makes the GR 92 a unique hiking experience, providing both relaxation and discoveries. Thanks to its well-developed infrastructure with numerous campsites and accommodations, the trail is also well-suited for tent campers.
The best time to hike the GR 92 is in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasantly mild and the temperatures are ideal for hiking. In summer, it can get very hot, making the hike more strenuous, while the winter in the coastal regions is mild but wetter. The route requires good basic fitness and is well-suited for hikers of medium experience, as it does not involve extreme altitude differences or particularly technical sections. Overall, the GR 92 offers a varied and rewarding hiking experience along one of Spain’s most beautiful coastal stretches.
GR 7 (Spanish Section of the European E4)
Starting Point: Tarifa, Andalusia, Spain
Ending Point: Andorra la Vella, Andorra
Total Length: About 1,900 km (1,180 miles)
Number of Stages: 75-80 stages
Stage Length: On average 20-25 km (12-15 miles) per day
Best Time to Hike: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Special Equipment: Typical long-distance hiking gear
Luggage Transport: Unknown
Experience Level: Advanced level, good fitness and experience in long-distance hiking required
Fear of Heights: Some exposed sections in mountainous regions, surefootedness and no fear of heights necessary
Suitability for Tent Campers: Well-suited, numerous campsites and a few rare opportunities for wild camping in certain regions
Further Information: Limited information online, a description for the Andalusian section
The GR 7, the Spanish section of the European long-distance route E4, is an epic long-distance hike that stretches from Tarifa at the southern tip of Spain to Andorra la Vella in Andorra. With an impressive total length of about 1,900 km (1,180 miles), the route traverses a variety of landscapes, including the green valleys of Andalusia, the dry plateaus of Castile, and the majestic Pyrenees. This route offers hikers the chance to experience the cultural and natural diversity of Spain in all its facets.
A special feature of the GR 7 is the enormous landscape and climatic diversity along the route. Hikers pass through historical towns, traditional villages, national parks, and remote mountain regions. The route crosses several autonomous communities of Spain, each with its own culture, cuisine, and history. The challenges range from easy, well-marked paths in lower regions to demanding sections in the Pyrenees that require surefootedness and no fear of heights.
The best time to hike the GR 7 is in spring and autumn when temperatures are pleasant and the landscape is particularly attractive. Summer can be very hot in the southern and central parts of Spain, while winter brings snow and cold temperatures in the northern mountainous regions. The GR 7 is well-suited for tent campers, with many official campsites and some rare wild camping opportunities, especially in remote areas. Hikers should be well-prepared, with appropriate gear and good fitness, to tackle the challenges of this long and varied route.
Sierra Nevada Sulayr Circular Route
Starting Point: Refugio Postero Alto, Spain (variable, as it is a circular route)
Ending Point: Refugio Postero Alto, Spain (variable, as it is a circular route)
Total Length: About 300 km (186 miles)
Number of Stages: 19-24 stages
Stage Length: On average 12-20 km (7.5-12 miles) per day
Best Time to Hike: Autumn (late August to October)
Special Equipment: Normal hiking gear for mountain trekking
Luggage Transport: Unknown
Experience Level: Advanced level, good fitness and experience in mountain hiking required
Fear of Heights: Some exposed sections, surefootedness and no fear of heights necessary
Suitability for Tent Campers: Well-suited, numerous campsites and some opportunities for wild camping (with restrictions in nature reserves)
Further Information: andalucia.org – Sierra Nevada Sulayr Circular Route
The Sierra Nevada Sulayr Circular Route, also known as GR 240, is a spectacular long-distance hiking trail that encompasses the majestic peaks and valleys of the Sierra Nevada in Andalusia. With a total length of about 300 km (186 miles), this circular route is divided into 19-24 stages and offers a breathtaking variety of landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to alpine meadows, deep valleys, and clear mountain lakes. The name “Sulayr” means “Mountain of the Sun” in the old Moorish language, aptly describing the impressive beauty and light of this region.
This route stands out from others due to its diversity of natural and cultural highlights. Hikers can marvel at the highest peak of the Spanish mainland, Mulhacén, wander through remote white villages, and discover the unique flora and fauna of the Sierra Nevada National Park. The trail is technically challenging and requires good fitness as well as experience in mountain hiking. Surefootedness and no fear of heights are necessary, as some sections are exposed and demanding.
The best time to hike the Sulayr Circular Route is in spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild and the landscape is in full bloom or adorned with autumnal colours. Summer can be very hot, and winter brings snow, making conditions more difficult. The trail is well-suited for tent campers, with numerous camping options and the possibility of wild camping in certain sections. This makes the Sulayr Circular Route an unforgettable experience for advanced hikers who wish to discover the spectacular mountain scenery and cultural treasures of Andalusia.
GR 99 (Ebro Nature Trail)
Starting Point: Fontibre, Cantabria, Spain
Ending Point: Deltebre, Catalonia, Spain
Total Length: About 1,280 km (795 miles)
Number of Stages: 42 stages
Stage Length: On average 30 km (19 miles) per day
Best Time to Hike: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November)
Special Equipment: Normal long-distance hiking gear
Luggage Transport: Unknown
Experience Level: Medium level, good fitness and long-distance hiking experience required
Fear of Heights: Few exposed sections, surefootedness required in some parts
Suitability for Tent Campers: Well-suited, numerous campsites and opportunities for wild camping
Further Information: Caminos Naturales – GR 99
The GR 99 Ebro Nature Trail, also known as Camino Natural del Ebro, stretches from the source of the Ebro in Fontibre, Cantabria, to its mouth in Deltebre, Catalonia. With an impressive total length of about 1,280 km (795 miles), this long-distance trail follows Spain’s longest river through various regions and landscapes. The route follows the Ebro river and offers breathtaking views of the river valley, historic towns, and diverse natural landscapes.
The GR 99 provides hikers with the opportunity to experience the cultural and natural diversity of northern Spain. Highlights include the majestic cliffs and gorges of the river, the picturesque wine regions of La Rioja, historic cities such as Zaragoza and Tortosa, and the tranquil river plains of the Ebro Delta. The hike requires a medium level of experience and good fitness, as the stages can be long and demanding. The route is mostly well-marked and offers numerous opportunities for rest and refreshments.
The best time to hike the GR 99 is in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the landscape is in full bloom or adorned with autumn colours. The summer months can be very hot in some regions, while winter in the higher areas can be cool and rainy. The mix of cultural treasures and impressive natural landscapes makes the GR 99 a unique hiking experience that delights both experienced hikers and nature and culture enthusiasts.
Book Corner for these hiking trails
Her you find the walking guides for these trails, that I could discover and seem reasonable:
Where Can You Sleep During Hikes?
Across the country, you’ll find many hostels similar to classic bed & breakfasts. Along the long-distance and the Camino de Santiago trails, innkeepers are usually well-prepared for hikers. Along the Camino routes, you’ll often find monasteries and larger hostels, and in cities, you can usually opt for hotels if needed.
If you fancy something special, you can stay in the beautiful but not cheap Paradores, where you can sleep in a small palace. In the south, especially in Andalusia and Catalonia, you’ll also find Cortijos and Masías, traditional country estates converted into guesthouses, offering a different kind of charm than typical hiking hostels.
In the mountains, especially in the Pyrenees, there are classic refugios, mountain huts usually run by FEDME (the Spanish Mountaineering Federation).
There are also plenty of campsites throughout the country for those who prefer to camp. Wild camping is generally forbidden and only allowed in the higher mountains above 2,000 meters (about 6,500 feet), provided you leave no trace. In some nature parks, there are designated controlled camping areas (Zonas de acampada controlada), but these are quite rare.
What Equipment Do You Need?
In Spain, you generally only need standard hiking gear. This includes well-fitting footwear with grippy soles, hiking attire, and a comfortably fitting backpack. You’ll also need everything necessary for safe navigation, and of course, water bottles and possibly a water bladder for extra supply when crossing dry areas.
In the rainy north and northwest, it’s often worth having higher quality rain gear. Otherwise, a basic emergency kit usually suffices. It’s no coincidence that many places in Spain enjoy up to 3,000 hours of sunshine per year.
Proper sun protection is essential. You should have a sun hat and sunscreen with a high SPF, especially if you’re hiking near water or in areas with bright surfaces where the reflection can be intense. We also like to carry umbrellas with a reflective outer layer; it’s like having a portable cloud. However, in windy areas, unfortunately, they must remain closed.
In Spain, you mostly just need regular hiking gear. Well-fitting shoes with good grip, hiking clothes, and a comfortable backpack. Make sure you have everything you need to navigate safely, plus water bottles and possibly a hydration bladder for extra water, especially on longer hikes through dry areas.
In the rainy north and northwest, it’s often worth bringing higher-quality rain gear. Otherwise, a simple emergency rain jacket is usually enough. It’s no surprise that many places in Spain get up to 3000 hours of sunshine a year.
Good sun protection is essential. A sun hat and high SPF sunscreen are a must. Especially when hiking near water or in areas with light-colored ground, be aware of the strong reflections. We also like to carry umbrellas with a reflective outer layer – it’s like having a portable cloud. Just remember to close them in windy conditions.
If you’re hiking in the mountains, consider using trekking poles. As usual, they can make mountain hiking much easier and help you through tricky spots.
How Can You Replace or Supplement Equipment?
Since Spain, despite all its recent developments, is not yet a fully established hiking nation, it can be tricky if you realize on the trail that you’re missing something or something is broken. The well-established hiking regions like the Pyrenees, Camino Francés, and Picos de Europa are better equipped. In these areas, you can often find a Decathlon, Intersport, or an outdoor section in El Corte Inglés. There are also specialized retailers in the larger towns.
If there’s nothing nearby or you can’t find what you need, you can search online. A prominent local option is Barrabes, an established retailer from the Pyrenees since 1995. Decathlon.es is also well-known, and Amazon.es shines with its wide range and fast delivery (as long as you pay attention to the indicated delivery times).
The major parcel delivery services in Spain are Correos (the Spanish post office), DHL, SEUR (DPD Spain), FedEx, and UPS. Within Spain, packages usually take 1-3 days. Packages from Germany take about 3-6 business days, depending on the region, which you should add to the time until dispatch.
Parcel lockers and pick-up points are quite common in larger towns. However, if you want to use an Amazon Locker as your address, make sure to check if it’s located in a store and what the store’s opening hours are.
There are also plenty of parcel shops in Spain, and one might be near your route in a few days. Otherwise, you can kindly ask one of your future accommodations if you can have a package delivered there. Usually, this is not a problem, and the package will often be waiting for you in your room.
Provisions: How to Manage your Food Supplies While Hiking
In Spain, you usually restock your supplies in supermarkets, just like in most European countries. When you pass through a larger town, you can find supermarkets open from 9 am to 9 pm.
In smaller towns, you’ll often find small local shops, which are usually open from 9 am to 2 pm and from 5 pm to 8 pm. While most supermarkets and shops are closed on Sundays and public holidays, in tourist areas you can often find shops open on Sunday mornings.
If you urgently need supplies and everything is closed, try heading to a larger petrol station. They often have a mini-supermarket that is open 24/7, where you can find at least something to eat.
Weekly markets take place in many smaller and larger towns, usually on Wednesdays or Saturdays. Here, you can find fresh products and typical specialties of the region. Explore and taste the variety; Spain’s cuisine is quite colourful with its mix of Arabic influences in the south and plenty of seafood along the coasts.
If you come across market halls, it’s worth taking a look inside. Not only for the fresh goods, but you’ll often find cafés and bars where you can get a meal. Also, restaurants are still more common in smaller towns than you might be used to.
Along the hiking trails, you’ll usually find meals available in hostels, mountain huts, and inns for the hungry hiker.
Restaurant and bar opening hours are generally later than in central Europe. Most restaurants are open for lunch from 1 pm to 4 pm, and dinner rarely starts before 8 pm, often around 9 pm.
The most common closing days are Monday or Tuesday, so keep these days and public holidays in mind when planning, so you don’t end up without dinner.
Drinking – Tips for Water Supply on the Go
In Spain, you can generally drink tap water. Especially in the north or the rainier areas near the Pyrenees, the tap water quality is usually very good, and you can refill your water supplies in hostels. However, avoid any public water sources that are not explicitly marked as drinking water fountains.
Only in the south of the mainland and on the islands (Balearic and Canary Islands) should you check the tap water quality beforehand. In these areas, the quality is not always up to the EU standards, often due to older pipes. Sometimes, the tap water is so hard and chlorinated that it’s simply undrinkable.
In some villages, drinking water is delivered by tanker trucks once a week because the local well water is not safe to drink. If you are hiking in such areas, keep an eye out and organize your water supplies from supermarkets or the tanker truck if you come across one.
Travel Information for Spain
Language: Primarily Spanish (Castilian), with regional languages such as Basque, Galician, and Catalan spoken in certain areas.
Communication: Castilian Spanish is mostly understood even in regions with their own languages. In established tourist areas, you’ll often find people who speak English or French, and occasionally German. As usual, a smile and basic Spanish will get you far. In a pinch, Google Translate or the Deepl app can be helpful.
Currency: Euro
Payment: Primarily credit cards (Visa/Mastercard). Cash is still used but less and less frequently.
Time Zone: CET (Central European Time) and in Summer CEST (Central European Summer Time) – same as Paris, Berlin, Rome
By Air: Travel to international airports throughout the country.
By Train: If you prefer to travel by train, find the nearest departure station for TGV or Thalys to Paris or Lyon. From Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, or Marseille, take the TGV or the Spanish equivalent, AVE, to Barcelona or Madrid.
By Bus: Various European bus lines also offer services to Spain if you prefer bus travel, have time on your hands and the constitution to handle those long hours on the bus.
In Spain, there is a well-developed railway network, mainly operated by the state-owned company RENFE. The growing high-speed train network makes many domestic flights unnecessary (especially to and from Madrid or Barcelona). The regional rail network connects many smaller towns. There are even some overnight train services across the country.
Long-distance buses (especially those run by ALSA and Avanza) go to places where the trains haven’t reached yet. Additionally, there is a local bus system that covers the remaining distances.
Overall, Spain’s public transport network is one of the best in Europe.
Electricity in Spain is supplied at 220V from the outlets, and you won’t need an adapter if you use the widely used Europlug. If you’re regularly staying in various types of hostels during your hiking tour, you’ll most likely need a power bank (preferably with pass-through charging capability) and possibly a multi-socket adapter.
Only if you’re planning to hike long distances in the mountains or along very remote routes should you consider renewable energy sources. However, for most hikers, this isn’t worth it, and the additional weight is better invested in extra power banks.
Safety & Emergencies
General Safety
Spain is generally a very safe travel destination, especially if you stray from the major tourist spots. However, always watch your belongings to prevent mix-ups with others’ items or to avoid making it too easy for the occasional pickpocket.
In short: keep your belongings together, use common sense, be cautious, and you should be safe.
Animal Encounters
While people may not pose a problem, keep an eye on local dogs. Stray dogs are still common in villages, and some may be unfriendly. Carrying a trekking pole or pilgrim’s staff can help keep them at bay. In areas with wolves or bears, livestock guardian dogs are often present. These large, usually placid animals should be treated with respect, but always heed any warning signs.
Wildlife
You are relatively safe from larger wildlife in Spain. Although wolves and bears are present in the larger mountain ranges, they typically leave hikers alone if not provoked and local warning signs are heeded. Wild boars should be respected just as everywhere else in Europe.
Smaller Creatures
However, smaller animals can be a nuisance. There are several venomous snake and spider species, as well as small scorpions in the south and other critters that can deliver painful bites or stings. While these are rarely fatal, they are extremely painful. Therefore, it’s wise to adopt some safety habits:
- Always shake out towels and clothes before use, especially if they’ve been on the ground.
- Hang backpacks whenever possible.
- Shake out shoes before putting them on.
- Avoid lifting or turning over stones unnecessarily (and if you must, be aware that you might disturb something underneath).
- When walking in warm, rocky areas, be mindful of where you place your feet.
- Always wear footwear and socks in tall grass and underbrush (you might even pull your socks over your trouser legs to deter ticks and other small creatures).
Coastal Hazards
If you’re near the coast, inquire about dangerous marine life like venomous jellyfish, poisonous fish, and the Portuguese man o’ war. Some of these can be seriously harmful, and it’s crucial to know what to expect in the area you’re visiting.
Plants
There are few warnings about plants. While there are toxic and highly poisonous plants, such as oleander, avoiding unfamiliar plants usually prevents issues, as there are no widely spread plants with contact poison.
Emergencies
If you need help after an accident despite good planning, dial 112. Although mobile phone reception in Spain is generally better than in some rural areas in Germany, mountain rescue services in Spain are less financially equipped than in the Alps. Therefore, it might take a while for help to arrive. Carrying a well-equipped first-aid kit and knowing how to use it is essential. Of course, the best plan is not to need mountain rescue at all through good planning and prudent tour selection. But that’s something we all hope for.
Where Can You Find More Information on Hiking?
The Spanish tourism portal at www.spain.info offers a wealth of information for those planning to hike in Spain (as well as for those interested in other activities). They are also featured on Outdooractive, where you can gather numerous ideas for your adventures.
Book Corner
Here are a few books about hiking tours in Spain in general, along with a few additional hiking trails.
Exploring Spain on foot can be a wonderful experience. From the Mediterranean coastlines and olive groves to the mountains of the Sierra Nevada, the Pyrenees, or the slopes of the Picos de Europa, and up to the green northern coast between Galicia and the Basque Country, there is much to discover. And if you wish to explore the rest of the Iberian Peninsula, you can simply continue on to Portugal. Or perhaps you’d like to view the Pyrenees from the other side and continue exploring the northern and eastern coasts? Then head to France.
Happy hiking!