Top 5 Trekking Regions of Spain

Spain's rugged mountains, pilgrim paths and beautiful coastlines offer some of Europe's most rewarding trekkin... Read more
Top 5 Trekking Regions of Spain

Spain's rugged mountains, pilgrim paths and beautiful coastlines offer some of Europe's most rewarding trekking experiences. Walking holidays in Spain often take you to the most natural and traditional corners, away from the tourist hotspots. From the snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees to the volcanoes of the Canary Islands, Spain’s trekking regions offer huge potential with a variety of terrain and culture. Read on to find our favourite trekking regions in Spain and discover what exactly this country has to offer as a walking destination.

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Tucked away in northern Spain, the Picos de Europa is one of Europe’s most spectacular yet surprisingly undiscovered walking destinations, despite its translation of the “peaks of Europe.” Its dominating limestone peaks, green valleys and clear rivers make it perfect for those who crave a quieter, more authentic Spanish adventure. It’s a truly hidden gem for walkers and nature lovers alike.

KE has created adventures in the Picos de Europa to match your trekking experience and interests. For the more experienced trekkers seeking a challenge, our Traverse of the Picos de Europa itinerary offers an entirely unique route devised by our expert tour leaders Sergio and Rosana. This itinerary takes you from west to east through the separate massifs, providing an unforgettable mountain experience across the limestone peaks. Alternatively, explore the region’s best optional walks at a relaxed pace, as well as its natural wonders, geology, flora and mountain culture on the High Pastures of the Picos. Families aren’t left out either; the Tapas Trail – Family Active Holiday in the foothills of the Picos is tailored for younger adventurers, with gentle introductory trekking routes and the thrill of staying in a mountain refuge, all set in the breathtaking National Park.

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The Canary Islands stand out as a top trekking destination offering a blend of volcanic landscapes, subtropical forests and beautiful coastlines in a mild, year-round climate. With their extensive network of well-maintained trails, these Atlantic islands provide perfect trekking regardless of the season and ability level. From Lanzarote’s volcanoes and white sand beaches to the lesser-known La Gomera with its beautiful flora and picturesque villages, each island presents its own character and challenges. This diversity means that whether you're a beginner looking for scenic coastal paths or an experienced trekker, walking holidays in the Canary Islands deliver an unforgettable trekking experience.

To fully experience the Canary Islands as a trekking destination, we offer carefully curated adventures that unlock the hidden gems and iconic landscapes across multiple islands. On our Walking Undiscovered Tenerife and Pico Teide adventure, take an off-the-beaten-track route to its secluded coves and beaches in the region of Anaga, trek to the summit of Guajara (2,715m) and visit the crater of Mt Teide (3,718m). Or walk in La Palma, rise above the forest canopies, walk through ravines abundant with local flora and summit La Palma's highest peak, Roque de Los Muchachos (2,426m).

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Pyrenees

The Pyrnees stretches the length of the French-Spanish border and is home to a spectacular landscape that provides some of the best trekking opportunities in Europe. While the Alps are a more popular choice and draw larger crowds, the Pyrenees offer a raw and authentic experience in the mountains. This underappreciated range delivers breathtaking scenery that easily rivals any of the European mountain ranges.

In winter, the Pyrenees transforms into a showshoer’s paradise with silent forests and frozen lakes. With KE, go on an introductory snowshoeing adventure in this region, an entirely different but equally magical mountain experience. On this holiday, we get the Pyrenean playground practically to ourselves.

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Nestled on Spain's eastern coast, Costa Blanca is known for its sandy beaches and sunny weather. But did you know that beyond its beautiful beaches and tourist hotspots, it is also a paradise for trekking enthusiasts? With rugged limestone mountains and cliffs, charming white-painted villages and crumbling ruins, the trekking varies between gentle trails with beautiful sea views to extreme hikes and scrambling.

While most visitors flock to Costa Blanca's beaches, the region's most spectacular secrets lie inland. Our Secret Sierras of the Costa Blanca offers adventurous travellers the chance to escape the coastal crowds and discover the dramatic mountain landscapes in the scenery of Sierra de Aitana, Serella, Aixorta and Bernia. On this walking holiday, you’ll find authentic Spain through trekking, culture and history.

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While not technically a trekking destination, the legendary Camino de Santiago earns its place on any Spanish adventure list. For centuries, pilgrims have been trekking the entwining network of Camino trails to Santiago de Compostela to pay homage to St James, one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, who is said to be buried there. Today’s Camino attracts far more than religious pilgrims, it also draws those seeking a challenge through a stunning landscape. What sets the Camino apart is its instant community – you'll rarely walk alone and will share milestones with fellow pilgrims.

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