From forested hillsides to lunar landscapes, each of Spain’s national parks offers a slice of something different. Whether you’re a hiker, a mountain biker, or a naturalist, there will be a park in Spain to awaken your inner explorer. If you fancy spending a few days enjoying a sunny break with natural beauty, here are five national parks you can visit:
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Sierra Nevada, Andalucia
The Sierra Nevada mountain range, not far from Almeria, is Spain’s largest national park. As a result, the trails here feel never-ending, and you can expect tranquil hiking conditions that make a perfect break from the crowds near the coast. If you climb up to the mountaintops here on a clear day, you’ll be able to see as far as Morocco.
Timanfaya, Lanzarote
Timanfaya National Park, home to Lanzarote’s Fire Mountains, is one of the most impressive national parks in Europe. Beneath the earth, it is so hot that geyser-like sprays will emerge if you pour water into a hole in the ground.
Since the eruptions that shaped the landscape 300 years ago, nothing here has really changed. Most visits to the park are by coach tour, but if you want to immerse yourself in these Martian surroundings, you can go on a guided walk or even a camel ride.
Image by Brian Snelson, used under the Creative Commons Licence.
Teide, Tenerife
Pico del Teide in Tenerife is the highest mountain in Spain, and it is surrounded by miles of stunning national park. There are trails for hikers of all levels, and if you make it to the summit of Teide, incredible views over the other Canary Islands await you. Not sure you’re ready to climb 12,000 feet? You can also take a cable car to the top, so there’s no excuse to miss out on this experience.
Cabrera, Balearic Islands
Take a boat trip from Majorca’s south east coast to visit one of the nineteen islands that make up Cabrera National Park. You can hike to a medieval castle, or explore caves on the islands’ shores. The park even boasts a museum where you can learn about the Cabrera archipelago’s surprisingly interesting history and ecological importance.
Sierra de las Nieves, Andalucia
Sierra de las Nieves is another Andalusian mountain range, located perfectly to fit into a holiday on Costa del Sol. The area is mostly uninhabited, and the slopes are home to the endangered Spanish Fir tree. As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the park is definitely one to visit if you’re a wildlife enthusiast, and the region is an up-and-coming destination for eco-tourism.
Image by Por los caminos de Malaga, used under the Creative Commons Licence.