Best Mountain Ranges in Spain for Hiking: Where to Hit the Trails in 2025

Looking for epic hiking trails in Spain? Whether you’re dreaming of snow-capped peaks, coastal ridges, or lush green valleys, Spain is a hiker’s paradise. From the dramatic Pyrenees to the hidden trails of the Sierra de Gredos, this guide covers the best mountain ranges in Spain for hiking—perfect for beginners and pros alike.

🚶‍♂️ Why Hike in Spain?

Spain’s diverse geography makes it one of the best hiking destinations in Europe. You’ll find:

• 🌄 High-altitude alpine routes

• 🌊 Coastal cliff walks

• 🌳 Dense forests and natural parks

• 🏰 Historic trails connecting ancient villages

Plus, the weather is generally mild, and the trail infrastructure is excellent, especially along popular routes like the Camino de Santiago or GR footpaths.

🏔️ 1. The Pyrenees – Most Scenic Multi-Day Hikes

Location: Northern Spain (Aragón, Catalonia, Navarra)
Top Trails: GR11, Ordesa Valley, Monte Perdido Circuit

The Pyrenees offer some of the most rugged and scenic hikes in Europe, with alpine lakes, waterfalls, and peaks over 3,000 meters. The Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park is a highlight, known for its deep canyons and dramatic landscapes.

Why it’s great for hiking:

• Multiple GR (Grande Randonnée) routes

• Challenging ascents and scenic valleys

• Great for hut-to-hut trekking

✅ Best for: Experienced hikers, alpine adventurers, and photographers

⛰️ 2. Picos de Europa – Best for Wild, Green Landscapes

Location: Asturias, Cantabria, and León (Northern Spain)
Top Trails: Cares Gorge, Lakes of Covadonga, Picu Urriellu Base

This lesser-known gem rivals the Alps in beauty but sees far fewer tourists. Trails wind through limestone cliffs, deep gorges, and glacial lakes.

Highlights:

• The Cares Gorge Trail (12 km) is one of Spain’s most stunning day hikes

• Unique wildlife: chamois, vultures, and Cantabrian bears

• Traditional mountain villages like Bulnes and Sotres

✅ Best for: Nature lovers, wildlife watchers, and moderate hikers

🏞️ 3. Sierra de Gredos – Hidden Gem for Solitude Seekers

Location: Central Spain (Ávila, Castilla y León)
Top Trails: Circo de Gredos, Laguna Grande, Pico Almanzor

Sierra de Gredos is a paradise of granite peaks, alpine lakes, and high plateaus. It’s a favorite among Spanish hikers but less known to international travelers.

Highlights:

• Hike to Pico Almanzor (2,592 m), the highest peak in central Spain

• Cool off in natural rock pools and rivers

• Wild goats and panoramic views

✅ Best for: Off-the-beaten-path hikers and weekend warriors from Madrid

🏔️ 4. Sierra Nevada – Best for High-Altitude Hiking

Location: Andalusia (Granada)
Top Trails: Mulhacén Summit, Vereda de la Estrella, Alpujarras Routes

Home to Spain’s highest mainland peak, Sierra Nevada offers challenging yet accessible routes. Hike to Mulhacén (3,479 m) or explore gentler trails in the scenic Alpujarras villages.

Why it’s special:

• Snow in winter, wildflowers in spring and summer

• Stargazing and sunrise hikes from mountain refuges

• Blend of nature and Moorish culture

✅ Best for: Advanced hikers and cultural explorers

🧭 5. Montserrat – Most Unique Rock Formations

Location: Catalonia (near Barcelona)
Top Trails: Sant Jeroni, Camí de l’Arrel, Santa Cova

With its jagged sandstone towers, Montserrat looks like a scene from a fantasy novel. The trails here offer both religious significance and jaw-dropping views.

Top features:

• Trail network around the Montserrat Monastery

• Great for day hikes and rock climbing

• Cable cars and funiculars make access easy

✅ Best for: Day hikers and spiritual trekkers

🥾 6. Sistema Ibérico – Best for Fossils and Historical Routes

Location: Central and Eastern Spain
Top Trails: Maestrazgo Geopark trails, Moncayo summit, GR-90

The Sistema Ibérico range is full of prehistoric fossils, medieval towns, and varied ecosystems. It’s a geologist’s dream and a peaceful retreat for long-distance hikers.

✅ Best for: Geology nerds, solitude seekers, and history fans

📅 Best Time for Hiking in Spain