Walking vacations in Spain guide

… you like a range of landscapes. There’s much more to Spain than just beaches so prepare for high karst meadows, snow-capped peaks and valleys filled with dense forest.

… you're interested in birdwatching. Southern Spain provides a key passage for migrating birds, such as raptors and storks, as well as an ideal habitat for vultures and eagles.

… you like to get away from it all. Head inland and upwards for better views with fewer crowds.

… you like to set your own pace. Lazy mornings, late lunches and afternoon walks to avoid the midday heat – bliss.

… you're hoping to stay out all night. If you want to party all night and sleep all day then don’t choose a blimmin’ walking vacation in Spain!

… sun hats aren't your thing. Even on a cloudy day you will still need to protect yourself against the sun so don’t leave home without a hat, water and sun cream.

… you don't like tapas. Walking away from popular seaside resorts is going to mean that you have to face real Spanish food not just a full English or Sunday roast.

… learning the lingo is a hassle. Many remote regions of Spain have yet to be introduced to tourism or the English language. Lucky them! Walk with a phrase book and practise as you go.

If you’ve signed up for a walking vacation in Spain you really should know what you’re letting yourself in for. All of Responsible Travel’s walking vacations have been graded, introductory, moderate or strenuous, to help make your search easier with no hidden surprises.

Introductory walking vacations are perfect for those who like to walk but also want to save some energy to soak up the views. There are some great introductory walking vacations in Spain with the coastal trail to Cap de Creus Natural Park in Catalonia definitely worth exploring further. Moderate walking vacations step things up a bit and if you’re contemplating a bit more of a challenge then the trail across the central mountains on Gran Canaria is one of many moderate walking options. Strenuous walking vacations tend to involve longer distances however, no technical knowledge or specialist equipment is required so you’re not in the realm of challenging treks just yet. Check out the routes from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela which require walking for more than 100km over the course of a week.