Top walking vacations in Spain

The only region to boast both Atlantic and Mediterranean shorelines, Andalucia occupies the majority of southern Spain and showcases some spectacular scenes from rugged limestone ridges and steep mountain slopes. Terraced olives groves and forest covered valleys form the backdrop to low altitude walking routes inland with the Sierra Morena and Sierra Nevada offering wild peaks and dramatic gorges closer to the unforgiving Andalucian sun. Ancient mule tracks framed by wildflowers wind over stone bridges and past precariously placed whitewashed villages and ruined Moorish castles to reveal one of Spain’s most enchanting destinations for walking vacation makers, Andalucia.

If you think the Costa Brava has been overdeveloped and therefore best avoided then think again as the majority of Spain's northeast coastline is completely Catalan. A walking vacation in Catalonia lets you examine the region's cultural fingerprint against a stunning scenic vista strewn with rocky trails to sleepy fishing villages or ancient hillside monasteries. A recommended coastal trail is to one of Dali’s favourite seaside towns, Cadaqués, where you'll discover a labyrinth of narrow alleyways leading to traditional tapas bars and small family-run seafood restaurants. Finally, as you get closer to the Pyrenees, walking trails in Catalonia take an upward turn with the Albera and Verdera mountains boasting breathtaking views.

Tackling Spain’s UNESCO-listed pilgrimage route will have you following scallop shell symbols amongst glorious mountain scenery and pastoral farmland en-route to historic towns and rustic villages for a taste of rural Spain. This is a fascinating walking vacation idea and taking on a picturesque section of the 800km trail gives you every opportunity to meet other hikers along the way in order to practise your Spanish or simply share companionship as you walk. Hostels, homestays and hotels provide overnight accommodation at regular intervals with an organised tour whipping your luggage from one point to the next so you can concentrate on walking rather than lugging heavy kit. Buen camino!

Escape to northern Spain and discover Picos de Europa, an unspoiled mountain region that’s just as renowned for its walking trails as it is for its slightly stinky blue cheese. Centuries of glacial erosion have created fascinating formations within the limestone rock face and walkers are reminded to take care amongst the caves, blow holes and rock strewn meadows that form the backbone to a wild and wonderful walking vacation. Local language schools give travelers the chance to combine two activities in one and if you’re looking to learn as you walk this is your chance to do so amongst fields of sheep and secret coastal coves.