SPAIN

There are many great places to walk in Spain and I have listed these below. But for the most part, walkers choose one of the many Caminos on offer. As of now, there are many recognized official Camino de Santiago routes, each with its own unique history and characteristics. At present, we believe that there are ten official routes but there is likely to grow. The most well-known ones include:

1. The Camino Francés (French Way): This is the most popular route, last year nearly 400000 people walked it. Starting in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France and making its way through northern Spain to the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.
2. The Camino Portugués (also known as the Portuguese Way): This walk begins in Lisbon or Porto, Portugal, and heads north to Santiago de Compostela.
3. The Camino del Norte (Northern Way): This walk runs along the northern coast of Spain, starting in Irún and passing through cities like San Sebastián, Bilbao, and Santander.Its a beautiful walk.
4. The Camino Primitivo (Original Way): This is the oldest route, starting in Oviedo via Lugo and is considered the first pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.
5. The Camino Inglés (English Way): This a short route that starts from the northern ports of Ferrol or A Coruña in Galicia, Spain.
6. The Vía de la Plata (Silver Route): This walk begins in Seville in the south of Spain and heads north through Mérida and Salamanca, eventually connecting with the Camino Francés. Sevelle is amazing so a great place to start.
7. The Camino de Finisterre-Muxía: This is a continuation from Santiago de Compostela to the coastal town of Finisterre with an optional walk to Muxía.
8. The Camino de Invierno (Winter Way): This is an alternative to the Camino Francés during the winter months, avoiding the high passes by following the River Sil valley.
9. The Camino de Madrid: This Camino starts in Madrid and connects with the Camino Francés in Sahagún.
10. The Camino Aragonés: This Camino begins at the Somport Pass in the Pyrenees and joins the Camino Francés in Puente la Reina

These are the main official routes, however, there are many other less common Camino Ways and less-known regional routes that pilgrims can also follow. Each route offers a wonderful experience and perspective on the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.

If you wish to walk beyond the well trodden paths then please try one of these many great walking destinations.

1. Picos de Europa (Asturias, Cantabria, and León) This mountain range is known for its dramatic limestone peaks, deep gorges, and lush valleys. It offers a variety of trails, from easy walks to challenging hikes. The highlights are Cares Gorge (Ruta del Cares), Covadonga Lakes, and the viewpoints of Fuente Dé.
2. Sierra de Guadarrama (Madrid and Castilla y León) Just an hour from Madrid, this mountain range provides excellent hiking opportunities, with well-marked trails and stunning views. The highlights are the Siete Picos (Seven Peaks), La Pedriza rock formations, and the climb to Peñalara, the highest peak in the range.
3. Sierra Nevada (Andalusia) Home to mainland Spain’s highest peak, Mulhacén, the Sierra Nevada offers diverse landscapes, from alpine meadows to snow-capped mountains. The highlights are the Mulhacén summit, the Alpujarras villages, and the Vereda de la Estrella trail.
4. Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park (Andalusia) This coastal park features volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and unique flora and fauna. It’s a great place for both coastal walks and inland hikes. The highlights are the coastal trails between San José and Los Escullos, the hike to the lighthouse at Cabo de Gata, and the desert-like landscapes inland.
5. La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone (Catalonia) This area is known for its ancient volcanic landscape, with over 40 extinct volcanoes and lush forests. It’s a great place for scenic, moderate walks. The highlights are the Santa Margarida Volcano, Fageda d’en Jordà beech forest, and the medieval town of Besalú.
6. Mallorca’s Serra de Tramuntana (Balearic Islands) This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning coastal and mountain scenery. The GR221, also known as the “Dry Stone Route,” is a popular multi-day hike. The highlights are the hike from Deià to Sóller, the Torrent de Pareis Gorge, and the Puig Major summit.
7. Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park (Aragon) Located in the Pyrenees, this park offers some of Spain’s most dramatic landscapes, including deep valleys, high peaks, and stunning waterfalls. The highlights are the Ordesa Valley, the Faja de Pelay balcony walk, and the climb to Monte Perdido, the third-highest peak in the Pyrenees.
8. Las Médulas (Castilla y León) This UNESCO World Heritage Site features striking red cliffs and caves, remnants of ancient Roman gold mines. The landscape is unique and offers a variety of short walks. The highlights are the Mirador de Orellán viewpoint, hiking through the tunnels and caves, and exploring the surrounding countryside.
9. The Basque Country (Euskadi) The Basque Country offers a mix of coastal and mountain walks with beautiful green landscapes and a strong cultural heritage. The highlights are the coastal walk from Zumaia to Deba (part of the Flysch Route), the climb to Mount Jaizkibel, and the Urkiola Natural Park.
10. Monfragüe National Park (Extremadura) A haven for birdwatchers, Monfragüe offers scenic walks through Mediterranean forests and along riverbanks, with the chance to see vultures, eagles, and other wildlife. The highlights are the Castillo de Monfragüe, the walk to Salto del Gitano, and trails along the Tajo River.

These locations all offer something unique, whether it’s the stunning natural beauty of the region or the rich cultural history, or simply the serenity of walking the road less travelled.