The Spanish coastline has everything from cute pebblestone beaches and tall coastal cliffs to turquoise waters and long white sandy beaches, but you probably don’t know much about the coastal hiking trails.
The best thing about coastal hikes is they tend to be much flatter and more easily accessible than their mountain cousins. If you love hiking but don’t have the fitness and agility of a summit-bagger, the Spanish coastline might just be for you.
Why the Spanish coastline?
O Camiño dos Faros (The Lighthouse Way)
The hike includes eight sections during which you can enjoy stunning views out to sea. Admire the spectacular views or enjoy a break as you pass through dunes, beaches and, of course, lighthouses (there are 11 to see). In fact, the trail’s name derives from the fact that it passes every lighthouse between Malpica de Bergantiños and the cape of Finisterre.
The route is set along a large stretch of the Costa da Morte coastline, however, there’s more to it than just beaches. The Lighthouse Way also promises the wondrous experience of travelling through cliffs, rivers and forests alongside the sandier landscape.
This may sound difficult, but rest assured, the route is clearly signposted and well worth the time. The main difficulty of the hike is its sheer length. Each stage of the eight-day trail is around 24.5 kilometres, so it’s not for the fainthearted. But there is always the option to take short-cuts or decide for yourself which sections of the trail you would like to complete to make it more enjoyable for your ability.
Cabo de Gata
For slightly shorter, yet just as beautiful routes, you could take a trip to Cabo de Gata. There are a multitude of great and fairly simple hikes around the Cabo de Gata Natural Park. Enjoy a peaceful and lush setting away from the rush of human activity or explore rising cliffs and pebble beaches along the Mediterranean coast. Views of both the Spanish coastline and just as riveting inland scenes will lay at your feet along these wonderful trails.
The park is lacking in signs, so make sure you bring a map, but this only adds to the excitement and sense of freedom of the Cabo de Gata trails. Plan a hike that is perfect for your experience and stamina levels and get ready to see all the wonders the Spanish coast has to offer.
Sierra de Irta
The route begins in the town of Peñíscola, which is a highlight in itself. A coastal location known for its historic town and bright beaches, it was a filming location for the popular series, Game of Thrones, and it’s possible to visit the shooting locations while you’re there.
As you get further through the trail, you can look forward to travelling through Mas del Señor, Clot de Maig, and towards the heavenly dunes of Playa del Pebret. You don’t want to miss out on the delightful, scenic views of the Castellón province coast or the lively Sierra de Irta Natural Park, one of the only remaining well-preserved coastal mountain ranges in the Western Mediterranean region. Make sure you see its wonders for yourself at the earliest opportunity.
Get your boots on
Have you got a favourite hike on the Spanish coastline? Got any questions, comments, updates or corrections? Let us know by commenting below.
