The Best Road Trips in Spain for Nature Lovers

Spain is one of those places that has it all, from vibrant cities and historic architecture, to stunning white sand beaches, dramatic mountains, and lush forests.

If you’re a nature lover like me, travelling around Spain on a road trip is the perfect way to explore these natural wonders at your own pace, stopping whenever the mood strikes, and not having to commit to expensive plane or train tickets that can’t be changed.

From rugged coastlines to serene national parks, Spain’s nature has something for everyone, and in this post, I’m going to share the best road trips in Spain where you can enjoy the best of Spain’s spectacular landscape.

The Best Road Trips in Spain for Nature Lovers

Northern Peaks and Coastal Charm

Northern Spain is a nature lover’s paradise, combining dramatic cliffs with lush greenery.

The Picos de Europa are a lesser-known mountain range that are ideal for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Trails range from relaxed strolls along rivers to challenging climbs through craggy peaks. Wildlife sightings include chamois, vultures, and even brown bears!

Spain’s northern coastline is much less crowded than the southern beaches, offering solitude and spectacular sunsets. Coastal routes along Asturias and Cantabria provide a mix of emerald hills and unspoilt beaches, and the with small fishing villages dotted along the way make perfect stops to enjoy fresh seafood (and perhaps a glass of local wine).

Highlights of a Northern Spain road trip

● Picos de Europa National Park – Hiking trails and panoramic viewpoints.
● Costa Verde – Rugged cliffs and hidden beaches.
● Lagos de Covadonga – Glacial lakes surrounded by dramatic peaks.

Pro-tip: If you’re planning a Spain road trip, you might want to purchase an eSIM for Spain travel. This will allow you to access maps, trail information, and park guides without relying on unpredictable (or non-existant) Wi-Fi. Having a stable connection is also important when travelling through remote mountain passes and coastal roads where services and pay phones are few and far between.

Central Spain’s Natural Wonders

The vast majority of tourists head straight to Spain’s extensive coast, but if you’re looking for some real Spain hidden gems, you shouldn’t neglect the centre of the country.

The heart of Spain offers landscapes that are surprisingly diverse. For example, the province of Castilla y León is home to vast plains and mountain peaks, dotted with medieval towns and villages where you won’t see another tourist in sight. It’s in this part of Spain that you’ll find the country’s best jamón, roast lamb and suckling pig.

Read: 34 Facts About Spanish Food, from Bull’s Tails to Tapas Traditions

While much of the area is flat, nearby mountain ranges such as the Sierra de Guadarrama provide ample hiking and birdwatching opportunities. This region is perfect for travellers seeking tranquillity and scenic drives through lesser-known countryside roads.

Nature stops in Central Spain

• Sierra de Guadarrama – Forested trails, waterfalls, and alpine meadows.
• Hoces del Río Duratón – Dramatic river gorges and heron colonies.
• Lagunas de Ruidera – A series of natural lakes with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and kayaking.

Southern Spain: Desert Landscapes and Sunlit Coasts

Southern Spain is home to striking contrast of arid, barren landscapes and breathtaking sun drenched beaches.

The province of Almería, with its desert-like Tabernas region, offers unique terrain reminiscent of the American Southwest. This area is perfect for hiking and photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the landscape glows with warm colours.

Along the Costa de la Luz and Costa del Sol, natural parks like Doñana provide protected wetlands rich in flora and fauna. Here, you can find flamingos, storks, and eagles in their natural habitats.

Heading into the northern part of Andalucía you’ll find hidden gems such as Jaen, the Renaissance cities of Ubeda and Baeza, and one of the most beautiful cities I’ve ever visited, Ronda.

Recommended stops in a Southern Spain road trip

• Tabernas Desert – Hikes among unique rock formations.
• Doñana National Park – Birdwatching and scenic nature reserves.
• Cabo de Gata-Níjar – Volcanic coastline with hidden coves.
• Nerja – Touristy, but home to some gorgeous beaches (read my guide to Nerja here).

Again, accessing real-time information about trails, weather, and park regulations is simplified with an eSIM for Spain travel, making southern Spain’s remote regions easier to navigate confidently.

It’s a great safety precaution, and ensures you’re well-prepped to reach those off-piste landmarks.

Spanish island escapes for nature lovers

Many people planning road trips in Spain overlook the islands, yet they offer stunning natural scenery and allow you to cover a lot of ground in a relatively short space of time.

Mallorca and Menorca in the Balearics combine mountainous interiors with pristine beaches. On Mallorca, Serra de Tramuntana is a UNESCO World Heritage site with cliffside trails and panoramic views (I attended a stunning vegan wellness retreat here once).

Quieter in comparison, Menorca is home to scores of limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and protected nature reserves.

The Canary Islands provide a more volcanic experience, with Tenerife and La Palma offering black sand beaches, volcanic craters, and cloud forests.

Road trips on these islands involve winding, mountain roads that are a little tougher to traverse, but those brave enough to do so will reap the rewards.

You can find my full guide to the Spanish islands here.

Don’t miss

• Serra de Tramuntana, Mallorca – Hiking through scenic ridges.
• Cala Macarella, Menorca – Secluded turquoise beaches.
• Teide National Park, Tenerife – Volcanic landscapes and stargazing.

Tips for a Memorable Spanish Road Trip

• Be flexible – Allow extra time for unexpected photo stops at all those scenic views.
• Pack layers – Weather in Spain can vary significantly between coastal, desert, and mountain regions, and it can get very cold at night.
• Carry reusable supplies – A water filter bottle, reusable cutlery, and portable containers reduce the environmental impact of your trip.
• Check local regulations – Some protected areas have strict entry rules or limited access, especially if you’re sleeping in your van.
• Get an eSIM for Spain travel – This will enhance your journey by keeping maps, directions, and critical information within reach at all times.
• Download offline maps – Even with an eSIM, having an offline backup is always wise!

The Best Road Trips in Spain for Nature Lovers | Final Thoughts

Road trips in Spain are the perfect way to experience the country’s rich natural diversity.

From the green mountains of the north to the sunlit deserts of the south and the volcanic islands in the Atlantic, every route offers beautiful scenery and unique experiences.

A properly-planned road trip can combine hiking, wildlife observation, lounging on the beach, and picturesque coastal drives, combining to form the perfect road trip experience.

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