Best Outdoor Activities In Spain

Spain proved to be one of the most popular destinations on earth for travellers in 2013. Next year things don’t look at all like they are set to slow down. What with the country’s brilliant reputation for food, culture and stunning architecture, it’s not hard to see why people are already making plans for a visit to the continent once again. But what about the great outdoors in Spain? There’s plenty on offer there too.

In fact Spain is rife with exciting opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re an adrenalin junkie or just a fan of the gentle breeze and wonders of nature, there’s something to tickle every interest. Here’s GoingAbroad.org’s best picks.

Golf

Spain continues to be one of the world’s most esteemed locations for the most leisurely of sporting pursuits, golf. With its large open space and regional diversity, the country is home to a mixed range of course levels and includes a fair few at the top level of the PGA too.

Golf courses in Tenerife prove particularly effective at piquing the interests of golfers the world over. With it’s balmy climate, beach side resorts and fantastic seafood, this little Canary pearl is one our prime choices to pitch off.

Other regions worth a look at include the lush green countryside retreats of Galicia as well as the cool coastal courses of Andalucia. Golf, in Spain, is one of the biggest boons of tourism. And that’s for good reason. It’s a wonderful place to play.

Hiking

Famed for its world renowned pilgrimage, The Way of St.David, Spain has been on the map for hikers and ramblers since as far back as anyone can remember. It’s rolling countryside, mountainous peaks and quaint regional towns owe a lot to the booming state of such activity, but you’ve also got Spain’s consistent warm weather to thank also.

For the best picks of the countryside and Spanish culture, consider taking hiking tours in the region of Extremadura. There you’ll find beautiful ancient towns like Caceres, Merida and Trujillo, with rambling paths all over the surrounding fields and woods. Elsewhere you’ve also got pearls like the province of Valencia, where the vineyards surrounding Xativa make for amazing detours from the thirsty work of walking.

Mountaineering

If you fancy something a little more challenging than hiking, why not get to grips with the crags and cracks of some of Spain’s most challenging cliffs and mountaintops? Mountaineering is on the rise in the country and with locations like the Pyrenees, north of Barcelona, growing in popularity, now is the time to give it a go.

The Pyrenees has more to offer than Cliffhanger action however. Why not try horseback riding through the craggy landscapes of the Serralada Litoral National Park? Possibly a lot more charming, and relaxing, than the pressure of hanging off a ledge!

Whatever you decide to get up to outdoors in Spain this year, there’s plenty to choose from. Get started planning now and remember to push yourself out of your comfort zone and try new things. There’s no better place than this magical destination to do so.