Places to Go on Vacation in Spain: The Mountains as the Best Summer Plan

When the heat arrives and the beaches fill up, some people prefer a different kind of getaway: nature, fresh air, hiking trails, and peaceful villages. If you're someone who seeks authentic experiences, the mountains are a perfect option. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best places to go on holiday in Spain for those who dream of summer adventures in natural settings.

Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with friends, these holiday destinations in Spain are ideal for connecting with nature and enjoying a different kind of summer.

1. Pyrenees: Endless Mountains and Soulful Villages

The Pyrenees are a world of their own. This mountain range that separates Spain from France is a paradise for lovers of trekking, climbing, mountaineering or simply peace and quiet.

Imagine waking up in a mountain village with views of endless valleys, hiking among glacial lakes, and ending the day with a delicious traditional meal. In the Pyrenees, that’s not a dream—it’s everyday life.

Stunning summer landscape in the Pyrenees, one of the best places to go on holiday in Spain for mountain lovers.

🥾 Three Must-Do Routes

• Carros de Foc (Lleida): a multi-day circular route between mountain huts in the Aigüestortes National Park. Perfect for the adventurous.

• Ascent to Aneto from Benasque: reaching the highest peak in the Pyrenees is an unforgettable experience.

• Cola de Caballo in Ordesa: a simple, family-friendly, and spectacular route through waterfalls and towering cliffs.

🛏️ Where to Stay

• Benasque Valley (Huesca): mountaineering hub with alpine charm and countless trails nearby.

• Vall de Boí (Lleida): wild nature and Romanesque art at every turn.

• Val d’Aran (Lleida): a gem with stone villages, Occitan culture, and great food.

🍽️ What to Eat

• Trinxat: cabbage, potatoes, and bacon—simple and tasty.

• Wild boar stew: hearty and satisfying after a hike.

• Coca de recapte: rustic flatbread topped with roasted vegetables and local sausages.

2. Picos de Europa: Raw Nature and Northern Tradition

The Picos de Europa are something else—wetter, greener, steeper. The mountains here are imposing, yet welcoming. Trails wind through gorges, villages seem frozen in time, and the cuisine is all about comfort and care.

It’s the perfect destination for those looking for authenticity, away from the crowds, and with that traditional northern vibe.

The Naranjo de Bulnes in Picos de Europa, one of the most spectacular summer holiday destinations in Spain for mountain hiking.

🥾 Three Unmissable Hikes

• Ruta del Cares: one of Spain’s most spectacular trails, carved into the rock between Caín and Poncebos.

• Peña Santa from Vegarredonda: for thrill-seekers and fans of legendary peaks.

• Sotres – Áliva: a classic traverse through the heart of the central massif.

🛏️ Where to Stay

• Sotres (Asturias): one of the highest and most authentic villages, with direct trail access.

• Arenas de Cabrales (Asturias): a great base to explore the area and taste the famous cheese.

• Potes (Cantabria): lively, well-equipped, and well-connected.

🍽️ Must-Try Dishes

• Cabrales cheese: strong, bold, unforgettable.

• Fabada asturiana: rich bean stew, perfect post-hike meal.

• Boronu (blood bread): a surprising regional specialty.

3. Sierra Nevada: Southern Contrast

Yes, Andalusia has mountains—big ones. In Sierra Nevada, you can hike at over 3,000 meters with views of the Mediterranean Sea. The contrast between high peaks and Andalusian culture makes this a unique destination.

Here, summer feels different: whitewashed villages, tapas, clear skies, and breathtaking trails—literally and figuratively.

The Seven Lagoons in Sierra Nevada, a perfect summer destination in Spain to enjoy mountains, hiking and nature.

🥾 Three Worthy Trails

• Mulhacén from Capileira: the highest peak of the Iberian Peninsula.

• Vereda de la Estrella (Güéjar Sierra): forests, rivers, mining ruins, and stunning views.

• Pico Veleta from Hoya de la Mora: more accessible, with spectacular panoramas.

🛏️ Where to Stay

• Capileira (Alpujarra of Granada): one of Spain’s prettiest villages, ideal for Mulhacén hikes.

• Güéjar Sierra (Granada): peaceful, well-located, and full of authenticity.

• Trevélez: known for its ham and scenic location.

🍽️ Local Flavours

• Plato alpujarreño: eggs, chorizo, blood sausage, potatoes, and ham.

• Migas with peppers: humble yet flavourful.

• Trevélez ham: cured at over 1,500 meters.

4. Sierra de Gredos: Wild Nature in Castilla y León

Less known but equally stunning, the Sierra de Gredos is a haven for those seeking peace, dense forests, and rugged peaks. A great destination for discovering a quieter, charming mountain range.

The Five Lagoons in Sierra de Gredos, a great place to spend your summer holidays in Spain surrounded by hiking trails and natural beauty.

🥾 Recommended Trails

• La Plataforma – Laguna Grande: classic, very accessible, and scenic.

• Ascent to Pico Almanzor: highest peak of the Central System, for ambitious hikers.

• Cirque of Gredos: glacial landscape with routes for all levels.

🛏️ Where to Stay

• Navarredonda de Gredos: charming village and perfect base.

• Candeleda: full of local culture and flavour.

• Hoyos del Espino: gateway to the natural park with great amenities.

🍽️ What to Taste

• Roast suckling pig: a Castilian classic.

• Judías del Barco: prized local beans.

• Goat cheese: intense, artisanal flavour.

5. Sierra de Cazorla: Natural Paradise in Andalusia

This corner of Andalusia hides a natural park with unique biodiversity. Mountains, forests, rivers, and waterfalls that invite you to get lost and recharge. Less crowded than Sierra Nevada, it offers routes for every taste in a truly special environment.

Borosa River Trail in Sierra de Cazorla, one of the most beautiful and lesser-known summer holiday spots in Spain’s mountains.

🥾 Top Hiking Trails

• Calares Trail: combines wildlife, flora, and scenic views.

• Pico Cabañas Route: the highest peak in the range, with unforgettable panoramas.

• Río Borosa Trail: one of the most beautiful, with walkways and pools.

🛏️ Where to Stay

• Cazorla: historic village full of Andalusian charm.

• Villatorres: small and cosy, near the park.

• La Iruela: peaceful with stunning park views.

🍽️ What to Eat in Cazorla

• Andrajos: traditional stew with game and dough.

• Migas ruleras: local version of fried breadcrumbs, perfect for breakfast or dinner.

• Extra virgin olive oil: the perfect companion to any dish.

What’s the Best Mountain Destination in Spain?

Destination	Best For	Vibe	Trail Difficulty
Pyrenees	Trekking and adventure lovers	Alpine and sporty	All levels
Picos de Europa	Tradition and stunning landscapes	Rural and wild	Medium – high
Sierra Nevada	Culture and mountain blend	Andalusian, warm, unique	Medium – high
Sierra de Gredos	Peace and wild nature	Rural and authentic	Low – medium
Sierra de Cazorla	Biodiversity and easy hiking	Andalusian and natural	Low – medium

Want a Different Kind of Summer Holiday?

If you’re wondering where to go on summer holiday in Spain and looking for more than just sun and sand, we’ll take you to the mountains. We organize personalised routes and experiences in the Pyrenees, Picos de Europa, Sierra Nevada, and also in lesser-known but equally magical places like Gredos and Cazorla.

And if you want to go further afield, we offer trips to the Alps, Nepal, Argentina, and more. You choose the destination—we make it happen!

👉 Contact us now to book your spot or get tailored advice.Summer holidays in Spain have never felt this authentic.

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