A Nature Lover's Guide to National Parks In Spain
In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover the parks in Spain worth visiting, their signature highlights, essential travel tips, fascinating wildlife, and inspiration for planning your own adventure—complete with up-to-date visuals and a recommended resource for seamless, tailored travel planning travel experts
Spain stands as one of Europe's premier destinations for nature enthusiasts, boasting a rich tapestry of national parks in Spain that span from snow-capped Pyrenean peaks and volcanic islands to tranquil marshlands and ancient forests. With 16 national parks, each offering a unique ecosystem and adventure, travelers have an unparalleled opportunity to explore biodiversity and stunning landscapes across the Iberian Peninsula and islands. Whether you dream of hiking among alpine lakes, spotting endangered species, or simply relaxing on pristine beaches, Spain tours to the national parks provide it all.
The Diversity of Spain's National Parks
Spain is home to an incredible 16 national parks, distributed across the Iberian Peninsula, the Canary Islands, and the Balearic Islands. These protected areas cover a spectrum of environments—from the ancient laurel forests of Garajonay in the Canary Islands to the marshy wetlands of Doñana and the towering volcanic crater of Teide National Park on Tenerife.
Each park is preserved as a natural sanctuary, safeguarding diverse flora and fauna, geological marvels, and centuries-old cultural landscapes. The Spanish government's dedication to conservation, established over a century ago, ensures these marvels are accessible for travelers now and in the future. The country's national parks represent some of Europe's most pristine nature reserves, with several parks earning UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
Each park is preserved as a natural sanctuary, safeguarding diverse flora and fauna, geological marvels, and centuries-old cultural landscapes. The Spanish government's dedication to conservation, established over a century ago, ensures these marvels are accessible for travelers now and in the future. The country's national parks represent some of Europe's most pristine nature reserves, with several parks earning UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
The parks in Spain are located across different autonomous communities, from northern Spain to the southern coast, each park's unique ecosystem contributing to Spain's incredible biodiversity.
The Best National Parks in Spain
Spain's top parks are celebrated for their unique characteristics, adventure opportunities, and ecological significance.
Here are the top picks every nature lover should consider when they visit these remarkable destinations.
Top 5 Scenic Train Journeys in Spain
Explore the best of Spain on a high-speed train!
Hop aboard for lush hills, Moorish palaces and seaside charm on these unforgettable rail rides.
Hop aboard for lush hills, Moorish palaces and seaside charm on these unforgettable rail rides.
- Seville - BarcelonaTraveling between Andalusia’s capital and Catalonia’s jewel is “the most scenic” route in Spain, winding through rolling green hills, picturesque bridges and riverside towns with centuries-old architecture.BOOK TRAIN TICKETS
- Madrid - BarcelonaSpain’s two biggest cities are linked by one of Europe’s fastest trains, but even this high-speed ride is surprisingly scenic. The rail line “makes its way through the picturesque Spanish countryside, passing by western Catalonia, the city of Zaragoza in Aragon, and the north of Castile la ManchaBOOK TRAIN TICKETS
- Seville - MalagaIn less than three hours you can travel from Seville’s grand Alcázar palace and flamenco tablaos to the laid-back beach culture of Málaga. This Andalusian route is “an amazing show of natural beauty”BOOK TRAIN TICKETS
Teide National Park
Location: Tenerife, Canary Islands
Highlights:
Highlights:
- Dominated by Mount Teide, Spain's highest mountain (3,718 meters)
- Alien volcanic mountains landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage Site status
- Family-friendly hiking trails, panoramic cable car rides, and stargazing
- Over 4 million annual visitors, making it Europe's most visited national park
Picos de Europa National Park
Location: Asturias, Cantabria, Castile and León (northern Spain)
Highlights:
Highlights:
- First national park in Spain (est. 1918)
- Dramatic limestone peaks, deep gorges, lush valleys, and glacial lakes
- Home to Cantabrian brown bears, wolves, and over 100 bird species
- Spectacular hiking—including the famed Ruta del Cares—and mountain villages
A paradise for hikers and wildlife lovers, Picos de Europa showcases the untamed, alpine heart of northern Spain. This Spanish national park offers some of the country's most challenging walking routes and opportunities to explore pristine wilderness areas.
Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park
Location: Huesca, Aragon, Pyrenees
Highlights:
Highlights:
- UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site
- Towering cliffs, glacial valleys, and countless waterfalls including Cola de Caballo
- Classic 8km walk to Cola de Caballo waterfall; top spot for Pyrenean wildlife
Doñana National Park
Location: Andalusia (Huelva, Seville, Cádiz)
Highlights:
Highlights:
- Europe's most important wetlands, UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Haven for birdwatchers: 300+ birds species, including flamingos and the rare Spanish imperial eagle
- Critically endangered species Iberian lynx habitat
- Dunes, marshes, and guided tours
A unique ecosystem, Doñana is a magnet for ecotourists and ornithology enthusiasts. This visited park offers some of the world's best birdwatching opportunities and covers vast sea area marshlands along Spain's coast.
Sierra Nevada National Park
Location: Andalusia (Granada and Almería)
Highlights:
Highlights:
- Mainland Spain's highest mountain (Mulhacén), Europe's southernmost ski resort
- Alpine meadows, diverse wildflowers, and rare wildlife (ibex, eagles)
- Famous for hiking, skiing, and mountain villages like Las Alpujarras
Timanfaya National Park
Location: Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Highlights:
Highlights:
- Otherworldly volcanic mountains scenery formed by eruptions 300 years ago
- Guided tours through moon-like terrain
- Geothermal demonstrations and striking colorful rock formations
Teide National Park on Tenerife is unequivocally Spain's most famous national park. With over four million annual visitors and UNESCO status, Teide eclipses all others in terms of recognition and visitor numbers. Its signature lava fields, volcanic cones, and unique flora make it a world-class destination for both adventure and education. The park's cable car system allows visitors to reach near the summit without extensive hiking, making it accessible to families and travelers of all abilities.
Spain's National Parks at a Glance
The map above shows the distribution of Spain's best national parks across the country. Visitors can explore these diverse landscapes that cover everything from volcanic mountains to ancient forests:
- Best for Hiking: Picos de Europa, Ordesa y Monte Perdido, Aigüestortes, Sierra Nevada
- Best for Birdwatching: Doñana, Cabañeros
- Best for Volcanic Landscapes: Teide National Park, Timanfaya
- Best for Family Activities: Teide National Park, Monte Perdido National Park
- Top for Unique Biodiversity: Doñana (wetlands), Garajonay (laurel forest), Islas Atlánticas de Galicia (beaches and islands)
Spain's national parks shine as models of conservation and adventure, each distinguished by vivid scenery and rare wildlife. From Teide National Park to Picos de Europa, Ordesa y Monte Perdido, Doñana, Sierra Nevada, and beyond—all are worth a place on any nature lover's bucket list. These parks in Spain represent the country's commitment to preserving its natural heritage while providing incredible opportunities for visitors to explore and connect with nature. For tailored trips that blend the best parks, cultural heritage, and seamless travel. Tours to Spain allows you to see the finest of Spain in a nutshell while traveling with knowledgeable travel specialists. Start planning your journey to discover why these parks are considered among the finest protected areas in Europe.