Spain is greener than you think, and Northern Spain has become a top spot for outdoor lovers. Often overlooked because the east and south are tourist hotspots, which are filled with sunny resorts, the north of Spain offers a mild climate and biodiverse respite.
Northern Spain is known for its variety of landscapes, much more than the rest of Spain. It has the green Picos de Europa mountains and the dramatic Basque coastline. In fact, the closeness to France, Andorra and Basque means that it’s culturally diverse too, with interesting histories and idiosyncrasies.
The Picos de Europa National Park has hiking paths through ancient forests and limestone peaks, giving visitors sweeping views. Along the coastline, the Camino del Norte trail provides breathtaking ocean vistas and leads to hidden beaches.
The region is simply cut-out for long hikes. The Way of Saint James from Sarria is a well-marked trail, with companies like Santiago Ways even offering affordable organisation over the accommodation and route planning.
With mild summers and mild winters, Northern Spain’s climate is ideal for year-round outdoor activities. There is a little more rain, but this isn’t much different to the likes of France. It has cooler air due to the mountains too, making it perfect for cycling and hiking. Spring and autumn are especially enjoyable, with pleasant weather and colourful fauna.
Northern Spain provides a wealth of adventure activities for all kinds of travellers. Hikers can trek through the scenic trails of Picos de Europa National Park, with safe infrastructure and approachable trails. Climbers often seek out Naranjo de Bulnes, a famous 2,519-meter peak.
Water sports enthusiasts can catch waves in San Sebastián where the waves are good, or enjoy kayaking along the picturesque Bay of Biscay coastline.
Cyclists are drawn to routes in the Basque Country, and it’s a close proximity to enter France, which is also a popular cycling nation. Perhaps best of all, wildlife watchers can spot the Cantabrian brown bear in Asturias, wolves, and observe diverse birdlife in the wetlands.
In addition to its nature, Northern Spain has a lot of diversity within its culture. Visitors are near Basque and Galician cultures, each known for its language and lively festivals, but also have many unique regional dishes. The area is a culinary haven, with pintxos in San Sebastián and fresh seafood along the coastline.
Historic towns like Santiago de Compostela, the end of the famed Camino de Santiago, showcase medieval architecture that has a rich spiritual heritage.
Northern Spain has really been a leader in sustainable tourism, with infrastructure that supports eco-friendly exploration. It’s a fairly wealthy part of the nation, and the efficient rail networks and green car rental options reflect that. Travel is easy and sustainable, and Northern Spain’s dedication to preserving natural beauty is reflected in protected reserves. On trails like Camino de Santiago, you will find certified eco-friendly accommodation too. Visitors can join eco-tours, which are things like guided wildlife excursions, which help sustain local communities and conservation efforts.
Northern Spain is extremely overlooked given how ideal its climate and biodiversity is. Everything from the food and culture to the landscapes makes it a perfect getaway, particularly for those looking for outdoorsy holidays.
