From Andalucia to Asturias: walk in Spain to enjoy fantastic beauty

One of the great things about booking walking holidays in Spain is the sheer variety of landscapes you can explore within the country. You could visit a different region on every trip and always be confronted by new and exciting scenery.

To give you an idea of the diversity on offer in Spain, here are a few of the habitats you can walk through, depending on where you book your break to. Inntravel offers walking breaks to all these locations and plenty more.

Arid desert - Andalucia

The Cabo de Gata Natural Park in the Almeria region of Andalucia is renowned for its warm, sunny weather. As a result, sections of it are very dry, with towering mountains in the background and large aloe vera and cactus-like plants dotted around the ground.

Walking in the area will make you feel as though you've been transported to the wilds of Arizona, rather than being in Spain.

Dramatic coastlines - Galicia

This section of Spain's coast is perfect for walkers, as it boasts fjords, rugged cliffs and beautiful beaches. Cape Udra is a classic example of the latter, as it is home to a sheltered cove with crystal-clear waters.

One of the best walks to follow if you want to fully appreciate the area's southern fjords is the trail that will lead you along one bank of the Vigo Estuary, presenting you with wonderful views across the beaches, hills and mountains that surround you.

Stunning mountains - Asturias

If you love nothing more than exploring surrounded by towering peaks, the Picos de Europa National Park in Asturias is the place for you. The reserve was established in 1918, making it the oldest protected area of its kind in Spain.

There are numerous peaks here that stand more than 2,000 m high and they dominate the landscape, while gorges, canyons and glacial lakes are other features you'll come across as you walk.

For some of the best views of the mountains, take the Cares Route, which runs for 12 km along the Cares Gorge. Much of the trail has been carved out of the rock in the side of the mountain, which is in itself impressive. You'll be walking between the central and western massifs of the Picos de Europa, allowing you to fully appreciate the mountains up close.

Charming towns and villages - Catalonia

There are many delightful villages dotted all over Spain, and Catalonia certainly has its fair share of pretty settlements. The area around Garrotxa is a good place to explore if you're keen to stop off in a range of villages as you wander.

Banyoles is just one example - a lovely lakeside town that is home to a selection of historical buildings, some dating back as far as the 14th century. The church of Santa Maria del Turrers is one of the older monuments in Banyoles, while the monastery of Sant Esteve is also worth viewing due to its Neoclassical design.

Another must-visit settlement in Garrotxa is Besalu, which boasts quaint cobbled streets and plenty of interesting architecture. One of the most fascinating landmarks in the town is its Romanesque fortified bridge that dates back to the 12th century.

Tranquil woodland - Andalucia

For walkers who love strolling beneath cool, green canopies of trees, the Aracena Sierra region of Andalucia is the ideal spot to choose for a holiday. Running alongside the Portuguese border, this area is characterised by vast swathes of cork-oak woods and chestnut forests that blanket the hillsides.

There are plenty of trails to follow that meander in and out of the woodland, some leading you to higher vantage points from where you can enjoy amazing views across the valleys below.