These are five of the most spectacular hiking trails to do in Spain's Andalucía region this autumn

Autumn is one of the best times of the year to go walking in Andalucía. After the first autumnal rains, temperatures fall and the forests turn golden or reddish. Many rivers also recover their flow. All this makes Hiking is a great way to experience nature At the same time, you can disconnect from your daily life.

So, if you are thinking of organising a weekend getaway or even just a day trip, here are five trails we recommend that stand out for their beauty and show just how varied the landscape can be in Andalucía.

1. The Vía Verde (the ‘green way’) of the Sierra Norte and Cerro del Hierro (Seville)

The Sierra Norte region in Seville is home to one of the best hiking trails for families and friends. The Vía Verde follows the disused railway track that connects Cazalla-Constantina train station with the spectacular Cerro del Hierro.

The old rail track is used for the route, which runs approximately 18 km one-way (or almost 37 kilometres if you do it round trip). Most of the path is flat and easygoing, which allows you to enjoy the meadows and the Huéznar river at a leisurely pace. One of the most special beauty spots is San Nicolás del Puerto, where it’s worth stopping to see the Huéznar waterfalls. At the end of the trail, on Cerro del Hierro, you will find a rocky landscape formed by old mining operations and natural erosion, a unique place in Andalucía.

2. Malaga’s Caminito del Rey

This is probably the most famous hiking trail in Andalucía – and for good reason. The Caminito del Rey, in the province of Malaga, offers a unique experience. It is a walk on wooden walkways suspended above a gorge.

Its history has been interesting. It was built in the year 1905 for the workers of the hydroelectric power dam. After Alfonso XIII made a royal visit, the path received the name “del Rey”. The route was closed due to its unsafe state for many years. It wasn’t until 2014 that it underwent renovations and became safe for all. The linear route is only going one way and measures 7.7 kilometers. It is possible to complete the route in around three hours. You must book in advance as there is a high demand. In return, you will get to enjoy one of the most impressive panoramic views of Andalucía.

3. Garganta Verde (Cadiz)

Garganta Verde lies in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, a lush, deep canyon that was created by the Bocaleones river. Its rock walls can reach 400 metres above the ground.

It’s not very long, only 2.5 km, but the route has a unique charm. You can see the autumn colors of the forest as you descend to the canyon. They are an intense mix of greens, ochres, and yellows. The ‘cavern of green’ also houses one of Europe’s largest griffon-vulture colonies. You will need to request a permit from the El Bosque visitor centre in order to access this trail. The walk is located within a highly protected area. In the summer months, between 1 June and 15 October, you can only access the first viewpoint.

4. Vereda de la Estrella (Granada)

If we’re talking about classic hiking trails in Andalucía, then the Vereda de la Estrella, in the Sierra Nevada mountains, is a must. This trail begins in Güejar Sierra, in the Barranco de San Juan, and was once the access route to the mines and the old tramway that crossed the mountain range.

The accessibility of this trail and the panoramic views it offers make it one of the most popular in Granada. Along the footpath, which runs alongside the Genil river, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of some of the Iberian peninsula’s highest peaks, such as Mulhacén and Veleta. The route is 12.5 kilometers one way and takes about six hours to complete. The route is not technically difficult, but requires a lot of stamina. If you’d prefer something shorter, go up to the Viso De Las Nortes viewpoint.

5. Borosa river trail (Jaén)

The Sierra de Cazorla is the last place on our list. It’s one of the most popular natural areas in Spain. Borosa river is one of Spain’s most popular hiking trails. This is because it has turquoise pools and waterfalls with impressive rock walls flanking the river.

The trail start is simple and suitable for anyone, with a practically flat section that follows the riverbed to the Cerrada de Elías. This section with its wooden walkways nestled into a narrow gorge is ideal for families or leisurely strolls. As you continue on, the terrain becomes more challenging and some of the route’s gems appear: the Tres Colas (‘three tails’) waterfall, the Calavera (‘skull’) waterfall and the imposing waterfall of Salto de los Órganos, with its 60-metre drop. The trail is 11 km long and takes three hours to complete.