Walking in the Spanish countryside is an incredibly rewarding experience. Whether it is to enjoy the stunning scenery, searching for particular plants or enjoying photography and birdlife, the Sierras offer something for everyone. Even if you are familiar with the area there are still some essentials in order to be properly prepared for a hike into the hills so here is a bit about walking in the Spanish countryside. Safety and advice.
Basics
- Compass
- Map or guide
- Basic first aid kit containing bandage, gauze pads, plasters and an antiseptic cream.
- Altough you may want to “get away” completely you should take a mobile phone with you. After all it only would be used in the rare event of an emergency and the rest of the time it can be turned off. Mobile coverage may also be weak in the mountains
- Always tell at least one person where you will be walking and roughly what time you expect to be back
112 the emergency number
If you get into difficulties or have have an emergency whilst out walking and require the police, fire brigade, or an ambulance then the number to call ( in Spain) is 112. You don’t need to dial an area code, and the operator should be able to speak a range of different languages. If you have a disability that makes speaking on the phone difficult then you can also send an SMS text message to 112
- Carry plenty of food and water. Food for energy is important not only to keep your stomach happy but also your mind. If your brain is lacking in essential sugars you cannot make correct decisions for your safety. Healthy foods such as nuts, fruit, muesli bars, (some chocolate) and sandwiches are a better type of food to take walking.
- Wearing comfortable walking shoes or boots is important, especially when tackling difficult terrain. They are designed for comfort and safety and if looked after will last for many years. In spring you may start off walking in good weather conditions, but a gain in altitude of a few hundred meters and it will be a different story. Normally a medium weight sweater and a light wind/rain proof jacket should be sufficient.
- “Ordinance survey” type maps in Spain are not updated on a regular basis. Dirt tracks and trails that are marked on the maps may not have been maintained. Often the route is over-grown, ploughed up, or sometimes a fence has been erected across it. I would recommend that you don’t rely on just one track or trail for your route, look for options before you set out on your walk, as dead-ends can be really frustrating. Some tracks and goat trails may not be marked on the maps. You can normally find local walking maps and guides in most towns visitor centres or ask at your hotel or guest house for up to date local information.
Online maps and guides.
Websites like All trails and Wikiloc have become very popular over the last few years and it is likely that you will find a route in the area that you are visiting published. Remember, though, that in many cases the routes published are individual experiences by the website users who have only walked the route once. (See paragraph 3 above!)
https://www.alltrails.com/
https://www.wikiloc.com/
Guided walking
Guided walking might be a better option if you want to learn more about the wildlife of the area such as this guided option in the Sierra de Grazalema : https://grazalemaguide.com/blog/nature-plus-grazalema/
A few other tips
- Especially in summer, it is a good idea to start a walk in early morning or evening. Try to finish a morning walk by 13.00 at the latest and an evening walk before dark.
- Shorts or lightweight trousers (to avoid scratches on your legs) and a t-Shirt or shirt with collar keeps you cool and the sun off your neck. A hat is important, even though it may be hot it’s better than getting heat stroke. (A woven grass hat allows more air through). You may be tempted to use open footwear, however proper boots or shoes offer more support and comfort and safety.
- High factor sun block is recommended. When you are out walking for several hours a slight burn on the shoulders, arms or behind the knees can rub on your clothing. Always carry extra sun block to top up after a while as sweat will wear it off.
- Take as much water as you and your group can carry, especially if you are not sure how long you will be out walking. Take regular sips of water rather than drinking a lot every hour. Take advantage of any natural springs to cool off your head and arms only drinking it if there is a notice clearly stating it is safe to drink.
During the winter months dressing in layers is better than wearing one thick sweater or fleece. Carry a waterproof jacket in case of rain. Take a spare pair of socks, a woolly hat, scarf & gloves. It is best to treat your walking shoes or boots with a waterproofing agent the day before a walk.
Carry enough water for the duration of your walk. You may not feel thirsty while you are walking but dehydration still occurs in cold, dry conditions. Past a certain point it is difficult to re-hydrate your body.
Meeting the local guard dog on a walk
While walking in the Spanish countryside you will more than likely pass by a farm or two. Some people can be put off by the idea of a dog lurking behind a barn waiting to pounce on the “happy wanderer”. If you approach a farm expecting to meet a dog it tends to take the shock out of the “bark”. A lot of bigger dogs will be tied up, if not you must be confident and stand your ground.
If the dog starts to advance stamp your foot and shout “FUERA”, which means away or get out. Repeating this as you walk past their territory usually works quite well, if you still feel a bit un-nerved pretend to pick up a small rock while shouting “FUERA”. If you are still not sure about passing through the dog’s territory, find another way around the farm. Always walk away with confidence NEVER RUN. More often than not, if you show no fear and use an aggressive tone in your voice they will loose interest in you as you leave their territory.
In short, whatever time of year you walk in the mountains
- Wear the correct clothing and footwear
- Always carry plenty of water
- Make sure at least one person knows where you are walking
- Carry first-aid kit and know some basic first – aid techniques.
Have a great time walking in the Spanish countryside.
Looking for Wildlife & Walking Holidays in Spain? Wildside Holidays publishes information pages about the Natural and National parks in Spain. Information about wildlife in Spain and where to find it.
https://wildsideholidays.co.uk/
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!