Breathtaking Hikes and Scenic Spots to Explore While Teaching English in Spain

If you’ve landed a TEFL position in Spain through myTEFL (congrats!), you’re about to embark on more than just a teaching adventure—you’re stepping into a country bursting with natural beauty, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable hikes. Spain isn’t just about tapas, flamenco, and historic cathedrals (though those are amazing, too). It’s a land of dramatic mountains, sun-kissed coasts, lush forests, and trails that wind through some of Europe’s most captivating terrain.

Whether you’re teaching in Madrid, Valencia, Seville, or a tiny town tucked into the mountains, weekends and school holidays are the perfect time to lace up your boots and hit the trails. Here’s a round-up of the best hikes and scenic places to explore while on your TEFL journey in Spain.

1. Caminito del Rey – Málaga

Dubbed one of the most thrilling walks in the world, the Caminito del Rey is a narrow cliffside path clinging high above the El Chorro Gorge in the province of Málaga. Once considered the most dangerous path in Europe (before major renovations made it safe), this 7.7 km hike offers jaw-dropping views, suspended walkways, and a serious adrenaline rush.

It’s perfect for a weekend escape if you’re teaching in southern Spain. Plus, the nearby town of Ardales is ideal for a quiet night under the stars after your hike.

2. Picos de Europa National Park – Northern Spain

If your TEFL placement is in the north—think Asturias, Cantabria, or León—you’re in prime proximity to Picos de Europa, a dramatic mountain range that’s often compared to the Alps but with far fewer crowds.

Popular hikes here include the Cares Trail, a 12 km path carved into limestone cliffs that winds along the river and tunnels through the mountains. The scenery is pure magic—turquoise waters, wild goats, ancient villages, and views that go on forever.

3. Montserrat – Near Barcelona

Teaching in Barcelona? You’re in luck. Just an hour from the city lies Montserrat, a striking mountain range with jagged peaks that look like something out of a fantasy film.

Take the cable car or hike up from the base to the Benedictine monastery perched among the peaks. For hikers, there are several well-marked trails offering panoramic views over Catalonia. Try the Sant Jeroni Trail for the highest peak in Montserrat.

Not only is the scenery incredible, but the cultural and spiritual history of Montserrat makes it a uniquely Spanish experience.

4. El Torcal de Antequera – Andalusia

If alien landscapes are your thing, El Torcal de Antequera is a must-see. Located in Andalusia, this natural park features surreal limestone rock formations that have been shaped by wind and water over millions of years.

There are a few different hiking routes, the most popular being the Green Route (easy) and Yellow Route (moderate), both looping through this prehistoric-looking terrain. Bonus: you’ll likely spot wild ibex and griffon vultures soaring overhead.

This makes for a great day trip from Malaga or Seville.

5. Ruta del Río Borosa – Sierra de Cazorla

For TEFL teachers placed in inland Andalusia or eastern Spain, the Sierra de Cazorla Natural Park is a paradise of waterfalls, turquoise pools, and riverside trails. The Ruta del Río Borosa is one of the best hikes in the area.

This 22 km round-trip route (you can do a shorter version if preferred) follows the Borosa River through forests, tunnels, and up into the mountains. You’ll pass cascading waterfalls, natural swimming holes, and wildlife galore.

It’s peaceful, refreshing, and a great way to disconnect from city life or lesson planning stress.

6. Volcanic Trails in Lanzarote – Canary Islands

Yes, Spain has volcanoes! If your TEFL adventure takes you to the Canary Islands (or if you’re heading there on school break), Lanzarote offers otherworldly hiking experiences.

Timanfaya National Park is a standout, where lava fields and volcanic cones create an almost Martian landscape. You can’t hike inside the core park itself without a guide, but several self-guided trails around the edges offer excellent views. The Caldera Blanca hike is a favorite: an easy-to-moderate trail that ends at the rim of a massive extinct volcano.

Sunset here is an experience you won’t forget.

7. Ordesa y Monte Perdido – The Spanish Pyrenees

For more experienced hikers or anyone stationed near the Pyrenees, this national park in Aragon is pure hiking heaven. The trails here weave through deep canyons, alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and forests filled with beech and fir.

Try the Ordesa Valley Route, a moderate hike through one of the most scenic valleys in Spain, ending at the Cola de Caballo (“Horse Tail”) waterfall. If you’re up for a challenge, multi-day routes are available, including ascents of Monte Perdido, Spain’s third-highest peak.

Tips for TEFL Teachers Who Love to Hike

• Join local hiking groups or expat communities. Many teachers form weekend hiking groups, and you’ll likely find Facebook or Meetup groups in your area.
• Plan for Spanish seasons. Summers can be brutally hot in much of Spain, so aim to hike in the early morning or during shoulder seasons (spring and fall).
• Pack smart. Bring good hiking shoes, plenty of water, sun protection, and local trail maps. Cell service can be spotty in rural areas.
• Respect the land. Stick to marked trails and practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve Spain’s stunning natural beauty.

 

Teaching English in Spain isn’t just a job—it’s a gateway to exploring some of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re wandering through lunar-like lava fields in the Canaries or hiking cliffside paths in Andalusia, you’re bound to find your perfect adventure.

So when your next long weekend rolls around, trade your chalkboard for a backpack and explore the wild side of Spain. Your TEFL experience with myTEFL isn’t just about changing lives in the classroom—it’s about making lifelong memories in the great outdoors.