The most beautiful greenways in Spain: 7 routes to discover amazing natural settings
A great number of unused rail trails have turned into a nourished network of greenways since 1993, an excellent option to explore Spain leisurely. Thanks to this public initiative, the Spanish geography has earned many routes that are perfect for cycling or walking, with smooth paths and wonderful views.
What makes these greenways the best
Out of the 138 greenways splattered throughout Spain that cover a total distance of 3,400 kilometres, we have chosen those that stand out for the beauty that surrounds them. Most areas in the country have one of these enchanting paths, so the variety of landscapes is guaranteed.
Although the views are essential on this list, other features have been considered to choose Spain’s best "vías verdes": viaducts, tunnels, batters, and old train stations reconverted into leisure spaces. Get on your bicycle and explore Spain’s best greenways with us!
These are Spain’s most beautiful greenways
Vía Verde do Salnés or de Portas
The Vía Verde do Salnés extends along more than 9 kilometres and hides many treasures. They unfold along the Arousa and Umia Rivers in a wooded landscape characterised by its gardens and vineyards. Besides, this route through Pontevedra joins the Portuguese Way to Santiago at Caldas de Reis.
The Vía Verde de Portas benefits from an extension of Galicia’s first train between Santiago de Compostela and Carril that belonged to the company The West Galicia Railway Company, popularly known as ‘Te-ves’. The sober metal bridge evokes that era and is one of this route’s best sections.
Vía Verde del Aceite
As its name says, the wide olive groves are a frequent companion on Andalucía’s longest vía verde. More than 127 kilometres long, it links Jaén with Córdoba, and it offers a diverse landscape that becomes wild and suggestive in certain sections.
The 12 stations that decorate the path are incredibly charming and have been turned into restaurants and even museums. But its numerous viaducts and passageways are worth a mention as well, since they add some dynamism to an exciting journey through Andalucía’s heart.
Vía Verde del Mar
The Vía Verde del Mar traverses less than 6 kilometres, the distance between Benicàssim and Oropesa del Mar. This short distance makes it perfect for walking, but the reason why this greenway stands out is the magnificent views of this coastline in the province of Castellón.
The contrast between the Sierra de Oropesa and the Mediterranean Sea creates wildly beautiful postcards. The rugged relief once required important interventions such as ditches, metal bridges, and a well-lit tunnel that now enliven this wonderful coastal itinerary.
Vía Verde Ruta de la Plata
The Vía de la Plata or Silver Way created by the Romans in the western peninsular area has a version perfect for nature lovers. Beginning in the heart of the Jerte Valley, Plasencia, this old rail way winds through the mountains and fields where the meadows turn into dense forests.
The charming villages in the Ambroz Valley connect with the province of Salamanca and reach one of the most noteworthy in the area, Béjar. The tunnels, viaducts, and a passageway over the Silver Way alternate with elements of the now disappeared train, like stoplights and railroad switches.
Vía Verde de la Senda del Oso
There is a reason behind the name Senda del Oso (literally, "Bear Path"): encounters with these powerful animals are possible on this route. Of course, it unfolds in Asturias’ Valles del Oso (Bear Valleys), a route that is a true vestige of the past richness of this mining area.
This journey through Asturias’ heart is filled with shades of green and corners of rural charm. Splendid forests and pure waters compete with the abundant tunnels and bridges until the last stage near Oviedo, which will leave you wanting more.
Vía Verde de Ojos Negros
Ojos Negros is Spain’s longest greenway. It is common to divide it into two sections: the one in Teruel and the one that crosses the Valencian Community. This epic 184-kilometre-long journey starts at Teruel’s Sierra Morena, an old mining centre of high lands and loud silences.
The viaducts are abundant, and some of them are particularly stunning, allowing us to fly over green fields and grandiose panoramic views. The journey has more surprises to offer, such as a curious crack in the ground, a red strip over a white band. A prize awaits at the finishing point: a well-deserved dip in the Mediterranean Sea.
Vía Verde del Plazaola
Navarra is probably the community that has encouraged sustainable tourism the most, and the truth is that its greenways take every breath away. The Vía Verde del Plazaola follows the old train route that joined Pamplona to Gipuzkoa. It crosses natural spaces filled with beeches and oak forests that submerge visitors into a wild environment.
Despite a few important unevennesses, the endless tunnels, rivers, and dense forests make it a greenway like no other. One of the tunnels extends along more than 2.5 kilometres, and it is the longest tunnel in the European greenways. Its charm can’t be matched: the beauty of the Leitzaran River and the Otieta Rural Park, as well as the picturesque villages, comprise one of Spain’s most beautiful greenways.
You can also read this article in Spanish here.
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