The most beautiful mountains in Spain
Diverse mountain chains, massifs, and peaks can be found throughout the whole of Spain. It has a higher average altitude than most European countries. The territory is composed of many landforms. Some mountains are majestic and others are smaller, but they are all equally peculiar. And it’s impossible not to be mesmerised by them. These are the most beautiful mountains in Spain.
7 mountains in Spain you should see at least once in your life
Ever since the dawn of time, many legends and myths centre around mountains because of their impressive size or their extraordinary shape. The following peaks have something in common: they all share a powerful beauty that invites us to ascend them.
Pedraforca, a refuge for witches
Pedraforca’s unique ‘u shape’ makes it one of the most recognisable mountains in Cataluña. It sits on the Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park, among the provinces of Barcelona and Lleida. It has always attracted thousands of tourists. The highest peak reaches a height of 2,506 metres and joins the other one in a neck known as the enforcadura. There are many legends about this mountain, and most of them surround witches. One of them explains Pedraforca’s weird shape. Legend has it that two witches kept arguing on its top, and the Archangel Michael himself ended the dispute by cutting it with his sword.
Veleta, Sierra Nevada’s gentleman
The majestic Veleta rises high in the back of most pictures of the Alhambra of Granada, creating an insuperable postcard. Its name, which literally translates to ‘vane’, is not a reference to those vanes that show the direction of the wind. It actually comes from the Arabic word ‘balata’, which means ‘cut.’ The reason why it receives this name is obvious: the many cuts that shape this mountain. Some of them reach 500 metres. Its singular silhouette has a peculiar beauty, but it gets even better when you watch the whole picture from its summit: a panoramic view of half Andalucía, the Mediterranean Sea, and part of the Rif.
Montserrat, the mystic peak
The massif of Montserrat is not only the most interesting mountain in Cataluña, but also one of the most characteristic symbols of the province and an important spiritual spot. It is no surprise that so many locals have supposedly witnessed diverse mystical experiences here. Some say they have seen Virgin Mary and even UFOs in the more recent years. It is visited by thousands of tourists every year, thanks to its great natural, religious, and artistic heritage. But only a few people dare to ascend to the highest peak, Sant Jeroni, with a height of 1,236 metres. Most tourists prefer to enjoy the treasures at the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, the museum, and the different hiking routes. Montserrat is a true paradise for climbing lovers too and many tour operators run daily winery tours with Montserrat too, a perfect combination for day.
Teide, a giant of fire
The fascinating volcano of Teide, located on the island of Tenerife, is the highest summit in Spain thanks to its 3,718 metres. Besides, it is the third-tallest volcano in the world. The size of this lonely giant takes your breath away. Its name, of Guanche origins, refers to fire; it well could be a reference to hell. Interestingly, it's been a little over a century since its last eruption, a fact that makes it even more magical if possible. This place won’t leave you indifferent, and you will never forget the view of the sea of clouds or its snow-covered top.
Naranjo de Bulnes, symbol of Asturias
The renowned Naranjo de Bulnes or Picu Urriellu stands in the Picos de Europa National Park in the Asturian area of Cabrales. Although it isn’t the tallest peak of this mountain range, it is the most famous thanks to its characteristic slender and sharp shape and its surroundings, a mix of green shades and grey stones. Since the first Marquess of Villaviciosa de Asturias, Pedro José Pidal, climbed this peak with a shepherd called Gregorio Pérez, known as ‘El Cainejo’, many explorers have visited this important spot. Its western side, of 550 metres of height, is a compelling challenge for every climbing enthusiast.
Almanzor, echoes of legend
Almanzor Peak is the highest summit in the Central System. This name recalls a mystical atmosphere and comes from the famous Andalusi military leader Almanzor, who heard the echoes of his name when some local shepherds were looking for him. According to other legends, he was the first one to ascend the mountain on horseback. The peak is outstanding, but so is the Circo de Gredos around it, a glacial cirque with a famous lagoon. This landscape composed of bushes such as the broom is home to an animal species characteristic of this natural corner of Spain: the Western Iberian ibex or Gredos ibex.
Anayet and its ibones
Just like the previous example, Anayet isn’t the highest summit in its mountain range, the Pyrenees, but its uniqueness lies in its features and its shape. The most surprising fact is that it is actually a volcano that collapsed and left the remains of its caldera. This relic of the past has one of the most recognisable shapes in the Pyrenees. It is surrounded by other beautiful elements, such as the ibones of Anayet near the border with France.
You can also read this article in Spanish here.