Let´s talk about autumn in Spain and the most magical destinations to enjoy the fall foliage across the Iberian Peninsula.

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Beautiful Fall Destinations in Spain

Autumn in Spain

Autumn in Spain is one of my favorite seasons for traveling. While the Iberian Peninsula is not particularly famous for its vibrant fall foliage, those who know where to search can still discover Spanish destinations with a tapestry of gold, red, and orange hues on the backdrop.

Therefore, I thought of sharing some of my favorite autumn destinations and landscapes in Spain. Especially since during my 15+ expat years on the Iberian Peninsula, I got to visit a lot of stunning natural wonders (also, it was the information I was searching for myself years ago).

Additionally, check out my post about Magical forests in Spain: the spring-summer greenery is often followed by the most stunning fall foliage experience.

Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Spain

1. Asturias in Autumn

As one of the rainiest places in Spain, Asturias is known for its lust forests of beech, oak, and chestnut. These always create a spectacular display of autumn colors. While my last Asturias road trip took place in July, I can’t wait to explore the region in autumn.

You should not miss one of Spain´s most iconic national parks, Picos de Europa, and the unique natural setting of Bosque de Muniellos.

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Bosque de Muniellos in Asturias (photo by Juan Gomez)

2. Fall in The Pyrenees of Spain

The Spanish Pyrenees is one of my all-time favorite destinations. The region is incredibly beautiful all year round.

Last year I was lucky to visit the Pyrenees of Catalonia in October and it ended up on my list of favorite trips of 2023. From the Pyrenees of Catalonia, I would highlight Aiguestortes National Park and Bosque del Carlac (check out this IG Reel and TikTok for more details).

In the Aragon Pyrenees, set your eyes on Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, while the Pyrenees of Navarra are known for Selva de Irati.

Also, do not miss Fageda d’en Jordà in La Garrotxa Natural Park (one of the most epic gems of Catalonia region). You can check out all of my trips & itineraries under the hashtag Pyrenees.

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Autumn in the Pyrenees of Spain: Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park
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Autumn in Spain: Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park
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La Garrotxa Natural Park – one of the top places to visit in Catalonia

3. Madrid in Autumn

Autumn is the best moment to plan a weekend getaway to Madrid & its surroundings. Madrid’s green hub, El Retiro Park, is one of the best places to witness the breathtaking fall foliage. However, last year I also visited the nearby town of Aranjuez (while traveling from Madrid to Valencia), and it was equally captivating. You can read more about things to do in Madrid in this post.

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One day in Madrid, Spain
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Visiting Aranjuez on the road from Madrid to Valencia
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Check out this TikTok video from my day in Aranjuez
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Aranjuez is a great Madrid day trip idea

4. Cuenca in Autumn

While my last Cuenca road trip to place in December, I was lucky to visit the region with stunning mosaic of autumn colors a few years ago.

Do not miss Serrania de Cuenca Natural Park with its secret Spanish hikes and vibrant fall foliage. Unexpectedly, on the road to the Enchanted City of Cuenca, we also spotted a few scenic autumn panoramas.

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On the road towards the Enchanted City of Cuenca
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Visiting Serrania de Cuenca Natural Park during our last Cuenca Road Trip
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Sendero Botanico de Hoz de Beteta – one of the secret Spanish hikes

5. The Valencian Community in Autumn

Valencia is one of the last places that pops into one’s mind when it comes to fall foliage in Spain. However, since the area has been my home for so long, I could not avoid discovering a few gems to soak into the fall vibes.

Castellon in Autumn

Hiking plans in Castellon made me discover a few charming corners, like the trails in the villages of Bejis and Ludiente.

Also, Montanejos (a popular Valencia day trip in summer) is great for enjoying colorful autumn landscapes.

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Autumn in Castellon – Hiking in Bejis with kids
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Autumn colors in Spain
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Autumn in Spain: Stunning autumn colors in the village of Ludiente
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Montanejos – a popular Valencia day trip

Alicante in Autumn

When it comes to Alicante in autumn, I highly recommend you visit Jardín de l’Albarda. It is one of the most unique gardens in Spain, you can check out the full photo gallery here.

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Autumn in Spain: Visiting Jardín de l’Albarda in Alicante
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Jardín de l’Albarda – a great place to visit on any Valencia to Alicante road trip

6. La Rioja and Navarra

La Rioja & Navarra road trip is another great plan to enjoy autumn in Spain. La Rioja is especially known for its wineries and the fall foliage of La Sierra de Cebollera Natural Park.

When it comes to Navarra, its autumn star is Selva de Irrati (which I have previously mentioned in the Pyrenees section). Nevertheless, the region has quite a few other natural settings that offer visitors a chance to immerse in the seasonal transformation: Parque Natural Señorío de Bertiz, Bosque de Quinto Real, Bosque de Basajaunberro, and Bosque de Orgi.

Weekend in La Rioja and Navarra - Ujue
Read more about my Rioja and Navarra Road Trip
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Selva de Irati (photo by Ana Cruz)

Have you ever visited any other beautiful places in Spain during the fall season? – Let me know in the comments below.

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AUTUMN IN SPAIN DESTINATIONS FALL

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