As the summer crowds depart and the temperatures cool, autumn is an ideal time to explore Spain. The world-famous wine region of La Rioja to the picturesque Pyrenees mountains. There are plenty of destinations to discover in this season. Here are some of the top spots to visit in Spain this autumn:
1. La Rioja
For wine lovers, the northern region of La Rioja is the ultimate autumn destination. This is Spain’s premier wine-producing area. And the grape harvest season from September to October is an exciting time to visit. You can participate in activities like grape picking and stomping, and enjoy the lively Fiesta de San Mateo festival in the regional capital of Logroño, complete with wine tastings, concerts, and more.
2. Andalucía
The southern region of Andalucía is a fantastic choice for autumn beach days. The summer crowds have departed. The water temperatures are warm enough for swimming in November. This is a great time to visit popular sights like the Alhambra in Granada or the Museo Picasso in Málaga without the peak season congestion.
3. Olive Harvest in Jaén
For olive oil enthusiasts, the province of Jaén in Andalucía is a must-visit in the autumn. This is the heart of Spain’s olive production. You can witness the “verdeo” olive harvest from September to November, and attend the annual Olive Festival in Martos in early December.
4. Mahón Cheese Fes in Menorca
The island of Menorca hosts its annual Mahón Cheese Fair in October, making it a top destination for cheese lovers in the autumn. You can visit local cheese factories and sample the island’s famous Mahón cheese, a cow’s milk variety with a long cheesemaking heritage.
5. Autumn Foliage in the Pyrenees
The Spanish side of the Pyrenees mountains is a fantastic place for autumn hiking, as the oak, chestnut, and beech trees put on a stunning display of fall foliage. Popular hiking areas include Parque Nacional de Ordesa y Monte Perdido in Aragon and the Cerdanya region in Catalonia.
6. Admire the Changing Colors in La Garrotxa
The volcanic region of La Garrotxa, situated between Barcelona and the Pyrenees. It is renowned for autumn foliage in the Fageda d’en Jordà beech forest. It’s a great destination for hiking and appreciating the landscape’s changing colors.
Suppose you are a wine enthusiast, an olive oil connoisseur, or simply someone who loves to immerse themselves in stunning natural scenery, Spain has plenty of fantastic autumn destinations to offer.
