Winter won't last forever, and with the return of fine weather you will certainly feel the urge to go hiking for a few days or more. If you are looking for spring trek ideas, here are a few nearby destinations where you will find sunshine, mild temperatures, and above all stunning scenery for walking!
Spring treks: explore the Rif Mountains in Morocco
In northern Morocco, near the Mediterranean, the Rif mountain range contains Morocco's lowest mountains, ideal in spring but also accessible in the heart of winter. You will find vast, lush oak forests and slopes covered in wild flowers. A multi-day trek crossing the Talassemtane National Park is perfect for discovering a wealth of Berber villages under gentle sunshine and pleasant Mediterranean air. The scenery is stunning and there are many route options, ranging from 4-day walks to 10-day treks.
Spring treks: walking in Tenerife in the Canary Islands
Head south to be sure of finding the sun ahead of the crowds! The Canary Islands offer a dream setting combining sea and mountains, and an exceptional climate! With the Teide volcano at 3,718 metres above sea level, you get a sense of the elevation gains on offer on this island. There are numerous walks possible in Tenerife, taking you through landscapes of multicoloured lava, lush forests of laurels and pines, and deep canyons. Don't miss the stunning Anaga massif, a marvel to explore in spring with flora found nowhere else in the world. Finally, you are never far from the Atlantic shore, which brings fresh, pure air and unique viewpoints.
Spring treks: exploring the Bardenas Desert
This lunar landscape of steppe and erosion-sculpted rock in the Bardenas Reales lies between Navarre and Aragon, just south of the French border. You will find fairy chimneys, flat-topped hills, and numerous ruiniform ravines.
This strange and unique European landscape will evoke the American West and will amplify the sense of adventure on your hiking trip. The Bardenas hold a wealth of hiking and trekking ideas, whether on day routes, weekend breaks, or week-long itineraries — making for a fine escape close to France, within a natural park designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Moreover, the area is well equipped with accommodation and organisations to accompany you.
Spring treks: the Verdon Gorge
The Verdon is certainly the most beautiful canyon in Europe! It also offers a wealth of cliff-edge paths where beauty and vertigo compete to captivate you. Walk the White-Martel trail, the Bastidon, the Racolas belvedere, the Escalés… there are in fact a great many routes to complete, each with its own charm. As the area is quite touristy in summer, it is more accessible in spring, and you will find numerous charming gîtes to stay in. At the end of your hiking trip, don't miss Lac de Ste Croix, with its exceptional colour and pure water! Some slightly vertiginous sections of these paths require great care.
Spring treks: explore Cathar Country
Still in France, favouring the south for guaranteed good weather, you can head to a wonderful region exceptionally well served by walking paths: Cathar Country.
You can walk the "Citadelles du Vertige" trail: Queribus, Peyrepertuse, Puilaurens, Puivert and Montségur — a journey from castle to castle, discovering Cathar history and a beautiful region. The area is very popular with walkers as it offers a wide variety of paths that are easily accessible. Moreover, it is still a relatively uncrowded spot, so you can enjoy its beauty in complete peace.
A spring trek is always a great idea. It gives you the chance to rediscover the pleasure of long walks and makes for excellent preparation for longer trips in summer. Above all, it is the best way to shake off the winter greyness. Either way, don't miss the chance to breathe in that fresh air surrounded by nature, with beautiful mild sunny days — and head out on the trails with the right clothing for spring hiking!
