Temperatures may still feel summery, but autumn has officially begun. A beautiful season to visit some of the villages of Spain. The trees turn shades of red, orange and yellow, the leaves fall and it gets cooler.
Autumn offers surprising travel destinations in Spain. Not only for hiking, but also for discovering the beautiful villages. In this article, we give an overview of 12 villages – from Galicia to Andalucia – worth visiting during this season.
Arties (Lleida)
The village of Arties is located in the heart of the Vall d’Aran, at an altitude of 1,143 metres above sea level, where the river Valarties meets the river Garona. The church of Santa Maria d’Arties, a Romanesque structure from the 11th century, is a striking building in the old town.
This picturesque village transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of colours in autumn. The landscape, dominated by dense forests, bursts into hues of gold, amber, and crimson as the season changes. The crisp mountain air carries the scent of pine and fallen leaves, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for hiking along the many trails that wind through the region. The historic stone buildings of Arties, some dating back to medieval times, are complemented by the vibrant foliage, making autumn an ideal time to explore its charming streets and the surrounding natural beauty.
Taüll (Lleida)
In autumn, Taüll, a quaint village in the Vall de Boí of Lleida, is a serene retreat surrounded by the Pyrenees’ dramatic landscapes. The golden and fiery tones of the season blanket the valleys and hills, providing a striking contrast to the stone architecture of Taüll’s Romanesque churches, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The village’s narrow streets, lined with traditional stone houses, take on a cozy, almost timeless charm as the days grow cooler. This season also offers the perfect opportunity to explore nearby hiking trails, where the vibrant foliage and the crisp, clean air make every step a sensory delight.
Castellfollit de la Roca (Girona)
This impressive village stands on a spectacular 50-metre-high stone cliff, right at the entrance to the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Moreover, the village is a natural vantage point from which to view the valleys of the Fluvià and Toronell rivers.
In autumn, Castellfollit de la Roca, perched dramatically on a basalt cliff in Girona, becomes a stunning sight as the surrounding landscape transforms into a mosaic of warm, earthy tones. The sheer cliffs, carved by ancient volcanic activity, are framed by forests ablaze with shades of gold, orange, and red, creating a striking contrast against the village’s stone houses. The sound of rustling leaves and the gentle flow of the rivers below add to the tranquil atmosphere, making autumn an ideal time to wander through the narrow streets and take in the breathtaking views of the lush valleys and rolling hills that stretch out below.
El Tiemblo (Ávila)
El Tiemblo, located in Ávila, is a charming town that becomes even more enchanting in autumn when the surrounding forest, known for its magnificent chestnut trees, bursts into vibrant colours. The forest, one of the largest in the Sistema Central, transforms into a golden wonderland with the arrival of autumn, offering some of the most picturesque walks in the region. The towering beech, oak, and chestnut trees, draped in hues of amber, red, and gold, create a magical atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls. Furthermore, the crisp autumn air and the soft crunch of fallen leaves underfoot make exploring this forest an unforgettable experience.
Torla (Huesca)
Torla, a picturesque village in Huesca, serves as the gateway to the stunning Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park. This, therefore, makes it an ideal base for exploring this natural wonder. In autumn, the village and its surroundings are transformed into a breathtaking display of colour, with the forests and valleys cloaked in warm hues of orange, red, and gold. The park, nestled between three majestic valleys, becomes a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and photography. The crisp, clear air and the dramatic landscapes, accentuated by the season’s vibrant palette, make Torla and its environs a must-visit destination during the autumn months.
Sepúlveda (Segovia)
Sepúlveda, a gem in the province of Segovia, stands as one of Spain’s most picturesque villages, steeped in history and medieval charm. In autumn, the village takes on a new level of allure as the surrounding landscape shifts into a rich tapestry of warm, earthy tones. The imposing castle, ancient walls, and stately gates that once protected the village are now framed by the vibrant colours of the season, enhancing their grandeur. Sepúlveda’s Romanesque treasures, such as the churches of El Salvador and San Bartolomé, are even more captivating against the backdrop of autumnal foliage, their stone façades bathed in the soft, golden light of the season. Wandering through the cobblestone streets, visitors can soak in the timeless beauty of Sepúlveda, where every corner reveals a piece of history surrounded by the stunning natural scenery that autumn so gracefully decorates.
Puebla de Sanabria (Zamora)
Puebla de Sanabria, nestled in the province of Zamora, is widely regarded as one of Spain’s most enchanting villages. Moreover, its charm is magnified in the autumn months. Then, as the season unfolds, the village is enveloped in a warm, golden glow, with the surrounding hills and forests ablaze in rich autumnal hues. The 15th-century castle, a formidable presence overlooking the village, becomes even more striking against this colourful backdrop, its stone walls standing in stark contrast to the vivid landscape. The parish church of Nuestra Señora del Azogue, with its elegant architecture, also shines in this season, its historic beauty enhanced by the mellow light and the vibrant colours that fill the air. Strolling through Puebla de Sanabria in autumn is like stepping into a painting, where every turn reveals a new, picturesque scene, making it an unforgettable destination during this magical time of year.
Capileira (Granada)
Capileira, a captivating whitewashed village nestled in the heart of the Poqueira Valley, is one of Granada’s most remarkable treasures. In autumn, this enchanting village, recognised as a historical-artistic monument, is surrounded by a landscape that shifts into a mosaic of warm, inviting colours. The Poqueira Valley, already one of the most stunning natural areas in the province, becomes even more breathtaking as the season’s golden light bathes the terraced hillsides and the winding paths that lead through the village. With the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada as a dramatic backdrop, Capileira offers panoramic views that are especially mesmerising in autumn, when the contrast between the whitewashed buildings and the vibrant foliage creates a scene of unparalleled beauty. Walking through Capileira during this season, with its narrow streets and traditional architecture, with picutre perfect views where the natural and cultural landscapes blend seamlessly into a truly magical experience.
Haro (La Rioja)
Haro, the heart of La Rioja’s renowned wine country, is a town where tradition and culture are deeply intertwined with the art of winemaking. In autumn, Haro’s vineyards, stretching out in every direction, are bathed in the season’s rich, warm tones, transforming the landscape into a patchwork of gold, amber, and crimson. This is the perfect time to explore the town’s celebrated wineries, where the harvest season brings a unique energy and the air is filled with the earthy scent of fermenting grapes. The quality wines produced here, bearing the prestigious Rioja designation of origin, are the pride of the region and a central attraction for visitors.
Strolling through Haro’s charming streets, you’ll find that the town’s vibrant wine tradition is reflected in its architecture, festivals, and the welcoming atmosphere of its people. Autumn in Haro is not just a visual delight but a sensory experience that invites you to savour the flavours, aromas, and colours of this exceptional winemaking region.
Buitrago de Lozoya (Madrid)
Buitrago de Lozoya, a charming medieval village in the Community of Madrid, is a hidden gem nestled along the banks of the Lozoya River. In autumn, the village’s historical allure is enhanced by the vibrant colours of the surrounding Sierra de Guadarrama mountains, which provide a stunning natural backdrop. The Moorish walls that encircle the village, remnants of its rich past, take on a new dimension as they are framed by the warm tones of the season. Strolling through the narrow streets, you can explore the Plaza de la Constitución, where the village’s heart beats with local life, and admire the striking bell tower and the church of Santa María del Castillo, both of which stand as proud symbols of Buitrago’s heritage. Autumn casts a magical light over this village, making it an ideal time to experience the blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty that defines Buitrago de Lozoya.
Rianxo (A Coruña)
Rianxo, located in A Coruña, is a town that, despite its growing popularity with tourists, has managed to preserve a tranquil charm rooted in its fishing heritage. In autumn, the town’s coastal beauty is enhanced by the season’s softer light, casting a warm glow over the bustling harbour and the serene waters of the Ría de Arosa. This estuary is renowned for its mussel farms, and the harvesting season brings a lively, yet peaceful atmosphere to the town. Alongside mussels, Rianxo is celebrated for its venus clams and cockles, which are central to the local culinary traditions. Wandering through the picturesque streets and along the scenic waterfront, visitors can enjoy the blend of natural beauty and traditional fishing practices that define Rianxo, making it a delightful destination to experience the rich maritime culture of Galicia in the autumn months.
Golmes (Lleida)
Golmes, nestled in the heart of Lleida’s expansive countryside, is a village where the vast, open landscapes shape its serene character. In autumn, the surrounding fields and rolling hills are painted with rich shades of orange and gold, offering a picturesque backdrop to this charming settlement. The well-preserved town centre, with its inviting streets, becomes even more appealing as the cooler weather sets in. The church of San Salvador, a highlight of Golmes, stands proudly against the autumnal landscape, its historic architecture complementing the season’s natural beauty. Strolling through Golmes in this time of year provides a tranquil escape, allowing visitors to appreciate the harmonious blend of cultural heritage and the stunning countryside that defines this delightful village.
Also read: The splendor of autumn colours in Andalucia