Complete list of 16 national parks in Spain

Aigüestortes and Lake Sant Maurici

Atlantic Islands of Galicia

Cabañeros

Cabrera Archipelago

Caldera de Taburiente

Doñana

Garajonay

Guadarrama

Monfragüe

Ordesa and Monte Perdido

Picos de Europa

Sierra de las Nieves

Sierra Nevada

Tablas de Daimiel

Teide

Timanfaya

Spain National Parks

A stunning high mountain landscape in the Pyrenees characterized by peaks over 3,000 meters and nearly 200 lakes or ponds. The park features unique glacial landscapes, pristine alpine meadows, and dense pine forests. Its name means 'winding waters' in reference to the numerous waterfalls and meandering streams throughout the park.

Comprises four archipelagos off the Galician coast with pristine beaches and rich marine ecosystems. The park features dramatic cliffs, diverse seabird colonies, and crystal-clear waters. Its underwater landscapes are particularly valuable for marine biodiversity conservation.

Often called the 'Spanish Serengeti', this park preserves one of the best examples of Mediterranean forest and scrubland. The park features extensive plains, mountains, and diverse wildlife including deer, wild boar, and numerous bird species. It represents a perfectly preserved example of the traditional Mediterranean Iberian ecosystem.

A pristine archipelago consisting of 19 small islands and islets in the Mediterranean Sea. The park is renowned for its marine biodiversity and well-preserved ecosystem. It serves as an important refuge for seabirds and features crystal-clear waters perfect for diving and snorkeling.

Features a massive erosion crater with steep walls rising up to 2,000 meters high. The park contains dense Canarian pine forests, numerous springs, and waterfalls. Its unique geological formations and endemic species make it one of the most spectacular parks in the Canary Islands.

One of Europe's most important wetland reserves and a major site for migrating birds. The park contains a unique mix of ecosystems including marshlands, Mediterranean scrubland, and coastal dunes. It provides crucial habitat for numerous endangered species including the Iberian lynx.

Home to a unique laurel forest ecosystem that covered much of Southern Europe millions of years ago. The park's ancient forests are often shrouded in mist and clouds, creating a mystical atmosphere. It represents one of the best examples of laurisilva forests in the world.

A mountainous area featuring diverse landscapes from pine forests to alpine meadows and rocky peaks. The park is known for its geological formations, glacial cirques, and rich biodiversity. It serves as an important recreational area for Madrid's residents while protecting valuable ecosystems.

A prime example of Mediterranean forest and scrubland ecosystem with dramatic rock formations. The park is internationally renowned for its bird watching opportunities, particularly for raptors. It contains one of the largest colonies of black vultures in Europe.

A dramatic landscape in the Pyrenees featuring deep canyons, towering waterfalls, and the massive Monte Perdido peak. The park is known for its exceptional geological formations and diverse alpine flora. It contains some of the most spectacular hiking trails in Spain.

Picos de Europa is a dramatic mountain range featuring deep gorges, alpine lakes, and limestone peaks. The park is home to diverse wildlife including Cantabrian brown bears, wolves, and chamois. Its landscape was carved by glacial action, creating spectacular formations and caves.

Sierra de las Nieves is characterized by its rugged limestone mountains and unique Spanish fir forests. The park contains deep caves and hosts rare species like the Iberian ibex and griffon vultures. Its diverse ecosystem ranges from Mediterranean scrubland to high mountain zones.

Sierra Nevada contains the highest peaks in mainland Spain, including Mulhacén. The park features unique alpine vegetation and is one of the most important botanical areas in Europe. Its high mountain landscape includes glacial lakes, deep valleys, and ancient Arabic waterways.

Tablas de Daimiel is a unique wetland ecosystem formed at the confluence of the Guadiana and Cigüela rivers. It represents the last surviving example of floodplain wetlands in central Spain. The park is crucial for migrating birds and hosts diverse aquatic vegetation.

Teide National Park features Spain's highest peak and the world's third-tallest volcanic structure from its base. The park's lunar-like landscape contains unique geological formations and endemic species. Its clear skies make it one of the world's premier astronomical observation sites.

Timanfaya showcases a dramatic volcanic landscape created by eruptions in the 18th century. The park's otherworldly terrain features over 100 volcanoes and vast fields of solidified lava. The extreme conditions support unique adaptations of plant life and the landscape remains largely unchanged since its formation.