Hiking in Spain Glossary: Reading Signs and Speaking

Are you planning to hike in Spain? If your destination is Sierra Nevada, the Perrineas, Pico de la Europa in the Cantabrian Mountains, Mt. Teide, or the renowned Camino de Santiago, pack lightweight and prepare for an incredible journey!

This glossary will help you read the signs, speak with locals, move around, and enjoy your stressless hiking and backpacking in Spain.

Common signs for hiking routes

There is a unified European system to indicate the hiking trails, and Spain is part of the scheme. 

The funny part of this starts when local rules are involved. There are 17 autonomous communities and two autonomous cities in Spain, so it’s never a bad idea to check with the regional variations on the FED website before setting off for a trip. Another valuable source of information dedicated to mountain trails and climbing is FEDME.

But what if you don’t have time to look into all those websites and aim to feel comfortable hiking in Spain?

Here are the most common things you will see:

• Coto de Caza. This sign with a black-and-white rectangle indicates a private hunting ground. It doesn’t mean it’s a hunting scene directly, but the lands are used for private purposes, so avoid trespassing on them.
• Privado. Also, a private land where you cannot park, camp, or even enter. Some popular trails will lie along private territories but not cross them, so observe the route.
• Prohibido el paso. Same as above, it indicates no trespassing. There might be several reasons, but it shouldn’t bother your hike. If you are in a natural reserve, follow the signs to know the right direction, as the authorities might close specific trails due to weather conditions or other events.
• Aseos. Spain is quite developed for nature lovers, so it’s common to see recreational areas with all services open for free. If you’re looking for toilets, there’s your goal.
• Zona recreativa. This dedicated place is for picnics, barbeque, and spending a loud chilling time with friends. Avoid it if you’re seeking peace, and feel free to join the party if not. Just remember, camping is prohibited on such a site.
• Cerrado. This is when something is closed. Once again, you’ll see this sign only in the Castilian parts of Spain. In Catalunya, Valencia, and the like, you will see “Tancat,” and the basques will write “Itxita.”
• Agua no potable — non-potable water. As a rule, all tap water in peninsular Spain and the islands is not for drinking. There’s also a significant water shortage in the coastline areas, so don’t waste it.

Also to be seen next to hiking trails, but not on them —

• Caña. That’s a beer cane. Unlike water, there’s no shortage of beer in Spain, so “Una caña, por favor” is typically the next Spanish phrase you will learn after “Si” and “No.”

Have you got the experience of hiking in Spain? Have you seen any other signs that dragged your attention? Write a comment so other hikers can benefit from your tips!