In the 19th century, when the Romantic spirit prevailed in Europe, the desire to explore nature became a trend among the educated elite and aristocrats. Great scientists like Charles Lyell financed long exploratory journeys, culminating in the publication of works such as Principles of Geology, which were fundamental to understanding planet Earth.

This Romantic enthusiasm faded over time, but in recent decades, interest in visiting geological sites has resurfaced. In 1995, the concept of geotourism was defined for the first time as "the provision of services that allow tourists to acquire knowledge and understanding of the geology and geomorphology of a place beyond mere aesthetic appreciation."

Today, Spain is a country of extraordinary geological richness, home to countless sites that attract thousands of travelers each year. From volcanic formations and karst landscapes to dinosaur tracks, each site provides a unique geotourism experience. Discover five incredible destinations where geology and sustainability come together for an unforgettable adventure

1. Maestrazgo Geopark (Teruel).

Interest in promoting geological tourism in Europe culminated in the late 1990s with the creation of the European Geoparks Network. Maestrazgo was one of the four founding geoparks, becoming an international benchmark for scientific and cultural tourism. In this unique setting, visitors can observe 200 million years of history imprinted in the rock layers and folds, as if reading a natural book.

The establishment of this geopark has helped revitalize one of the most sparsely populated and least known areas of the Iberian Peninsula. Today, it is an important destination for geological and cultural tourism, offering a comprehensive experience: scenic viewpoints, natural trails such as the one leading to the source of the Pitarque River, and a visit to Mirambel, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain.

2. The Torcal of Antequera (Malaga).

Exploring El Torcal de Antequera feels like stepping into an otherworldly landscape. Over millennia, erosion caused by water and other natural forces has sculpted the limestone rocks into whimsical and unique shapes, making it one of the most impressive karst landscapes in Spain.

The limestone formations in this area originated millions of years ago at the bottom of the sea, created by the accumulation of shells and exoskeletons of marine organisms. Today, if you look closely at some of these rocks, you may discover fossils of ammonites—prehistoric mollusks that inhabited the oceans between 400 and 60 million years ago.

3. Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote).

The Canary Islands are a privileged natural laboratory for observing and studying volcanoes. One of the most spectacular sites is Timanfaya National Park, Spain's only strictly geological national park. Here, visitors can observe all imaginable volcanic formations, from craters and lava tubes to hornitos and malpaíses.

One of the park's main attractions is La Ruta de los Volcanes, a 14-kilometer route through the park’s interior, showcasing the main volcanic structures formed during the historic eruptions of 1730–1736. Visiting Timanfaya is like traveling to another planet.

4. The Flysch of Zumaya (Gipuzkoa).

Approximately 65 million years ago, a meteorite struck Earth, causing the mass extinction of the dinosaurs. Along the coast of Zumaia lies the Flysch, a spectacular geological formation whose sequence of rock strata has allowed scientists to study the effects of this catastrophic event on the planet.

The Flysch consists of alternating layers of hard and soft materials, resulting in a dramatic landscape of cliffs with striking folds and undulating formations. The best way to admire this geological wonder is from Itzurun Beach, where visitors can relax while marveling at this natural treasure. There is also the option to take a guided boat tour to gain deeper insight into the site’s geological history.

5. Dinosaur footprints in La Rioja.

Fine wine isn’t La Rioja’s only claim to fame. This region has yielded more than 8,000 ichnites—dinosaur footprints—making it one of Spain’s most important paleontological sites. Thanks to the abundance and excellent preservation of these tracks, scientists have been able to study the ecology and behavior of various dinosaur species in great detail.

The Ruta de los Dinosaurios in La Rioja takes visitors through the most significant ichnite sites. One of the most impressive is Peña Portillo, where a 13-meter track composed of 17 footprints from a carnivorous dinosaur can be seen, alongside seven large tracks from a herbivore.

Geotourism and sustainability, a commitment to responsible development.

Geotourism not only allows us to explore Earth's geological history but also contributes to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage. Promoting this type of sustainable tourism helps raise awareness about the importance of protecting these sites, supports the local economy, and prevents the degradation of fragile geological landscapes.

Moreover, geotourism aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

• SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: Preserving natural environments and promoting tourism that respects geological heritage.
• SDG 13 – Climate Action: Raising awareness of climate change's impact on natural landscapes and ecosystems.
• SDG 15 – Life on Land: Protecting and responsibly using natural resources in ecologically valuable areas.

Exploring these sites responsibly ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy them. If you love geology, nature, and Earth’s history, these five destinations in Spain offer an unforgettable and environmentally responsible experience.