Autumn is one of the best times to take a rural getaway and enjoy nature. The forests change color, temperatures drop, and rains can favor the appearance of mushrooms. In the province of Soria, there is a town that brings together all these attractions: Navaleno.
Located about 48 kilometers from the Soria capital, this municipality is surrounded by large pine forests and has a long tradition related to mushroom picking. In addition, it offers walking routes, historical places of interest, and activities for those who want to learn more about the world of fungi. One of its main proposals is the "Tiempo de Setas" Mycological Days, which in 2026 celebrate their 34th edition until November 1. During these days, visitors can participate in excursions, gastronomic activities, and encounters related to nature.
Hiking trails and landscapes among pine forests
Navaleno is an interesting destination for those looking for things to do in Soria during autumn. Its forests allow you to enjoy outdoor walks and discover an environment where wood and forestry work have been of great importance over the years. Among the walking options, two routes stand out. The Ruta de los Llanos has a length of 6.7 kilometers, while the Ruta del Anillo Verde reaches nine kilometers.
The latter includes the ascent to Otero Mayor, located at an altitude of 1,329 meters. From this point, you can contemplate the landscape of pine forests surrounding the town and enjoy views of the natural environment. The visit also allows you to walk through the streets of Navaleno and see buildings such as the church of San Esteban Protomártir and the hermitage of San Roque. Another option is to visit the Aula del Bosque del Amogable, located in the middle of the pine forest, to learn more about the forest environment.
Mushroom picking is another attraction of the area, although its presence depends on the rains, humidity, and temperatures of each season. Therefore, it is advisable to check the conditions before organizing a trip to the mountains.
Mycology workshops and gastronomic days
Navaleno also offers activities for those who want to learn to recognize the different species of mushrooms. The municipality has a Mycological Center, inaugurated in 2007, which has a permanent exhibition dedicated to fungi. Through workshops, courses and guided excursions, visitors can learn more about the species that grow in the forests and learn the necessary precautions for collecting them. These activities are especially useful for people who are new to this hobby.
The XXXIV Mycological Conference "Mushroom Time" completes the autumn offer with excursions, conferences, exhibitions, cooking proposals, music and a photography contest. The program allows combining nature walks with cultural and gastronomic activities. Before collecting mushrooms, it is also important to check if a permit is needed to access the chosen mountain. According to the published information, the general recreational permit for areas managed by Montes de Soria costs 10 euros and is valid for two consecutive days. Conditions may vary depending on the area, so it is advisable to consult the regulations before leaving.
In any case, mushrooms should never be consumed if there are doubts about their identification. A getaway to Navaleno allows you to enjoy the autumn landscape and learn about the richness of its forests, even without taking any mushrooms home.
