Mycotourism: what it is, where to practice it and tips to enjoy it

Mycotourism, also known as mushroom tourismit is a form of rural and nature tourism that revolves around the search, identification and collection of wild mushrooms and fungi. It is an activity that combines direct contact with the natural environment, learning about mycology and, in many cases, local gastronomy.

During the mycotourism outings, participants tour forests and mountains guided by experts or experienced amateurs, who teach how to distinguish edible species from toxic onesas well as the basic rules of responsible collection. The goal is not just to fill the basket, but to enjoy the landscape, learn about the ecosystems and respect the natural balance.

In recent years, mycotourism has gained popularity in regions where mushrooms are part of traditional culture and cuisine, especially in autumn, when rain and temperatures favor their appearance. In addition, many destinations have developed mycological routes, fairs, workshops and tastings, turning this hobby into a sustainable and educational tourist attraction.

If you are wondering where to do mycotourism, Spain is one of the most recommended destinations in the world to enjoy this experience. Thanks to its great diversity of climates and ecosystems, the country has numerous forests and mountains where mushrooms grow in abundance during autumn and spring.

Among the main places to practice mycotourism in Spainthey highlight:

• Soriaknown as the “mushroom capital,” offers pine and oak forests full of chanterelles, boletus and oyster mushrooms. In addition, it organizes gastronomic days and guided routes every season.
• Lionespecially the area of ​​El Bierzo and the mountains of León, is ideal for those looking for boletus edulis and other species of high culinary quality.
• Cataloniawith enclaves such as Montseny, Garrotxa or the Pyrenees, combines mushroom harvesting with a rich gastronomic tradition.
• the Basque Countrywhere mushrooms play a prominent role in its cuisine, offers complete experiences that combine nature, culture and good food, especially in Álava and Guipúzcoa.
• Other regions such as Navarra, Castilla y León, Galicia and Andalusia They also have mycological areas of great interest and more and more marked routes for fans.

Outside of Spain, there are also countries with a long tradition in this type of tourism. In France and Italymycotourism is associated with the collection of truffles, a highly appreciated product in haute cuisine. Swisswith its alpine forests, offers spectacular landscapes where edible species abound. and in Japanthe interest in mushrooms goes beyond harvesting, since they are an essential part of their gastronomic culture, with native varieties, such as shiitake or matsutake.

On mycotourism outings, participants usually focus on the search for edible mushroomsthat is, those species that are safe and appreciated for their flavor and gastronomic value. Learning to recognize them is an essential part of the experience, since many species can resemble each other, and it is essential to distinguish edible mushrooms from toxic ones.

Among the most popular edible mushrooms in Spain are:

• Chanterelle or robellón (Lactarius deliciosus): one of the best known and easiest to identify species, very common in pine forests throughout the peninsula.
• White mushroom or cep (Boletus edulis): highly valued in the kitchen for its firm texture and intense aroma.
• oyster mushroom (Pleurotus eryngii): Typical of drier and more open areas, it grows around wild thistles.
• Chanterelle or chanterelle (Chanterelle cibarius): It stands out for its yellow color and its delicate fruity flavor.
• Bearded mushroom or ink mushroom (Coprinus comatus): It is found in meadows and grass areas, especially after rains.
• Trumpet of the dead (Craterellus cornucopioides): Despite its dark color, it is one of the most appreciated in haute cuisine.

Mycotourism offers a wide variety of benefits that go far beyond simply searching for mushrooms.

• First of all, it favors direct contact with nature. By walking through forests and mountains, participants disconnect from daily stress and enjoy the outdoors, silence and autumn landscapes.
• It also has a strong educational and cultural component. Mycotourism teaches to recognize different species of fungi, understand their function in ecosystems and respect natural cycles.
• Another important benefit is its economic and sustainable impact. Mycological routes, workshops and fairs attract visitors to towns and regions, boosting the local economy without damaging the environment.

Although it seems like a simple activity, mushroom picking requires attention, knowledge and responsibility. We are going to give you some basic tips to do it correctly:

• Find out before you leave. It is important to know the area, the species that usually appear at the time and local regulations, since in many places a collection permit is required or there are quantity limits.
• Go accompanied by an expert guide. If you are a beginner, the ideal is to join an organized outing or go with someone with experience. Many poisonous or toxic mushrooms look like edible ones, and incorrect identification can have serious consequences.
• Use suitable material. Bring a wicker basket (never plastic bags, as they prevent the spores from dispersing), a knife to cut the mushrooms without damaging the mycelium, and comfortable, resistant clothing for walking through the bush.
• Collect only what you are going to consume. Responsible mycotourism seeks to enjoy nature without abusing its resources. Avoid plucking small or overripe mushrooms and respect species you don’t know.
• Do not alter the environment. Walk on trails whenever possible, do not disturb the soil excessively and avoid leaving trash.

Although mushroom collecting is the main activity, mycotourism encompasses much more than going out into the forest with a basket. Among the most frequent activities we have:

• Workshops identification and mycology.
• Tastings and gastronomic experiences.
• Visits to museums and mycological centers.
• Activities family and educational.
• Photography and observation of nature.

If you liked discovering what mycotourism or mushroom tourism is, don’t miss this video that we leave you here about more than 10 edible mushrooms.

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