Picos de Europa
A dramatic limestone mountain range with jagged peaks, deep gorges, and rich wildlife, forming one of Spain's most spectacular national parks. Hikers and nature lovers come for trails like the Cares Gorge and stunning alpine scenery.
Things to do
- Hike the Cares Gorge (Ruta del Cares) — Walk the dramatic 12km carved path between Poncebos and Caín, with sheer cliffs and a rushing river below.
- Ride the Fuente Dé cable car — Ascend nearly 800 meters in minutes to a high plateau with panoramic views over the western massif.
- Visit the Lakes of Covadonga — Drive or hike up to the glacial Lagos de Enol and Ercina, set amid green meadows and grazing cattle.
- Explore Covadonga Sanctuary — See the basilica and holy cave tucked into a cliffside, a key site in Spanish Reconquista history.
- Trek to Bulnes village — Take the funicular or hike up to this remote stone hamlet beneath the Naranjo de Bulnes peak.
- Spot Cantabrian wildlife — Look for chamois, vultures, and even the elusive brown bear in the park's less-trodden valleys.
- Go canyoning or caving near Caín — Explore limestone caves and narrow canyons carved by centuries of water erosion.
Food to try
- Cabrales cheese — A pungent blue cheese aged in mountain caves, often served with crusty bread or drizzled with cider.
- Fabada asturiana — A hearty bean stew with chorizo, morcilla, and pork, perfect after a day of hiking.
- Sidra natural — Asturian cider poured from height to aerate it, traditionally drunk standing at a bar.
- Cocido lebaniego — A rich chickpea stew with meats and vegetables, popular in the nearby Liébana valley.
- Orujo de hierbas — A herbal digestif liqueur often offered after a mountain meal.
Local customs & good to know
- Dress in layers — Weather in the Picos can shift quickly from sun to fog to rain within hours.
- Arrive early for popular sites — Parking at Fuente Dé and the Lakes of Covadonga fills fast, especially in summer.
- Learn cider-pouring etiquette — Cider is poured in small amounts and drunk quickly before it loses its fizz.
- Respect livestock and gates — Cows and horses roam freely on trails, so close any gates behind you to keep them contained.