Asturias – Spain

Your adventure begins as you arrive in Spain, where transport will be arranged to collect you from Bilbao and Santander. It’s well connected to Europe, making your journey smooth and hassle-free. The meeting point, where we will start our journey to the mountains is in the city centre. The transfer will leave at 2pm and takes around 2,5 hours making a quick stop in Santander. If you arrive before this time there are several luggage storage places so you can use the time to explore Bilbao or Santander. If you’re arriving a day early, we can suggest excellent accommodation options to ensure a relaxed start to your journey.

Arenas de Cabrales will be the base for the whole trip, which is great because you don’t need to carry all your stuff around and after a long day walking you know your warm shower and bed is awaiting you.

Detailed Route Map 

This scenic circular hike explores the upper Cabrales Valley and the ridge of the Sierra de Juan Robre, offering superb views across the eastern Picos de Europa.

The route begins near Arenas de Cabrales and climbs steadily through oak and chestnut woodland before reaching open pastures and limestone slopes. As height is gained, the views widen over the Cares Valley and the jagged peaks of the central massif.

The path follows the undulating crest of the Sierra de Juan Robre, a natural balcony overlooking both the Cabrales Valley and the green hills of eastern Asturias. Occasional steep sections and rocky footing add challenge but reward with uninterrupted mountain panoramas.

The descent passes through tranquil grazing meadows and scattered hamlets, returning by rural tracks to the valley floor. In clear weather, the contrasts of green valleys and grey limestone ridges make this one of the most picturesque medium-level hikes in the region.

Detailed Route Map 

The Ruta del Cares follows a narrow trail carved into the cliffs of the Cares Gorge, linking the villages of Poncebos in Asturias and Caín in León. The path winds high above the turquoise Cares River, crossing stone bridges and short tunnels cut through the limestone.

The hike begins with a steady climb from Poncebos, soon opening to wide views of towering peaks and sheer canyon walls. The middle section contours dramatically along the gorge, with the river far below and waterfalls spilling from hidden side valleys.

Near Caín, the gorge narrows to its most spectacular point, where the trail passes between vertical walls rising hundreds of metres overhead. After a rest by the river, the return follows the same route through the gorge, revealing new perspectives on the cliffs and summits of the Picos de Europa.

Detailed Route Map 

*** Alternative option available for those who want an easier day.

One of the most iconic hikes in the Picos de Europa, this route leads to the base of the legendary Naranjo de Bulnes (Picu Urriellu, 2,519 m) — the striking limestone spire that dominates the central massif.

Starting from the mountain village of Sotres, the trail climbs gradually along the track toward Pandébano Col, where the first views of the Picu appear. From here, the route steepens as it winds through rocky high pastures and karst terrain, with the great wall of Urriellu growing larger at every turn.

The final stretch ascends a stony path to the Refugio de Urriellu, nestled directly beneath the towering north face — a dramatic spot surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs. After soaking in the mountain scenery, most hikers return by the same route, though experienced trekkers can link it with other high routes across the central massif.

In clear weather, the hike offers unforgettable views and a sense of grandeur unmatched elsewhere in the Picos.

Enjoy a free day to explore the charming coastal town of Llanes at your own pace. Wander through its colourful old town and picturesque harbour, stop for lunch at one of the local cafés or restaurants, then spend the afternoon relaxing on one of the beautiful nearby beaches. It’s the perfect chance to slow down, enjoy the coast and soak up the laid-back atmosphere of northern Spain. Another option is to take it easy in the village or relax by the pool and rest your legs.

Detailed Route Map 

This circular route explores the famous glacial lakes of Covadonga, one of the most scenic areas in the Picos de Europa. Starting near the visitor centre by Lake Enol, the trail winds through alpine meadows and pastures dotted with grazing cattle before reaching the second lake, Ercina, framed by sharp limestone peaks.

From Ercina, the path climbs gently to the Mirador de Entrelagos, where both lakes can be seen together against a backdrop of rugged mountains. Beyond the viewpoint, the route continues through karst terrain toward the old Buferrera mining area, where remnants of tunnels and machinery hint at the region’s industrial past.

The loop then descends through rolling green hills back to Lake Enol, with sweeping views across the western massif of the Picos de Europa. Clear weather brings vivid reflections on the lake surfaces, while clouds and mist give the landscape a mysterious beauty.

Detailed Route Map 

The Pico Boru hike takes you high into the dramatic Eastern Massif of the Picos de Europa, climbing through green mountain slopes before entering the rugged limestone terrain that defines this part of the range. As you gain height, the views open across the surrounding peaks and deep valleys, with particularly impressive panoramas towards the Central Massif.

The higher sections become rockier as the trail approaches Pico Boru, which reaches 2,129 metres. With around 950 metres of ascent, it’s a challenging but hugely rewarding mountain day, combining varied terrain, expansive views and the wild, dramatic scenery of the Picos de Europa.

It’s time to pack your bags and head back to the town. We arrange transport back to Santander and Bilbao so you can catch your flight home or continue to explore this magical region. We recommend not booking a flight too early so we have time to get you back from the mountains in time. We have lots of recommendations if you’re going to spend more time in Spain.