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€889 – €899
Perfect walking holiday in Spain, third highest mountain range, the Picos de Europa is a region of dramatic limestone peaks, lush valleys and stunning visual backdrops in limestone mountains. picos de Europa is the best destination for a short hiking holiday. Join Us for upcoming trip.
Walking Picos de Europa shows some of Picos de Europa’s finest culture and mountains, including a hike to the base of the iconic peak of Naranjo de Bulnes. On a trip highlight, we trek along cliff-cut pathways through the divine Cares Gorge – over 1000m deep and twelve kilometres long, with amazing views of the picos national park valley.
The Picos de Europa area was the first National Park to be created in Spain at the start of the 20th century. Consisting of a limestone massif rising from the northern coast the mountains reach a height of 2648m. The mountains were primarily formed through glacial erosion; however, they now form a barrier to the clouds coming off the Atlantic and are heavily eroded by rivers. The area is not like Spain most of us picture it, the mountains are green with forests at the base containing a massive variety of flora and fauna. It’s just like somewhere in the Himalayas. And less crowded walks them, Camino. Beautiful villages in between the valleys and nice and authentic old Spanish hospitality.
There is a great variety of walks to choose from: from leisurely strolls in the foothills to more challenging routes reaching the peaks of the Picos. However, as the impact of tourism is minimal, you may find that in some areas you don’t meet anybody all day sometimes on the route. Most routes have a history attached, there are old villages and byways tucked away in the valleys that have changed little through the years. Many of the classic routes that are now popular with walkers were once the only access to these remote villages 30 years ago. These destinations give a fascinating insight into times gone by, as well as picturesque spots for rest and refreshments. In short, the Picos are a captivating mixture of canyons, crystal blue rivers, caves, history and wildlife. It’s not less the Himalayas of Europe.
We organise yearly trips to this stunning Picos national park, mixed with culture, food, and adventure. This group tour also gives the opportunity to meet like-minded people and become friends forever. Walks are easy and itineraries have to be planned properly with rest days and days for leisure.
It could be the best walking holiday for many adventure seekers. Join us and try how you feel.
Itinerary
Picos de Europa Hiking Adventure Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival – The Beginning
Upon arrival at Santander Airport, participants will be met and transferred to Espinama, our base camp for the Picos adventure. Overnight accommodation is arranged at Hostel Navandi, a welcoming family-run guesthouse. In the evening, we gather for a welcome dinner and trip introduction.
Day 2: Fuente Dé – First Hiking Day
After a short 5-minute transfer from Espinama, we reach Fuente Dé, the base station of the famous cable car. The ride takes us 500 meters higher into the mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views. At the summit, with café and restroom facilities available, we prepare our gear and begin our hike. Today’s trek lasts approximately 4–5 hours. Our accommodation tonight is in the charming village of Sotres, where we stay in a traditional guesthouse.
Day 3: Sotres to Pico Urriellu
From Sotres, we transfer to the hamlet of Pandébano and begin our ascent to Collado Vallejo (1,500 m). Here, the impressive silhouette of Naranjo de Bulnes (Pico Urriellu, 2,519 m) comes into view—the most iconic peak of the Picos de Europa. We continue to the mountain refuge at its base (2,000 m), where we pause for lunch and the chance to watch climbers attempting its vertical face. In the afternoon, we retrace our steps back to Pandébano, where transport will return us to Sotres for the night.
Day 4: Exploring the Village of Bulnes
Today’s route is a gentle downhill walk to the picturesque village of Bulnes. The trek takes around 3 hours, though wet weather may make the trail more challenging. Upon arrival, we enjoy a hearty riverside lunch, followed by time to relax or explore the village on foot. Overnight stay in a beautiful guesthouse in Bulnes.
Day 5: The Ruta del Cares – Bulnes to Caín Village
One of the highlights of the trip, today we hike the famous Ruta del Cares, also known locally as Garganta del Cares. This spectacular 14 km trail follows the dramatic gorge between Poncebos (Asturias) and Caín (León). The path is carved into the rock, winding through tunnels, crossing bridges, and tracing the wild Cares River, with towering cliffs on either side. The hike offers unforgettable scenery and one of the most iconic routes in Spain. Tonight, we stay at a guesthouse in the charming mountain village of Caín.
Day 6: From Caín to Espinama
We ascend from Caín, crossing a scenic mountain pass on our way back to Espinama. The day’s hike offers rewarding views of the high peaks and valleys before we return to Hostel Navandi for a comfortable evening and warm hospitality.
Day 7: Coastal Escape – San Vicente de la Barquera
After breakfast, we enjoy a relaxed 3-hour morning hike, finishing around noon. From here, we transfer to the coastal town of San Vicente de la Barquera for an afternoon of seaside leisure. Options include paddle boarding, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner celebration by the sea. Overnight in San Vicente.
Day 8: Departure
Following breakfast, we transfer to Santander Airport for your onward journey back to Dublin.
Price includes
- 1 arrival dinner
- 7 pack lunch
Price excludes
- Flights tickets from Dublin and return
- Insurance of any kind
- Extra or early night hotels accommodation
- Drinks(alcohol)
- Cable car fare.(11 euro)
- No dinners except on arrival night.
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